Upgrading my Colt

[Serapis]

I want to treat my Colt 1911 to a few upgrades. I was thinking a new mainspring housing, trigger, and hammer. I assume I can do all this myself or do they need to be "fitted" by a gunsmith. What about barrel?

I find myself to be pretty good at doing things, but I just want to make sure. Thanks.

 

[45collector]

I find myself to be pretty good at doing things

A new hammer may need to be fitted to mate it properly to the existing sear. Trigger and MSH should be no problem. Barrel should be fitted.

 

[Sir_Macadoo]

The MSH should require nothing, the trigger maybe some shaving - but very minor. For the hammer you'll need some stones and/or fine files - feeler gauges will also help. If you cut the hooks on the hammer too short, you will have an unsafe situation. The barrel is the trickiest. Files and feeler gauges would be helpful. Lug cutters can be used, but I have gotten away without them. Get some instruction first. Good luck.

 

[Greg Derr]

Well, truth be told- thay all should be fit. The MSH can effect the grip safety, the new hammer may not be compatable with the original grip safety. The trigger will effect the overtravel/pretravel/engagement with the sear and disconnector. The barrel and bushing and slidestop all interface with the slide to frame fit and in the end function. I can go on and on.

 

[FPrice]

I am not a gunsmith, nor do I play one on TV or the internet.

From what I have learned you can do it your self....IF you have the proper tools and training. If you don't have the tools and training your best bet is to go to someone like Greg or one of the other reputable 'smiths on NES and have them do it for you. Otherwise you can have a gun which does not work, or worse, works too much like a FA firearm.

I am sure that there are people on NES who would take the time to tutor you in the intricacies of the 1911. You just need to take Inspector Harry Callahan's advice;

"A man has got to know his limitations."

I want to treat my Colt 1911 to a few upgrades. I was thinking a new mainspring housing, trigger, and hammer. I assume I can do all this myself or do they need to be "fitted" by a gunsmith. What about barrel?

I find myself to be pretty good at doing things, but I just want to make sure. Thanks.

 

[Serapis]

Thanks, guys.

 

[J.M.]

I would give Greg a call, he is great to work with!