Convert .45 Govt to Commander model

[Pico]

Is it possible to put a Commander sized slide on a regular .45 Government model frame? I would like the option of using the shorter slide for CCW and having the long slide for target shooting.

Pardon if this is a stupid question.

Pico

 

[RickB]

It will physically fit on the frame, but you will lose some slide travel, and I don't know if it would be enough that you wouldn't get reliabe ejection. The butt of the gun is what makes concealment a hassle; 3/4" of barrel/slide shouldn't make much difference, especially in an all-steel gun.

 

[45_Shooter]

Commander frames have slightly different geometry than Government frames. Commander slides will short stroke on Government frames, causing reliability concerns. Officer's frames can accept Commander slides and vice versa however.

 

[Pico]

Thanks

OK, rats looks like I will have to buy another gun. That is really too bad...

Thanks for the reply,
Pico

 

[45_Shooter]

If you're looking for one of the best possible combinations, try putting a commander slide on an officers frame (or cut the commander frame to officers length). It gives you a lightweight, easily concealed handgun that shoots very similar to a full size, with the reliability of a big gun too. I absolutely love mine and carry it often.