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Old 08-08-2004, 13:18   #7
The Reaper
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Re: Looking for knowledge on the Para Ordnance 1911 series, particularly the 12.45

Quote:
Originally posted by Alex F
I am getting one of these in a trade, and I'm considering it for CCW.

I've tried glocks, USPs, berettas, etc. I keep coming back to the 1911, it's what I first learned to shoot, it's what I carried in the Army, it's what my muscles know, it's what I can hit what I aim with, every time.

Having said that, what are the pros and cons of this model? It's small, which is good for carry, but are they trouble prone?
Am I better off getting a 5" since that's what I'm used to?

Thanks in advance.
I am assuming that your 12.45 is a P-12, not the LDA. I do not own one of the LDAs, but hear good things about it. The only difference here would be the trigger and trigger job references.

To respond directly to your questions, the Para P-12 is an outstanding CCW piece.

It is compact (smaller then the small Glocks) and holds 12 rounds of an acceptable defensive caliber.

It is reliable and comfortable to carry in a good holster.

The Alloy version is the best carry version, and the stainless the most resistant to body salts.

Mods that I do immediately upon purchase are to install a good set of low profile night sights, an extended or ambi thumb safety, replace the plastic mag release button, and to replace the plastic mainspring housing with an S&A MSH/mag guide.

Function fire it, and once you determine it is running well and putting bullets where you want, consider adding some or all of these:

Dlask Trigger
Trigger job
Beavertail Grip Safety
Tuned Extractor
30 LPI Checkering on front strap
Dehorning

Once you have all of the work done that you want, consider getting the pistol bead blasted and refinished, either with a Black Teflon, or a Teflon-Nickel mix like NP3. Do not forget to plate your carry mags as well.

Mags should get cheaper next month if the AWB sunsets without further restrictions (Executive or Legislative).

Enjoy it!

TR
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