Posted: 4/6/2007 5:48:28 PM EDT
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I never owned anything other than a G23 & G27, but browsing these 1911 threads lately has me thinking im missing out on a great gun. I'm thinking with a local gun show coming up I might try and pick one up, but I haven’t a clue on which brands are good and what a reasonable price is. So, I thought I would ask for some advice on what to look for. Here are some things I would prefer -Something comparable to the size of my G23 or smaller so I can conceal it. -Gotta look good -worthy of customization -$800 or less would be nice, but I willing to pay more now rather than later for better quality. Any suggestions? |
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For $800 or around that new I would go with a Springfield Loaded model. Im not sure what the going price is for it now, but if it is too high I would then look at Springfield G.I. model. Im sure someone is wondering why I didnt say SW1911, but I dont recommend any gun with a schwartz safety system(yes I have had it fail). There arent too many "quality" 1911s under $1000. IF you can wait you would probably be more happy with a Springfield TRP/ Kimber Warrior/ STI Lawman-if you are more for quality than price. Stay away from Para, my friend has one and it is a barrell of monkeys. |
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If you really want something G23 sized, you probably are going to want a Commander sized gun. As mentioned, the Springfield loaded in a Champion variety should squeak in just under $800. A Colt XSE Commander might require you to spend almost $900. There are some Kimbers that may fit into your price range, but I prefer to stay away from Aluminum, and i'm not even sure Kimber still has a steel framed Commander sized gun. If you want to really spend a little more for the best, I know galleryofguns.com had some Les Baer Concept VIII's (I believe) Commander sized stainless guns going in the $1400 range at one time. You probably would never need to do a thing to it other then shoot it forever. I've got both a stainless loaded Champion and a Stainless Commander Colt XSE, and both would probably serve you fine. I'm still keeping my three Baer's though!!! later, AJ |
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I'd skip over the Commander sized 1911s and head straight for the fullsize 5" 1911s. I know ypu said concealable, but in my personal experience a fullsize 1911 conceals better than a Glock because of the reduced width. Yes, of course it is longer but it still conceals better. The rec. to go for a SA loaded is good. I'm not sure what kind of customization you want. As a Glock guy, I imagine you're used to buying a solid gun and then using it without doodads. A SA loaded will do that great. JMO |
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Why skip the Commander size pistols for a full/Gov't? Other than wider selection, the 5" full size offers no appreciable advantage over the 4.25" Commanders, and the Commanders carry better (especially when sitting down). If you want to CCW a 1911, there are only two ideal choices in my book: a reputable commander or a reputable compact (4" barrel). |
Find an inexpensive Springfield, shoot it, and save! Then send it out to a Smith and have it built to your needs! You will have a beautiful pistol, that will be RELIABLE, and ACCURATE! I have owned and carried many pistols, but the below posted pistol is by far the most accurate and reliable that I own....It has been more reliable than my issued Glock This 1911 started life as a used GI .45. It had very little rounds through it, and was in very good/like new condition. I only paid 310 for it prior to its make over. Sean    
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Thanks for all the input, it's nice to have opinions from knowledgeable 1911 owners. Looks like I need to get out and feel some of these. -Springfield Loaded Champion & Ultra Compact -Kimber Pro Carry II maybe Compact CDP II -Colt NRM Commander -Colt XSE Commander My budget could be shot, but I might luck out and find something used at the gun show or do like Irish317 said. |
Dang---I hope my tax return will let me pickup the same!-----------I love the XSE--------and will go "Blue" on this one.---Love that Blue. GTD |
Yep. Colt does the nicest blue |
| Nothing but trouble from Kimbers for me. From my experience, I'd stretch the ol budget as far as you can and get a Les Baer. They seem to offer the best value as far as rock solid reliability and cost. Personally, I'm a fan of aluminum frames for carry, and Les doesn't offer that. Still, if you don't mind the extra weight it will serve you well for the rest of your life. |
Man, now I must have it "Blue" and soon!------------------------------Do I need the new roll marks?? GTD |