Determining age of Norinco 1911?

H

Hoppy

New member
Hi Folks,

I live in Mass and it is impossible to buy most handguns unless you find them used and their date of manufacture is prior to 10/98.

So, I happen to find a Norinco 1911 for a good price at auction, but how can I verify and prove that the manufacture is prior to 10/98, any ideas? Is there a serial number list to referrence?
Thanks for your help!
Hoppy
 
Don't quote me but I am relatively sure Bill Clinton cut off the importing of Norinco firearms in about 1996. If you can find one they are a fine pistol as is. I have changed my overall view to thinking an entry level Kimber is a better buy. I picked up a Compact Custom with 3 magazines for $525. I can't think of many alterations the Kimber needs. It looks like Kimber has covered most of the bases already. Regards, Richard
 
All of the Norincos are pre-98. And they're a fine gun as a starter .45, comparable in quality to many costing much more.

A second option is a Systema, which is an Argentine .45 made in the 30's and 40's (and since) under license to Colt. Built on Colt manufacturering equipment to Colt's older quality standards. They're excellent guns, 100% compatible (parts interchangeable) with Colt 1911a1s. They can be had for around $300 - $350, comparable in price to a Norinco. (If you have a Curio & Relic license, you can get a Systema for $299 from CDNN.)

I have a Norinco that was tuned by a gunsmith (whose hobby was making accurate .45s) prior to my purchase, and since upgraded with night sights, ambi-safety, and a Wilson add-on Magwell. It shoots right with Wilson custom .45s costing 3 or 4 times more. (I've got a total of $600 in it, counting the night sights, which required dovetailing the front sight!)
 
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