ww1 1911

[acr8raptors]

I recently picked up a Colt 1911 with a w prefix ser.no. which indicates a WW1 Britsh contract RAF pistol chambered for 455. It came with several two tone mags with pulls and one marked 455 Eley on the base.The issue is that on the right side of the slide is marked Colt Automatic Caliber 45acp and that is what chambers in the gun. Is this correct for the gun? The frame and the slide look identical as to wear and age, unfortunately someone has changed the rear sight to a more modern Eliason.
Any thoughts?
Thanks Dave

 

[NAA]

I recently picked up a Colt 1911 with a w prefix ser.no. which indicates a WW1 Britsh contract RAF pistol chambered for 455. It came with several two tone mags with pulls and one marked 455 Eley on the base.The issue is that on the right side of the slide is marked Colt Automatic Caliber 45acp and that is what chambers in the gun. Is this correct for the gun? The frame and the slide look identical as to wear and age, unfortunately someone has changed the rear sight to a more modern Eliason.
Any thoughts?
Thanks Dave

Likely, the slide has been swapped for a similar vintage one marked for and chambered in .45ACP at some point in the distant past.

The proper slide for your frame should be marked like this:

I had such a slide but sold it on the EE a couple years back:

NAA.

 

[DANCESWITHEMPTIES]

No unfortunately, it does not sound like the correct slide. An arsenal refurb possibly, but doubtful...
Pics could tell more. Does the slide have any proof marks on it?
If you want to sell the Eley marked mag, drop me a p.m.

 

[DANCESWITHEMPTIES]

NAA beat me to it! but knows a he77 of a lot more about 1911's than me.....

 

[acr8raptors]

Thanks, Thats what I was afraid of. There is hope however,The man had dementia and the family keeps finding stuff everywhere like five toolboxes full of ammo in the garden shed! The right parts might turn up yet. I'll keep the 455 mag in mind for you.