1911 Frames: Steel vs. Aluminum

[digsigs226]

First, let me clear something up that nobody has mentioned yet... the Springfield lightweight DOES have a steel feed ramp that is part of the barrel so there is no potential issue with gouging up an aluminum feed ramp.

Hey thanks for the input, that's good to hear!

 

[Slamfire]

I have saw one original M1911's that had a frame crack. It was right above the slide release. That particular pistol had been well shot.

In time an Aluminum receiver is going to crack. There is now way to prevent it, it all depends on how many rounds you put through the thing. Might be 30,000, might be less. But it will crack.

I went for steel on my M1911’s.

 

[MICHAEL T]

I have both and like the LTW for general carry I shoot +P and have for years from them I don't see where its hut My Defender or New Agent My 2 commanders are several years old 9mm is 1951 and it still shoots fine.

 

[45crittergitter]

For your stated (range) use, I'd get the steel gun. I use a 5" alloy 1911 exclusively for all day, every day CCW, and greatly prefer it over steel for that purpose. I do have both types and that is my personal experience.