Posted: 10/1/2011 6:47:13 AM EDT
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I am considering a new carry gun.
I currently carry 1911 (5" barrel, full size frame) 1. 4" to 4 1/4" barell and full size frame (Commander). 2. 4" to 4 1/4" barrel and compact frame (CCO) 3. 3" barrel and compact frame (Defender) The above references to Colt models are included for reference. I am not necessarily coonsidering Colt models. All of the above will be steel frames (no alloy) except for the 3" barrel model will be considered. Which would you choose? I now carry a full size and I am not 100% going to change to a smaller 1911. Is the smaller frame or shorter barrel a good option? I have no probem with carrying the full size but I can see some possibilities that a smaller 1911 would be a good option. |
| I occasinally carry a rock island compact IWB and it carries really well. Out of your 3 options though I think I would prefer to carry a 4-4 1/4in barrel on a compact frame. When you carry IWB the barrel is hidden in your pants and its only really the grip you have to worry about sticking out. So with a compact fram you would still have the concealability of a compact but the sight radious of a longer barrel. |
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Take a look at the Dan Wesson Guardian or the Ed Brown Kobra Carry (as well as other manufacturers). 4.25" barrel with the bobtailed frame. The bobtail has very little impact to your current grip, it conceals better, and the shorter barrel can clear the holster slightly faster.
ETA: I know you said steel frame only, but alloy frames have performed well, so I would at least urge you to review them as well. Also, you did not provide a budget, so you may just want to have a smith bob your current carry gun. |
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budget is not a parameter
I will be able to procure the gun of my hsoosing I am more interested in barrel / frame choice at this point. There are many manufacturers and builders of guns that will fit my requirements. So far I believe that I am hearing that the 4" to 4 1/4" long barrel is the preferred option. |
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little barrels (shorter than commanders) can be shall we say touchy. Some work great, some never work.
Commanders work. solidly and all the time. I'm a big guy and I carry a commander barrel on an officer frame. It's nice and light and very controllable. You wouldn't think so initially but you don't even notice teh little frame, even with big hands. Having said that (and I've carried this for a few years) I picked up a bobtailed commander. and dayummmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm I've got a DW Guardian on order. it's just perfect. So, commander with a bobtail is my vote. |
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I bought an SA compact(steel), four inch barrel. Officer size grip w/trigger guard undercut. Sights need work(staked, not carry friendly!)
While I'm very happy w/this I also have a combat commander that feels huge after fondling my compact! Posted Via AR15.Com Mobile |
