RIA Questions

[Flat Broke]

After handling my brother's new RIA tactical, I'm in the mood to pick up my first 1911. In looking at Armscor's page, I notice that the MS model looks essentially the same as a "commander" and would like to go that route.

So my first question is, does anyone know where I could get one? I saw Bellshire is out, but was wondering if anyone had his email address so I could see if he's expecting any more in.

If that doesn't pan out, what about buying a GI, then fitting a commander slide and barrel? Is it going to be a morphadite, or should it shoot well assuming the slide is properly fitted to the frame? If I go this route, I'll probably shoot the GI for a while before I buy the slide/barrel combo, and was wondering if the GI slide is cut for a front sight so I can replace the GI sights. Asside from the Novaks style sights and lightened hammer and trigger, are there any other benefits to the tactical over the GI?

Thanks,
Chris

[Spyder]

Ha, Bellshire! I bought one from them a while back. Shipping took a few days longer than normal but overall a good buy on a sweet super cheap absolutely not top of the line but still goes bang park'd 1911. Phone number over there is 615-860-4212. Very helpful bunch of folks.

[Cokebottle]

There's more to "chopping" a GI than simply swapping in a Commander slide and barrel... and even at that, ypu'll probably spend more than if you had just bought the Commander in the first place.

[Flat Broke]

I'm not trying to save $$ by buying a GI and adding a commander slide/barrel, but rather going that route as an alternative if I can't find one of the RIA "MS" models floating around.

With regard to the GI vs the tactical in the government length, are the slides physically different with regard to sight dovetails?

Thanks,
Chris

[Rekrab]

Flat Broke, last I checked, Fowler's Gun Room () or OC Indoor Range in Brea both had Rocks in stock.

I like my Tactical, I definitely like it more than the GI model for no other reason than the added beavertail. If you're looking at the Armscor page you're not actually looking at what gets sold in the states. The models available in America are not marked Armscor, but Rock Island Armory.