1911 - So Simple Maybe I Can Do it!!

I can strip a service grade 1911 all the way down in seconds (frame parts and all) without tools, except a screwdriver for the grip screws. I could assemble a service grade pistol but a match grade pistol is another story. I have all the parts for a 1911 NM Wad Gun. Including a BoMar rib with a 2" extended front sight. The slide will not fit on the frame. That is good. The pistol can be fitted better that way. The barrel is a USGI NM with matching bushing. My pard Mickey used to be the gunsmith for the Louisiana National Gaurd Pistol Team. I have fired several of his pistols and if the one I am building is as good, I will be in heaven. Luckily he said he would build it.

The frame is an Essex. I have another Essex frame and NM slide. I would like to make a hardball gun out of it. I won't be able to shoot hot loads in the wad gun because it will have a rib on it. Hardball will make a rib come off.

Doug

slabsides45 said:

Doug, educate me! What is a "wad gun"? What is this rib you speak of, on a 1911? Hardball?

Me siento estúpida!!

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A wad gun is a 1911 .45 set up to shoot 180-200 grain wadcutter ammunition only. The powder charges are not heavy and the recoil spring has to be adjusted accodingly. A full rib is a square piece of steel that is screwed to the top of a pistol or revolver, from muzzle to rear sight, to make the pistol or revolver heavier. It usually has the sights installed on it. The rib I have has a front sight that extends 2" in front of the muzzle.

A hardball gun is set up to shoot USGI 230 gr FMJ ammo. It cannot have a rib because the rib is installed with screws and the screws would be tourqued in half and the rib would come off due to the heavier recoil.

A US Army hard ball gun may have adjustable sights and a backlash adjustable trigger but no other alterations except an accuracy job and checkering of the backstrap and front of the grip are allowed. No beavertailed grip safeties, fancy thumb rest grips, no rod guides in the recoil spriong area and no visible alterations. The trigger must pick up 4 pounds.

I did not realize how old I am getting. These terms were commonplace in the 1960's and 70's.

Doug Bowser