[Renomucker]

As I have posted before, I am planning to have an STI based carry gun built. I am a big fan of the bull barrel design because of the was it moves the balance of the gun forward. However, I wonder about its impact on reliablity. I have heard arguments both ways, and want to get a more informed opinion. I have also grown used to seeing ramped barrels in my 1911's and want to know if there is any advantage or disadvantage in using them.

 

[gyp_c2]

You only need to please yourself. If YOU like them, why not just use them. I've had two pistols with bull barrels...They both shot very well. The SA Champion has a ramped Bull Barrel and the Detonics had a Bull barrel. I'm not sure what "issues" you're concerned about...I've never had any with either pistol. :wink:

 

[Renomucker]

The issues I am talking about are crap buildup around the muzzle end of the barrel preventing lockup. Also, some people I have spoken with say that the ramped barrels are often problematical in feeding, and with the short 40 in the STI this could be an issue. I have heard these issues raised by people who's opinions I respect, but I myself have never experianced them.

 

[Dane Burns]

Reliability?

I get the impression you are thinking 40S&W. Not the most reliable caliber in any 1911.

Ramped barrels are not as reliable as 2 piece ramp and barrel. Most active smiths building the best of the single stack guns will agree with that comment. Brown, Heinie, Garthwaite, Vickers, Baer and myself among others.

Cone barrels? They have some distinct advantages in shooting and no disadvantages with dirt. I suspect they will run longer in normal conditions than a bushing gun.

Disadvantage of a cone gun is the difficulty of take down and the mandatory use of a guide rod.