Best Self Defense 1911?

[Roadking Rider]

You really want a 1911 that will shoot anything you feed it for your SD that won't break the bank. RIA's builds some very reliable 1911's. I have no problem carrying mine for SD.

 

[stinger 327]

You really want a 1911 that will shoot anything you feed it for your SD that won't break the bank. RIA's builds some very reliable 1911's. I have no problem carrying mine for SD.

The RIA looks very promising. However I love the Sig Sauer and would want to get one of those so perhaps get a P-220 and a RIA? Choices choices will have to see. I only need one dependable 1911.

 

[CharlieDeltaJuliet]

E series S&W or a Sig Sauer C3. There are others that are as good or better, but these IMHO are the best for the money spent.

 

[orionengnr]

I have owned three Colts and three Springfields (and a bunch of other 1911s), and although I try to never say never, let's just say I have no Colts or Springfields on my hip, in my safe or on my shopping list.

If I had $1500-2000 to spend I would be looking for a used Les Baer, Wilson or Ed Brown.

I have missed two different Wilsons in the last three years, both for about $1100-1200. One needed refinishing, but at that price I'd be happy to pay for it.

I bought my Les Baer for $1200. It had a minor problem, but that was resolved by a good 1911-smith for about $200, and I doubt I will ever sell it.

I have not seen any give-away prices on Ed Browns, but always have my eyes open.

I am wearing the first Kimber I ever bought (and the one I have shot and carried the most) as I type this. Since I bought this one, I have bought seven others. I do not own them all today (I am a serial owner, and practice "buy one, sell one"), but still own several Kimbers. Every one of them works/worked perfectly, which is why I keep buying them.

You will encounter many opinions, all worth exactly what you paid for them. Here is mine:

If you can, try it before you buy it.

If it works with a variety of ammo, and you shoot it reasonably well, buy it...no matter what internet pundits say.

Shoot it often, become proficient. If you wish to change parts, do so, but be aware that many parts require fitting. Don't be afraid to look for a good 1911-smith. And make sure that he really is one...

 

[allshotout.com]

I have been carrying Kimber Ultra Carry II. Been really pleased with this gun. Have seen folks have some issues getting Kimbers to run, and will admit it was touchy first 500 rounds. After that, no issues.

 

[stinger 327]

I have been carrying Kimber Ultra Carry II. Been really pleased with this gun. Have seen folks have some issues getting Kimbers to run, and will admit it was touchy first 500 rounds. After that, no issues.

I have heard Kimbers are over rated and over priced as other 1911's can be had that perform better and cost alot less. In any case I don't want to spend that kind of $$$ in the Kimber price range.