I grew up listening to my great uncle telling stories about using his 1911 during WWII and have always wanted one (unfortunately he sold his a few decades ago) but I feel like spending the money for the novelty of owning one is probably not worth it.. can you even fire those things anymore? (I dont know the first thing about antique arms)... anyone own one?

I know someone who has what is probably a WWI vintage 1911 for sale too I believe.

Personally, as much as I like the history behind old military small arms, today's 1911s are a lot more shootable. I have had the slide cut my hand shooting an old Colt 1911 due to the lack of a beavertail. After you do it once, you won't make the mistake again. To me, the big deal is the crappy sights on a Government model. You'll be moving the target closer.

standard WWII was 1911a1 , but some 1911's were issued - shoot mine all the time -

my uncle has a civilian model 1911, made in 1912 or so. still shootable. if you ever do find a vintage gun, parts kits are a dime a dozen. if you want the next best thing, springfield makes the GI 1911, a copy of the military issue. parkerised, near useless sites, everything.

Guns age better than us humans do. Assuming it was stored properly and not in a swamp, they last forever. I had an untouched springfield trapdoor made in 1873 that shot very well (And I have all my limbs still)

Those ol'e 1911's use to be affordable at one time.. you would be best off buying the springfield GI.

 

go ahead and tell us how much the 1911 sold for so we could reminisce about the old times..

my uncle has a civilian model 1911, made in 1912 or so. still shootable. if you ever do find a vintage gun, parts kits are a dime a dozen. if you want the next best thing, springfield makes the GI 1911, a copy of the military issue. parkerised, near useless sites, everything.

 

Rock Island makes a very nice affordable GI Model as well.

WWI vintage I mentioned is not for sale.