Handled a custom built 1911 pistol today and the frame had no manufacturer marking only a 6 digit serial number followed by a dash and the letter C. I was thinking Essex but they stamp their frames. Any input? Regards, Jericho

What’s the problem, I have more than a few 1911’s with no manufacture markings other than serial # on the frame. Dash C after # might be a Colt. Might not. Since custom in could be an in the white Caspian. Could be an 80% some smith finished out. In other words who the hell knows.

Crown Ciity frame?

L.W.

Caspian or Fusion?

BTW, I do like your choice of play toys!

My bet would be RemSport. They handle most of the 80% forged frame custom business, including most of the heavy hitters. An 80% frame is not a pistol yet and doesn't need a serial number until a FFL transfer.

Actually it may be a pre 1970 colt commercial model. Between 49 and 70 the commercial colts had no markings on the frame other than serial #’s which used a -C suffix. That suffix was dropped in 70.