Originally Posted by
farscott
Do we have a list of acceptable base guns, either in production or not, that we agree are a good starting point for a carry 1911 on a budget? By good starting point, I mean that the end product keeps more original parts than just the slide and frame. For example, I find the Colt O1991 (the basic Series '80 Government Model) to be a good base gun with an excellent barrel. The Colt slide stop is also a great part. The Colt GI recoil spring system parts are also good to go. The fire control parts can provide an excellent trigger. The biggest issue with these guns are sharp edges, too loose of a barrel bushing, and a poorly fit thumb safety that feels mushy when pushed OFF safe. Fix those issues and the result is a great 1911.
I see others have recommended a couple of the Wiley Clapp variants. I would also suggest the SA Mil-Spec even though it lacks a firing pin safety. The titanium firing pin seems to do the job and is more durable than I expected based on my small sample.
I would not recommend the Series II Kimbers as the firing pin safety can be easily damaged during field stripping or assembly. Removing the rear sight is required to deal with the safety, which I find problematic. I like firing pin safeties (see SIG P320 for why these are good things), but I find the Kimber solution problematic.
Just my thoughts; others may disagree. But the aggregate opinion may be useful to people looking to carry a 1911.