[adawjohn]

All:

I have used this site a number of times to invest in upgrades to my 1911 Gold Cup, and am now looking to invest in a (semi) custom firearm. My top contenders are the full size EB Cobra, the Wilson (CQB or Stainless Classic) or a comparable Les Baer. I was hoping to get your collective opinions on these choices as they relate to one another.

By way of background, this will be used for general recreational shooting, as well as IDPA / Urban Cowbay. For this reason, I am primarily interested in reliability, durability, accuracy, and to a lesser extent looks (Fit and Finish). Prince point - up to $2500.

Thanks for your anticipated assistance.

[Sean Smith]

If you have up to $2,500 to spend, the Brown is the best value of the three even though it is generally a bit more expensive than the Baer or Wilson. You might want to consider Brown's new Executive series instead of the Kobra, too.

[bountyhunter]

I think the Valtro is maybe the best value "semi custom" gun now.

http://www.valtrousa.com/handguns.html


I also think the STI guns are a great value for under $2000.

http://www.rushusa.com/html/products/sti/eagle5-1.html

http://www.rushusa.com/html/products/sti/edge5-1.html

[MrPink]

I own an Ed Brown Classic Custom, Baer Premier II and Stinger.

I think the Les Baer Premier offers the best value. Don't get me wrong, the Brown is a damn nice pistol - I had bought mine years ago when Baer did frames for him (I think Caspian now does them).

A new Baer will run you about $1,500.

A new Brown will run you $2,900. An Executive model is $2,200.

Think of it this way, you could probably buy a Premier and a Stinger for a tad more than a Brown Classic Custom. I think two Baers for the price of one Brown is a better value.

Keep in mind with the way Baer fits barrels, the bushing will be tighter than an 18 year old virgin. He doesn't even recommend taking the gun apart until you've fired at least 300 rounds.

[Siggyboy]

With that kind of money you can get most top semi-custom 1911s. Here's my choice:

Top combat 1911s:
Springfield Professional
Wilson CQB
Wilson Protector

Top overall beauty:
Ed Brown Kobra

[denfoote]

If I had that kind of money, I would get the Thunder Ranch Special!! I kinda want one. Well, maybe some day!!! :D

[Shmackey]

That's custom-level money there. A Colt and a trip to Ted Yost or Vic Tibbets is within your range and you'll have a gun that's better than any of those.

That said, if you really want a production gun, the Brown sure is nice.

[adawjohn]

All:

I want to thank you all for the feed back. I am going to check out the Wilson's and Baer's at a local shop - and check feel. I will let you know.

Aj