Para Ordnance S13-45 SS Limited or P14-45 Blue Signature???

[Handgun]

Hi,

I have a line on the following two Para Ordnance pistols and I'd like some opinions on which you consider to be the better gun, which is the better deal, whether either is actually a good deal, and good/bad experiences with Para Ordnance vs. other 1911 guns.

1) S13-45 Limited Stainless, new-in-box, two 10 round mags, $700 shipped plus transfer.
2) P14-45 Signature Blued, 99% in box, one 10 round mag, $575 out the door at a local dealer.

Opinions/comments/better alternatives/etc./etc./etc.

Thanks.

 

[Sean Smith]

I'd avoid Para-Ordinance like the plague. I have a sample size of one, but it was the most horrible 1911 I've ever owned, and completely unreliable. Literally worse than an AMT Hardballer, which is saying alot. Craptacular cast frames, slides, and everything else to boot. Just say no.

That's just my take on it. Some people love them, and some people love them until they break, sometimes in craptacular fashon.

 

[critter]

I have 2 older ones-a P-14 .45 and a P-16 .40 cal in hard chrome (to which I have just fitted an Ed Brown .357 Sig barrel). Both are absolutely 100% reliable. The P-14 is really accurate, the P-16 .40 is really REALLY accurate and the .357 Sig is amazingly accurate! Bought both used (and shot a lot!) and have NEVER had a problem from either of them.

Can't help you with your choice-but I prefer the full size ones. Best wishes with either-just pick the one you like best. Can you 'try them out'?

 

[Lt. G]

Handgun,
I have to agree with critter, I own several para- ords,(some even with the dreaded LDA trigger!!!). All function perfectly and are extremely accurate.
Find a buddy with one and give the para - ord a test run. You just might like it. Cheers, G

 

[IRONFIST]

I carry a ParaOrd P14-45 "Limited" in stainless steel just about every day and love it. I have a little over 2,000 rounds thru mine with no major issues. I customized mine by "melting" it myself and then texturing the whole pistol. A 15-shot .45 is very comforting at 3AM when you have just heard a noise in your garage. I would buy this weapon again and am very happy with its performance.


Michael

 

[Gordon]

I have an early P-13 which , when I stripped and inspected and fitted everything , I found nothing wrong and has been reliable for 10 years. I DID replace extractor. My 6 year old P-14 signature needed a little help. I thought most of the innards looked pretty rough and replaced them. It has shot more than 2000 rounds since then and is getting new springs and a little custom work right now. All my other 1911's are COLTS so I'm picky.