[Rob Longenecker]

In the early 1980's I had two 5" Series '70 Colts with original barrels. My smith welded up and refit the barrels.

They shot 1" groups at 25 yards off sandbags with 200 gr. H&G 68 lead semi-wadcutters at major power factor. They remained accurate and worked very well.

Is anybody still doing this or do you always reach for a new match barrel to fit?

 

[Dane Burns]

Any one who has been building 1911s since the '80s has used this method, including myself. It is generally a better investment these days to start with a match grade barrel and have it fitted. The cost will generally be close on either and the results will be longer lasting I suspect.

 

[Rob Longenecker]

Thanks, Dane.

While we're talking barrels, what's your experience with durability, i.e. number of rounds before replacement. Specifics: .45, lead bullets primarily.

I recall I got about 50,000 out of one of those old fit-up colt barrels with no perceptible accuracy problem.

 

[Dane Burns]

Shooting lead I don't think it is possible to wear out a 1911 barrel....

At least if you aren't shooting bullseye with it and can regularly shoot 1" off hand @25 yards. I suspect the barrels will out last the owners using lead.