Starting a 1911 build - recommended tools

[twohands]

I'm starting a custom 1911 build this month - Caspian frame and slide probably, and Ed Brown internals. I'd like to get some tool recommendations, or other recommendations for parts if you don't like the above. If you suggest changing the above, please try to give a reason. As for the tools, I'm looking for hand tools, not lathe or mill recommendations. Thanks all in advance...this community is a great source of knowledge.

Doug

[Fang]

I always like to recommend the article (http://how-i-did-it.org/1911-project/) I wrote about my 1911 build. It was done with pretty much the bare minimum required for a build, but someone who's smart (i.e. not me) would invest in proper tools right off the bat.

What's your experience level with 1911 builds?

[byf41]

Fang, I read your article and I did almost the same thing building my 1911 project except I went with a cheaper RIA Frame, but I have a question about Magazines.:D

Do you know anything about the tripp reshearch mags. ? They make them sound good and they are expensive. Was wondering if some one has already tried on ?

thanks,:D

[Miso Beno]

Fang, I read your article and I did almost the same thing building my 1911 project except I went with a cheaper RIA Frame, but I have a question about Magazines.:D

Do you know anything about the tripp reshearch mags. ? They make them sound good and they are expensive. Was wondering if some one has already tried on ?

thanks,:D

I have no experiences with Tripp magazines but I have used the hell out of MecGar and Wilson and love them both to itty bitty pieces.

[Fang]

Fang, I read your article and I did almost the same thing building my 1911 project except I went with a cheaper RIA Frame, but I have a question about Magazines.:D

Do you know anything about the tripp reshearch mags. ? They make them sound good and they are expensive. Was wondering if some one has already tried on ?

thanks,:D

The Tripp Research mags I've looked at were very well made, but their design is pretty much standard wadcutter lips; nothing really special there. Also, their followers are totally flat, if memory serves. I kinda prefer the dimple.

[sensei]

If you don't have the tools you will be looking at a lot of problems. Lug cutters and links etc. Trigger and sear jigs. They are fun to build and I used to build a lot of custom 1911's in the 80's before so many were available. But I had a gun smithing business and I paid about 2000 for all the equipment for 1911's. Drop in isn't a reality not on a firearm that you may be using to defend your self or your family with. Read a lot about it buy the equipment and then try one. Don't do it to save money. It doesn't work that way. Get a Taurus pt1911 if cost is the issue.

[Fang]

Totally agreed. The article I wrote depicts a gun that cost more than a Colt but is of far lower quality. If you're looking to build for the fun of it or as a profession, it's worth it. To get a gun, though, just go to the store.