On 2001-06-28 01:37, Gamblin'Gus wrote:
"Is this really a hard question to answer? I know a little about working on 1911s and the only thing that I can think of that might be a problem for a pistolsmith is possible binding of the bushing skirt when the barrel links down."
If you want a match grade fit, I would suggest that you send the complete gun. If a slightly looser fit is acceptable, then what you propose is do-able. After I fit a new bushing to the slide and barrel, I typically have to do additional fitting and polishing after I put them together with the frame. I’m not saying it’s impossible, just that IMO you’ll have a better-finished product if your ‘smith has the complete gun, rather than just the upper.
"I need a set of sights on my Colt and thought as long as the 'smith had the slide, why not ship the barrel and get a bushing fitted at the same time?"
If you’re having adjustable sights installed, then you’re all set. If you were doing fixed sights, without being able to test fire the completed gun, I would be guessing as to the correct height for the front sight. If you are willing to take on the elevation adjustment, your idea is still do-able.
"I'd rather have to replace a slide and barrel that got lost in shipping than have to replace the whole gun. Have heard that collecting insurance on items lost in shipping can be a PITA, if not impossible.
Think of this, you professional gunsmiths, a package deal consisting of a set of sights, a tuned extractor, polished breech face, fitted target bushing, forward serrations, lowered ejection port, refinish, etc. You could call it a "Top-End Special". Guys could ship their slides and barrels directly from home without the hassle and expense of shipping a "firearm"."
The package you describe above would run about $425.00 for non-tritium Heinie Slant Pro’s –w- D/T front, a reliability package, front serrations, fitted match bushing, lowered port and refinish in blue. This is not a quote, just an off the cuff round number. It costs about $30.00 one-way to ship and insure for UPS next day air. If I were spending my money, I would rather spend ~ $60.00 more (14% of the cost of the work) and know that the gun has been test fired and had the sights regulated. Just my opinion…….
Best Regards,
John
<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: John Harrison on 2001-06-28 08:50 ]</font>