ltwguns.com

If you refer to Chuck's post, http://www.louderthanwords.us/forum/vie ... php?t=2708

he shows some of the guns he was taking to SHOT 2006. Before he left, I whined, begged, debased myself, etc and finally convinced him that life would be dreary without the marvelous Springfield-based "Black Gun" -- the first pictures in the link above -- he was taking to the show being sold to me. He finally let me persaude him, and after taking it to the show, wiping all the 'eye prints' and drool marks off it, adjusting the sights, and shipping it off to me, it got through its paces in my greedy little paws, to the tune of nearly 500 rounds down range.

First, the gun is -- if possible -- even better looking in the 'flesh' then in photos. The workmanship is just incredible. The detailing on the serrations, the intricate and artistic blending of lines and angles, words really do fail. Next, the feel of the gun in your hand is also impossible to describe, it just feels, well to use a very overused cliche, 'right.' Chuck's 'golf balls' look good, but feel even better.

Then, shooting it. Yes, I did the unthinkable, I took this beauty downstairs to the range and put everything from 500 rounds through it in one long, but enjoyable session this morning. Corbon and MagSafe defense loads, JHPs, and Magtech 230 gr hardball range fooder. All feed just fine. Used every kind of mag I had from pre WWII Army garbage, to Wilson, McCormick, Novak. The result? Not a burp, blip, FTF, nada, just smooth, perdictable, and ungodly accurate. This gun will shoot better than my ability at 58. The only problem I encountered was the need to change targets frequently as the centers had a nasty habit of disappering in one not so large hole!

Chuck may build a work of art, but no safe gueens. Damn this thing will shoot up a storm! If I had to stake my life on a gun, I would not hesitate to do so with one Chuck built.

I took it home, popped it apart to clean it (after a call to Chuck to tell him how much I appreciated the gun.) I mentioned to him, he called me back when I was just starting to strip it down, that 'the slide stop is not easy to get out.' He was kind enough not to laugh when he told me that the notch was so well blended to be near invisible until you knew where it was. Once it came down (no need for a bushing wrench even thought the fit was perfect) I spent a fair time admiring the wonderful work inside, easily a match for the seamless outside of the gun -- looks as smooth as can be and nothing like its Springfield origins.

My sincere compliments to the builder. It is a privilege to own this gun. Thank you Chuck. Dave

Dave,
You sir are one lucky dog. Congratulations and I am glad to hear that you are shooting one of Chuck's masterpieces instead of leaving it in a safe. I do believe that is what he intended for them. (for them to be shot)

Congratulations on a first rate sidearm! I held it in my hot little hands at shot and immediately fell in love with the golfball treatment. First time I've ever handled one with that frontstrap and MS housing texture. It truly works 'as advertised'.

Chuck's creation is exactly what you'd expect from a master. Everytime I picked it up, I would marvel at the precision workmanship.

Congrats on a BEAUTIFUL gun! Chuck builds some amazing 1911s!

Banker, is that the one you and I kept grabbing and dropping?

Just kidding Dave, breathe.

Both Banker and I were trying to figure out a way how to sneak that one past Chuck out of the showcase. It is one of those guns you just keep holding and looking at. It draws ones attention. Amazing is all I can say.

Congrats!

_________________
"No person was ever honored for what he received. Honor has been the reward for what he gave."
Calvin Coolidge

Al, I thought we'd agree not to ever speak of the 'incident' again! I'm sure that huge dent in the slide came right out with a few blows of the hammer.

Naw, actualy everyone handled the weapons with the same care you'd give fine diamonds. Come to think of it, the diamonds might be cheaper.

The good thing about the dent was I learned Bondo will indeed stand up to the heat of curing a coating.

_________________
http://www.rogersprecision.com

So THAT'S how you got the finish so smooth, Chuck. I should have known, works on cars too, doesn't it? All the better restoration shops use it. Dave

Hey Chuck, after you do the Bondo fix, who applies the finsh coating? Maacco? Earl Shieb?

Bwahaaaaaaaaaaaaa! I crack me up!

Dave N., I jealously call you a... GUN HOG!!

It seems that the range report justifies the contortions you went through to lay on hands on 'er.

Good Shooting!

_________________
Dave

Member NRA

I hope you shoot the snot out of it. Don't make it a safe queen. That gun was built to work!

_________________
Hard work pays off

Dave - and Chuck - that black Springer is possibly the classiest, most beautifully detailed and finished 1911 I've ever laid eyes on. Just drop dead amazing. Congrats and kudos to all.