$500-$700 1911???

[dmw16]

I am interested in purchasing a 1911, but being fairly new to guns I am a bit overwhelmed by all the choices out there.

I don't expect to do anything other than take it to the range for recreational shooting. I've considered looking into competition shooting, but I doubt my budget would get me anything that would work for that.

So anyhow, what are my best choices in a $500-$700 price range? Or are there much better options for slightly more money? Or am I all wet if I'm thinking I can get anything worth buying at that price point?

Thanks.

 

[FoMoGo]

I love my Rock Island Tactical, it is on the low side of your price range.



Jim

 

[Doubledarkhorse]

For my money you can't beat an STI Spartan

 

[vzwnnj]

I looked into the Rock Island tactical...it does look pretty good for the money, but I ended up going with the STI Spartan...

 

[Mad Magyar]

Does it have to be n.i.b.? There are plenty of Sistema's (100% 1911A1) for the lower end of your price range....They are nice range or carry pistols...
Left: Stock except for grips Right: CobraChromed...

 

[dmw16]

Doesn't have to be new. When I go pick up my latest purchase on Wednesday I am going to talk to them about how much they would charge to do FFL paperwork for me (if I buy from gunbroker or similar).

 

[HexHead]

Para is coming out with a GI Expert 1911 that looks to be a great pistol in your price range. The Springfield Mil-Spec would also be in your price range as would be a pre-owned Kimber. You might be able to find a new Kimber Classic in that range as well.

 

[FoMoGo]

For my money you can't beat an STI Spartan

Very good choice, made by armscor... who makes the rock island pistols.
I had a RIA Match, blood brother to the Spartan... GREAT shooter, I only got rid of it due to the sights not being great for carry.


Jim

 

[dmw16]

The Para looks nice. When is that supposed to be available?

I will also add, it's a plus if it is good for carry.

 

[Oro]

A used, real-deal Colt Series 70 woul likely fall into your range, too. The one below came home last spring for $525 delivered w/transfer fee from a dealer off Auction Arms. I'd also search for nicely built Caspian custom guns, too. They are usually excellent and great value. I agree also with MM, Sistema's are a good value - not as much as in the past, but still good for the price vs. lower-end, imported cast pieces.

 

[72IH]

Got my Springfield Champion, loaded model a year ago for 550. The guy was a Springfield dealer and took on Kimber. Kimber told him to drop the Springers to be a "master" dealer. He took it then sat on the Springer for couple years then I made the offer an he took it. So you never know what kind of a deal you can pull off. Just know what you want and be patient.

 

[OleCodger]

The Taurus PT1911SS fits well within your price range. There are some that won't agree with me but IMHO it's an excellent buy. I've only ran less than 200 rounds (and without a single hiccup so far) through mine so time will tell. It's also a very accurate pistol. With the competition among gun manufacturers, the quality should be there in most of the "name brand" guns.

BTW, welcome to to THR.....there's a lot of good info on this site.