Posted: 3/19/2012 12:59:51 PM EDT
|
I'm interested in getting a 1911 - they've always been the iconic "hand cannon", and I love that. However, I'm poor. As I look at prices, I can see that there are some available for about $400, but I'm wary of dropping hundreds of dollars on a bargain 1911 that will fall apart after 500 rounds... or one that shoots like crap and is going to need another couple of hundred in customization to work relatively well... Really, i'm looking for a relatively good base to start with. I'm not opposed to spending money on upgrades later on, as long as it shoots passably well NOW.
I'm looking for something full size as well - in something .45 ACP, I like the weight of a full size to balance out the recoil. right now on GunsAmerica: Interstate Arms 1911A1 - $389 Rock Island 1911A1 - $450-500 Norinco 1911A1 - $495 Are any of these amazing deals, quality-wise? |
|
I might be mistaken, but I believe that California restrictions would require you to have a Series 80 style, or one with an additional safety. Again, I could be wrong, but given their laws, you might not be able to posess, or at least purchase, the RIA or a Norinco. I'm sure that that would include the Interstate, which I would avoid anyway. Look at a GI model Springfield; I do know that their ILS safety is CA compliant. I'm sure that someone more knowledgable will be able to help. If it is compliant, the RIA would be one of your best bets. |
|
The Norinco is a good deal.. too bad we're limited to the CA approved roster... of the list, the Rock Island is probably the only one we could get.
Get the Rock Island Armory Tactical model if you're looking to get one on the cheap. Personally, I'd spend the extra coin for a Springfield Mil-Spec. Sure, it doesn't have the "upgrades" that the RIA Tactical has (beavertail, Novak-type sights), but you're getting a forged gun vs a cast one. |
|
I have only heard the slide of the RIA is cast and will crack. I have also heard the spring is weak but those are cheap. I don't know about the others.......spend the 750 for a Colt.
edit actually if all you have to spend is 500, then buy the RIA. at least you will own your first 1911. |
| I have bought two of the Rock Island 1911s in the last two months. A plain GI full size 9mm and a midsize GI in 45acp. As they were out the box they shot pretty decent but I just can't leave stock alone. I have done bobtail, commander hammer, beaver tail grip safety and hammer on the midsize. Made it a very nice carry piece. The 9mm I went a little more beaver tail grip safety, commander hammer, new target sights, extended safety, larger mag release, new trigger with with a trigger job. It is now a constant 3.5 pound pull and I'm using it this weekend in a USPSA match just for fun. The Rock Island is worth the $425 you spend. I just like doing the work on mine and making them my own. |