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The GSG-1911 (.22LR) -- first impressions

121K views 114 replies 65 participants last post by  qwiksdraw 
#1 ·
Recently picked up a GSG-1911 -- it was an impulse purchase for sure. I paid $345. Unfortunately the pistol comes with only one mag, and extras don't seem to be in very plentiful supply. But that's the end of the bad news.

This gun is very enjoyable to shoot, for several reasons. First, it costs about $.08 vs. $0.34 per round to shoot (I'm comparing the price of CCI Mini-Mags to the Walmart price of Winchester White Box .45ACP). That's about 75% less ammo cost. If you're not lucky enough to find .45ACP at Walmart, the savings are even better.

The second feature that makes this a fun gun: It's reasonably accurate, i.e., no problem with an under-1" group at 7 yards. I haven't had a chance to test the pistol at greater distances (I rarely practice at anything beyond typical self-defense distances).

Third: The rear sight is windage-adjustable, and the height of the front sight is adjustable by selecting any one of three sights provided. They pop in and out with an allen wrench. It took some patience and fiddling to zero my sights (about 50 rounds), but, as noted above, I was pleased with the 7-yard accuracy when done. All adjustments, including swapping front sights, can be easily done right on the firing line, if your range allows it.

Fourth: The finish on the gun is pretty decent -- but there is more than the usual amount of text printed on the slide and frame. On the plus side, the text is tastefully done, nothing garish in annoying type styles.

Fifth: I had to call customer service with a couple questions, and the gunsmith handling the GSG-1911 at ATI is a real knowledgeable 1911 specialist and a super nice guy. This is a real plus!

CAVEATS: The recoil spring in this pistol is slightly tapered! The wider end goes in the plug. Reassembling with the spring in backwards results in a vicious lock-up of the slide. Be aware! Also, the manual (at least the one I got) makes NO reference to a hex screw that must be removed before the slide will come off the frame. I'm sure you'd see this right away, but it's worth a note. Also, the GSG-1911 requires high-velocity .22LR, so stick with Mini-Mags or the like. I had about 5 failures to feed in over 200 rounds of Mini-Mags, which, for now, I chalk up to normal break-in behavior. No other malfunctions.

MORE CAVEATS: I read a claim somewhere that 80% of the parts of the GSG-1911 are interchangeable with a mil-spec 1911. I detail-stripped the GSG-1911 and I think the 80% figure is high -- but no telling how that 80% was actually calculated! I'll also mention the trigger. It's unlike most 1911 triggers because it has ALMOST no "take up". Otherwise, it's crisp at about (I'm guessing) 4-5 lbs.

All in all, a very fun gun. Does it replace training with a .45 1911? No, for so many reasons. But if you have young sons, like I do, who are ready to begin shooting a handgun, this pistol is a perfect intro to the 1911!

tap n rack
 
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#70 ·
Has anyone replaced the mainspring housing on one of these yet? I prefer a flat MSH. My son is also going to want to shoot it and a flat MSH will be a better fit.
 
#73 ·
may have been answered, so much info out there on these already, but is the text deep engraved or is it laser engraved, or even just painted?

I haven't seen one around here and just looking to get some ideas (to much text in my opinion, but it should be able to be removed).

Also, anyone in the tacoma area know of any available?
 
#74 ·
may have been answered, so much info out there on these already, but is the text deep engraved or is it laser engraved, or even just painted?

I haven't seen one around here and just looking to get some ideas (to much text in my opinion, but it should be able to be removed).

It's not engraved into the slide. It's looks like the logos are painted on the slide, but covered with a coating over the entire slide. Unless you cover it up with a paint pen or something, you're probably going to need to refinish the entire slide in order to get the logos & writing off of it.


At first, I was all for removing the GSG logos. But now I kind of like them on there since it shows others that it's a GSG .22LR, and not my Kimber (which looks very similar) at the range. Must be a CA thing where the GSG 1911 .22LR is like a sacraligious firearm to have :p
 
#76 ·
Forum Convince me to buy the GSG-1911 - Glad I did

I have been looking for a .22 caliber pistol for quite sometime. I looked at Sig and Walther and a host of other manufacturers revolvers and semi-auto pistols and fired most. After reading the forum I decided on the GSG-1911. A great decision. I paid $330 for it. 1911 with wood grips arrived in a case with a lock and one 10 round magazine. I bought 3 other magazines for $23 each. The pistol looked and felt like my larger caliber 1911 and its performance exceeded my expectations. I was certain I'd be spending much of my time clearing jams given it was a .22 auto (experience with Sig and Walther). Not this time. 750 rounds, 1 jam (probably as much the ammo as anything else). Accurate, out of the box tight target groupings. Inexpensive to shoot, good feeling in the hand, good sights (although I may tweak them a bit as they are movable), good looks, reliable and a pleasure to shoot. You guys in the forums writing about your experience with it pushed me into the purchase and I thank you for it.
 
