Source, Bud's Gun Shop, 12/06/08.
Sig 19GS0001--------------------$907.00 delivered. (Cheapest listed Government size)
S&W 108282---------------------$731.00
Springfield GI PW9108LP----------$511.42
Colt M1991A1 01991--------------$743.00
Colt 1911 Re-issue O1970A1CS----$907.00
Colt New Agent O7810D-----------$914.00
Colt WWI O1918------------------$925.00
Kimber Custom II 3200001---------$738.41
Kimber Royal II 3200005-----------$870.12
Para Ordnance P14-PX1445RBH----$725.00
Para Ordnance Para-Carry CTX1345G $687.88
Taurus 1911 1911B----------------$540.00
Taurus 1911 w/rail 1911B1---------$563.00
Charles Daley Field EFS CDCR602---$488.00
There were zero STI weapons cataloged currently, and no RIAs.
Many people haven't the tools, or understanding, to modify their own 1911, so a gunsmith is necessary to work on any self-defense arm. The prices here are advertised as delivered to a local FFL. His charges will also have to be figured into the cost, in this case.
From the tempo here, and the 1911 forums, friends don't let friends buy Kimber. Colt is also coming under a lot of criticism for problems in current purchases, as is S&W. In other words, opinions are there that bash
every brand. Take these opinions for what you
paid for them. Examine the gun thoroughly
PRIOR to buying any brand, then clean and inspect it after you get it home. If you find something amiss,
DON'T shoot it, take it back.