Marvel Precision is offering a .22LR conversion kit for the old 1911. For those who want to train cheaply, while retaining the operating characteristics of their 1911, here is a solution.

The conversion kit will convert any 1911 Semi-Auto pistol into an accurate .22 pistol. Tests from a machine rest have delivered groups around 1.8" at 50 yards ... for 100 shots with inexpensive ammo (see the sample test targets)! Compare that to extremely expensive European target pistols that boast 1-1/2" groups (measured center-to-center, which gives you a smaller measurement than edge-to-edge) at 50 yards for 10 shots. The secret to Marvel Conversion Unit's astonishing accuracy is the same as for any breakthrough product: an innovative and unique design with top-quality production techniques and components.

Take the design, for instance, of the barrel locking system. The barrel underlug cutout is machined to precision specifications so when the recoil rod is tightened on to the slide stop, the barrel is drawn down tightly. The barrel is solidly locked to the frame (only the slide moves). Everyone knows minimal tolerances are a necessity for competitive target pistol. Here, there are no tolerances because the barrel does not move or pivot, and the barrel does not depend on support at the muzzle from a moving slide. Notice also that the barrel is directly connected to the sight rib or scope mount, again with no tolerances or play. With a solid barrel-to-frame lockup, accuracy from a machine rest, with the frame locked down, is guaranteed (this is mechanical accuracy). Also, with the sights solidly connected to the barrel, accuracy of the shot via the sights is also guaranteed (this is handheld accuracy).

Precision components are also part of the formula. The barrels are machined from blanks supplied by the world-famous Shilen company. No more needs to be said about the quality of the barrels. We also utilize aircraft-grade billet aluminum and high-carbon steel.

All machining - barrel, slide and smaller parts - is done by CNC for incredible precision. The slide is made from 7075 aluminum and contains a hardened-steel breech insert (thus a steel-to-steel breech-to-barrel contact and no aluminum battering problems). Aluminum parts are anodized and steel parts are blued, both for corrosion resistance and a rich appearance. Total weight is just over 16 ounces.

The Marvel .22 Conversion Unit converts any caliber 1911 Semi-Auto with no fitting required. Installation time is under a minute, even if you're taking your time. It fits Government, Commander and Officer Model 1911 Frames. Magazine fits all those models also, but will extend below the bottom of the grip on the Officer Model.

Each conversion kit comes with one tested steel magazine and a foam-padded, soft-side nylon case.

NOTE: Since the slide is aluminum, the Unit is designed NOT to lock open after the last shot; to do so would cause the steel slide release to batter and eventually round out the slide notch.

Finally, the company produces another kit, for the STI/SVI pistols, which comes with a wide magazine.