Considering a 1911 - what do I look for?

[F-111 John]

I'm with you Wacki with the 1911 bug, but since it'll be a range weapon more than a carry/duty weapon, the models that I'm interested in are about as scarce as hen's teeth.

I've resigned myself to waiting untill after the 100th anniversary year is over before I go shopping again. My eye is on the Ruger SR1911 because it is about the lowest priced stainless model I can find, and it has a few of the "fun bits" already added, including the beaver tail grip safety, skeletonized hammer and trigger, and a larger thumb safety, along with Novak sights.

Watch, right about the time I'm ready to buy, Ruger will come out with a Commander length SR1911 and it'll be a scarce gun...

 

[Double Vision]

The best advice I can give you is to find a LGS that has several models, and compare them side-by-side. A knowledgeable salesperson can be a big help.

Yesterday I wandered into my LGS just to see if/when they could get a Ruger SR1911. No luck on findng a Ruger.

FYI, I had almost sworn off this store because if you get the wrong salesman you're wasting your time.

Anyway, this young kid did a real nice job showing off a number of 1911s to me. There was another fellow also shopping for 1911s and his input was also helpful. He ended up with a nice S&W 1911.

I decided to leave and come back later with my handgun permit (as required in the People's Republic of NJ). When I returned I was helped by the store owner, a good guy. We spent more time comparing a handful of 1911s.

I narrowed it down to a very nice Springfield Armory Loaded Parkerized and Colt Gold Cup Stainless with 100th Anniverary logos in the grips. FYI the SA did NOT say Made in Brazil and appeared to be a Made in USA pistol. It was neck & neck down to the wire and the Colt won out by a nose. It just "felt" right.

IMHO you have to feel a pistol like this side-by-side with comparable models and brands to see the difference.

The Colt is beautiful. I cannot wait to range test it. Even after choosing the Colt, I had to hold myself back from going back to the Springfield. It is such a nice piece.

If it's still there in 30 days, I may go back and bring it home too.