Compact 1911 ???

[gator1gear]

I want a compact 1911 to carry. I have read here that a compact 1911 is not the way to go. Anybody out there have any bad experiences with 'em? I'm looking at the RIA compact, because the have a good reputation and don't cost a fortune. I checked out the 1911 forums, just want to see what you guys and gals think. Thanks

 

[TurboFC3S]

The RIA compact would be a good choice if you're on a budget. I recently picked up a Para 10.45 for $450 ... it's a double stack with a 3" barrel. That would be a good option if you want a bit more rounds under your belt. Mine runs 100% with 185gr loads, but is problematic with 230gr loads. I've also seen Springfield Micro's for around $600, and there are a couple STI models that can be had for around $700.

 

[Thomas Garrett]

RIA, Sarco is the best price right now. Like $339.00.

 

[76shuvlinoff]

Had a ported Springfield Ultracompact for a while, (something like 3 5/8 barrrel) I got it used and fought with stove piping until I dropped in a new Wilson extractor. Didn't do any tuning just dropped it in and problem solved. It had Hogue grips that I didn't care for. It was a fairly easy gun to carry and the only real reason I got rid of it is I do not like porting on a carry piece. Other than that it was problem free.
FYI Springfield said they would fit an unported barrel for $150.00 but a buddy wanted it pretty bad so I just sold it.

 

[weisse52]

My only personal experience on a compact was many years ago on a Detonics. I could never get it to run for any length of time.
Trips to the gusmith and rounds of new springs and we would get a few hundred rounds and then back to FTF and stovepipes.

Finally sold it and never looked back.

 

[Coltman 77]

I've been very pleased with my Colt New Agent.

Accurate and reliable.

800 rds of various fmj and jhp without a single malfunction.

 

[Anna's Dad]

Nearly all comments I've heard on the Colt Defender have been positive.

I recently bought one used but haven't used it enough to form an opinion on reliability.

 

[Grizfire]

I suggest Colt Defender or Springfield EMP

 

[stolivar]

Rock Island Compact





steve

 

[jmahalek]

Love my colt defender. It is more expensive than the RIA though.

 

[gator1gear]

stolivar, how do you like the Rock Island? Any trouble?

 

[viking499]

I have a RIA Compact. Maybe 150 rounds through it. Not a hiccup yet. Only fed fmj through it so far. Put some better sights on it. Still not happy with them. Gonna do something else with the sights, just not sure what yet.

 

[gator1gear]

Thanks for the reply! I feel totally comfortable with .45 FMJ for self defense.

 

[viking499]

I added a set of Kimber rubber grips to mine. Made it feel a lot better than the factory grips.

 

[MICHAEL T]

Colt Defender or New Agent

 

[stolivar]

I love it

I have had no problems with my Compact RIA. It will eat anything I throw at it.

So does my full size RIA Tactical.


steve

 

[TexasRedneck]

Well, I've been carryin' a High Standard "Crusader Compact" that I got off a trade thinkin' I'd sell it.....until I took it to the range. 500+ rounds down the tube, NEVER a ftf - even with some very light reloads.
Then a Kimber UCII forced its' way into my hands yesterday.....<hey, the wife believed it...>
Now I gotta decide which ta keep!

 

[EHL]

I have a Kimber Ultra Eclipse II, gun hasn't had one problem with over 900 rounds through her yet. She has chewed through anything I've fed her. Great little gun.

 

[GLI45]

I think the 1911 makes an excellent CCW. Some people migt not like the weight of an all steel as comared to a polymer, but if you are okay with that, the 1911 is excellent. I have both an STI Guardian and a VIP for carry weapons. I also like the ability to safely carry cocked and locked offered by the 1911 platform.

 

[TexasRedneck]

Ah wants that Randall.........

4 Randalls, 1 Series 70, 1 Double Eagle, 1 H&K USP Compact, High Standard Crusader Compact & 1 Kimber Ultra Carry II.

Ya don't wanna know 'bout the other calibers......

 

[paul45]

Did I see Colt wraprounds on a RIA compact?

 

[gator1gear]

Well, I did it! I just bought a compact RIA 1911 on Gunbroker. My very first 1911. I've been on a waiting list almost 3 months at a local shop. THE WAIT IS ALMOST OVER!!!

 

[stolivar]

Yes you did.

I have Colt wrap arounds on all my 1911's.


steve

 

[oldFred]

Dont' do it, especially the kimber compacts. I warned you.

 

[gator1gear]

oldFred it's too late, but why?