Most people don't really appreciate Jim Hoag. Hoag's guns however, are the MOST desirable custom 1911's to most pistolsmiths. Richard Heinie, Bill Wilson, Ed Brown-they all collect HOAG guns. Why? Well, he was the first 1911 pistolsmith who cared about fit and finish. Hoag was a contemporary of Swenson who started out working for King's Gunworks. After moving out on his own, Hoag's proximity to LA enabled many a Hollywood star to get custom 1911's built. Hoag is known for building James Caan's longslide 1911 in the movie "Thief", a pistol that heavily influenced other budding pistolsmiths, notably Heinie.Hoag's attention to detail was far superior to Swenson and rivaled only by Pachmayr's Combat Special builds. This gun, my second Hoag is typical of a late 80's era gun built on a Colt '70 Series. It has a Bar-Sto barrel, Hoag's signature squared triggerguard, bordered checkering (Hand cut) and stubby (but practical) beavertail. A masterful example of what a bespoke 1911 should be. Unlike other masters of the era, the quality of the work stands up very well today. Mr. Hoag, pushing 80, still builds custom pistols in Canoga Park, CA.
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ReplyDeleteLong time American master gunsmith and class "A"champion pistol shooter, James Walter Hoag passed away of natural causes at his home early Good Friday morning, April 10, 2020. He is survived by Jane, his wife of 44 years and two sons, Daniel and Matthew. Graveside services will be at Oakwood Memorial Park, Chatsworth, CA, Tuesday, April 21st, 1230 P.M. Jim Hoag was 82.
ReplyDeleteJim Hoag was my brother-in-law. I wrote his obituary above. I will miss him dearly. In the three years following his retirement, we spent many an hour talking about old times, I will always treasure those moments, having the greatest respect for his amazing work ethic and dedication to his customers, the precision by which his talented hands gained praise throughout the firearms community. Customer satisfaction was always his highest priority and his fine work is found in homes all across America. Proud are those who own a James Hoag pistol, especially with his name on it...William Thompson
DeleteMr.Thompson,
DeleteI had the pleasure of meeting and built a relationship with Mr Hoag. He always was a 1st class gentleman and a man of his word.
He built a couple HP's and half a dozen Colt 1911's well as one 1st generation Kimber.
He will be missed greatly.
We need more men like Jim!
Gary