Rock Island Armory Model 2011 tactical 1911 with Cerakote and Custom Upgrades

Published on April 5, 2012
Duration: 9:22

This expert guide details the customization and modification of a Rock Island Armory Tactical 2011 pistol. It covers aesthetic upgrades like midnight bronze Cerakote and PACMY grips, functional enhancements such as Trijicon HD night sights and a match trigger, and the intricate nitro-bluing process for pins and the barrel. The guide also touches upon slide serrations, barrel crowning, and a seamless disassembly procedure, highlighting the pistol's fit and finish comparable to higher-end manufacturers.

Quick Summary

The Rock Island Armory Tactical 2011 features impressive fit and finish comparable to Springfield Armory or Colt. Customizations include midnight bronze Cerakote, PACMY grips, Trijicon HD night sights, a match trigger with a 3.5 lbs pull, and extensive nitro-bluing on pins and the barrel.

Chapters

  1. 00:03RIA Tactical 2011 Introduction
  2. 00:20Tactical Rail and Aesthetics
  3. 00:31Upgrades and Sights
  4. 01:30Cerakote and Grip Color
  5. 02:08Nitro Blueing Process
  6. 02:44Trigger and Other Modifications
  7. 03:14Rock Island Armory Branding
  8. 03:30Highlighting Nitro Blue
  9. 04:13Detailed Blueing Examination
  10. 05:01Slide Rack and Barrel
  11. 06:00Front of Pistol and Focus Issues
  12. 06:54Overall Impression and Modifications
  13. 07:30Serrations and Design
  14. 07:43Barrel Work and Crown
  15. 08:02Disassembly and Reassembly
  16. 08:28Trigger Pull Measurement
  17. 09:10Conclusion and Call to Action

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key custom upgrades on this Rock Island Armory Model 2011?

The primary upgrades include a midnight bronze Cerakote finish, custom PACMY grips in a brassy bronze, Trijicon HD night sights with a bright front sight, and a three-hole match trigger. The pistol also features extensive nitro-bluing on pins, the barrel bushing, and the barrel.

How does the fit and finish of the RIA Tactical 2011 compare to other brands?

The reviewer notes that the fit and finish of the Rock Island Armory Tactical 2011 are impressive and comparable to higher-end manufacturers such as Springfield Armory and Colt.

What is the trigger pull weight on the modified Rock Island Armory Model 2011?

After the installation of a match trigger, the trigger pull weight on this Rock Island Armory Model 2011 was measured at 3.5 lbs. The trigger has a slight take-up before the break.

Can you explain the nitro-bluing process and its visual effect?

Nitro-bluing is a heat-based finishing process that creates a thin oxide layer. It results in visually striking bluish-purple hues on components like pins and barrels, with the exact color varying based on salt exposure time during application.

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