3 Singer 1911A1's | The Gun That Costs As Much As A House!

Published on October 19, 2022
Duration: 19:52

This video provides an in-depth look at three rare Singer 1911A1 pistols, highlighting their historical significance and extreme collector value, with prices reaching up to $400,000. The presenter, an experienced firearms instructor, details the production differences between Singer 1911A1s and those made by Colt, Remington Rand, Ithaca, and U.S. Switch & Signal. Key identification features discussed include the unique slide markings, high-polished blue finish, specific magazine design, upside-down 'P' proof mark, 'JKC' inspector stamp, serial number range, mainspring housing checkering, and grip panel construction. The video also touches on the scarcity of original Singer parts and the prevalence of fakes or reworked examples in the collector market.

Quick Summary

Original Singer 1911A1 pistols are distinguished by their high-polished blue finish, an upside-down 'P' proof mark on the slide, the 'JKC' inspector stamp, and a serial number range from S 800001 to S 800500. These rare firearms, with only 500 produced, command prices up to $400,000 due to their historical significance and collector demand.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Three Singer 1911A1s
  2. 00:15Previous Video Comparison
  3. 01:04Singer 1911A1 Overview and History
  4. 02:23Singer's WWII Contract and Production
  5. 03:36Why Singer? Precision Manufacturing
  6. 04:36WWII 1911A1 Production Numbers
  7. 05:22Examining the Singer 1911A1s
  8. 06:10Production Differences: Singer vs. Colt
  9. 06:52Key Singer Identification Features
  10. 07:10Finish: High Polish Blue vs. Parkerized
  11. 09:18Magazine Differences
  12. 10:00Proof Mark Placement
  13. 10:18Union Switch & Signal Comparison
  14. 11:04Mainspring Housing Comparison
  15. 11:37Grip Panel Differences
  16. 12:19Quick Identification Checklist
  17. 13:38Barrel Swapping and Identification
  18. 14:54Serial Number Importance
  19. 15:23Leftover Parts and 'Parts Guns'
  20. 16:37Faked Serial Numbers
  21. 17:43Conclusion: Investment and Beauty
  22. 18:21Caution: YouTube Spam and Scams

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Singer 1911A1 pistols so rare and expensive?

Singer 1911A1 pistols are exceptionally rare because only 500 were produced by the Singer sewing machine company before World War II. This scarcity, combined with their historical significance and high-quality craftsmanship, drives their collector value to extreme levels, often reaching hundreds of thousands of dollars.

How can I identify an original Singer 1911A1 from a fake or reworked one?

Key identifiers for an original Singer 1911A1 include a high-polished blue finish, an upside-down 'P' proof mark on the slide, the 'JKC' inspector stamp, a specific serial number range (S 800001-S 800500) that is roll-stamped, unique magazine pin configurations, and fine checkering on the mainspring housing. Grip panels should lack reinforcing rings and be hollow inside.

What are the main production differences between Singer 1911A1s and other WWII 1911A1 manufacturers like Colt or Remington?

Singer 1911A1s are primarily distinguished by their high-polish blue finish, specific slide markings, upside-down 'P' proof, 'JKC' inspector stamp, and unique magazine design. Colt 1911A1s often have a brushed blue or parkerized finish, different inspector marks, and a broader checkering on the mainspring housing. Remington Rand and Ithaca typically feature parkerized finishes and different markings.

Are there common issues or modifications found on Singer 1911A1s?

It's common to find Singer 1911A1s that have been reworked after the war, which might include a parkerized finish instead of the original blue, or swapped barrels and magazines. Also, due to leftover parts, 'parts guns' assembled from Singer slides and non-Singer frames exist, often with faked serial numbers. Always verify the serial number's roll-stamping and range.

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