July 23, 2025, 10:41 PM
RileyReducing weight on a 1911.
I have a Springfield Operator with the rail and I need to reduce the weight for IDPA.
I need to drop the weight by a full ounce to meet the rules.
It’s currently 42.8oz with an empty mag. Max is 43oz so I need a little more wiggle room for scale variance.
Currently it has 10-8 G10 grips and slide stop, flat aluminum Harrison trigger and 10-8 Stainless steel GI recoil spring assembly and a Stan Chen Magwell. I want to avoid changing any of these as it shoots and works well for me.
I’m thinking taking a bit of material from the back of the grips and possibly a little off the frame under the grip area.
Thoughts? I don’t want to damage the gun but a little lightening should be an issue.
Buying a new gun is not an option at this point do to timing constraints.
July 24, 2025, 09:18 AM
Chris OrndorffI know you don’t want to, but change out the mainspring housing/lose the magwell.
July 24, 2025, 09:32 PM
sigwerkes2Drill some holes in the stock panels, magazine and top of the slide. Done.
July 26, 2025, 05:58 PM
Chuck PerryBarrel flutes would shave bit of weight. A different mainspring housing and magwell would definitely do it. Looks like there are quality aluminum units available by reputable parts suppliers, but not Stan Chen.