New 1911 choice

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RedRaider3

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I am looking to buy my first 1911. I am looking at either a Ruger SR1911 or a Springfield Range Officer. This pistol will be to carry OWB when I go to the ranch I hunt or for target shooting/nightstand duty. Can anyone recommend either pistol? Can you get an aftermarket rail added to either from a gunsmith?:what:
 
Either would be a good choice. The RO will have the adjustable sights which could be better for target shooting and while the Ruger doesn't have a written warranty like the RO does they usually back up their products. If it were me I would flip a coin between the two.
 
I have the Ruger and love it. Rails are typically part of the frame. If you want a railed pistol you should look at railed pistols.
 
You can get a after market rail. When doing so there are two ways to attach it. The first is to tap the frame. The second is to use a metal epoxy and epoxy the rail to the frame.
 
I own a Ruger SR1911 and the Novak sights on it appear to be pretty tough and they are easy to see. I can only really speak about what I think of the Ruger though and I think for the money. For about $650 is a pretty nice 1911 style pistol. It's fit and finish IMO is very nice. The trigger pull and accuracy seem to be on par with or slightly better than other 1911's in it's price range. It appears like it could take some abuse without complaining to much. It is a good looking pistol also. At least IMO.
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I say it's all about the sights.

You've got to like the adjustables on the Range Officer since there aren't that many replacement options available. Realize the slide cuts for that rear sight are different than the sight cuts for a fixed sight.

While tuj prefer's adjustables, I just don't care for them on a 1911. They are less durable than fixed sights and if you ever plan to carry this pistol concealed, expect them to catch on your clothing.
 
I vote Ruger. Mine had 2 FTF in he first 100 rounds fired with factory mags. Just ordered MetalForm mags, will let U know how it goes.
 
I second the Springfield milspec. Gets you into a great 1911.

My problem with target sights is they usually have sharp edges, they print when concealed, and they can move when you bump them on a door frame, which happens more than you think.

I had a Springfield 1911 with target sights, and hated it. Sold it and took the hit to get a milspec.

I vote Ruger. Mine had 2 FTF in he first 100 rounds fired with factory mags.

And you want to recommend it? I'd see if you can fix it first, then recommend it. Also, more likely you don't have a magazine issue with a FTF.
 
The Range Officer will be a higher quality gun by far. The Ruger is still a good gun, but not built to the standards of the Range Officer.
 
I second the Springfield milspec. Gets you into a great 1911.

My problem with target sights is they usually have sharp edges, they print when concealed, and they can move when you bump them on a door frame, which happens more than you think.

I had a Springfield 1911 with target sights, and hated it. Sold it and took the hit to get a milspec.



And you want to recommend it? I'd see if you can fix it first, then recommend it. Also, more likely you don't have a magazine issue with a FTF.
Well YO MAMA, the problem is that my Remington R1 ad 3 FTF so I recommend the Ruger because it only had 2.
 
I just bought another 1911, this one the Ruger with 5" barrel, wanted the Commander but not available, I didn't pay $650 though, $750 at Cabelas. beautiful classic looking .45.
 
Personally I'm a Springfield guy. If you're looking for something with a rail, look into the Operator Champion

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I'll echo previous comments. Decide what type of sights you want. If you want fixed novak (better for carry) get the Ruger. If you want adjustable (better for range/competition use).

I wouldn't ever think of adding a rail to one. For one I hate rails, but even if I wanted one having one added after the fact would just look a little "cheesy". If you want a gun with a rail look for one that already has it from the factory.
 
the Ruger SR1911s have not come off much of the original MSRP, if you go to Gunsamerica, Buds gun shop, Impact guns, you will see the prices if you can find one. $750 is about average.
 
I had my hands on one last week at my local range, $659 NIB. My local LGS also has them in stock $649 NIB. Neither of these shops ever raised their prices or gouged anyone during the panic. Both owners are really stand up guys.
 
I have an SR. I was hit by the front sight thingy, it broke off after 900 rounds. Got a replacement Novak (not from Ruger) and have shot about 3000 rounds since. No hiccups.
It's a nice entry level no-nonsense 1911. Almost as good bang for buck as a Norinco, with better sights and trigger.
All the magazines except mec-gars with plastic followers work with it. I have wilson, norinco, chipmc and ruger mags.
 
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