My favorite started life as a Rock Island 1911. Not much to look at but it was affordable and accurate.
To me a Full Size Rock is like the 65 Chevy Chevelle SS ragtop I had. Kinda plain and inexpensive, but boy can they be tricked out! Off to the smith I go with a shopping list in hand.
First on the list is the sights. The stock sights just don't cut it with my tired eyes. Fiber Optic will fill the bill. And, for good measure, make 'em adjustable. Dawson Precision has a set that is just right . . .
Change it to an Ambi Safety. (Kings) This is mandatory for a southpaw like me. Now if I could only figure out a way to get it to eject to the left. [sigh] Some things will remain on the dream list.
Changing to a Commander style Hammer from Ed Brown with a trigger job. There was nothing wrong with the trigger, but it is part of the hammer change. All this is necessary in order to fit a beavertail.
Blend in a smooth Beavertail from Smith & Alexander. The goal is a smooth fit. Not so much that the beavertail is blended to the frame. I want it to look like the gun was built around the beavertail.
Just for looks, give it a Bobtail.
Refinish everything to a durable black finish. When offset with the light colored grips it should look real nice.
Speaking of Grips, Esmeralda. No contest. She has a basketweave pattern that gives a comfortable, sure grip. To me a checkered grip is just a bit too harsh. Besides, they flat-out look fantastic.
Here is how it turned out. Sorry my camera skills are a bit lacking . . .
Looks sweet, and shoots better than I can.