Posted: 5/23/2008 5:01:31 PM EDT
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I'm looking at buying a classic WWII 1911. Its for plinking only, but i do value quality. Whats the internal difference between a Springfield 1911 GI ($520) vs. Springfield 1911 Pro Loaded FBI model ($2,400)? From first glance i think the Classic GI looks more attractive... Besides the external differences, is there any mechanical difference? Example: The dealers I've been talking to say the Colt logo is an extra $200. I fired a 1911 .45 with the 3 dot sights and liked them, so excluding sights, what merits the extra $1880? Functionality of Springfield GI (with new extractor) vs. $2000 1911s? (sights aside) thanks! |
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I'd wager the internals are name branded barstock parts, custom-made in the states, then hand fit, That's what the money gets you. The low-mid line may have x number of mim cast parts. I would not worry about the cast parts in the least, particularly for plinking. The GI is a fine, entry level forged pistol for fair money, but you'll most likely end up wanting to beavertail it after you r first 2-400 session.  Ask me how I know this...I'd recommend the standard "Loaded" model. Same basis for major parts, but more modern, and no hammer bite... These are a decent value, as you'll likely pay more than the difference to put good sights, and a beaver tail on a GI... www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/product_info.php/cPath/21_24/products_id/27823 
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I can't get the article link to work, but in summary, about 9 years ago, the FBI released a request for procurement for a swat-type pistol for one of their elite groups. Five companies responded and submitted test samples--SA, Colt, Wilson, Kimber, and Pro Gun. I believe there were five test samples submitted by eacy prospective supplier. Accuracy, and endurance were the drivers. Only SA and Pro Gun passed all the tests. Pro Gun either dropped out or was not awarded a contract because they could/wouldn't deliver the required quanties. SA allegedly makes approx 800 Pros per month with FBI operatives given first dibs. The excess is released to the public for $2495 retail. I think the agents pay about $1800. If anyone's interested in the whole article(its a long one) I can describe a path to get there, but can't get the link to work. Can't attest to the accuracy of the article, but it sounds reasonable. |
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there are a LOT of differences, depending on how you want to look at it.... mechanically, there is little diff; h/w, the actual quality, fitting, and manf of the parts are completely diff (the Pro is top notch)--basically, the pro is a semi/full custom 1911 not some common, base line production GI think of the Pro=Ferrari; GI=80's mustang as to the colt logo thing, well thats a subjective thing...personally, i base a firearm based on its value to ME, not b/c of some logo- |
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Here's the article on the Pro. findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m0BTT/is_144_24/ai_57886947/pg_1 |
Sadly it seems that the only way to get a high quality USGI configuratiion M1911A1 is to buy an original in good condition or one of the now expensive and hard-to-find Colt M1911A1 reproductions.  On a budget the closest I've found is the Norinco, if you can live with the Engrish roll marl. |
Yeah, maybe a year. I doubt the Springfield Custom Shop turns out 800 pistols of any or all kinds a month. |
Going by the current serial numbers I think the 800 a year is more like it, and that might be high. |