Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
General questions
Why should I buy Ed Brown? How do your firearms compare to the
competition?
Do you have a written warranty on your products?
What kind of payment do you accept on the firearms?
What is the delivery time on your firearms? Do you sell direct?
Do you accept trades, or sell any used Ed Brown firearms?
Do you offer any type of gunsmithing work?
Do you offer any special finishes or coatings on your firearms?
Will you be exhibiting your products at any trade shows?
How can I get a copy of the owner's manual for my Ed Brown firearm?
Do you have a mailing list I can join to get your company catalog.
What about interim updates for new products and promotions?
Specific handgun questions
What type of accuracy are your handguns capable of at 50 yards?
Which models are most accurate? Does a 1911 barrel/slide/frame fit have to be
super tight to get the most accuracy possible?
How reliable are your handguns? Which models are the most reliable?
How often should the recoil spring be replaced? What recoil spring
is used in the Ed Brown 1911's?
Do guide rods increase accuracy? Do any of your handguns come
with a guide rod?
Why do you use a 9mm size firing pin in your handguns?
Are the handguns tested before they leave your facility?
Is the serial number on my 1911 frame suppose to match the number
inside the slide?
How are the fixed sights set up? What is the point of aim?
What type of ammunition do you recommend for your handguns?
What is the difference between 70 and 80 series guns? Are Ed
Brown handguns 70 or 80 series guns?
Do Ed Brown handguns have any MIM (metal injection molded) parts?
What is the trigger pull on your handguns?
Do you recommend any particular type of lubrication?
What is the difference between stainless and blue steel? Does
stainless steel gall?
How do I get the maximum reliability out of my Ed Brown 1911?
What are the fundamentals of 1911 handling? What does "never shoot your
gun dry" mean?
What if I want some custom handgun options - can you accommodate
my requests?
Specific rifle questions
Do you have an accuracy guarantee? How accurate are your rifles?
How do I choose the right caliber for my application?
What kind of ammunition do you recommend?
What kind of optics do you recommend?
Do you offer any wood stocks?
Do you offer any left hand rifles?
Are your actions for sale separately?
What are the twist rates in your barrels?
What are the rifle barrel contours? Do they have a certain muzzle diameter?
How do I properly break in a rifle barrel to achieve the maximum possible accuracy?
What if I want a different caliber, or some custom rifle options
- can you accommodate my requests?
Why should I buy Ed Brown? How do your firearms compare to the competition?
Simply put, we are the real deal, and we have the best product. Having been in the gun business for over 40 years, and having been a major manufacturer for over 20 years, Ed Brown Products is one of the very few who actually are, what we say we are. We have our own 12,500+ square foot manufacturing facility right here in Perry Missouri containing 11 of the latest, most sophisticated computer controlled machines. These machines are supported by the latest design and machining software including SolidWorks, MasterCam and GibbsCam. The Brown family oversees the all machining and assembly operations, and performs the final testing on every single firearm we make. Competitors find it convenient to imitate us in their marketing, but they cannot match our facility or track record.
Ed Brown started the business as a gunsmith, and became world famous as such, being named "Pistolsmith of the Year" in 1991 by his peers. In more recent years his two sons Travis and Wade have joined the business and we have evolved into cutting-edge firearm engineering, innovation, and manufacturing. When a part needs fitting or adjustment, the gunsmith's only possible solution is to file it, bend it, weld it, pound on it, tweak it, and tinker with it until it works. The engineering way is to redesign and remanufacture the part correctly, so a skilled craftsman can fit it properly the first time. The end result is a much nicer product than any gunsmith could ever produce, and at a lower cost and delivery. Our gunsmith competitors cannot compete with us on quality, delivery, cost, or performance. Why buy a gun assembled from a mixed bag of outsourced components by gunsmiths of varying ability and consistency, when you can buy a fully engineered and perfected, consistent product from a single source? Ed Brown guns perform better, last longer, have faster delivery, are backed by a written warranty, can be customized, and cost much less. When you invest in an Ed Brown firearm, you get a fully engineered product that simply cannot be beat.
