Les Baer Custom Thunder Ranch 1911's (Gen 1 & Gen 2)

Published on March 9, 2026
Duration: 11:09

This guide details the specific techniques required for maintaining and disassembling Les Baer Thunder Ranch 1911 pistols, emphasizing their hard-fit nature. Expert instruction highlights the need for specialized tools and careful handling due to non-Dupont-treated components. Proper safety protocols are paramount throughout the process.

Quick Summary

The Les Baer Thunder Ranch 1911 Gen 1 is all blued with a single-sided safety, while the Gen 2 features a two-tone finish, ambi-safety, and extended magazine release. Both utilize Kart National Match barrels and custom Lok Grips, showcasing Les Baer's renowned hard-fit construction and precise checkering (30 LPI front strap, 20 LPI mainspring housing).

Chapters

  1. 00:08Introduction: Gen 1 vs Gen 2
  2. 00:20Gen 2 Production & Features
  3. 00:38Thunder Ranch Design & Specs
  4. 01:36Gen 2 Modifications & Components
  5. 02:29Les Baer Craftsmanship & Finish
  6. 03:19Trigger Fitment & Reset
  7. 04:30Gen 1 Specifics & General Fit
  8. 05:22Lok Grips & Aesthetics
  9. 06:29Thunder Ranch History & Disassembly
  10. 07:19Expert Opinion & Legacy
  11. 08:38Trigger Pull Weight Test

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key differences between the Les Baer Thunder Ranch 1911 Gen 1 and Gen 2?

The Gen 1 is all blued with a single-sided safety and traditional magazine release, while the Gen 2 features a two-tone finish (hard chrome lower, blued slide), an ambi-safety, and an extended magazine release. Both use Kart National Match barrels and have 30 LPI front strap checkering.

What is notable about the build quality and components of Les Baer Thunder Ranch 1911s?

These pistols are known for their hard-fit construction, hand-cut checkering (30 LPI front strap, 20 LPI mainspring housing), and Kart National Match barrels. Small parts like the beavertail grip safety are cast and may show marks, reflecting Les Baer's focus on function and durability.

How do the trigger pull weights compare on the Les Baer Thunder Ranch 1911 Gen 1 and Gen 2?

The Gen 2 typically has a slightly lighter trigger pull, measuring around 4.08-4.25 lbs, with a very short and positive reset. The Gen 1 measured slightly heavier at approximately 4.63-4.73 lbs, also featuring a crisp break.

Why was the production of the Les Baer Thunder Ranch 1911 Gen 2 limited?

The limited run of approximately 65 Gen 2 pistols was due to a business disagreement between Clint Smith of Thunder Ranch and Les Baer around 2017-2018. This collaboration ended, impacting further production of this specific model.

Related News

All News →

More Gunsmithing & DIY Videos You Might Like

More from BERETTA9mmUSA

View all →