A day of joy, FA97 .45 Colt ordered!

[Humbo]

Finally got the papers approved, so I got the local FA dealer to order a FA97 .45 Colt with 5.5 inch barrel and the 3lbs trigger job. I was a bit uncertain about the trigger job, but I've heard some good things. What do you 97 owners think about it? Are there any other factory options I should consider?

Thanks!

[SJPrice]

the trigger job is a great idea.  Did you order a premiere or a field grade?

[MarkH]

97's are only Premieres.

Sight blades ... I would get a .330, .380, and whatever the next one is above that.  That should get you covered for 200's to 300's.

[paul105]

Hey Humbo,

First, you might want to review the FA97 OAL Thread close to this one.

You asked us to spend some money for you so here goes.  First, do as Mark said above, and order some different height front sight blades – you might want to consider the fiber optic ones – they make green and orange (and maybe other colors).  The FA fiber optic has a unique profile which I like a lot.  I use the fiber optic fronts with the standard square notch rear – see picture below.

Second, if you are at all interested in red dot sights, FA has a great mount that is made specifically for the Trijicon or JP Enterprises optic – makes for a very low profile setup.  See Picture below.

I’m partial to Octagon barrels and Black Micarta Grips.  These are very personal options (and expensive in the case of the Octagon bbl).

One last consideration is a fluted cylinder -- I like the fluted cyl, but again to each his own.

I wouldn’t spend any money on the trigger over travel screw on the M97.

No matter how you outfit the M97 .45 Colt, I think you are going to really love it.  Wouldn't think of parting with mine.
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Enjoy,

Paul

[Humbo]

Thanks for the replies guys. I've decided to go with different sight options, as well as the micarta grips. Actually I'm a big fan of the unfluted cylinder, it was the main reason they caught my eye in the first place. They stood out from all other revolvers I had seen at the time, and I just knew that I had to have one. I need a decent holster as well, but I haven't decided on which one yet. Any reommendations? So far the cross draw holster seems like the better choice.

[Boxhead]

I went with one of Dave Clements front sights. I also had him cut it to a .10" width to allow a bit more light between it and the rear sight. Works great.

[MarkH]

With a 5.5" barrel, I like one of three holsters.  First is the FA high ride crossdraw, which is a dandy.  Second is a little "bucket" holster that I have, which basically holds the frame and cylinder, and the barrel etc sticks out the bottom.  My favorite with the 5.5", though, is the CC1 made by www.tedblockerholsters.com ... the same as the old Grover High Ride holster.  Makes a 5.5" carry like a 4" gun, and allows for either strongside or crossdraw with the same setup.