ltwguns.com

As a base for a full custom gun, which of these two models is preferable? This will be for a full size duty/work gun.

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People sleep peaceably in their beds at night because rough men stand ready to do violence on their behalf.

GI. If you plan to have it built, the only possible advantage would be the lowered ejection port, but even that isn't a lot to have added to a project should you want it. The GI is so much cheaper, even after having the port lowered you'd still save money. Otherwise, everything else that's different gets tossed anyway.

Of course, if you like forward slanted serrations, get the Milspec.

Talking to some dealers, I get the feeling the GI is killing the Milspec market. The GI is between $75 and $100 cheaper, has a "nostalgic" appeal, and is just as good a base pistol for a project. For folks that don't want to build up, a few bucks more the Loaded with better sights and some spiffy extras making it an appealing mid-range pistol. The Milspec has sort of become a bastard step child in between.

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Jeff

I prefer a NM-serial number prefix Mil-Spec due to the lack of import markings on the frame, and the presence of the one-piece stainless barrel and bushing. The idea of owning a 1911 not made in the USA is a bit unsettling to me, and the NM-serial number pistols have enough domestic work to not get the Imbel markings. If the Imbel markings are not an issue (and on a duty gun, they should not be), the GI is a better value, especially if another barrel is going to be fit.

Functionally the only possible difference I can think of is the two-piece barrel in the GI versus the one-piece stainless barrel in the NM Mil-Spec. If I opted for a GI for a base gun, I would want another barrel fit to the pistol. I have no experience with the two-piece barrel, and it may be just fine. However, I know a Kart (or any other respected brand) barrel will be fine.

The only Springfield I own is a NM-prefix Mil-Spec that I picked up second hand from a forum member, and I have been pleasantly surprised by this pistol. It still has the titanium firing pin even though most of the other innards have been changed. The previous owner had it customized by John Harrison, and the result is a very good carry pistol. In fact, it has become my companion when I know I am going to get wet and dirty.

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Scott

I think I read somewhere that the GI Slide and Frame are hand fitted at the factory.

One other (minor) difference is that the MS has a Beveled Mag well already but the GI does not.


-John

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...Knowing is often a Barrier to Learning...

Thanks guys.

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People sleep peaceably in their beds at night because rough men stand ready to do violence on their behalf.

Here's a follow up question: is there any benefit to starting with a "Loaded" model instead? I'll want the beavertail gs and Novaks put on anyway.

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People sleep peaceably in their beds at night because rough men stand ready to do violence on their behalf.

If you want to customize your gun, stay away from the loaded gun.

Your smith will do a MUCH better job of the beavertail & sight cuts than any standard production tolerance will generate.

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http://www.harmscustomdesigns.com

Glad to hear that from Yost-Bonitz, I will take that advice to heart. One of the 1* pistol packages is at the very top of my list!

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People sleep peaceably in their beds at night because rough men stand ready to do violence on their behalf.