The Norinco's really aren't that bad, especially for the price and for what most people use them for. Not everyone needs a Kimber, Colt or Les Bear and at literally a 10th the price of some high end pistols, the norinco is a fine gun for the money. So far as I'm aware, all Norinco 1911's have forged frames and the ones I've shot have never been too picky about mags. Obviously they aren't a serious competition gun, not without A LOT of work anyways, but for target shooting or some light competition there's no real reason they won't work. I use a GI with a trigger job, aftermarket curved main spring housing, double diamond checkered wood grips, GI guide rod and reduced power recoil spring for Wild Bunch. I am very pleased with the gun, having fired at least 2000 rounds through it without any issues with the gun itself. I keep thinking about upgrading to a series 70 colt, or perhaps a Remington, but the damn thing just works. Just my opinion.