Crown City Arms

[jcw]

I recently acquired a 1911 with a Crown City Arms frame and a Remington Rand slide.Any help on its history would be appreciated.Did Crown City market complete guns or just parts?Also I have the opportunity to pick up a Browning Hi-Power ser#56463 in good condition for $350. Is this a fair price?

[James K]

I think Crown City was an Essex distributor and the frames were made by Essex. They were/are in Cortland, NY. I am willing to be educated, but as far as I know, neither Crown City or Essex ever made complete pistols.

The Essex frames are pretty good. I have used them and have had no problems, although I have never subjected one to extensive use.

If the HP is in good condition, that price is a good one.

Jim