Warning

 

Close
Confirm Action

Are you sure you wish to do this?

Cancel Confirm
AR15.COM
7/7/2010 11:23:28 AM EDT
Looking for a lightweight 1911 carry gun 4" or less.Have a 1991Compact but its extremely heavy for all day carry.What do you suggest?
7/7/2010 12:42:39 PM EDT
[#1]
I carry a Defender all day, every day, no problems.

I can even keep the rounds in the 8 ring or better at 20 yards, so accuracy isn't a problem.
7/7/2010 3:27:35 PM EDT
[#2]
Is that a lighter model 1911?
7/7/2010 3:47:04 PM EDT
[#3]
Colt does not make a 4" 1911. Their carry guns are 4.25", 3.5", and 3" models. Their compact frame 4.25" and their 3.5" models are no longer produced. Thus, if you are going with a Colt, you are stuck between the CCW extremes of  4.25" full frame Commander and 3" Defender/New Agent. I went with a 4" semi-custom myself and find this to be the ultimate carry package. When I don't carry this, I will carry a 4.25" Commander, which carries more comfortably than a 5" Government.

I would not carry a 3" Colt as a primary. I played with the 3.5" platform and found the concealment/carry advantages were not significant, but the compromize to fast followup shots from the stout recoil and fast action was significant. If I had to pick between current Colts for carry, I would pick a Lightweight Commander. If that won't work for you then I would consider the 3" Colt in 9mm. I much prefer carrying .45 but I would rather be able to place more quickly. If you want Colt's best CCW, you should look for a used (but pricey) 4.25" CCO.
7/8/2010 5:26:28 AM EDT
[#4]
Quoted:
Is that a lighter model 1911?


Yes, it's the 3 inch version of the 1911.  Alloy frame with a steele slide, much lighter than a full-size gun.

Bear in mind that this is a CCW piece and I wouldn't want to use it for anything but a CCW gun or as a backup gun.
7/12/2010 7:44:52 AM EDT
[#5]
Colt lightweight XSE Commander - 26 ounces empty - my regular choice
S&W 1911PD - 28 ounces empty - my back-up choice

Both are 4.25 inch with full sized frames.
7/12/2010 3:19:58 PM EDT
[#6]
what kind of belt are you using?  

I only ask because I routinely carry a full size 1911 for 18 hours at a time without issue.  I honestly have a harder time carrying the G30 because the muzzle digs into my flabby ass.


seriously––-a good belt/holster combo makes carrying a 1911 as comfortable as it is comforting.