1911 22lr Kit

[LazyTheKid]

I just purchased my first ever firearm (Springer 1911 GI Stainless) and I'd like to get a 22lr kit so I can practice without breaking the bank. I would also like a 22 kit where the slide locks back on an empty mag just to keep good shooting practices (definitely not a deal breaker though). Can anyone recommend a decent conversion kit that'll work well with a Springer (I heard some kits have problems with the hammer hitting the firing pin even when then hammer is down)?

[7anthony7]

I have played with a couple different kits, but honestly never cared for any of the conversions. I would look at getting a cheap Ruger 22/45. Would cost about the same as a kit and much more reliable. I gave up on the kits and honestly don't remember the brands I tried. I know they weren't really cheap though.

[ThatFishGuy]

I've heard really good things about the Marvel kits as well as the TacSol ones. no experience though, good luck

[Ubermcoupe]

Kimber 22lr kit gets my vote, BUT, its a pretty steep price ($350) unless you happen across a deal.

[dagerk]

I've got a Marvel Unit 2 and it's been good. Like most 22s, it needs cleaning frequently (can't go 100 rounds without cleaning....).

The best thing is that it's really helped me get more time on my 1911 to practice the basics. $20 is now three trips to the range rather than a single box. Everything about the gun is the same - same grip, trigger, sight picture, very similar weight, same procedures on failures. Of course, less recoil, so it's easier to detect problems and flinches.

If you just want cheap shooting, it's not a less expensive alternative to a dedicated 22.

If you want cheap time on your primary handgun, it's a good way to go.

[giants_fan24]

I had a Ruger 22/45 and even tho it was close to a 1911 it just wasn't the same for me. I've fired the Kimber .22 kit and I had no problems with it.

[moosegun]

I have played with a couple different kits, but honestly never cared for any of the conversions. I would look at getting a cheap Ruger 22/45. Would cost about the same as a kit and much more reliable. I gave up on the kits and honestly don't remember the brands I tried. I know they weren't really cheap though.

+2 totaly agree.

[LazyTheKid]

I've got a Marvel Unit 2 and it's been good. Like most 22s, it needs cleaning frequently (can't go 100 rounds without cleaning....).

The best thing is that it's really helped me get more time on my 1911 to practice the basics. $20 is now three trips to the range rather than a single box. Everything about the gun is the same - same grip, trigger, sight picture, very similar weight, same procedures on failures. Of course, less recoil, so it's easier to detect problems and flinches.

If you just want cheap shooting, it's not a less expensive alternative to a dedicated 22.

If you want cheap time on your primary handgun, it's a good way to go.

I read around and heard that Marvel sold quality products. Has anyone tried Advantage Arms kit? The slide supposedly locks back on an empty mag on that one.

Pretty much I want to get decent range time on my gun, so you're right, a kit is the way to go. I'll keep the search going. If anyone has their two cents I'd like to hear it.

Side question: using a brass brush on stainless...OK or not OK?

[pMcW]

I have a Kimber kit that works well on both my SA Loaded and GI 1911s. However, as other mentioned, it's not cheap. It also does not lock the slide open.

[o0RedEyE0o]

Anyone have experience with the Wilson Combat conv kit?

I know they make quality stuff.

[MAC USMC]

I shoot my Sig Sauer 226 with the .22 conversion kit. It is very well made, shoots quite accurately and never malfunctions. I do not know if it will fit any other firearm, but Sig could tell you about that. This kit has saved me a lot of money and increased my range time also. Now I can work through my shooting bugs on the cheap, them switch back.

.22 conversion kits usually do not lock back after the last round is fired. Not a big deal. Get one that is RELIABLE or you have wasted your $$$$.

[tozan]

I agree and have done what many have recomended here Buy a 22lr pistol then you get TWO guns for the price of one... No swapping around and you can practice both at the same time with no hassel. I load up a few 45 mags and a few 22 mags then I shoot one then the other and reload and do it again... It has improved my shooting doing this.

The 22 I got is a Smith and Wesson 22 auto. You should be able to find one around $250 or less...

[killabyte]

I have the Kimber kit. Works great, accurate.

I shoot about 300-400 rounds between cleanings with it. One of the best firearm related purchases I have made so far.

[cindynles]

I agree and have done what many have recomended here Buy a 22lr pistol then you get TWO guns for the price of one... No swapping around and you can practice both at the same time with no hassel. I load up a few 45 mags and a few 22 mags then I shoot one then the other and reload and do it again... It has improved my shooting doing this.

The 22 I got is a Smith and Wesson 22 auto. You should be able to find one around $250 or less...

This is what I do also. I use a Buckmark with my 1911 since it has a manual safety in about the same location. I always bring both to the range me.

[DaveFJ80]

Kimber .22LR kit for $350.... or a GSG 1911 .22LR for $319 + transfer/DROS and single-shot (then you have 2 completely separate guns to use for a little bit more money).

Without my extra mags, the GSG 1911 cost me approx $420 OTD (I got the tactical model so that cost more).



Although I'm kind of curious to try out somebody's Kimber .22LR kit on my TLE, and shoot that side by side with my GSG 1911 and see how they both feel.