1911 choices

[DavidB2]

I am looking at getting a 1911 for under $600.00. Choices are first an Auto Ordnance G.I. spec model. The G.I model appeals to my sense of military history; and I like the arched mainspring look.

If I go the tactical route; I am looking at either a Taurus PT1911 or a Rock Island. Any suggestions.

 

[soloban]

Don't overlook Springfield. I know I'm about to get flamed but avoid Taurus. I've owned two and sold both of them. A coworker just bought a PT1911 and had to send it right back to the factory because the extractor failed. My Springfield has had zero issues.

 

[1911 guy]

At the 600 dollar mark and looking for a G.I. style, I'd definately get a Springfield. They can be had new fow about that, some lightly used ones have shown up around me for about $450. Back when I got mine, they were going new for $450.

The other pistols you mention are decent guns. I personally have one "sows ear" 1911 that I just can't kill. Inexpensive doesn't aleays mean junk. the advantage to the Springfield is a forged slide and the frames are milled and drilled square. This is a biggie if you ever need to have it worked on or just decide to put money into making it a custom gun. the less expensive guns are "close enough", but being milled and drilled square makes it much easier to fit and tune parts.

 

[mcdonl]

I know I will get laughed off the board but also dont ignore the ATI FX45 or other ATI models. The fit and finish is pretty nice, very tight slide to frame fit and good customer support. I bent the take down pin with a hammer being a complete and total idiot... they laughed at me and sent TWO replacements

Also, I just cracked open my fifth box of primers so I have sent over 4K round of cast lead and berry HP's down the tube with only about 5 misfeeds along the way and I think they can all be attributed to too much alox on my handloads.

All for $400 NIB

 

[bannockburn]

I don't think you can go wrong with either a RIA or a Springfield Armory M1911. A standard RIA M1911A1 will go for a little over $400 while a Tactical model should cost about $50 more. A box stock M1911A1 from Springfield Armory should be around $530.

 

[BBQLS1]

Springfield or Rock Island in that order...... Just a little more will get you a Springfield Loaded or a Ruger (if you can find one). I'd save a little more and get one of those ~$750ish or less.

 

[trickyasafox]

I know nothing of the Auto-ord guns- but I do own a springfield and a RIA. Both are solid. I also own a metroarms that has been good to me, and I would purchase them again.

 

[BossHogg]

I really like the looks of the Auto Ordnance. Don't know anything about them other than everytime I see one I want to bring it home. It will happen just not high on the list right now. It just screams KilRoy was here.

 

[mcdonl]

I was where?

 

[kerreckt]

Norinco, If you can find one. I know it's Chinese but it is also excellent. I bought one LNIB for $400 about a year ago. Say, what you will but an excellent 1911.