Posted: 11/3/2005 11:21:35 AM EDT
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I don't own any 1911s, nor have I ever even fired one. But I am interested in getting one. Here is my question. I would like to know what everyone's suggestions would be. I want a 1911 that is the epitome of the full-sized battlefield 1911, and one that is the epitome of the carry-size 1911. Which 1911 is the best full-size battlefield weapon, and which is the best concealed-carry weapon. Both in .45 of course... |
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IMO, you've got two general choices w/ that kind of $ to spend. custom w/ a probable long wait or one of the better SA's, Kimbers or Colts. you should be able to have a big range of selection and features. I like my Springfield Armory Loaded model, but I've no experience w/ the high end custom 1911's unfortunately. |
Assuming that you have a good deal of experience with handguns in general.... I would strongly encourage that you read up on frame / slide materials, barrels, handcut vs. machine checkering, 20 lpi vs 30 lpi, handfit weapons vs. assembly line produced, assembly line barrels, 2 piece barrels, match barrels, matched barrel / bushing; MIM vs. tool steel; a high cut under the trigger guard, etc...... There is a LOT more to a high quality 1911 than the one with the most ginger bread for the price range that you are looking in. Myself - and having owned and shot a whole lotta 1911s from Mil spec to full house customs - all things being equal I would go one of two ways: A full custom from your choice of smith - do your homework on them - there is a wide variety of opinions - in the end I would much rather see, feel, and shoot a copy of their work than go with someone I had no first hand knowledge of; however that is not always possible. When people on the net say "have so and so build you one" pm them - ask if they had one built by the person they are recommending - how did it go in terms of price, time, how did it turn out? What is the customer service like if there was a problem? If I went this route I would expenct to wait somewhere between 4 and 12 months depending on who I used. I personally would look for a gently used Kimber series ONE gun as a donor weapon. Or I would do your homework and purchase a semi custom 1911 from (in no particular order) Rock River Arms, Les Baer, Night Hawk, Wilson, Ed Brown. Several of these are available NOW through a stocking dealer for a price less than what is advertised by the manufacturer. Of these I have owned Brown and Baer . While I got rid of Brown and bought more Baer I can honestly say that any of these manufacturers will deliver a very high quality pistol. Good luck |