Tips to evaluate a used 1911?

[ibebirdman]

I am starting to cruise the pawn shops and gun shows looking for my first 1911. I am going to have to buy a used gun since I am a bit short on cash, but I know deals can be had. Can anyone provide me with some tips as to what I should look for to avoid buying a lemon? I am looking for a good deal on a Kimber or Springfield so the initial quality will be good but I would hate to end up with gun that has 10,000+ rounds through it and the gun is basically wore out.

Your help is appreciated!

   

[Lloyd Smale]

the round count through the gun wouldnt be a factor for me. Ive got 1911s with 5 times that round count and they run like new. What id be more leary of is a gun that has about 300 rounds through it. Chances are the gun didnt run reliably and its being dumped. First thing i would do is insist that the dealer let me test drive it. Id put at least a box of ball through the gun and see if it ran that reliably because if it wont run ball theres not much hope for it. For a first 1911 id stick with the 5 inch guns as there usaually more reliable. Id look for slide fit and make sure the gun is at least somewhat tight. Field strip it and see if there is any gouging on the slide or frame. If you arent knowlegable when it comes to 1911s stay away from guns that have been altered or have aftermarket parts on them. Some of them are better then stock but some arent and alot of them need to be fitted right to work. Id much rather have a 1911 that has alot of finish wear and use that was used by someone that knows how to take care of one the one that looks brand new and has been fooled with by an idiot.

[Questor]

http://www.bob-oracle.com/1911buy.htm

Your inspection in the store will tell you basic obvious things, but shooting will really be the final arbiter of reliability. Try to focus on stock, factory guns that have not been modified in any way.  A deal that looks too good to be true in a pawn shop probably is too good to be true because 1911s fetch high prices.

One word of sage, ominous truth about 1911s from a man who knows is that people who buy low-end 1911s very frequently pay an extra $500+ to have them tuned to their liking within six months. 1911s and "short on cash" doesn't mix very well unless you're willing to put up with some hassles and refine the gun over time.

If you set your budget to around $600 and look at the new Taurus if  you're a risk taker or a Springfield Mil-Spec if you're not, then you can get a good new gun without adjustable sights. If you think you'll want adjustable sights, then just wait and buy a gun with adjustable sights in the first place. If you spend too little money, you'll end up with something you don't want to use.

[the_shadow]

One tip that is easy to see right off.  Lock the slide back, then put finger pressure on the barrel end.  There should be a 1/32Nd flatspot between the barrel and the throat.  This is real important on cast frames.  Sometimes home smiths polish the ramp, break through to a sand pocket.  Awhile back I bought a Taurus 1911 and have found no fault with it.  austin sports web site had them listed for $500. shipped.  I also bought a springfield G.I. four inch.  The sights are a bit small but again no isues with running the gun, $400. and postage.  Hope this is of some use to you.
James

[Dusty Miller]

There's a lot that can be said for being patient, saving your money, and buying a quality gun right from the gitgo.