1911 parts upgrading/replacing posts??

[NewGuy1911]

Can someone aim me at posts regarding 1911 Kimber Carry Pro II HD parts replacing/upgrading, where to start and which 1911 parts to consider? I'm considering replacing the Tactical thumb safety and slide stop with 10-8/EGW parts, also the mag, catch could be a problem, any or parts I should think about?

The problem is I like the Carry Pro, I can be a little rough with it, I could take it camping, I might some day carry it (If I could shoot better with it). I know someone is going to ask why I don't just sell it. I have a re-worked Super Match with to much $$$ invested. I have a Les Baer "IDPA" type that I will use hard and holster someday.

Many Many Thanks

[redcliff]

There probably aren't any parts that "need" replacing in the short term. Many people shoot thousands of rounds through their guns containing MIM parts without a problem. Generally, if MIM parts are going to fail, they fail early.

That said, if you want to be cautious, I'd start with the slide stop, but it may require fitting. If you're going to do a trigger job a good tool steel hammer and sear will hold the trigger job longer. I have seen posts occasionally on Kimber thumb safety's breaking, but it seems rather rare, however if you like the ergonomics of another by all means consider replacing it.

Neither grip safety's or mag releases are highly stressed imho, so I wouldn't necesarily worry about them unless you're so inclined.

Wilson Bullet-proof, Ed Brown and EGW parts should all be top quality.

[NewGuy1911]

I'm wondering about the 10-8 slide stop vs the EGW slide stop. I will have a pistolsmith do the part replacing (hopfully he will let me have the used parts). The Tactical thumb safety is to narrow the slide rubs against my thumb so I probably will get the EGW thumb safety. Thanks

[redcliff]

The 10-8 slide stop looks like a nice part to me, so if you prefer that go with it. And yes, insist your gunsmith return the take-off parts so you have spares; mine always do.

[cindynles]

Does Kimber still use polymer mainspring housings? If so that would be the one item I would be concerned about (much more so than MIM parts) and want to replace. It also gives you an excuse to put a magwell on (I really like the Ed Brown Maxi-Well).

[NewGuy1911]

Hi Cindynles, yes I'm thimking of replacing the MSH with an aluminum one, any suggestions? The Kimber Carry Pro II HD (4" SS) is weighty and I do not want any heaver.