Sidearms & Scatterguns Top Pistolsmiths List attempt

[TexPatriot]

Virgil Tripp in Bastrop

Virgil went completely through my Series 70 back in the 80's about the time H.W. Bush announced 'a kinder, gentler nation. A New World Order...'

 

[Bill Duerson]

Gus Norcross up in Maine has done some amazing 1911 work…

 

[dm250]

Wow that 1911 list is dangerous for my wallet.

 

[simonp]

I suggest an in memoriam section.

There were great pioneers in pistol smithing who are no longer with us.

Two off the top of my head are Bob Chow and Armand Swenson.

Legends in their field.

I couldn't afford a Valtro so I jumped when I had a chance to buy one of his uncle's guns. I really like my Swenson custom.

Unfortunately need to add John Jardine, Armand's nephew, to the list. He just passed earlier this month.

RIP

 

[secondofangle2]

Just shot this today with my defensive creations 1911 built by David Laubert in alliance Ohio

 

[lockedback]

David Salyer in SC does great 1911 accuracy work

 

[glock24]

Rob Schauland's site needs an update; https://www.schaulandperformance.com/

He just finished an SA Professional homage for me;

 

[TexasAC2222]

When I first glanced at your list, I was thinking…is it really worth it?

But it’s a list started in 2013 so it’s fascinating how the market has changed. Wilson is a completely different animal and now in the top 10 volume sales for firearms.

I’m no expert but I’m very active in other groups, been to several 1911addicts and 1911forum meetups…. And at least 60% of the makers I’ve never heard of, never seen and never had anyone talk to me about them.

And that’s probably just fine because if you find a smith you trust that is more concerned with quality than fame…. You’ll probably get a great build that is highly reliable and will eat anything.