[Dean]

Thor, Thanks for the info regarding how the "chop" was performed. I guess 1/2" = one less round in the mag.

Now that I look at it, I notice the grips appear to be chopped as well!

I guess that splice line is about where the chop on the frame was.

I'll have to get a hold of that American Handgunner article.

I don't understand the need to cut the frame with EDM. It gets welded anyway. I would think that the jigging during the weld is the more important aspect.

I have another question about the barrel. The thicker portion that holds the front sight, is that sleeved on then soldered? Or is this part of the the barrel like the originals (integral)?

My gut feeling teels me that it is the portion from the original barrel and some clever machining is performed to mate it to the new, shortened barrel (which itself may be made from the old barrel?)