armscor 1911A1
I own an Armscor 1911A1. The hi-cap model (13 round-magazine).
I know the family that owns and runs Armscor (the Tuason family). I belong to one of their gun clubs.
Well, the "Armscor" name doesn't have the recall or tradition of , say, the name "Colt" or "Browning"; but their products are computer-manufactured from quality steel, and are perfectly serviceable. The barrels and magazines are imported from Italy - I believe from Fratelli Tanfoglio. If you want more snob appeal in a gun , buy a Colt or Browning or something like that. But an Armscor works just fine. It will put a bullet into a bad guy or a target just as well as a Colt or a Browning.
Enjoy your Armscor. Learn all about disassembling etc. the Model 1911A1 as you use it. In the longer run, should you desire to get a more "known" gunbrand for bragging rights, save up your dollars- maybe $700 to a thousand - and there will still be plenty of time to get one.
For home defense, I will buy an Armscor shotgun. Armscor makes shotguns, rifles, and ammunition, as well as pistols ("Charles Daly". "Rock Island", and "Armscor.")
Check out Armscor products at
http://www.armscor.net
Good luck, friend.