1911 GI sights vs Novaks ?

[WVsig]

The basic RIA GI that the OP is looking at does have standard, GI-type sights. The front sight is a narrow tenon base, and the rear sight uses a standard, GI dovetail. The sights for which you show the drawings are for the RIA Tactical model. While those sights are not standard GI cuts -- they are also quite decent sights and don't need to be replaced unless you want night sights.

It is my understanding that the RIA GI is not a standard GI cut. Do you have verification that it is a standard cut? I am curious. There is a lot of conflicting info. If it is it will help because the cost to stake and install a new set without milling is cheaper and easier.

As you and I stated the Novak style sights on the Tactical are not standard. There is a lot of back and forth about the cuts on these guns. I was just pointing out that if you go the tactical route then if you want to change the sights later you might have to mill them as well.

The OP has been going back and forth on which gun he is going to purchase. I agree 100% that if he gets the tactical there is no reason to swap them out. The sights and the other upgrades make the Tactical a better buy IMHO which I illustrated in his/her other thread.

 

[georgiacatweazle]

Well last night I pulled the trigger on a Girsan gen2, it's got the novak type sights, updated trigger parts, upgraded guide rod etc. it's on layaway for $60 a month. Price was $395.

 

[WVsig]

Good luck with the new gun! Once you get it in your hands please post a detailed range report with your impressions.

 

[dahermit]

I'm in the process of trying to figure out the best entry 1911 to buy, given the obvious need to over time do upgrades.
Some folks have mentioned having to mill out the standard sights to install Novaks.

For anyone who's running with the standard GI sights, bottom line is do they work ? a sight is a front post and rear block with a slit no matter if basic or novak. novak looks nice and i do have Heine's on my glock. POU of pistol is mostly right now 10-25 yard, with a possibility in 6 months to use it for IDPA. 

If your intention is to use your 1911 for IDPA, find out if anyone shooting such is using G.I. sights and if not, ask yourself why not. It seems like an unnecessary expense in time and effort to start with G.I. sights and then have the milling done, buy the sights when many 1911's come with better sights. I have gone that route (G.I. sights, upgraded later), with two 1911's and would not go that way again.