Thinking About Having Novak Install Sights On My Colt O1991 Combat Commander...

J

Joe_Pike

New member
...Is it worth it? The O1991 was Colt's basic no frills gun with basic three-dot sights that are just a bit bigger than GI sights. I have never carried a larger gun in the past (I carried a 642 for a long time and now carry a P938) but have been thinking about trying it. I think I might want a plain black rear with a tritium front and they would have to dovetail the slide to install them. Total cost would be $200-250 I believe.

I got a smokin' deal on this gun about three years ago during some holiday sale and paid $599 + $17 shipping. So, adding a couple of Benjamins to the total cost still isn't terrible, but since this is such a basic model I'm wondering if I should just leave it that way and eventually get one already set up with different sights and an extended beaver-tail safety.
 
Novak sights are excellent would be money well spent iMO. Shouldn't need to send it Novak unless you live nearby. Pretty routine work for a competent gunsmith. A lot of great sights for 1911, the Novak is an excellent choice, be sure to look at 10-8 and Harrison design too.
 
Last edited:
IMHO, Novaks are "worth it". I never liked the Colt factory 3-dot sights and have used Novaks or Heinies on 1911s, Hi Powers and others.
 
Odd. I didn't know that Novak sights were a big deal. The Ruger American comes with genuine Novak sights installed. The only comment about this sight in reviews is a complaint that you can't cock the pistol with one hand.

So maybe you should think twice about this modification.
 
I'll recommend getting the slide machined and putting new dovetailed sights on that O1991 Colt. When I had this model (actually two, as the first one was replaced by Colt), the staked in front sight loosened and fell out while shooting.

I heard the new owner of that 2nd Commander had its front sight also fall out, too.
 
I also recommend Novaks. I had them installed on a Norinco 1911.I have as much in the sights as in the "Nork".

To me worth it. Made a world of difference.
 
I wouldn't do it.
The only advantage is picking-up 1/2" of sight radius, and I don't see that as worth the cost.
Removing the dots from the factory rear sight would be much better bang-for-the-no-bucks.
 
If you haven't familiarized yourself with XS Big Dot sights I would take a look.

They are simply the fastest set up out there in my opinion.

They aren't a target sight by any means, but they can't be beat for a defensive pistol!

Just my .02

Todd
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top