1911 Options

[lpsharp88]

I graduate with my MBA this coming May (hopefully), and I want to start saving for a graduation gift to myself, a 1911! I was hoping for some input, given the parameters that I have.

Full size
.45 ACP
Steel frame and slide
Ambi safety (I'm a lefty)
Fixed night sights
Match grade barrel and bushing
Match grade aluminum trigger
Length of guide rod really doesn't matter
Don't care if it has a rail or not
I am not a big fan of the shiny satin finish, but am open to the idea
I'd like to cap the price around $1500, have a little wiggle room though

I did a little research, and the following models (this is nowhere near a complete list) seem to meet these requirements:
Kimber Warrior
Kimber Tactical Entry II
Springfield TRP
Springfield MC Operator
Colt Rail Gun

I really don't plan to carry it all that much, if at all. I plan for it to be more of a nightstand/range gun.

What are your opinions of the models listed? Also, feel free to suggest and give input on any other models not listed that meet (or come close to) the criteria.
Thanks!

 

[Greg528iT]

Of the 4 you listed, I do not think you can go wrong. The K word still gives me an internet related twitch BUT, I from what I've read on magazines, and others I think once you se tit up with reliable mags, it'll be a great gun.

I'm a Springer fan so I vote: TRP.

 

[lpsharp88]

Of the 4 you listed, I do not think you can go wrong. The K word still gives me an internet related twitch BUT, I from what I've read on magazines, and others I think once you se tit up with reliable mags, it'll be a great gun.

I'm a Springer fan so I vote: TRP.

I am in no way doubting you, but do you care to elaborate about the "internet related twitch"? Lol. Also, what made you say TRP over the MC Operator? I have a Springfield GI Model that I absolutely love, so I have no reservations about Springfield, just wanting to explore all options

 

[Skylerbone]

I'd call Severns Custom and ask about putting a deposit down on a DW Heritage. Swap the single-side TS for a Wilson (~$150 + installation) and you're still under budget for an excellent 1911.

 

[tarosean]

Les Baer Custom Carry

Call Crazy John for the best prices in the states. You won't be disappointed

 

[wheelyfun66]

Dan Wesson (any model) or a Springfield TRP

 

[gym]

Get the Baer, if you can find a lightlly used one for that price.

 

[Drail]

Just to nitpick, "stainless" is not a "finish, it's a material. Springfield Armory would be my first choice. You can buy a Mil spec and have it customized or one of their many "semi custom" models. Or if you can afford it - Les Baer.

 

[lpsharp88]

My bad, I meant the shiny finish, I believe Springfield calls it "Satin". I'll adjust the OP

 

[2wheels]

I'd go with Springfield all day long over a Kimber, because I know they build a good 1911 and their customer service is top notch.

 

[GLI45]

I too would opt for a Springer or Colt over the Kimber. You might also take a look at STI. They build some mighty nice 1911s down in Texas. The Lawman, Duty One, and Sentry are in the ballpark of your price range.

Also, early congrats on getting the MBA.

 

[lpsharp88]

Thanks for all of the input! What are some specific reasons to avoid Kimber? I am by no means dead set on one, just curious.

Also, early congrats on getting the MBA

Thanks a lot! It's been a lot of hard work

 

[shooter60]

Get a older Kimber I have a Kimber Classic Gold Match and have not had any troubles with it. My son has a Springfield and shoots it everyday with no problems don't think you can go wrong with either one

 

[Greg528iT]

do you care to elaborate about the "internet related twitch"?

Many of the following posts made my case for me. There is a fair negative opinion out there against Kimber. I've not owned one. I shot one for several mags worth, At one point in my internet career, I probably said.. "don't get a Kimber" I have no history to say it, but I've read it enough I almost believe it.
NOW, it's time for a Kimber lover to jump on and praise it.

Which one did I pick again? OK I changed my mind. The other one. Both are great, from what I've read about their specs.

 

[lpsharp88]

Many of the following posts made my case for me. There is a fair negative opinion out there against Kimber. I've not owned one. I shot one for several mags worth, At one point in my internet career, I probably said.. "don't get a Kimber" I have no history to say it, but I've read it enough I almost believe it.
NOW, it's time for a Kimber lover to jump on and praise it.

Which one did I pick again? OK I changed my mind. The other one. Both are great, from what I've read about their specs.

