Finished! Colt 1903 to Mini 1911

This video details the advanced gunsmithing process of modifying a Colt 1903 pocket auto slide to visually resemble a 1911. The presenter demonstrates cutting, welding, and machining techniques to reshape the slide, add a hammer spur, and install custom sights, ultimately creating a unique, compact 1911-style firearm. The modified firearm is confirmed to function reliably.

Quick Summary

A Colt 1903 pocket auto slide was expertly modified to resemble a 1911. This advanced gunsmithing involved cutting and welding the slide, machining it to a 1911 profile, adding a hammer spur, and installing custom dovetailed sights. The resulting firearm functions reliably and can be carried cocked and locked.

Chapters

  1. 00:01Project Introduction
  2. 00:03Colt 1903 Slide Showcase
  3. 00:10Goal: Mini 1911 Conversion
  4. 00:26Original Firearm: Colt 1903 .32 Auto
  5. 00:31Slide Modification Process
  6. 00:36Cutting and Reshaping Slide
  7. 00:39Welding and Machining
  8. 00:43Adding Hammer Spur
  9. 00:47Fabricating and Installing Sights
  10. 00:53Slide Chamfer and Bevels
  11. 00:58Sight Material Limitations
  12. 01:04Functional Reliability
  13. 01:12Cocked and Locked Operation
  14. 01:20Historical Context (Browning)
  15. 01:35Shooting Demonstration Tease
  16. 01:35Final Recap: Colt 1903 .32

Frequently Asked Questions

How was a Colt 1903 slide modified to look like a 1911?

The rear of the Colt 1903 slide was cut off and then rebuilt using welding. This built-up material was machined to match the profile of a 1911 slide. Additionally, a hammer spur was welded on, and custom sights were fabricated and dovetailed into the slide.

What gunsmithing techniques were used in the Colt 1903 to 1911 conversion?

Advanced gunsmithing techniques were employed, including cutting the slide, welding material to build it up, precise machining to achieve the desired profile, fabricating and installing custom sights via dovetailing, and adding a hammer spur through welding.

Can a modified Colt 1903 function like a 1911?

Yes, the video demonstrates that the modified Colt 1903, visually resembling a mini 1911, functions perfectly and can be carried 'cocked and locked' just like a standard 1911 pistol.

What are the key visual modifications made to the Colt 1903 slide?

Key visual modifications include reshaping the rear of the slide to mimic a 1911 profile, welding on a hammer spur, and installing custom sights. Bevels were added to the front of the slide, and a chamfer was cut at the bottom.

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