80% 1911

[MosinVirus]

Started my own thread here to stop hijacking this one.

[Matt P]

The frame is aluminum on both my first builds. But I do have a couple of steel frames for future builds.

Yes, checkered both. I did it first when upgrading my mil spec SA 1911, when I bobtailed it, added a beavertail, etc. on that one I actually tried to do the checkering over beavertail, MSH and the back of the frame. Came out pretty good, but I made a mistake when bob tailing, had to weld one hole shut, and fix... In any case it came out good in the end.

I am teaching myself. Completely amateur, which is another good point for the OP.

Having built (3) 1911s from a variety of manufactured parts that this endeavor is very complex. No way basic gunsmith skills will suffice much less basic tools. Thank fully I had the guidance of a legend in this format Bob Marvel.
I will offer your obvious skills in your efforts are exceptional and not what the average person should expect.
I had (2) classes with him of roughly 12 other students. Most had extensive gunsmith experience. Those who had little struggled miserably. If it were not for Bobs patience and skill they never would have finished. Some did not.
I offer this so those wishing to build their own take every advantage of selecting parts/kits from outfits who are familiar with what parts work well with what they offer.
Doing hand checkering is massively time consuming and is considered an art.
You did an outstanding job on it.
Very impressive efforts. Excellent work.