Those in the industry know and choose Ed Brown as their first choice. Cabela's chose us as their first high end 1911 for their famous gun library. The top firearms dealers in the country stock and recommend Ed Brown. Jeff Cooper's family chose Ed Brown to manufacture the Jeff Cooper pistol to commemorate his legacy. The majority of reputable gunsmiths have used Ed Brown parts for many years. Many manufacturers both large and small outsource their production to Ed Brown. We supply much of the production you see on other 1911 handguns. Why not go straight to the source for your next firearm?
Our Company History and Manufacturing Philosophy will help you learn more about us and how we manufacture firearms. To see and handle our firearms, visit any of our Authorized dealers, or make an appointment to visit the Ed Brown manufacturing facility. Due to time constraints and the overwhelming demand, we no longer offer the free 45 minute tour of our manufacturing facility, but the showroom remains open to the public, and you can still sneak a peak at forgings and bar stock steel being machined into some of the world's finest firearms. We're betting none of our competitors are willing nor able to demonstrate such to back up their marketing claims.
But enough about us, what about our customers? Our customers are serious about performance and appreciate the highest quality money can buy. They favor the traditional concepts that have been proven to work over a long period of time. Many of our repeat customers say we make the finest firearms available, anywhere, from anyone, at any price. Don't just take our word for it, see for yourself when you examine our work, and listen to what the industry experts and our customers have to say.
Do you have a written warranty on your products?
Yes. Effective April 10, 2007, all Ed Brown firearms (1911's and rifles) include a legal written warranty. We are the only high end 1911 manufacturer to our knowledge who offers a legal written warranty on firearms.
All Ed Brown parts continue to be sold as is and without any legal written warranty. No liability is expressed or implied for incidental or consequential damage or injury which may result from the improper use or installation of any parts sold or produced by Ed Brown Products, Inc. or Ed Brown Custom, Inc.. Our parts are intended to be installed by a qualified gunsmith, and parts and firearms sold by us are only intended for factory specification standard velocity ammunition. Any verbal representations made by us related to installation, should be confirmed with your gunsmith to assure safe operation in your particular firearm.
What kind of payment do you accept on the firearms?
We accept personal checks, cashier checks or a money order. Certified funds ensure the fastest delivery. Personal checks are held for a minimum of 10 days for clearance. Credit cards are not accepted for the purchase of firearms.
What is the delivery time on your firearms? Do you sell direct?
Most models are in stock at all times and available for immediate delivery or pick up, according to applicable laws. If a certain model is not in stock, delivery is within 90 days. We do sell direct and can arrange for pick up, or shipment to any FFL of your choice. We also sell through a nationwide network of authorized dealers including Cabela's retail stores.
Do you accept trades, or sell any used Ed Brown firearms? What about "seconds"?
As we are a manufacturing facility and not a retail store, we do not accept trades and have no inventory of used Ed Brown firearms. Please try our Authorized Dealer network if you'd like to trade or are looking for a preowned Ed Brown. Our commitment to excellence and quality prohibits us from releasing any manufacturing "seconds" to our customers.
Do you offer any type of gunsmithing work?
No, we do not. However we do offer an installation service for Ed Brown parts. Download the installation service order form (adobe pdf format) for details.
Do you offer any special finishes or coatings on your firearms?
Yes, we offer Gen III firearm coating. While this coating represents the third and latest evolution in coating technology, and offers superior rust protection and improved wear resistance over traditional bluing, we continue to advise that there is no coating currently available anywhere which never wears and keeps your gun looking like new forever. Gen III coating is now standard on all rifles, and our Special Forces handgun. It remains optional on other model handguns. We are also now offering Gen III coating on any previously purchased Ed Brown handgun or rifle. Download the installation service order form (adobe pdf format) for details.
Will you be exhibiting your products at any trade shows?
We will be at the 2009 SHOT Show in Orlando, Florida, January 15th-18th, booth #155, displaying our rifles, handgun, and all new products.
How can I get a copy of the owner's manual for my Ed Brown firearm?
The owner's manuals for Ed Brown firearms are in Adobe PDF format, and available free of charge. Our lawyers tell us we must print out a copy for you and include in with each firearm, but you can get the much nicer digital version here. Download Handgun Owner's Manual. | Download Rifle Owner's Manual.