#77 ·
Also acquired GSG 1911 .22

I'd like to also extend my thanks to those who went before me and purchased this gun. I joined your ranks last week and have probably put around 300 rounds of mixed brands through this pistol with no ammo-related issues. Sights are decent (even if they are synthetic) and the trigger is not all that bad. Accuracy seems pretty good also.

I did have a problem with the magazine disconnector stopping the firing cycle on a full mag (but permitting normal function after the first two rounds were removed or when pressure was applied to the bottom of the magazine). I took the magazine safety out and had subsequent flawless operation from all mags; either fully or partially loaded. I have a theory about why the problem occurred, but I'm not going to send it back to repair a feature that I really don't like anyway.
 
#87 ·
I'd like to also extend my thanks to those who went before me and purchased this gun. I joined your ranks last week and have probably put around 300 rounds of mixed brands through this pistol with no ammo-related issues. Sights are decent (even if they are synthetic) and the trigger is not all that bad. Accuracy seems pretty good also.

I did have a problem with the magazine disconnector stopping the firing cycle on a full mag (but permitting normal function after the first two rounds were removed or when pressure was applied to the bottom of the magazine). I took the magazine safety out and had subsequent flawless operation from all mags; either fully or partially loaded. I have a theory about why the problem occurred, but I'm not going to send it back to repair a feature that I really don't like anyway.
This seems like a bit of a coincidence.

I've had mine for about four moths now and it took all kinds of ammo without problems (even slower than HV).
I just received my second mag a couple of days ago and it causes FTEs.
Same bunch of ammo, same gun, old mag. No problem.
I noticed that the new mag's spring is a bit harder to push (while loading) but I don't see why that would cause FTEs. I'd think that a weak or bland spring would cause FTEs but the with the new mag, the slide closes on the cartridge as it's (now empty) open snout is out of the slide but the bottom
is inside the feed path.
 
#78 ·
A very popular lil ole shootin' iron...

I, too, recently purchased a GSG 1911 in .22 lr...at around the same magic price as a few others, $280.00 from a favorite gun shop south of home...fit, finish, weight, and grip angle virtually identical to my other new pistol, a Remington 1911-R1...am as close to heaven as I can get...at least this week...
 
#80 ·
Got one,too

I ,too, picked up a GSG about a month ago- great shooting piece! It, like a lot of others, is my first 1911 and I guarantee, won't be my last. I have fired somewhere around 500 - 600 rounds through mine. It shoots everything I have poured though it - Winchester Super-X, Winchester 555 bulk, Remington Golden Bullet ( shoots fine, but dirty), Federal bulk, some 40 year old Winchester Wildcat. It shoots them all well.

I'm going to change the grip safety to a Wilson with the speed bump on the bottom - the stock one is OK, but I believe the Wilson will make shooting easier. Am also going to put magazine pads in the bottom of the mags. They should make it easier to get the mags firmly seated plus they just look cool!

My Mosquito is not getting much action lately since i got my GSG. My wife is also hinting that she would like to trade in her Mosquito for a GSG - I certainly cannot argue with her logic. It is simply a great gun!
 
#81 ·
Here's another me too on the GSG 1911. Picked mine up the other day and was able to get to the range yesterday. And as usual it liked everything I fed it except some really old PMC target loads. They wouldn't cycle the slide and I figured they wouldn't but I gave them a try. Was shooting outdoors and was able to consistanly hit a hanging gong @ 25 yards with no sight adjustment. Also shot my new Remington R1 at the same time. After shooting the R1 the GSG was a dream. Waiting for the heavy recoil and it of course was not there. I figure I will change the MSH to a flat one as it is what I prefer on a 1911. Have been out of the 1911 business for many years and it was good to be able to get back in it with the R1 and the GSG. Dave
 
#82 ·
I just got mine a couple days ago, I have not had time to put any rounds through it yet. This is my first "1911" and I am not really familliar with all of the mechanics yet. Is there a way to "de-cock" it with one hand (without dry- firing)? I wish I had seen this in a store first, it doesn't seem very user friendly.

Someone please tell me that I am just not holding my mouth right!!
 
#86 ·
Real one-hand decocking is easier with revolvers. It's the same principle here (but done a bit differently.)
Given the structure of a 1911 (even GSG) you will find it easier to hold the hammer back with the thumb of your weak hand, while pulling the trigger with your strong hand (that's how I do it) and slowly allowing the hammer to go down.

It is quite user friendly (friendlier than Rugers) and once you've disassembled and re-assembled it a few times, it'll be a cinch. Just follow the instructions (even on Youtube) carefully and you'll eliminate the risk of having something go flying through the room.

Enjoy and safe shooting.
 
#85 ·
I got mine a week ago at the gun show and still haven't had a chance to put any rounds down range....but this weekend is looking good :biglaugh:

I also want to get a couple extra mags...but they aint the cheapest things in the world! But so far I love the feel and look of it...will let you know how I feel after a few hundred rounds.
 
