Just got my first handgun

[Horvath819]

I just turned 21 a couple weeks ago and decided to purchase my first handgun. I got a pretty good deal on a used Rock Island Armory 1911 .45 in great condition so I got it. Is there anything I should be aware about with this particular gun? Is it any good/reliable? Only thing I got for it so far is some nice new wooden grips. Thanks

 

[ByAnyMeans]

RIA is known to make a nice entry level 1911, I say shoot, clean and repeat.

 

[triplebike]

I have heard nothing but good things about the RIA. Excellent value for the money. If I was shopping for a 1911, it would be my choice. Let us know how it shoots for ya. Some posts by owners here;

http://www.thehighroad.org/showthread.php?t=205186

 

[Horvath819]

Ok cool, thanks for the quick responses guys. I'm hoping I can shoot it this weekend. Do you guys know a good website where I can buy drop-in upgrades for it?

 

[ByAnyMeans]

I am not really aware of any only because I like my 1911's either mil spec or slightly above. What I mean is I would go for a RIA mil spec and a tactical. One old school and one new. I'm sure theirs a hundred and one websites for what you seek.

Beyond that my money is spent on ammo, mags then get out their and learn the gun. I am an average (maybe a little above from what I have seen at the range) and any stock handgun from a good manufacturer (Glock,SIG,1911,Beretta) is going to be more accurate than me. Now if I had the money I would have several beauties but funds are limited.

Edit: honestly being your first handgun and a 1991 I would get a Ruger 22lr Mark series which has a grip like the 1911 and shoot the snot out of them. The proper practice you can get on the 22lr for much less ammo cost will amaze you. The basics which are very important will translate to the 1911 and you will become quite proficient with it quickly.

 

[Horvath819]

The only mods I really want to do to it are a new trigger and beaver tail. When I bought it it came with two mags and a holster. One mag is a Novak and the other is a Chip McCormick, are those any good?

 

[owlhoot]

Yes both mags are good. Of course, the test is whether or not they function reliably in your gun.

If I were in your place, I'd be saving my pennies for a .22 conversion kit for that RIA. Next, I'd save for a reloading press. I'd suggest a Dillon.

Have fun with that new toy.