First 1911 - questions & good gunsmith in OC area?

[Lester53]

This past fall I purchased a new Citadel 1911 and I have a few questions about a potential mod.

Unfortunately while I've had it for awhile, I've only had it to the range once because I had to have a major surgery not long after the purchase. In the one outing, I really enjoyed shooting it, but the one thing I didn't care for was the plain metal sights.

I've seen posts about people painting the front blade, but I'm not sure I want to do that. I think I would like a fiber optic front sight. I'm considering leaving the rear sights as they are. The front sight appears to be a Novak mount, but from the research I've done it doesn't appear to be standard specs and requires some filing and fitting of the sight.

I don't think I want to try to do this myself (concerned about screwing up the finish on the gun).

A few questions

1. Thoughts on replacing the front sight vs painting the original

2. Recommendations for a good gunsmith in my area - central O.C.
I know this shouldn't be difficult, but I don't want the finish screwed up.

3. Should I consider replacing the rear sight as well? Maybe adjustable?

[Powder_Keg]

Im not sure which sights you need, but Mike at OC Armory should be able to help you out. Ive seen him or his brother replace sights for customers. He should be able to help identify the type of sights you need too.

[Nirrad]

Hey Lester,

You can paint the front sight no problem. I've used White-Out, nail polish, and craft store paint. Apply with toothpick. Easy to remove with the proper cleaner.

Depending on what you're doing. a fiber optic front sight would be nice. Really useful when outdoors. Indoors, not so much.

I run a red Dawson fiber optic http://www.dawsonprecision.com/ProductDetail.jsp?LISTID=800017E4-1388518381 on my 9mm 1911 and paint my .45 front dot.




You can do it yourself as long as you take your time and go slowly when removing material. And you shouldn't damage the finish since you remove material from the sight, not the slot. And anything you do happen to scratch will be covered by the sight.

An adjustable rear sight would make sighting a breeze vs shaving the front down to adjust POI.

You're welcome to come and use my awesome sight pusher made by another member http://www.calguns.net/calgunforum/s...d.php?t=422097 - it really isn't all that difficult.

[Lester53]

Thanks guys. I appreciate the input!

Nirrad, Thanks for the offer. Depending on how I move forward, I might hit you up in the future. Your 1911 looks fantastic.

[JoeNoBody]

I have read comments from others who have bought glow in the dark nail polish for their front sight. It won't last long but it can be repainted easily.