How do I build 1911?

[usmcveteran]

Which is better to go with STI or Caspian? Is there a difference in way you fit if I got a stainless steel one verses standard?

Can anyone post up links to any special tools I might need even for just assembly? I have a bush wrench already but not sure if I need anything when building the internals.

Any do NOT do type things that some of you learned your first time so I don't repeat those mistakes?

[dsdmmat]

I would not got with stainless. I am planning on buying a caspian race ready frame for my next build project. Make sure to get the integrated plunger tube, that way you don't have to worry about staking one. Brownells has got a lot of the tools you will want to get.

I have the sear/ hammer fitting block
A barrel link installing block
A slide handle ( fits inside the bushing groove for lapping slides)
Punch set
Brass hammer
Deadblow hammer
Soft face hammer
Jewelers files
Frame mag well filler.

[usmcveteran]

Tbajk you, as money allows I will get the tools then parts. I will probably start a new thread documenting my endeavor and still post here with all my questions.

Have you tried there slide engraving service at Caspian?

[EvilD]

The hardest parts are fitting the frame, fitting the barrel and doing the trigger job, as DSD pointed out, you need special tools for some of that. However, if you are just going to do one, you can get a slide fitted to the frame already and you can get either a semi fit barrel form a lot of places or a Kart Easy fit which requires a bit more then the semi fit but not as much as a gunsmith fit. For the trigger you can get either a Dawson or a Brazo's kit whcih are pretty damn close to a gunsmith trigger, and they come in about 2.5-3 lbs. they are drop in. fitting the other parts is pretty easy. I'd get an STI fame just cuz, keep and eye on http://www.fosterind.com/ they are Caspian seconds about half the price, i kick myself in the ass for not getting a frame last time they had them a few months ago. Might end up buildin myself another gun in either 9 or 40 for no other reason than to give me another project

[usmcveteran]

If you see any deals let me know please

[EvilD]

If you see any deals let me know please

Sarco has Para slide for $130, Rock island frames for $119. Only reson I dont' get one is i want a ramped barrel for 40/9 and they aren't

[usmcveteran]

I'm thinking I want bare slide to get engraved later but those prices dont sound bad to me!