Do you have a mailing list I can join to get your company catalog. What about interim updates for new products and promotions?
Sign up for our mailing list to ensure you receive our FREE annual catalog. To stay up to date with new products and promotions, sign up for our e-mail newsletter, sent periodically throughout the year.
What type of accuracy are your handguns capable of at 50 yards? Which models are most accurate? Does a 1911 barrel/slide/frame fit have to be super tight to get the most accuracy possible?
Ed Brown guns are capable of producing the accuracy the highest quality ammunition is capable of. With a 45 ACP, this is about 1 1/2" at 50 yards. A common misconception is that a gun has to be extremely tight to be accurate. What is required to reach the accuracy potential is consistent lock up of the critical components. Any tighter than zero movement is useless, and can only reduce reliability and detract from handling. It doesn't have to be tight, it just has to be right.
There are no significant functional or quality differences in our handguns - each represents the best engineering, manufacturing, and craftsmanship we have to offer. They are divided into different models mainly because of cosmetic finishing differences and different features. Under extremely precise testing, the 5" models are slightly more accurate than the 4.25" models, however it is very difficult to notice any practical (handheld) difference.
How reliable are your handguns? Which models are the most reliable?
There are no significant functional or quality differences in our handguns - each represents the best engineering, manufacturing, and craftsmanship we have to offer. They are divided into different models mainly because of cosmetic finishing differences and different features. Under extremely precise testing, the 5" models are more forgiving and inherently more reliable due to the additional slide travel, however it is very difficult to notice any difference with the 4.25" models when handled properly.
How often should the recoil spring be replaced? What recoil spring is used in the Ed Brown 1911's?
We recommend replacing the recoil spring every 3000 rounds. Our 5" models are equipped with an 18# recoil spring, while our 4.25" models are equipped with a 20# spring.
Do guide rods increase accuracy? Do any of your handguns come with a guide rod?
Our Classic Custom pistols are furnished with two-piece guide rods. They smooth out the cycling slightly, add a bit of weight to the muzzle, and may increase the life of the recoil spring. They do not enhance the accuracy or reliability of the gun, therefore we do not include one with the Executive series or Kobra series. If you would like to have a guide rod, they are a simple part to install as they drop right in. The two piece design is recommended, because it is so easy to disassemble and reassemble.
Why do you use a 9mm size firing pin in your handguns?
This prevents primer flow if hot loads are used and prevents a 45 ACP rim form hanging in the firing pin hole during the feeding cycle.
Are the handguns tested before they leave your facility?
We have what is probably the most extensive testing session of any firearms manufacturer. The gun is triple checked in different stages throughout the manufacturing process, and extensively test fired with a variety of ammunition before leaving our facility. Because of our commitment to quality and our investment in the latest manufacturing technology, we enjoy one of the lowest defect rates in the entire firearms manufacturing industry.
Is the serial number on my 1911 frame suppose to match the number inside the slide?
Some slides have numbers or letters stamped inside. These are lot codes for heat treating, not serial numbers. They have nothing to do with the serial number on your frame.
How are the fixed sights set up? What is the point of aim?
Ed Brown handguns with fixed sights are set to impact 3" high at 25 yards. This allows center hits on a standard 6" bullseye using a 6:00 hold, which is the preferred sight picture of professional shooters. The 6:00 hold is described as balancing the bullseye on top of your aligned sight picture. The primary advantages of the 6:00 hold is that it is more consistent and precise, and the sights do not cover up the target. This same setup allows "dead-on" hits at 50 yards with the 45 ACP.
What type of ammunition do you recommend for your handguns?
We recommend high quality Federal or Winchester ammunition, and nothing else. In our years of testing and experience, ammunition by these makers has proven to be of consistent high quality. The core of our function testing is done with Federal 230 grain FMJ, which is great self-defense ammuntion. For accuracy, the Federal 185 grain Gold Metal Match ammo tends to produce the best groups.
What is the difference between 70 and 80 series guns? Are Ed Brown handguns 70 or 80 series guns?