#90 ·
My guide rod snapped right at the base this morning, called ATI and they were good to deal with other than parts are backordered until 1st week of June. It needs a new spring, guide rod plug,and guide rod. I told them my bushing was wearing bad on the bottom side and they said no problem we'll throw one in. Nice to see great customer service. It's only 2 weeks old so it must have been faulty. I've got almost a thousand rounds thru it though. Seems like a lot of wear on the aluminum slide but we'll see how it fairs out over the summer. I'm sure they'll take care of me if there is more issues. Good people though and just wanted to give them props instead of all the bad customer service issues we hear about.
 
#92 ·
I just picked up a 2nd GSG for my wife 2 wks ago and I noticed when I tore it down that the guide rod is no longer metal like it is in my GSG that I picked up back in like november. Thought that was kinda odd, they not only changed the little bumper but the whole guide rod. Her gun shoots just as good as mine, the only other thing I noticed was a slight change in the basepad on the magazine.
 
#94 ·
GSG 1911 22LR Surpasses Expectations

I bought my GSG 1911 Wednesday. I poured over the manual which was ok but could have been better. I also ordered two additional magazines. (which have arleady arrived!!) The first thing I always do with a new pistol is to snake or swab the barrel. This is an old practice but, I do it.
Today, the following Friday, I took my new GSG to the range. I fired over 50 rounds without a single hitch. It performed flawlessly! The one thing I did do, however, was to put the high blade sight on the front sight. This seemed to be the general agreed upon choice. After shooting on a sighting target, I found it actually was shooting low. So, I went back and put the medium height sight back on the pistol. Windage appeared to be spot on. Monday will report as to the medium height blade worked.
The pistol is solid/well built. It does have an alloy frame and slide. The barrel, of course, is steel..as is the hammer and most of the internals.
Which ammo? I used Federal 525. I had zero problems cycling and it produced a consistent grouping. (even though low, which was my doing)
Out of the group of folks with whom I shoot regularily, several had purchased 1911A1 conversion kits to be able to shoot 22LR as well as 45ACP. I found it interesting the kits cost more than the GSG! I have a Les Baer and I opted to keep it totally 45ACP an not mess with a conversion kit. I am glad I did.
For general information, the GSG 1911 22LR is 1.6oz lighter than a standard 1911A1 with empty magazine. Overall dimensions are nearly identical. It is my finding that 70-80% of the parts in the GSG can be directly substituted with 1911A1 parts. (should someone want to spend that much!)
Summary: the pistol I feel was a great investment. I don't have to mess with a conversion kit. It feels and shoots nearly the same as a 1911A1, minus the recoil. It will most surely permit 1911 practice at: a lesser cost rate and will maintain muscle/shooting memory. I hasten to add, the pistol cost less than 335. I find that to be a bargain.
Again, on Monday I will test the sighting with the medium height blade and will return with my findings. I hope this post will help someone.
 
#96 ·
just a warning on painting your gsg1911

Yeah so if your considering using a bake on enamel like dura bake, you need to take the slide block assembly out of the slide before you stick it in the oven, seems like a no brainer but failure to do so, can result in the pot metal firing pin becoming brittle and breaking in half, I'm still waiting for ati to send replacement firing pin
 
#97 ·
GSG 1911 22LR After sighting In

Monday at the range! :) I remounted the medium height front sight blade. The sighting is right on for indoors 50yd range. Again, the windage was spot on. To sight the elevation exactly on would require an adjustable rear sight. With the medium height blade, @ distances from 30-75ft, you need to aim at the 6 O'Clock position on a 3 inch bullseye. I have also noticed the shooter has to firmly grip the backstrap safety. If you don't do this, you feel round cycling through the safety. I think, with more useage, that spring will break in and that will diminish to nil. Overall, the GSG 1911 22LR is a fine investment. For the price range of $318-$350. it is definitely more economical than most standard 1911A1 conversion kits. My suggestion is: buy it and enjoy shooting a 1911 for 3 cents a round. :)
Good Shooting and Keep Your Powder Dry ------
 
#98 ·
1911 .22

I recently bought the Sig 1911 22. As i've read on here they are the same gun. I love mine. I own two colt 1911 45's, and have shot the sig way more in the past week than I have ever shot my 45's. I'm extremely happy with the gun, its accurate, and jammed once out of the first 400 rounds. Such a fun gun to shoot. The only dislike I have is the spring on the thumb saftey is pretty stiff compared to my colts, and the thumb strap seems to be a little thicker than the strap on my colts. They did a good job making this gun feel like the larger caliber 1911's. I paid $380.00 for it. I saw some were getting the GSG version for like $280, but the other shop in town that sells the GSG wanted $375.00, so I went ahead and got the Sig. I'd buy another if I could find one in a sig. Sportsmans Warehouse cant get anymore as of right now?
 
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