Question M1911
A couple months ago, a coworker and I were talking and I mentioned my interest in all items military. He mentioned his father collected military firearms and after his father passed, he auctioned off all of them with the exception of one piece. He described it to me and I quickly identified it as an M1911 or M1911A1 (now I believe it to be a combination of both). He mentioned he was looking to sell it and I quickly jumped on the opportunity.
In any case, after selling off all of the items from a previous hobby (comic books), I was able to use part of the proceeds to purchase the gun.
It came with one magazine and an original box of WWII era military issue ammo. I looked up the serial number (207XXX) and determined it was manufactured in 1917. I assumed all the parts were period original.
After getting the piece home, I disassembled it for cleaning, added some gun oil, and put it in a display case which I have previoulsy posted on the forum.
Last night I decided to take some photos of it with my new camera and after some research online, now believe parts have been replaced. The frame appears to be the only piece original to the gun. Below are the items I suspect to have been replaced and the reasons why. I assume this was done most likely for use during WWII and I would suspect for Korea as well. If you could confirm my suspicions, I would appreciate it.
Post WWI Parts
Slide – Based on location of Rampant Colt
Hammer - Narrow-spur hammer
Thumb Safety – 1944 style
Grips – 1920 - 1930 manufacture
Barrel – Interlaced “HP” mark
Grip Safety – Elongated spur
Magazine – Manufactured by Little
Overall, I’m happy with the piece. While I would prefer all original WWI parts, it adds history to the gun even though it may decrease the value. I never intend on selling it and believe I got a good deal considering. I know you can request a report from Colt on the history of the gun. Can anyone tell me how detailed the report is and what if any fee is associated with it?
Thanks in advance!
P.S. The idiot mark from the take down pin was there before I purchased it. I don’t want anyone to think that that was my doing!!
