4" vs. 5" 1911

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ARperson

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As soon as I'm able to CCW on the bod again, I want to carry a 1911. I love my hubby's Kimber, but the 5" model is just a bit much for a) purse carry if I can't body carry and b) my body dimensions (meaning it doesn't stay as concealed as it should cuz it sticks out from the curvy areas).

I've been thinking about moving down to the 4" model but I don't know how it shoots relative to the 5" (I am not considering the 3" model). I most interested in the muzzle flip and control-ability relative to the 5". Also, how does the 4" compare with other smaller-framed auto-loaders, particularly the Glock 26 (since I also carry that).

I don't have any problem with limp-wristing firearms or racking slides even on the harder-to-rack models with stiffer springs. I am currently carrying a 2" Taurus Model 85 ULT (ultra-lite) with .38s so I am no stranger to recoil in a smaller-framed firearm.

I guess my biggest concern is with muzzle flip. I don't really want a firearm for CCW that I have to work overly hard at lining up on target after each shot. (And gripping more firmly doesn't work as it actually changes my point of aim...been there, fought like hell to correct!)

Thanks.
 
If you can rent one or borrow a Commander sized one and shoot it. As Mr. Williams suggested go with the CCO shorter frame longer slide.
 
Guess I should add that renting isn't much of an option around here. Liability has pretty much shut that carnival down.
 
I have both and I love both. At the range I prefer the 5" as it is a little heavier in the muzzle and just feels better balanced. However I carry daily my Wilson CQB Compact which is a 4.1". It shoots beautifully and I think you will be very happy with a 4". And, they are both more accurate than am I. If I miss it is not the fault of the gun!
 
I'm marginally more accurate at the range with my 5" models, but don't really notice much more recoil or muzzle flip with my 4" models.

I usually carry a Kimber compact (like other have mentioned, it's a 4" slide on an officer's frame). It did take a little time to get used to the shorter grip, but after a little practice I now shoot it as well as my commander sized guns.

If you like the 5" 1911 I wouldn't be too concerned about getting a 4" or 4.25"
 
Any 4" gun with a bull barrel will shoot pretty close to the same as a 5" gun in regards to muzzle flip. I have two Kimber Pro Carry SLE's and both shoot extremely well. These are both steel framed guns but I think an alloy framed gun with a bull barrel wouldn't be much different. I also have a couple Commander sized guns with standard barrel/bushing set ups that are real nice (an Ed Brown and a Les Baer) but have a noticable muzzle flip even though they are very accurate. On a personal note, in a self defense situation, I don't think you're gonna notice anyway. Probably won't even use the sights. Every time I go to the range I practice point shooting, where I just point and shoot. If someone is coming after me, I don't see myself taking time to aim. Now, I don't have any formal training so take with a grain of salt, but this is how I train.
 
I've tried carrying several barrel lengths in both semi-autos and revolvers and the 4" gets my nod in both styles. The 4" guns, especially in my preferred 1911's, balances better than the 5" and since most of my day is spent sitting behind a desk, the 4" is much more comfortable to wear IWB. Accuracy is equal to or often better, within it's limits, with a 4" gun. My Wilson CQB Compact (4") guarantees 1.5"@ 25yards where the CQB Full size (5") guarantees 1"@ 25yards with Wilsons ammunition but from a bench, using Winchester White Box 230gr. FMJ, my CQB compact will outshoot the fullsize all day long.:eek:
 
I have carried a Kimber Pro CDP for some time. It is aluminum framed and easy enough to carry.
I never noticed a problem with muzzle flip. It handles and balances well. I like it in comparison to 5" 1911s.
I think it conceals better than thicker guns, the grips being the hardest part to conceal. Smooth and thinner grips help that.
 
Put some 158gn +P's in that model 85. (not too many, that's a light frame) That may give you a hint of the differences. I have an Officer's ACP, Kimber and other full sized 1911's and there is a difference. But not so much that an experienced shooter can't overcome. As for accuracy of the 4"... I've seen some very nice groups on paper from some short barrels.

If you've got shooting ranges around you, (OK, so there's no rental opportunity), keep an eye out for a fellow shooter with what you're looking for. Strike up a conversation, and ask to shoot their's. Even some of the meduim auto's in .40s&w should give you a good idea of what to expect with a Commander or Pro series sized frame.

Personally, that little .38 you're carrying is just about mine and my wife's favorite choice for a purse gun. A cocked and locked 1911 of any size probably isn't the best choice for the internals of a purse. On the person -yes, but not the purse.

-Steve
 
Hi there,

I have owned, carried and shot both. My personal choice is the Springfield GI Champion .45 1911 with the 4" barrel. They make a LW version.

The bull/bushingless barrel on both the steel and LW version reduce muzzle flip and aid greatly in practical accuracy.

Chris
 
In a bushing barrel gun the 4.25" gun flips more than a 5", it flips more than you would think the difference would be. The key though is that it times a little faster due to the lighter slide, meaning as long as you don't fight the gun it will shoot just as quickly with the same accuracy as a 5" gun. Try to fight the flip and they aren't as comfortable or as fast to shoot as a 5" gun.

You don't need a bull barrel or anything else, just learn to grip the gun correctly and learn the timing of the gun. With the proper grip the sights will return to the target WAY faster than if you try to keep the muzzle down and force it back.
 
Thanks for all the responses. I feel much more confident with going with the 4" model now.

I will probably still carry the Taurus in the purse, but I hate the thought of having to dig it out when necessary. On the body is so much quicker.

I agree that I wouldn't be worried too much about perfect aiming; I was more concerned with comfort level during range time. If I don't practice with it, it doesn't do me much good to have it.

Guess I'll start saving up for it.

Thanks again, everybody.
 
Do a search on three inch 1911's. There have been many posts by poeple who say stay away from them. I'd guess just as many from people like me who have and carry one with complete confidence. Mine is a Springfield Micro-compact. It has a different style of recoil spring assembly to help compensate for the shorter barrel. In addition to enhancing function, it must help manage felt recoil as well. This is a thin, lightweight and compact gun launching a nice big bullet. If you can handle a lightweight snub you can handle one of these.
 
My wife has a Galco Pandora purse. The purse is top quality, but heavy with out a gun in it. We bought her a 4" Kimber stainless II. She really didn't like shooting it because it hurt her arms. It made her purse even that more heavy.
She finially let me know this, and we purchased a Glock 26. She really likes it and shoots it real well.
I have 6 4" 1911's and love them. They are the carry gun in a 1911. IMHO.

If you enjoy shooting the 5" 1911's, you will be very happy with the 4" guns for carry.
 
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