1911 and 1911-A1

[stubby]

Will someone take the time to explain the differences between these two pistols to the unknowing??

 

[Gonzo_308]

The 1911 was the approved design by the Army ordnance board in March of 1911. In WWI and training there was a tendancy to overgrip the gun which resulted in low shots. The Army requested the following modifications; A curved Mainspring housing to fill the palm and change the grip angle. A short trigger was implemented to help smaller hands deal with the bigger grip there were smaller changes made too like the scallopes around the trigger on the frame but that should give you an idea. The change became official in 1925 and the designation was the 1911a1.

 

[dsk]

Here ya go.

 

[stubby]

Thanks for the information, I now see why I have been confused in the past.

 

[orsogato]

WOW!
dsk are those two out of your personal collection. I am way impressed with that awesome summary of the differences between the early 1911 and the later 1911a1 designs. I have printed these pages out for future reference.

Thanks.

What is a ballpark figure for an original collector brush blued 1911 made by colt in say 1917 in 85% to 95% condition.

 

[dsk]

First be sure that it's original finish. Not many virgin pistols remain today from that era, as the furnace bluing wasn't that durable. Assuming it is, and all the parts are correct (especially the barrel), upwards of $1800 or so is what I see them going for. That is for the military guns; commercials usually bring much less.

 

[Gonzo_308]

DSK I just stole your photo as that is a great example. Damn fine looking pistols too.

 

[dsk]

Thanks. Use of my photos is always okay when for informational and educational purposes, as long as proper credit is given. When I first started my website I "borrowed" a couple of pictures off the 'net, and brought upon the wrath of their authors. You'd be surprised how even mild-mannered people can say some pretty nasty things when they think you jacked them.