Posted on 09/23/2020 3:18:11 PM PDT by Falcon4.0
How do you know definitively that it is from WWII? During WWII, many companies were subcontracted to build 1911s for the war effort, and some of them are extremely rare and valuable.
Who does it say made it on the slide? If it was made by Singer or Union Switch & Signal (US&S), you may have a pistol that is worth much more historically as it is than it would be “fixed up” with a new slide.
If it’s a run-of-the-mill 1911 from the post-war years made by Colt, then go ahead and take it to a gunsmith for his opinion.
...a new slide and internals available on ebay of all places for about 140 bucks
Para Ordnance, a high quality manufacturer, went out of business a few years ago, and the parts inventory for 1911-type guns were bought up by gun parts retailers and resold. I got a nice slide for a 1911 frame I had, matched it up with a Springfield barrel andd fitted it with a match barrel bushing, and it's a real nice gun.
If the crack is in the frame, it may be possible to adapt it for the less-sstressful ,22 caliber conversion kit, and have it see service for many more yearrs.
However, near the slide catch on the left side, just above and behind the trigger there is a manufactured cut that appears to be about 3/8 " long, on a slight diagonal.
Good call!
Get a new slide that works, and carry on.
The serial number is on the frame/grip, that’s what counts as “the firearm.”
GMTA.
Pay the gunsmith. Get a professional opinion.
Buy a new slide for it.
Run,
Don’t Walk to a Gunsmith!
Some 1911’s can be worth
10’s of Thousands!
+1
Has to take it apart to clean anyway
Might as well replace it...
If it’s a true 1911 and you bought it for a shooter. Look up Wilson arms and learn how to repair and replace the parts. 1911’s, ar-15’s, and mosseburg 500’s are like redneck Barbie dolls. A rednecks sweetheart, dress her up just like you like her and cherish her forever. I got a few, love them all and after 47 years my wife reminds me who is the best. Just be safe. :)
Just a wild guess, but I would think a competent weld would cost as much as a new slide. 1911 parts are cheap. Make it a wall hanger and buy a new one. If it has sentimental value, buy a new slide. A weld would have so many variables to worry about.
That is a common failure mode, from shooting a lot, or from shooting “hot” overpressure rounds.
It is a safety issue, because if it fails completely, the slide can fly back into your face or eye.
Don”t shoot it like that.
Don’t know what your circumstances are, but would you consider declaring it a museum piece?
You can buy a serviceable 1911 anywhere, but a genuine WWII issue piece? I actually had to take a deep breath.
https://www.heirloomprecision.com/gallery/
Thanks for the link!
Do not inspect by magnetic particle inspection. The slide is too complex a part for good inspection using this method.
PT or penetrant testing, dye testing is a much better method for firearms.
RT or x-ray inspection is another option.
Gunsmiths are experts in firearms, though there are more qualified professionals that can inspect these.
Depending on where you are at in the country there are persons who would be willing to inspect the slide for a very nominal fee, or even free for the opportunity to work with your forearm, as the cool factor is real.
If you’re interested PM me and we can discuss.
This is what I do professionally.
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