They were in the trunk of a junk car that I bought for $150. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/lol.gif" alt="" /> That's why I'll be getting a police officer I know to check out the 1911. If it's needed for evidence, he can keep it..... if it's on a stolen list, the owner will get it back..... if not, I'll be very glad to have it.

I haven't yet taken it down for a full cleaning, but further checking of the serial no. reveals 1944 manufacturing - standard issue - in nearly perfect condition..... barrel's clean and shiny, rifling appears good, no rust in the barrel..... more action cycling reveals a nice tight piece... thumb safety feels good and positive, little wear on anything - it appears to be a very fine example of the M1911A1 and it might be best not to refinish it.

I wish it could talk.... I'd like to hear the stories it could tell.

My father brought home 2 of these from the Pacific after WWI. One was a Remington, the other a Colt. I remember him telling me that some officers swapped a Colt slide onto a Remington frame - or vice versa..... claimed to make the weapon better - I don't remember why - I think it had to do with slide clearance..... probably because of the sand over there.

Frank