Tim,
I shouldn't have said "from scratch." I plan to assemble from parts. The fitment would be the challenge...and getting all the parts to work safely as RPK posted.
I'm not particularly looking to save money (well, over the $2K for the Les Baer for sure), but rather to build something I want (my spec based on a 1911 design) and making it work reliably and safely.
I honestly don't see this as that big of a mechanical challenge (say compared to a 911 engine). Of course I understand the danger, but if I'm not able to assemble a 1911 I might as well rip up my ME degree
I've been researching the net for building tips, but first hand experience from some of you guys is valuable.