Which Version Combat Master do I Want?

Many people compare the Detonics to Mr. Browning's "Colt" 1911A1, albeit a scaled down version. This is incorrect. The initial prototype and first production Combat Masters were assembled from cut down 1911 frames, but the revolutionary genius of the mechanisms mechanical engineering reflects but a rudimentary similarity to the 1911A1. A close look at a field stripped Combat Master will leave no doubt to it's independent classification.
This thread goes a long way in identifying the evolution of the various models and their time of production. Finish may vary, but functionality remains constant, a Detonics, is a Detonics, is a Detonics!



Date: 11/18/10 19:29

Thread:   http://www.biggerhammer.net/detonics/wwwboard/ 

"I have been interested in getting a Combat Master for some time. I would like to avoid getting one of the early ones with the 2 piece barrel and/or welded slide but can't seem to figure out to avoid this for sure. I have seen the reference to these being early models with low serial numbers, but I am not quite sure what that means. I gather these are all MKI guns? Is there a point in the serial numbers where one can feel confident that they are not getting one of those early frames or barrels? I have asked to join the Yahoo group but have not yet heard back, and have searched here, but am still unsure. I will most likely purchase one online so there will be little chance to examine the gun first.
I was seriously thinking of getting one of the Georgia guns, but have read about sloppy production just before the plant closed and would not want to risk getting one of these, so I am inclined to stick with a Seattle gun.
Thanks for any help."

Reply

In Response To: Which version do I want? (John)

It's unfortunate that the Yahoo Collector's site is making changes and is not very responsive these days. Most of the info you seek could be found there. You could also search the other 1911 sites. Plenty can be found on those too. A simple way to avoid "cut and weld" frames, slides, and barrels, and be relatively sure of a good specimen would be to look at prefixes rather than serial numbers. D, C, and CR prefixes would be preferable on Seattle/Bellevue CM's. Keep in mind that some shoddy assemblies got out of Seattle as well as GA, even within the prefixes given. However, as long as no "gunsmith" did any butchering to the guns, they can usually be put in good working order by a smith who knows what to do. The odds are actually in favor of the Georgia guns when it comes to correction of assembly problems, simply because of the quality and dimensions of the parts that were used in production.