Posted: 2/25/2007 6:26:20 PM EDT
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Looking at various options for a small 1911. I'd really like a Colt 1991 Compact(at least then I would know it would run right out of the box).. but finding a Springfield GI Micro Compact is a lot easier. Anyways, how are these? I know they are 3" which can be finicky, but I imagine I could make it run just fine.. Also what sort of recoil spring options will I have? Easier take down the better.. |
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What would make you think the Colt would run great right out of the box ? just curious. I've owned several brands of 1911's, including Colt, Kimber, Springfield and Para, my experience is the same with all manufacturers, Hit - or - miss out of the box. As far as the Micro goes, I would suggest that you move up in length 1/2" to the 3 1/2 Ultr Compact or maybe even the 4" Champion / officer models. I own 5", 4" & 3.5 " models and all are 100% at this point. My experience has shown the shorter the pistol the more finiky they are. I sure like the looks of those 3" models though, Good luck !! |
My opinion would be to go with the loaded. You are correct in the GI's are known to have a few more issues than the loaded models. As far as being able to modify your gun cheaper, you must get a better deal on parts than I do  I just got through with this one, I spent as much as a loaded model, but it was more fun to do the work myself. Milspec |
I should've added that every Loaded I've seen, including my full size, has enough parts that I want to replace to feel comfortable with it that it makes more sense for me to do it from the ground up. Of course I love to tinker too, which is why I'm trying to find out if this is a decent gun to start with  The 3" barrel seems like I'd be limited with recoil spring guides and replacement barrels later on..That and GI sights seem to make sense for such a small gun  Your Mil-Spec turned out great.. Reminds me I gotta get the scratch together and send my Colt off for new sights. |
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I've got the GI Micro, and have about 800 rnds through it with no problems whatsoever. Have shot alot of 230 gr FMJ, but also have shot alot JHP's with it, and it runs great. I like the GI sights, and once you get used to them they are surpisingly easy to hit with. Good Luck, AK |
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My micro would not feed some types of ammo when new, after about 500 rounds it works great, I did a trigger job it is about 3.5 lb, also installed a long trigger. I can hardly tell the difference from the one I use for competition. Barrels are bushingless. The recoil springs ride on a guide rod.
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I don't have any experience with a micro yet but I have been researching all the 3" and 3.5" barreled 1911's and I really want the Micro GI now. I like it's low profile sites and I'd rather spend less money on a micro then change out parts then spend money on a loaded SA or Kimber Ultra and still have to change out parts. Hell, I may take it out of the box and fire 1000 rounds through it and decide it's finished. ;) Just my perspective/.02. |
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I bought the SS Loaded Ultra compact, 3.5" barrel. Shot 400 rounds 230gr ball and it fed them 100% all day long, put some Winchester 230gr SD HP's throught it and it would not feed at all. Just this week I tried 185gr Gold Dots (not +P) and it did feed them ok. So, Ball ammo - 100%, HP's - hit & miss. I need to find a HP that feeds well, any idea's from you guy's on what feeds good in the 3.5" models ?? |
Glaser Pow'R Balls maybe??? 
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I own a Micro Compact & use it for my CCL. Ramped barrel, night sights, alloy frame & 8rd McCormick mags. What's not to love?  Despite some of the naysayers about the 3" bbl 1911s, mine has had no issues past the first 100rds. The ramped barrel no doubt made a lot of the older ills with these baby 1911s go away, IMO. Good luck! 
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