80 series guns have a firing pin block mechanism, while 70 series do not. If you aren't sure which you have, 80 series parts will work in both series 70 and 80 with no negative effects. Ed Brown handguns are all series 70.
Do Ed Brown handguns have any MIM (metal injection molded) parts?
No, we use no MIM parts in Ed Brown firearms. While the current thinking is that MIM parts are "good enough" for firearm applications, this thinking doesn't fit with our philosophy at all. All Ed Brown parts are made from either forgings, bar stock steel, or quality investment castings.
What is the trigger pull on your handguns?
The trigger pulls are set at a crisp 3.5 - 4 pounds that will last for thousands of rounds due to the fully machined components.
Do you recommend any particular type of lubrication?
Yes, we offer a special blend of synthetic oil (part #960) intended for the lubrication of Ed Brown 1911's and bolt action rifles. It works perfectly with both stainless and blue steel, as well as our Generation III coating. A bottle is included with all firearms shipped effective January 2008, and you can purchase it direct from us.
What is the difference between stainless and blue steel? Does stainless steel gall?
Stainless steel is more rust resistant, and costs a little more. There is no other significant difference between the two with regard to any attribute of a 1911 - accuracy, longevity, durability, etc. are all virtually identical between the two. We have been building all stainless guns for many years from high quality 416 stainless steel and there are no problems with galling.
How do I get the maximum reliability out of my Ed Brown 1911? What are the fundamentals of 1911 handling?
The fundamentals are simple and easy. Like all fundamentals they are the source of most problems people experience.
1. Use high quality ammunition, such as Federal or Winchester.
2. Use high quality lubrication, and keep the firearm well lubricated and clean.
3. Maintain a firm grip on the firearm throughout the entire firing cycle. The 1911 is a recoil operated firearm.
4. Make sure your recoil spring is correctly matched to the ammunition you are shooting. When you have the proper weight recoil spring for a particular load, ejected brass should land 8-12 feet away. If brass is falling within a few feet of you, your spring is too heavy for that load. If brass lands more than about 12 feet away, your spring is too light for that load. Either case leads to reduced reliability. A common problem is a novice shooter trying to "shoot anything and everything" through his 1911 from 185 grains up to 230 grains without considering the proper recoil spring setup. Another common problem is the novice buying a carry gun with a shorter slide, then shooting the hottest personal protection ammo he can get, while ignoring the recoil spring and ejection pattern. For the ultimate in reliability, we recommend choosing a consistent high quality load and sticking with it once it's proven to work well with your particular setup.
5. Never shoot your gun dry. Shooting your gun dry means firing the gun until it is completely empty and the slide locks back. This is a little known secret of top competitive shooters. When Ed Brown shot competitively and was ranked #16 in the world, not he, nor any of his competitors ever shot their guns dry. You should maintain control and always know how many rounds you have fired, and insert a fresh magazine before your gun is completely empty. For example, a 1911 is loaded with 7 rounds at the beginning of a match, when 6 are fired, the magazine should be exchanged for a full one. Dropping a locked back slide in a stressful match is a difficult and error prone activity.
What if I want some custom handgun options - can you accommodate my requests?
We have always been a custom shop and remain true to our roots. Just tell us what you want and we will provide a quotation for the special order. There are so many different options we have not attempted to put them all on a price list. Popular requests are two-piece guide rods, mag-wells, or different trigger pull weights. We frequently custom build Kobra Carry's and Executive Carry's without the bobtail option, and Kobra's and Executive's with the bobtail option. Some customers prefer no engraving on their slide. Some prefer different color schemes for the night sights (green is standard for front and rear, orange or yellow is available for rear Novak sights only) Others like front cocking serrations on their slides. Slim grips, fiber optic sights, lanyard loop housings, short triggers....the list goes on and on. Additionally, just about any option you care to mix and match from our standard lineup is acceptable. Wait times are generally longer, and a 50% non-refundable deposit is required for all special orders before the order is scheduled for production. Due to California regulations, no options or changes are possible to California models before they leave our factory. After the California dealer has transferred the firearm to you, you may return it to us for changes if you wish.
