It was fitted with a Jarvis barrel, a spherical bushing, a full-length guide rod, new springs, the trigger was cleaned up and the slide/frame fit was tightened. Mark Graham of Arizona Response Systems applied his "classic patina" finish. The final touch was a set of period checkered brown plastic grip panels.
The result was a tasteful restoration of a WWII 1911A1 with a few modern updates. It looks like a '43 Colt on the outside, but it's as accurate and dependable as any modern .45 I own. Actually, it's my favorite. It's not a collectible, but it isn't a reproduction either.
Point is, if you want a WWII-era 1911A1 shooter and can't spend for an original condition speciman, consider scouring the gunshops and shows for relics that can be restored and enjoyed.
BTW, I spent WAY too much on this project. The beater 1911A1 cost $450 (it was worth $250 by any standard at the time, I later learned) and the restoration was another $450. This was before the repros appeared. No regrets, though.
- t
Edited by 6086, 13 June 2004 - 09:34 PM.