Considering my first 1911

[GuidoTorpedo]

I know some of you are thinking, "Considering!? It's a no brainer!" Well, I'm looking for input!

First off, I love 1911s. For some reason, I shoot them better than ANYTHING outthere. My friend had one I shot a lot (1991 with some add-ons) but he's since moved out of the area and I don't get to shoot it anymore.

Anyway I'm looking for one myself now. I don't want to spend too much money (< $600 OTD), so I'm looking for options. I definitely want a full sized model. So far I've identified these as my options:

• RIA GI
• RIA Tactical
• High Standard
• STI Spartan
• Taurus PT1911

Some of the features that I'd like are as follows:

• Throated barrel
• Enlarged ejection port
• "Better than GI" sights
• Beveled mag-well (not the extended kind)
• Other "reliability modifications"

Thats my basic list. I'm open to other options so long as they are within my budget. Thanks in advance!

 

[rjohnson4405]

SA Loaded 1911 should be in your price range, and I think has all the goodies you want.

Link:
http://www.springfield-armory.com/armory.php?model=8

 

[rjohnson4405]

Oh yeah and if you're interested in the STI and can decide by tonight, some of our members are doing a group buy at reduced prices. Let me know if you're interested and I'll look up his email.

 

[jwxspoon]

I've got colt, SA and the Taurus. I have to say I prefer the taurus over them all.

jw

 

[strat81]

FYI, the RIA GI has GI sights and a standard ejection port, so you'll probably want to scratch it off your list and replace it with the RIA Match, which is cousin to the STI Spartan. Might also want to consider the Springfield Mil-spec too, which is available in park and stainless finishes.

I'm getting an STI Spartan through the group buy that was mentioned.

If you plan on carrying this gun, be aware that the RIA Match and STI Spartan have a fiber optic front sight and adjustable rear sight, which some folks aren't fond of for concealed carry duty.

ETA: One of the best "reliability mods" you can do is buy quality mags. That decision warrants a whole new thread.

 

[skinewmexico]

STI Spartan.

 

[the pistolero]

The Springfield Loaded may be a bit higher than what you're willing to spend NIB. I got my parked version for $760 and change OTD, but it was just what I wanted. Springfield's mil-spec would probably be right up your alley, though. From what I understand it has the standard three-dot sights and enlarged ejection port.

 

[possum]

you could go the used sa route, but for the feature that you listed and many many more the taurus would be the one for you.

 

[Rinspeed]

If you don't mind used I would look for a series I Kimber. If you want new the Spartan is getting some great reviews and STI has great customer service.

 

[v8stang289]

I bought a Taurus pt1911 in Sept 06 and have put about 1000 rounds through it, I am very pleased with it and highly recommend it. It has functioned flawlessly so far and is pretty accurate. One downside is that I have heard they have terrible customer service, though I have no first hand experience.

 

[10-Ring]

I prefer Colts, but since it's not on your list, I'd probably go w/ the STI

 

[DogBonz]

From your list

I would go with the STI. In general, they are very well made. As others have said, check out the springfields.