How doe sone go about converting a standard 45 (say a new springfield) to handle 45 Super? Is it just a heavier recoil spring or is it more complicated? TIA.

I'm thinking a 45 super would be a fine choice for back up - it would be light, powerful, and very easy to pack. Thoughts?

I love the 1911 and have carried one daily for 24 years...that being said if this is for a dangerous game back-up gun I would stay with a revolver...DA revolver at that.
To get the most reliability one needs to stay with a RN profile. Great for penetration but lacking in shock like a flat nosed LBT would. As to "light", a S&W Mountain gun doesn't weigh much more than a 1911.
Lastly, if a bear does get to you what is likelyhood of getting off a second shot without the gun jamming....? I would say slim to none.

Bob

You could probably look in Brownells for a heavier recoil springs and the Wilson recoil buffer system with full length guide rod. If you can find some Mil surplus TZZ brass, then it is very strong and you won't have to go with 45 super brass. Several years back I accidentaly ran some 230's to 1300fps in TZZ brass and an AMT long slide hardballer. The Brass held up fine. Or just see if they have 45 Super conversions. The barrel might offer more support for the case??

I talked to a man at the gun show years ago he claimed that the 45super was the same size as the 45acp but the brass was thicker, and if I shot the 45super in a standard 45acp it would blow up. I don�t know if he was full of crap or if he knew what he was talking about but I decided not to chance it. Springfield Armory was making the 45super at the time and you might consider talking to them. I don't like the idea of picking shrapnel out of my hands.