We do not build in any caliber other than 45 ACP. We built our reputation by building the world's most reliable, high performance guns which have been extensively tested and proven in a variety of situations. A comple custom "build-to-order" handgun, where the customer chooses a frame, slide, caliber, and parts from a variety of makers, simply won't meet that criteria. Guns built in this fashion are high risk at best, as there are too many variables and too much debugging to consistently build the quality products we are known for. A significant factor in the quality of our firearms is the fact that we have complete control over the manufacture of virtually all the components, our configurations have been through years of extensive testing, and our quality control system is unmatched. None of these things are possible with complete custom one-time "build-to-order" handguns.
If you are the "got to have something totally different" type, and aren't concerned with longer wait times or the inevitable "debugging" process, we recommend buying an Ed Brown and convincing yourself it works flawlessly, then taking it to a reputable individual gunsmith of your choice, who can then work with you on a one-on-one basis to get the customization you're looking for. There is no better platform to start with for creating your dream handgun.
Do you have an accuracy guarantee? How accurate are your rifles?
With properly tuned handloads, a good shooter, good optics, and good conditions, our rifles are extremely accurate. In fact, our rifles are 100% as accurate as these variables allow. We consistently see our Tactical series rifles, and our Compact Varmint hunting rifles, group at 1/2" or less at 100 yards with quality factory match ammunition. Our Savanna hunting rifle will normally shoot 1/2" to 1" at 100 yards with tuned hand loads. Our Damara normally shoots 3/4" to 1 1/4" with tuned hand loads. Many bullets and cartridges, and most factory hunting ammunition, are simply not consistently capable of this type of accuracy, no matter what the gun maker does. Because of all the variables involved which are out of our control, we do not offer any written accuracy guarantee. We will guarantee that our rifles are as accurate as any maker in the world, and are much better than most. We can assure this due to the fact we make our own action in house. We don't offer a re-worked, re-cycled, re-barreled factory action. The components we do purchase from outside vendors, such as the barrels, come from only the most reliable sort we have had long relationships with. These barrels are painstakingly hand lapped, then carefully fitted and chambered on state-of-the-art equipment using only precision reamers ground to our specifications. The bottom line is our rifles will always offer 100% of the accuracy your ammunition, your optics, the conditions, and you, are capable of.
How do I choose the right caliber for my application?
We have constructed a comprehensive caliber chart listing all calibers we offer and what models they are available in. Many shooters want to know our recommendations. Shooters who aren't sure exactly what they want are generally best served with older proven concepts, rather than the latest development of whatever. The race for the highest velocity and flattest trajectory has taken quite a toll on novice shooters. Many are greatly disappointed when they discover that the higher velocity a cartridge delivers, the more the barrel fouls, thus the more maintenance is required through cleaning. With modern laser range finders, we find that a super accurate rifle is more of an asset than the flattest shooting cartridge. They are also easier to load for, and will enjoy a much longer barrel life. The fact is most shooters are happier with a 270 or 300 Win Mag, than the ultra velocity magnums. However, we will build whatever your heart desires, as we have reamers for a few wildcats as well.
Here is what we consistently have extremely good results with:
What kind of ammunition do you recommend?
We recommend high quality Federal or Winchester ammunition, and nothing else. In our years of testing and experience, ammunition by these makers has proven to be of consistent high quality.
What kind of optics do you recommend?
If you are going to purchase the best custom rifle money can buy, you need the best scope money can buy. Without a high quality scope, the potential accuracy of your custom rifle can not be realized. Parallax is the greatest problem and is adjustable on the higher power scopes. If you are after the most accuracy you can buy, you need a parallax adjustable scope. Lower powered Swarovski scopes are parallax free at 100 meters, Leupold's at 150 yards. We use and highly recommend Swarovski scopes for all hunting models. Ed Brown is a FACTORY AUTHORIZED DEALER for these fine rifle scopes, as well as the entire line of Swarovski binoculars. For tactical models, we highly recommend the Nightforce. No other scope has the features required by a tactical shooter. Nightforce scopes have unbelieveable MOA adjustment. For instance, the 5.5-15x50 has 110 MOA. With this you can even get a 308 Winchester sighted in at 1000 yards with no trick mounts required. We provide scope recommendations for each rifle model, but can get any scope to suit your particular needs.
