can I build a registered frame?

[mtnman82]

I have an opportunity to buy a Colt 1911 receiver assembly. Not exactly sure what model, but it's 5~10 years old. Supposedly it's been registered here in CA and is on the roster. The story goes he mucked up the barrel, took it to a gunsmith and never bothered to get it back, and then lost the slider assy parts in a move.

I'd like to find parts and build it up. I assume that would be legal since it's registered all ready and we'll transfer thru an FFL? And am I restricted to what parts I can use (within CA law of course) if I build it up - i.e. do I have to stick with stock parts that it's registered under? If I wanted a different trigger, hammer, or to have a different finish?

[Brandon04GT]

I assume that would be legal since it's registered all ready and we'll transfer thru an FFL?

If it wasn't registered it doesn't necessarily mean it's not legally possessed. Yeah, you transfer through an FFL. You might run into an issue doing the safe handling demonstration but the FFL as I understand it can have you do it on a similar/same gun off his/her shelf.

And am I restricted to what parts I can use (within CA law of course) if I build it up - i.e. do I have to stick with stock parts that it's registered under? If I wanted a different trigger, hammer, or to have a different finish?

No legal restrictions in doing so. Everyone changes out parts and finishes on their 1911's. That's what makes them the best guns evARRRRR.

[Cyc Wid It]

No you can't do it on a similar gun for the safe handling demonstration. It must be with the exact same make and model. While it seems many dealers skip over this step, especially for regular customers, they're putting themselves at risk by doing so.

[Brandon04GT]

No you can't do it on a similar gun for the safe handling demonstration. It must be with the exact same make and model. While it seems many dealers skip over this step, especially for regular customers, they're putting themselves at risk by doing so.

That's what I wasn't sure about...so I said same/similar. I remember reading someone said it had to be the same, but then I figured it would be kind of hard to find a dealer who has the exact same gun as a frame you're bringing in.