[PhotoFeller]

1911 guys used to suggest that beginners use a little piece of masking tape or a thin piece of plastic as a protectant to prevent the scratch until the assembler gets the 'feel' for how the parts properly go together.

Comments about the "hacks" who scratch their 1911 frames smack a bit of a 'know-it-all' attitude. People, including lots of really smart ones, have been flubbing 1911 re-assembly for a hundred years. Yes, it hurts value. It also teaches a very valuable lesson for folks who stick with 1911s. Thats why I intentionally started out with a less costly RIA to learn about 1911 mechanics.

[norton]

Guess it depends on the use of the 1911. Lots of people seem to buy guns just to show them off to their friends. Ok by me-
I buy my guns to use. To shoot. Often.
As a friend of mine says-he's a car guy-chrome don't get you home-same principal here
If you are concerned about cosmetic wear on a pistol, might I suggest a Glock?

[cciman]

Yeah, there is the lingering stink of arrogance...like that dead mouse in the crawlspace

I own close to a dozen 1911's (Colts, Kimber, SA, you name em), since the mid 80's. I do not enjoy taking them apart nor putting them back together.

[faawrenchbndr]

It's really rather easy. Like with everything, you just have to know
a few simple tricks to make reassembly so much easier.

[3rdgen40]

Originally Posted by faawrenchbndr

It's really rather easy. Like with everything, you just have to know
a few simple tricks to make reassembly so much easier.

Yuuuuuuup....