We suggest that the new owner allow us to supply and install the scope sight and we insist on installing the mounting system. Scope mounting is another precision process that must be properly attended to in order to ensure accuracy. Most accuracy problems occur from improperly mounted and low quality scope sights and mounts. You can't believe how far off most regular production actions and mounts are. Please allow us to eliminate these potential problems for you.
No, we do not offer any wood stocks. Wood has the disadvantage of being affected by varying weather conditions, which detracts from accuracy. Since accuracy and performance are most important for Ed Brown rifles, we use fiberglass stocks only, which is much stronger than wood, and impervious to weather conditions.
Do you offer any left hand rifles?
No, we have discontinued the manufacture of left hand rifles and actions.
Are your actions for sale separately?
No, we do not sell our actions separately. We offer completed rifles only.
What are the twist rates in your barrels?
These twists will handle the heaviest bullet normally available per caliber and are what we recommend for best all around performance.
| Bore size | Rate of Twist |
| 22 | 1-12" |
| 243 (6mm) | 1-10" |
| 257 | 1-10" |
| 264 (6.5mm) | 1-8" |
| 270 | 1-10" |
| 284 (7mm) | 1-9" |
| 308 | 1-10" |
| 338 | 1-10" |
| 375 | 1-10" |
| 416 | 1-12" |
| 458 | 1-14" |
What are the rifle barrel contours? Do they have a certain muzzle diameter?
Barrel contours represent the thickness, or diameter of the barrel, and may also represent a particular shape, such as a gentle contour or straight taper. The table bellow gives approximate muzzle diameters for different barrel contours. In general, higher numbers mean thicker barrels. A #1.5 contour is the skinniest barrel we use, while a #6 is the heaviest. Most hunting rifles are #3 or #4 contour.
| Contour | Diameter | Length | Base Model |
| #1.5 Featherweight | .550 | 22" | Damara |
| #2 Lightweight | .600 | 23" | Damara |
| #2 Special Lightweight (includes a muzzle brake) | .600 + .680 brake | 24" plus 2" brake | Damara |
| #3 Standard | .625 | 24" | Savanna |
| #4 Magnum | .675 | 24" | Bushveld |
| #4 Magnum | .675 plus .740 brake | 24" plus 2" brake | Savanna, Express |
| #4 Ultra Magnum | .675 plus .740 brake | 25" plus 2" brake | Savanna, Bushveld, Express |
| #5 Heavy Sporter | .720 | 24" | Express, 416 only |
| #5.5 Special | .800 | 24" | Express, 458 only |
| #RV - Remington Varmint | .825 | 24" | Marine Sniper, Varmint |
| #6 A3 Tactical | .760 | 26" | A3 Tactical |
| #7 A5 Tactical | .850 | 26" | A5 Tactical |
#1 ½ , #2, #3 may be shortened, but not made longer. Add .010 for each
inch of change.
#2 Special length may not be changed due to the integral brake.
#4, #5, #6, or #RV, may be made shorter or longer up to 26".
#4 Ultra Mag may not be changed.
#5.5 Special length may be shortened, but not made longer.
All contours might be +/- .010 due to hand polishing and normal manufacturing
methods.
How do I properly break in a rifle barrel to achieve the maximum possible accuracy?
Please see the applicable section in the Ed Brown Rifle Owner's Manual, which explains in detail how to properly break in a rifle barrel.
What if I want a different caliber, or some custom rifle options - can you accommodate my requests?
Most likely. We frequently work with customers to manufacture their dream rifle. Due to the number of different combinations possible, there is no standard price list. Our caliber chart is online, while any other options require a call to our sales staff for a custom quotation. Please contact us and allow us to help you design the perfect rifle for your needs.
Ed Brown Products/Custom, Inc. | P.O. Box 492 | Perry, MO 63462 | Phone: 573-565-3261 | Fax: 573-565-2791
Copyright 2008©. All rights reserved by Ed Brown Products, Inc.®