1911 .45 to 9mm conversion. Need help.

[Demitrios]

I own two 1911's, one is an RIA G.I. and the other is Dan Wesson RZ-10. My questions are is it possible to convert either pistol just by changing the slide and its assembly? If so where can I get a whole slide conversion to 9mm? They both have internal extractors which I have no desire (and am not even sure it'd be necessary) to swap out every time I change calibers so I would think an external ejector on said conversion would be necessary. I know that the breach face of a .45 or .40/10mm are different from a 9mm, which is why I'm asking where I could get the works (slide [5" or 6"], guide rod/plug, spring and barrel).

If you're wondering why I don't just go out and buy a 1911 in 9mm that's because in NJ, particularly in my town (please don't tell me to move, I really hate being told that), a pistol purchase permit is necesary and I don't feel like waiting 3 to 6 months to get one, which is only good for 90 days and prevents me from getting another pistol for another 30 days after said purchase. I've looked at .38 supers and Sarco has an RIA for sale for $339 but again I don't want to waste the time waiting for a pistol purchase permit.

But I digress, 9mm conversion to either of my pistols. Possible and available?

 

[Canuck-IL]

You apparently don't understand the difference between an extractor and an ejector. The former is in a tunnel in the slide such that it's hook end controls the round's rim against the breachface.

An ejector, on a 1911, is installed as part of the frame and located on the opposite side of the breachface from the extractor.

A 9mm will require a new top end that will include an extractor. There are no 'kits' as with 22 rimfire topends. Parts for a conversion will likely require some fitting but nothing too daunting.

A 9mm top will also require a matching ejector be installed in the frame ... as it's pinned in place, this is not something you swap every time you get the urge to switch calibers. Most sensibly, you use a separate frame for 45 and 9.

/Bryan

 

[Demitrios]

I understand the difference between the two, pardon my writing error. I figured I would need a swap in ejectors but here's what I don't understand. The .38 super, being a longer cartridge, is able to use the same ejector if converted to 9mm, isn't it?

 

[Oro]

Yes, the narrower cartridges all share the same ejector. The slide stop is also different between a .45 and a 9mm/.38 Super, too.

However, the frame ramp is machined differently for a .45 vs. a .38 round. You might go to all the expense of buying the parts and find that it does not feed reliably.

A .38 Super to 9mm conversion is not a big deal. A .45 to 9mm change is not all that practical.

 

[Demitrios]

To Hell with it, I think I'll just bite the bullet (no pun intended) and buy an STI Spartan in 9mm.