Les Baer Custom HW Hard Chrome & Stainless Custom Carry 1911

Published on June 10, 2026
Duration: 12:42

This video provides a detailed comparison between the Les Baer Custom Carry in stainless steel and the Les Baer Premier II Heavyweight in hard chrome. The presenter highlights the differences in frame profiles, slide markings, and barrel finishes. Key features discussed include the quality of the trigger pull, safety engagement, grip safety tuning, and the overall craftsmanship of Les Baer custom 1911 pistols. The video also touches on potential maintenance concerns like rust prevention and offers recommendations for custom order options.

Quick Summary

Les Baer 1911 pistols, like the Custom Carry and Premier II Heavyweight, are renowned for their exceptional craftsmanship. Key differences include the Premier II's heavier monolith frame versus the Custom Carry's traditional frame. The Custom Carry boasts a superior trigger with an immediate break, while the Premier II's trigger has slight travel. Both feature hand-cut checkering and serrations, with the presenter preferring the hard chrome finish and the lighter trigger of the Custom Carry.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Les Baer Comparison
  2. 00:04Les Baer Custom Carry (Stainless Steel)
  3. 00:11Les Baer Premier II Heavyweight (Hard Chrome)
  4. 00:17Frame Profile Comparison
  5. 00:32Stainless vs. Hard Chrome Finish
  6. 00:41Custom Options & Slide Markings
  7. 00:55Barrel & Finish Details
  8. 01:03Rust Prevention Recommendations
  9. 01:13Front Sight Upgrades (Fiber Optic)
  10. 01:17Magazine & Grip Discussion
  11. 01:25Masterful Fitting & Tuning
  12. 01:43Grip Safety Tuning
  13. 01:53Trigger Comparison: Premier II vs. Custom Carry
  14. 02:04Custom Carry Safety Over-travel
  15. 02:19Grips & Magazine Release
  16. 02:46Stock Premier II Heavyweight Features
  17. 02:50Cast Small Parts & Molding Lines
  18. 03:01Hand-Cut Features (Serrations, Checkering)
  19. 03:21Finish Details: Polished Flats & Matte Edges
  20. 03:37Premier II Safety Perfection
  21. 03:55Slide to Frame Fit & Extractor/Ejector
  22. 03:48Premier II Rear Sight (Bowmar Style)
  23. 04:02Grip Safety Tuning Comparison
  24. 04:26Custom Level Tuning & Craftsmanship
  25. 04:38Les Baer Senior's Philosophy
  26. 04:51Safety Tension & Duty Grade
  27. 05:05Mainspring Housing & Magazine Well Beveling
  28. 05:32Premier II Hard Chrome & Finish Preference
  29. 05:46Hard Chrome Availability & Les Baer's Commitment
  30. 05:58Recommended Custom Orders
  31. 06:01Trigger Gauge Measurements
  32. 06:35Bear Speed Trigger & Classic Appeal
  33. 06:45Custom Carry Package & Night Sights
  34. 06:69Custom Carry Trigger Pull Measurement
  35. 06:59Final Preference: Hard Chrome vs. Stainless
  36. 07:22Spring & Recoil System Tuning
  37. 07:36Conclusion & Channel Subscription

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key differences between the Les Baer Custom Carry and Premier II Heavyweight 1911s?

The Premier II Heavyweight features a thicker, monolith-style frame, while the Custom Carry has a traditional thinner profile. The Premier II may have a blank slide, and its trigger has a slight travel before breaking, whereas the Custom Carry's trigger breaks immediately with no over-travel. The Premier II also typically comes with adjustable sights.

What maintenance advice is given for Les Baer 1911 pistols?

The presenter strongly recommends ordering the barrel and hammer to be 'duponted' (coated for rust prevention) to avoid potential rusting issues, which they have experienced with previous Les Baer firearms. Regular application of anti-rust grease is also advised.

How do the triggers of the Les Baer Custom Carry and Premier II Heavyweight compare?

The Les Baer Custom Carry's trigger is noted for its crisp, immediate break with no over-travel or creep, measuring just under 4 pounds. The Premier II Heavyweight's trigger has a slight amount of movement and travel after the wall before breaking, measuring just over 5 pounds.

What are the finishing characteristics of Les Baer custom 1911s?

Les Baer pistols typically feature polished flats with matte finished rounded edges. The stainless steel models often have a bead-blasted finish, while hard chrome models have a matte top and polished flat sides. All small parts are cast, but the overall fit and finish are considered exceptionally high.

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