[natedog]

I really like 1911s. Both of these are in my price range ($800ish) they both look really nice. Opinions?

[ruger357]

I have had good luck with Kimbers.

[StressPuppy]

I have a Kimber SS Pro Carry. One of the most incredible guns right out of the box!!! I highly recommend Kimber for quality and accuracy.

Have fun!

[10-Ring]

I have had some really good luck w/ the SA, esp. the Milspecs. I doubt you will be disappointed w/ whichever one you choose. Get the one that pleases you most ;)

[Dobe]

I have a series 1 Custom Target and a Compact. I have had the Compact now for about a month. Both are great shooters. Both are very reliable.

[Tango Sierra]

Either one is good. I have Kimber and someday I'll have a Springfield. I've been looking at the Springfield Mil-Spec for $450.00 at my dealer but I like the finish better on Colt's WWII replica but it's twice the price. I just want a 1911 without front serrations as a counter point to my Kimber that has the serrations. I don't want a lower quality 1911 from AO and most the middle price models from other manufactures have the serrations.

[ajacobs]

If you can live with the series 2, I would get the kimber. I have been disapointed with the quality of springfields in that price range as of late. They may function fine but they have demonstrated a recent lack of attention to detail. I really wish they would inprove a little as they are pre series 70 in design and fairly priced.

If you go for the springfield check it out well.

Some of the things I have noticed:
Extractor longer than the back of the slide
poorly fitted grips they even through slim grips on one with a normal mag well.
gritty slide, frame fit
poorly fitted sights (lots of light visible)

I am not trying to bask springfield just suggesting you check it out well.

[sm]

Kimbers fit my hand better. I have never had a problem with any Kimber I own. Mine are the series I. I do have instructor friends with the series II . I have helped put some of the 3k rds through one instructors' with no problems, its a Pro Carry.

I noticed the front strap, and undercut of trigger were different on the last SA Milspec I used. NIB 250 rds no problems.

Kimbers fit me better, but again I'm blessed I guess, 1911's seem to work for me, when they won't for others.

[Stevie-Ray]

Kimber. I don't own a SA, but a friend does. Love my Kimber.

[Kahr carrier]

I would go Springfield Loaded ,Im not to fond of the series 2 Kimbers. I like the Springfield because it is identical in design as to a series 70 Colt.

[esef]

I've got an SA Champion Stainless loaded and so far I'm mixed about it. Its 100% relaible but not very accurate compared to the Kimbers I've shot.

I think the next one for me will have to be a Colt, then after that an Ed Brown :D

[cratz2]

I've had two Kimbers (well, three but one very briefly) and several Springfields. I've never had a moment of trouble out of either one. Biggest problem with the Kimber is the Series II safety (though I've never had a problem with it) and the biggest problem with Springfields is the ILS MSH (again, no problems)

Having said that, I really like my Springfield Stainless Loaded Target. It is very well fitted and solid, tight and accurate. Zero complaints other than the adjustable sights were too sharp for carry. Had a local guy smooth them up some. I replaced the MSH with a Wilson and new Wilson internals and the trigger pull rivals that of most Wilsons I've handled. I would recommend you try to get one with an ambi thumb safety to ensure it is one of the newest production.

On the other hand, my second basic Kimber has been 100% trouble free and has been out on loaner for over a year and the borrowers have reported zero failures as well and one is the sort to complain about everything.

I bet you'll be happy with either of them and if there are any issues, the factory will fix them right up. Buy whichever one feels most comfortable and has the right features/finish etc...

http://photos.imageevent.com/cratz2/guns//DCP_0908.jpg

[Hamonrye]

Sweet SA.
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