Rock Island 1911 Any Good?
 

I ran across a very inexpensive 1911 online and I know that Rock Island used to be one of the manufacturers of the 1911 during WWII, but I'm not sure if it is a good reliable gun.

I just want something for the range as I want a stock old fashioned 1911 GI style like my dad used to have in the war. It'll basically be a recreational firearm, but I still want it to function. And by inexpensive I mean under $400.

You won't be dissapointed with a RIA- Do a search here & you'll find lots of good reviews-

Mine- Longballer grips :cool:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v6...2000/45532.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v6...2000/45523.jpg

Buy it, you will not be disappointed.

How easy is it to change the trigger and hammer to original WWII style?

I came across some Rock Islands at a gun show recently. Didn't know anything about them. Tried one in 9mm. It had the smoothest action! I was very impressed. Considered buying. The owner - a friend - told me to check on line - good reliability reports on the gun.
I also tried the 45 caliber version - it was stiffer. Not as impressive. But I understand the reason - the springs needed to cope with the more powerful cartridge.
Still I liked those Rock Islands and am loosely considering one - even though I own a pristine Colt Government 1911 45. The thing is - that particular gun was carried by my Dad as he flew over Europe in WW II. So it is a special one to me.
Rock Island would allow me to shoot without somehow jeopardizing my Dad's gun - if you know what I mean...

Just buy the Government model if you want that style hammer and trigger, these are available starting around $400 on-line.

Bud's Guns has them for $409 with free shipping, add the FFL cost and your looking at ~$440 otd. The local FFL I use charges $20 for a long gun and $30 for a handgun. WI requires a state BG check and a fee for running it on handguns.

I have a RIA tactical 9mm, it is a great range gun.

Great 1911's but as someone who works on the Rock Island Arsenal they have nothing to do with this place just so you know.

According to Wiki - made in the Philippines..

The Rock Island (ARMSCOR) guns are great value for money. They have developed good reputation for a pretty good product an for good customer service.
One of the few gripes I've seen is that some have found the finish to be less durable than they would like. Let's be honest, there will be compromises on a $400 1911. Typically though, it's less than most would expect.

I have one and have never had any problems with the gun and Im going on about 7-800 rds. I bought the gov model and only swapped out the factory hammer for a commander style, swapped the factory beaver tail safety for a wider one, and put Hogue grips on. Its more reliable than my $1000 gun Im too embarrassed to name. In fact the RIA pictured is my everyday carry cause I know it'll fire every time.

You might see scratches and finish wear but I see character. lol

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