Sokol stippled the frontstrap and checkered the rear strap most expertly at 30 lines per inch, allowing the gun to grip into the shooter's hands. The gun is tight, with none of the rattling that we all remember being common in older 1911s. Sokol's efforts are evident in all the small details that go into making a custom gun so desirable. He is a true master of his craft.

The author's shooting buddy Andy Steirman puts the Sokol .45 through its paces, showing some typical 20-yard results. Photos by the author

Snapping an M3X light into place with a satisfying click, we found that Caspian had done everything that could be asked in constructing the light rail frame. The Heinie low-mount night sights did their job, making the entire package point naturally and quickly. We were eagerly off to the range the next day.

Once there, we did as shooters all over the world do during a day at the range. We chatted amiably about guns and ammunition while happily setting up targets, loading magazines and preparing to indulge our mutual hobby. Eventually, the time came for T.C. to crack off the first round, a 185-grain jacketed hollowpoint. It was followed by several more in quick succession. We also put 230-grain full metal jacket rounds through it. It loved them all, having no problems putting any downrange and tossing aside the empty shell casings with authority.

The pistol fed and functioned perfectly and kept everything inside two inches at 20 yards when asked to do so. Double-taps at seven yards produced fast, tight groups as well. Felt recoil was not unusual for a 1911, which surprised us given the lightweight frame. The gun is simply a pleasure to shoot.

SOURCES
Caspian Arms Chestnut Mountain Sports Eagle Grips Insight Technology

Overall, the experience of dreaming up a custom gun, assembling the parts and having it built was a good one for T.C. He reports that there was much discussion with his gun buddies that went into the process, haggling over parts and pieces and chatting with various vendors and suppliers. The anticipation of having it all culminate with the gunsmith putting his wish into action made it an experience that gives the weapon more meaning and importance. He ended up with a weapon that is one of a kind and satisfies his individual needs and desires.

Like most of us, he cannot simply go out and buy one of the factory custom guns that go for anywhere from $1,500 to $3,000. Even if he could, it would not be as unique as this weapon is, nor would it have the attendant importance and special meaning. By putting the gun together over time, he was able to mull over things and spend the money a little at a time, which made it more practical monetarily and simply added to the anticipation and resultant satisfaction. I think I will learn from his example and begin to contemplate my own custom gun. I just hope it comes out as well as this one did.

	This is article appears in the 2006 issue of The Complete Book of the Model 1911, which is available on newsstands now!