In spite of what many believe the 1911, at nearly the ripe old age of 100, is still a constantly progressing machine. Sure the basics and elementary functions are the same as they ever were but if you take a look at the custom gun arena it’s easy to see how the 1911 is still being altered and manipulated in new and innovative ways and for the most part done so to higher standards than before. Compare the custom guns from 10 years or so ago to those of today and it’s obvious that the “same ol’ 1911” is still the same but also different and still constantly evolving if only in incremental ways.
Throughout this evolution of sorts the parts, modifications, and techniques have been getting better all the time and I think most 1911 fans appreciate the guns versatility and dexterity. In skilled hands the 1911 has the potential to be shaped into a new and unique piece that can tackle any number of requirements and take on a myriad of formats to achieve a certain look, feel, or purpose. The constant evolution of the 1911 has lead to new and different modifications that help push the envelope of what is possible with the gun. At the same time this gradual development has also lent itself to the refinement of parts, techniques, and modifications that also help traditional styled guns such as the one pictured here.
The gun pictured here is a good example of the classic Colt that many of our customers come to us for. It’s a gun done in a style that is repeated many times over in our shop and one I was happy to build for a gentleman who’s request was simple, build me that classic Colt. The gun started as a 1970’s vintage Colt Government Model, so goes the task of taking something old and combining it with some things new to hopefully have something even better in the end.
As is standard on much of what we do, the frame rails were welded-up and the slide re-fit to the frame. A Kart barrel was fit along side a stainless EGW barrel bushing... I always liked the look stainless bushing on a blued gun. The slide top was flattened and serrated with three points, a Gold Line front sight installed, and the rear of the slide serrated to match the PG rear sight which was fit flush with the slide top. All lines were straightened, the front strap was high-cut and hand checkered at 30lpi, and a matching hand checkered 30lpi mainspring housing was fit and modified to accept a lanyard loop. The S&A grip safety swings on one of EGW’s excellent fully machined HD thumb safeties and the gun got best quality internals throughout to include a tool steel ignition set, Wilson Bulletproof extractor, EGW firing pin stop and more. Keeping with the “classic Colt” theme the pistol was finished in a traditional polished blue with nitre blued pins and screws and fit with Elephant ivory stocks. I can think of very few things as fun and rewarding as taking something old and making it new again all while hopefully making it better at the same time. Enjoy the pictures!!
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