III. Firearm Information by Type

C. Semi-Automatic Pistols

2. Models and Manufacturers

a. 1911A1

2. Where to Get Smithing Information

by Dan Bryson (dan@hopi.dtcc.edu, Paul Feist (efeist@ctp.org.com), and Mickey Boyd (boyd@math.fsu.edu)

Dan Bryson: Try "Hallocks .45 Auto Handbook" by Kenneth R. Hallock It has a little of everything in it for pre-series 80 .45's (which is what you have with a norinco) Chapters ranging from the basics to history and identification to tune-ups and trigger and accuracy work. It is a must for any .45 fan !!

Another book is "The Combat Auto" by Bill Wilson.

If you know nothing about "race guns", then this book will open your eyes, as will the cost if you want to do one :) This is a good book on what can currently be done to the venerable .45. My only fault with this book was that it "advertised" Wilson's product line endlessly, but I have yo be fair and say it IS loaded with info, wilson does great work, and he does list other top (and up & coming) pistolsmiths.

Paul Feist: The hands down best book on the subject I have ever read is "The Colt .45 Auto, A shop Maunual." by Jerry Kuhnhausen. It is very complete, and goes well beyond the usual "if it has X problem, take it to your local gunsmith" that most books suffer from.

Mickey Boyd: I second this opinion. Also, the video that accompanies this book is excellent! I have the Kuhnhausen books and videos for the 1911A1 and S&W revolvers, and they have paid for themselves many times over. Brownell's sells all of these, and a bunch of others as well. Their gunsmith library section should be your next stop.