Ah ok, I feel dumb for asking now haha, thanks for clarifying! I'd hope that anyone giving input would have actually owned and fired anything they recommend or recommend against, but any advice is always welcome

 

[Dlowe167]

Go Wilson Combat so u are doing it right the first time

 

[tarosean]

Thanks for all of the input! What are some specific reasons to avoid Kimber?

Firing Pin Stop, Plastic MSH, Same liberal use of MIM as guns half their costs.


Here is a sticky on a 1911 forum. You might want to check it out.

http://forums.1911forum.com/showthread.php?t=117851

 

[KYamateur]

I just did a post on my new Les Baer. I have owned Springfield, Kimber, Smith&Wesson, Colt, Dan Wesson, and now a Les Baer. I still have the colt, the Dan Wesson, and the Baer. I had problems with my Smith and Kimber, and needed money and sold my Springfield. I would rank them:

1. Les Baer (most accurate pistol I have ever shot)
2. Dan Wesson (fit, finish, function = very nice pistol w/bells and whistles)
3. Springfield (solid gun, good shooter, front serrations ate my hand though)
4. Colt (its a Colt)
5. Smith & Wesson (mine didn't shoot accurate at all)
6. Kimber (would rust in a day without proper attention)

I love my colt but it still throws every third round back at my face. I've had a new extractor put in and it still does it. The Springfield was solid but in my opinion it doesn't come close to the Dan Wesson and Les Baer. You could find a Dan Wesson Valor in Stainless for around $1400-1500, and spend a couple hundred more and get a Baer.

Or do what I did and keep buying and trading (losing money everytime) and eventually get what you want. I still would like to have a Wilson Combat but unless I win the Lottery its probably not going to happen.

 

[osteodoc08]

I've had several semi premium brands and have really enjoyed my Smith and Wesson 1911TA model. Everything you listed as well. I prefer it over my Kimbers and the Colts and Springfields I've shot. It's not a $3k semi custom, but is more accurate than I am, reliable and easy to look at in my eyes.

 

[2wheels]

Thanks for all of the input! What are some specific reasons to avoid Kimber? I am by no means dead set on one, just curious.


Thanks a lot! It's been a lot of hard work

I have no solid evidence, but for every happy Kimber owner I meet I seem to meet one who had a bad experience. It has just made me a little wary of Kimbers, I've heard one too many horror stories.

On the other hand, I know and trust Springfield 1911s. Springfield and Colt are my two favorite midrange 1911 makers.

 

[VeganTaxidermist]

I have a Springfield Range Officer. Never had a single FTE or FTF, and have fed plenty of JHPs and GDHPs through it, ranging from old fashioned Federal Hydra-Shoks to Speer Gold Dots.

I'm more accurate on it than any of my other pistols. I have made zilch modifications to it nor ever taken it in for gunsmithing or repairs, which seems to be a popular hobby amongst 1911 owners.

My only complaint is one of the rosewood grips is slightly loose. I haven't yet bothered to grab an allen wrench that fits to tighten it up, but I don't think something like this sohuld be loose on something less than a year old.

Have two after-market 8 round Pro-Mag mags, which perform just as well as the 7 rounders that came with it. I IWB carry it when I'm wearing something more than a tight T-shirt, although I would not recommend this particular model for everyday carry, as the rear sights are a bit big and sharp on the edges.

 

[tercel89]

Springfield anyday !

I say Springfield anyday. I have had friend with Kimbers that had TERRIBLE rust and failure problems.
I have had 2 Springfields and they ROCK!!!! My favorite is my Springfield Mil-Spec 1911. Just a plain jane 1911 with no fancy this or that.

 

[Skylerbone]

When speaking of value, the consideration ought to be for long-term value. Plenty of cars, stereos, TVs and firearms are fully operational on day one, it is time that sorts good from bad.

My added thoughts on Kimber; tight chamber dimensions which can (in a production gun, which they are) be detrimental to reliability, short and limited warranty.

 

[critter]

Almost in your listed price range: Les Baer or Wilson. You will be fixed up and won't need to search for better. Congrats-you earned an 'award'.

 

[chrt396]

Get the Baer, if you can find a lightlly used one for that price.

I concur!! I bought three Kimbers, two Springfields...and then wised up and spent my money on a Baer. I could never go back to anything less. I bought my Premier II Super Tac for $1600 out the door...and it is a stellar firearm. I spent so much money, buying different 1911's looking for the accuracy, I could have spent a little more upfront and bought one of the best. Baers ARE accurate!