Budget 1911:SAMS vs. Rock Island

[Woody_in_MN]

First, I'm not a 1911 fanatic. I had a 1911 Molina Ballestar. I sold it, but I would kind of like a 1911 clone around for plunking, and really just to have one for my collection.

At a local Cabella's I had a chance to examine a SAMS (Shooters Arms) 1911 Elite. The Elite is a step up from the GI, w/ skeleton trigger. The Elite had a nice trigger, and I liked the finish. I know I can get one of those for around $325 plus shipping. The down side is the clips they come with are cheap and problematic.

The other 1911 I am looking at is the Rock Island 1911A1, full frame. I have not examined one. I'll probably look around to see if there is a local shop that has one. The pluses on the Rock Island are: a better factory magazine, and wood grips. I figure the wood grips are worth at least $30. I know I can get a Rock Island 1911 for around $300 plus shipping. The down side is that I have not had a chance to examine one.

How does the Rock Island compare to the SAMS ?

Thanks in advance,

- w

 

[Magnumite]

According to a Phillipino posting on the 1911forum, both of these guns are made in the Phillipines. The contention from him is the RIA is the better gun.

But still not a Springfield Armory Milspec or Repro


For your viewing pleasure:

http://forums.1911forum.com/showthread.php?t=82779&page=2&highlight=sam

 

[Woody_in_MN]

Mag,

Thanks for the link. This is pretty much what I was after. Either some of those guys are wrong, or there is false advertising. SARCO advertises RIA as being 100% parts interchangeable with 1911's.

- w

 

[dracphelan]

I have not had seen any actual parts interchange problems with RIA pistols. Mine has been very reliable (over 2000 rounds).

 

[kentucky_smith]

My RIA has the full-length guide rod, the arched msh from my Kimber, and a ciener .22conversion on it. Interchange is 100% with everything I've tested. Dang good trigger too.

 

[Magnumite]

I don't think there is an issue with them not being interchangable as much as it is with the base gun being not as close to spec as most higher line 1911's.

SARCO sells frames sometimes (they had them awhile back) which they advertise as being out of spec. They had to work all the milspec parts to get the gun to shoot okay.

 

[Woody_in_MN]

Dang good trigger too.

Thanks Kentucky - I was wondering about the trigger on the RIA. SARCO claims 5 1/4 to 5 1/5 lb pull.

- w

 

[johnny blaze]

Another good point about the Rock is it's warranty and customer service.
These pistols are becoming very popular.