I am beginning my search for a what I believe is called a semi-custom 1911.
I am lucky to live close to Nighthawk, Wilson, and Eb Brown manufacturing facilities and will plan on visiting their locations.
My question: What are the differences that separate these semi-custom makers? Name recognition is important only if it translates into an identifiable quality or feature difference. Why would you pick one over the other or stated differently, who makes the best gun (accuracy and reliability) and why?
I am not able to afford a one-off custom gun and I have not shot 1911's enough to know what distinct/unique features I want on a true custom gun($4000 plus from my research). I have to trust that a semi-custom gun will have the most preferred features. My budget is around $2500 - $3000 and this is the only 1911 that I will own (promise to wife). I will likely want a Commander style gun suitable for CC or open carry on our ranching operations.
Perhaps there are other semi-custom makers I should consider (like Les Baer) and please respond with there web sites.
Finally, all these makers seem to have a "preferred dealer" network. Can you recommend a "preferred dealer" that will try to be competitive and earn my business? I can see how this alone could be the deal maker.
Thank you in advance for your help!
P7rancher
I am lucky to live close to Nighthawk, Wilson, and Eb Brown manufacturing facilities and will plan on visiting their locations.
My question: What are the differences that separate these semi-custom makers? Name recognition is important only if it translates into an identifiable quality or feature difference. Why would you pick one over the other or stated differently, who makes the best gun (accuracy and reliability) and why?
I am not able to afford a one-off custom gun and I have not shot 1911's enough to know what distinct/unique features I want on a true custom gun($4000 plus from my research). I have to trust that a semi-custom gun will have the most preferred features. My budget is around $2500 - $3000 and this is the only 1911 that I will own (promise to wife). I will likely want a Commander style gun suitable for CC or open carry on our ranching operations.
Perhaps there are other semi-custom makers I should consider (like Les Baer) and please respond with there web sites.
Finally, all these makers seem to have a "preferred dealer" network. Can you recommend a "preferred dealer" that will try to be competitive and earn my business? I can see how this alone could be the deal maker.
Thank you in advance for your help!
P7rancher