Rock Island Armory 1911

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rmmoore

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I realize that perhaps this might be better suited for the Handgun section, but here goes...... I am looking at a RIA 1911 in .45ACP. It is the full size model, a stainless or stainless looking finish, skeletonized hammer and trigger, Novak lo-profile sights that are standard dovetail cut front and rear. The gun is virtually brand new, with less than one box fired, including the case (plastic), all paperwork, and 2 Novak 8rd mags.

I know the guy who has it. He is a double action 9mm kind of guy, who wanted to see what the SA 1911 craze was all about. It seems he did not take to the transition well. In my opinion, after less than one box of ammo, he didn't try real hard. But, that's his problem, not mine.

The "Blue Book" doesn't offer any information on RIA, other than to say that they supplied frames and parts to Springfield at one time, and referred me to Springfield's section. Springfield doesn't even mention them, unless I missed something. I can't seem to find any information on MSRP, or a "used" value on THIS particular model. I found the "almost identical" version in blue for $480 at several online sites, but not the "stainless" one. I can buy this one for $550 out the door.

Any opinions on whether this is a decent buy? I've heard of them, but I'm not familiar with the brand, other than the gun is made in the Phillipines. If the quality is good, I'm okay with the price, knowing I can buy a comparable Springer for $150-200 more (I think) if I can find one. Finding one however, has been a problem. Imagine that. Thanks for your input and assistance.
 
I'm happy W/ my RIA, but I only paid 410.00 for it.

Mines the straight milspec though, it's a good gun if you're ok W/ that price go for it.
 
Oh yeah, the "blued" version I have found is what they call their Tactical model, but I have been unable to locate any info on the "stainless" version.
 
I saw new blued versions at a show a week ago the price tag on it was $385. Passed it up thing it was too good to be true. Didn't know anything about the company, looked online saw one place saying the frames were stamped not machined. (not sure if that is of concern).

Didn't see a stainless version. But sounds interesting.
 
There's a noteworthy difference between the Mil-Spec guns that are around $400 and the Tactical version described by the OP. I'm looking at these for an entry level 1911 myself, and have heard some great things about them. I checked two local shops (DFW, TX) this weekend and looked at the stainless model and a two-tone model. They are going for between $509 & $529 from shop to shop here. Add the 8.25% sales tax here, and the price comes up to $550. These are NIB. I'd say you're in the right ball park. If availability is limited in your area, there may not be a better deal, but this one isn't "once-in-a-lifetime," IMO.
 
FYI - Rock Island Armory 1911s are made by ARMSCOR in the Phillipines,
they have CAST frames and slides, and they use CNC machining.
They seem to be a good value for the cost. THe USA Customer Service
outfit is Advanced Tactical in Neveda & they get good
feedback on that note.

Seems you're in the ball park for price with the stainless Tactical. imo
since you know the guy, and no sales tax. I would ask to shoot some fmj
through it as a Make or Break the deal ondition.

Randall.
 
Buy it! You'll love it! That's the new version of the Tactical model, not stainless, but a brushed nickel plating.
 
The top pistol is a Rock Island Tactical with a parkerized finish. They ran about $465 and the Mil spec were around $400 in my area back in the Summer but the way prices have spiked I have no idea of prices now. Been a good pistol so far. A tad more ammo picky than the Ruger but I may buy another one, a .38 Super or maybe a 9MM if they finally make one.


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Thanks for all the info guys. I was looking for a used Springer or Smith, but couldn't find what I was looking for after 4 Gun Shows. The "aftermarket" supply of decent 1911's just seems to have dried up, around here anyway. I saw several Llama's, a few Kimber's, and a couple of Colt's (not a big fan; I know, I know, they're the "granddaddy" but I'm still not a fan). Prices were either very cheap, and that's what you got, or very expensive. I did see a Browlin which caught my eye, but I've heard you either get really good, or NOT. It was a toss up and I wasn't going to drop $650 (I think) for a gamble. Yeah I know, only a $100 difference between the gamble on a Browlin and the RIA. But the RIA WAS prettier:neener:!!!!!

Anyway, I think I'm going to go and have a closer look at it, assuming he still has it. And then go from there. It IS a very nice looking piece, to be sure. But, I've seen a lot of really nice looking cars that wouldn't get me across town; and I sure as hell don't want to play that game with something that I might need to save my life. Thanks again, I appreciate your opinions.
 
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