The Best 10 1911 Assembly Kits: Precision and Performance

The 1911 pistol has stood the test of time as one of the most reliable and versatile firearms in history. Our guide examines the best 1911 assemblies available today, comparing their accuracy, reliability, and value to help you choose the right build for your needs.

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Reviews

Ed Brown 1911 Perfection Disconnect

Made from solid bar stock steel with precision-machined surfaces, this disconnect fits all 1911 pistols including Hi-Capacity models. The heat-treated barrel works seamlessly with the Perfection Sear and Hammer for consistent trigger performance. It’s the strongest disconnect available, engineered for reliable service in any 1911.

1911 Series Disassembly & Reassembly DVD

This comprehensive DVD walks you through the step-by-step process of disassembling and reassembling both Kimber Custom LL and Colt Defender 1911 firearms. Presenter Larry Shields covers everything you need to know about proper maintenance, requiring only minimal tools. You’ll learn how to take apart the slide, disassemble the frame, and put it all back together correctly.

Ed Brown 1911 Lower Rebuild Kit

This lower rebuild kit draws from Ed Brown’s lifetime of engineering and precision craftsmanship, combining American-made machining with hand-finished details. Whether you’re building a 22LR or 1911, this kit lets you feel the quality in every part, from the start of your build process.

Little Armory LA015 M1911A1 Type Plastic Model

The Little Armory LA015 M1911A1 model lets you build a detailed 1/12 scale handgun, including versions with the hammer down, hammer stand, and slide backward. You’ll need some basic tools and paint, but the kit comes with a cool rubber-strapped holster too. Perfect for adding some realistic detail to your miniature collections or dioramas.

The Model 1911 and Model 1911A1 Military and Commercial Pistols

This detailed book takes collectors and enthusiasts through every aspect of the Model 1911 and Model 1911A1 pistols. It’s packed with 568 pages of photos, drawings, and technical specifications, making it the go-to reference for anyone serious about these classic firearms. Whether you’re a veteran collector or just beginning to explore these iconic pistols, this book offers invaluable insights into their history and technical details.

Ed Brown 1911 MW Housing

Made from premium materials and crafted with expert precision, the Ed Brown 1911 MW Housing STS combines performance features with striking visual appeal. The durable component blends smoothly with the frame, while its precision engineering ensures reliable function and lasting durability. This lifetime-quality piece demonstrates the meticulous attention to detail that has defined Ed Brown Products since their inception.

1/12 Scale M1911A1 & Commander Type Pistol Kit

The Little Armory LA015 pistols capture the timeless appeal of the M1911A1 design, with their sleek black bodies and brown grip panels that pop against the glossy finish. Each kit, made from precision-molded resin and plastic, includes not one but six detailed pistols along with matching holsters and magazines – making these miniature firearms just the right size for your 1/12th scale collections.

Ed Brown 1911 MW Housing BL

This precision-machined mag well combines durable steel with smooth machining for a component that looks as good as it performs. The American-made piece installs easily in place of the original, adding a refined touch to any 1911. You can feel the quality in every detail.

The Colt M1911 .45 Automatic Pistol Book

From its birth in John Browning’s design studio to its place in history as the US military’s standard-issue sidearm for over seven decades, this hardback chronicles the legendary M1911’s evolution through 370+ images and meticulous detail. Whether you’re a pistol enthusiast or a historian, this book’s rich visual storytelling brings the classic weapon to life, from its factory floor origins to the hands of soldiers in World War I and beyond.

The M1911 Complete Assembly Guide

This comprehensive guide offers more than just instructions - through the experiences of a diverse team including a police officer and a rising pistolsmith, it dives deep into the why behind the how of M1911 assembly. The detailed process, supported by over 400 photographs, goes beyond military manuals to explore both practical and technical aspects, making it an essential resource for anyone serious about their 1911 firearm.

Buyer’s Guide

The 1911 pistol platform remains a popular choice for both concealed carry and competition shooting, with many enthusiasts building their own customized versions. Assembling a custom 1911 requires careful consideration of several key components to ensure reliability and performance.

Caliber Selection

The first decision when building a 1911 is which caliber to chamber it in. Common choices include. 45 ACP, 9mm, and 10mm, with each offering different ballistics and recoil characteristics. Consider your primary usage - carry, competition, or practical application - when selecting a caliber that matches your needs.

Frame Type and Construction

1911 frames come in various designs, from competition-spec ultra-lightweight variations to carry-focused models with additional rails and grip texture. Factors like intended use, recoil management, and personal preference in weight affect frame selection. Consider how the frame will impact trigger pull, overall balance, and magazine capacity.

Trigger System

The trigger is often customized in a 1911 build to improve actuation characteristics. Options range from factory specs for reliability to match-grade triggers for competitive shooting. Weight, overtravel, and reset distance can be adjusted through various methods, from simple triggersets to custom hammer-forged units.

Finish and Quality Control

While cosmetics are subjective, the finish and quality control of your 1911 components significantly impact longevity and reliability. Choose parts with proper surface treatment that resists corrosion and wear. Verify that critical components like bushings, guides, and the slide stop meet original specifications for proper function.

FAQ

What is a 1911 assembly?

A 1911 assembly refers to the process of building a firearm based on John Browning’s classic 1911 pistol design. This typically involves sourcing and selecting compatible parts, such as the frame, slide, barrel, and trigger mechanism, to create a functioning 1911 pistol.

These assemblies are popular among shooters for customizing their firearms, improving performance, or obtaining specific features not available in complete factory models.

What parts are typically included in a 1911 assembly?

Standard 1911 assemblies usually include the frame, slide, barrel, trigger group, barrel bushing, extractor, ejector, magazines, and any desired decorative elements like checkering or engravings. Additional components might be included based on the specific configuration ordered.

Manufacturers often offer different levels of customization, ranging from basic functional parts to premium components with enhanced performance features.

How does a 1911 assembly differ from a complete pistol?

Unlike a complete pistol, which includes all assembled parts and proper chambering, a 1911 assembly requires final assembly and potentially some adjustments to function correctly. This includes proper fitment of components, adjustment of tolerances, and testing to ensure correct operation.

Assembly kits typically save time and reduce cost compared to buying a fully built pistol, but require more expertise to complete successfully.

What are the advantages of building a custom 1911?

Custom 1911 assemblies allow shooters to combine their preferred features and performance upgrades into a single firearm. This can result in improved accuracy, better reliability, or a more personalized shooting experience compared to factory offerings.

Building your own 1911 also ensures that all components are compatible and optimized for specific shooting needs, whether for competition, concealed carry, or personal defense.

What skill level is needed to assemble a 1911?

While basic mechanical skills are helpful, many 1911 parts come with detailed instructions designed for DIY enthusiasts. However, proper tools, attention to detail, and adherence to safety guidelines are essential for successful assembly.

For absolute beginners, starting with a reputable kit and following manufacturer guidance closely is recommended. More experienced shooters can tackle premium or custom configuration kits.

How long does it take to assemble a 1911?

The time required varies based on experience and complexity of the kit, but basic 1911 assemblies typically take 2-4 hours for a skilled shooter. This includes cleaning parts, inspecting fit, and testing the completed pistol.

Custom or precision builds might take several days due to additional steps like adjustable triggers, specialized finishes, or extensive testing to find optimal tolerances.

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