Sub-$1000 1911

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STLMedic

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So I'm looking for a 5" 1911 for under a grand. I'd like for it to be made in the USA, but it's not a complete deal breaker. (Read: I'm considering the Springfield, but hate the made in Brazil stamp.) The gun will be used for punching paper and some occasional winter carry.

I'm leaning toward the Smith and Wesson 108309 "Titanium" without the firing pin block. There are quite a few "I love the S&W 1911 but don't trust the firing pin block" comments in comparison threads on here, but haven't seen any since the 309 was released, sans series 70 block.

Other models I'm heavily considering are the Kimber Custom II series, Springer Loaded, and I really like the STI Trojan (but can't stand the giant lettering on the side that makes it look like a toy.)

I'm not opposed to buying a lightly used pistol either, and would jump on a Kimber Match series or Springer TRP/Match for the right price.

Does anyone have any recommendations for 1911's that would fit my bill?

Thanks,
Anthony
 
I rather like the new production Colts. They are priced comparably to pistols with similar features and I read of few complaints. Almost all new Colts use "Series 80" (firing pin block actuated by trigger) lockwork.
 
I'm assuming the XSE, Combat Elite , and 1991 would be in my price range. What is there to look for in the Colt series? Any problems or pros/cons?
 
Thats great for the one on gunbroker. My Stainless Steel Mil Spec doesn't have that stamped on it. I just double checked it. Bought it NIB in September. Buy a Colt if you prefer but "the ol' gray mare ain't what she used to be." Still makes a good gun but they aren't any better than the Springfield or S&W offerings. I like to get the best value for my money. YMMV. The 1911s from Colt seem to run about $100 for similarly equipped models from Springfield Armory. In all fairness, you do get to brag about having a VERY MANLY baby horse prancing on your slide. (j/k)
 
If you have a Springfield, it has a Brazilian Frame. Yes, they all are. I have a few and love them, so I'm not bashing.

STI Spartan's major components are imported as well. I have a Spartan and love that thing. More accurate than my Kimber "Target" models.

STI's other guns are all U.S.A. I would look at the Trojan or Ranger II if looking at STI's

Your other options in the sub $1000 price range are going to be Colt's, Remington's R1, Kimber's and S&W's Of those I think S&W's are the best value.
 
STI Spartan or Trojan are awesome for the price.

Kimber Custom II or TLE are great as well.

The new Springfield Range Officer is claimed to be built to the same standard as the TRP and is going for $750. If so, that is a hell of a deal.

Ive havent been impressed with many Colts.

Why do you hate the "Brazilian" frame? Springfield is one of the most popular base guns for full custom builds. Thier frames and slides are top notch.
 
I know it the frame is made in Brazil. However, I am telling you that they don't all have it stamped on them! Mine is stamped on the frame:

SPRINGFIELD INC
GENESEO IL USA
(SERIAL NUMBER)

Moreover, who really cares nowadays. Throwout anything in your house made without foreign parts and/or labor and it will be empty. Probably have to throwout the actual house too, unless you live in your great grandpappy's log cabin.
 
Apparantly the OP cares.

I stated that I have a few Springfield's and I love them all, the OP however stated he would like the pistol made in the U.S.A. My older Springfield model has the IM Brazil on the side of the frame, not on the bottom.

My STI's frame is an armscor, and cast to boot! Guess what, it's my favorite.
 
I am completely elated with my Colt Series 70 reproduction. I picked it up in the low 800s before tax. Blued. It's beautiful.

IMHO the best quality, forged frame 1911 for the money right now. Even better than the Springfields (and I own an XD).
 
I can second the Taurus. I have a new one with only 300 rounds through it, but it shot beautifully right out of the box. It handles my SD HP loads very well.
 
I'm leaning toward the Smith and Wesson 108309 "Titanium" without the firing pin block.
Click to expand...
I have not seen the S&W 1911 TFP for under $1,000, but if you could find it, that would be a good deal. That model also comes with a melonite finish that should be very durable. S&W has a very good reputation and the TFP (Titanium Firing Pin) model should also be good.
There are quite a few "I love the S&W 1911 but don't trust the firing pin block" comments in comparison threads on here, but haven't seen any since the 309 was released, sans series 70 block.
Click to expand...
To clarify, Series 70 is a Colt term, though in "internet speak" it has come to mean a 1911 without a firing pin block. The Colt Series 80 design 1911's have a firing pin block that is activated/deactivated by the trigger. The firing pin block S&W uses is different from Colt's design and is activated/deactivated by the grip safety. The schematics I've seen show the S&W to be a very robust design.
Other models I'm heavily considering are the Kimber Custom II series,
Click to expand...
Any Kimber with a II designation will have a firing pin block. It is operated by the grip safety like the S&W pistols with the firing pin, but is a different design.

Colt had a period a year or so ago where they had some bad thumb safeties, and the spring/guide rod tunnel was not centered. Both problems seem to have been fixed. You don't usually get as many features with your Colt (beavertails, night sights, checkering, etc) for the dollars spent, compared to the other guys, but what you do get are generally better parts and more consistent specifications. I have an original version of the Colt Combat Elite. The new models have gotten very good reviews and should be within your price range.

We live in a great time for gun buying. I think it's tough to find a truly bad pistol and if you do, most companies have a pretty good warranty that will fix the problems. Go to a gun store/gun show and handle as many as you can. Even though they are all 1911's they will feel a little different. Find the one that feels good to you.
 
I was looking at a Para P14-45 a bit ago, if you don't mind a double stack and something made slightly north of our border. 14 round capacity of .45 ACP in a 5" gun. MSRP was something like $920, I think that's your price range.
 
Trojan or the SA Range Officer.

if you are not opposed to buying pre-owned, you can find good deals out there, you can find a TRP or Trophy Match.

as for the guys mentioning Taurus, they are made in Brazil and not by IMBEL (Springfield).
 
Yeah, the Springer Range Officer looks good on paper if you don't need a FLGR or ambi safety and can tolerate the adjustable sights. Or a Loaded.
 
I am very happy with my Colt 1991 with the new rollmarks. I bought it about a year ago for $750 brand new and couldn't be more pleased. It is a no frills government model, with a great traditional look.
 
I have the base model #108292
S&W 1911 5" Bbl. Stainless Steel
includes Novak dovetailed lowmount three dot sights fixed rear
Beavertail grip safety
skleton knurled hammer
3 hole long trigger
beveled magazine well
but it varies from the traditional browning design
with external extractor
& the FPS is tied to the Grip Safety unlike the 80 Series Colt

Most SW1911s run great outta the box
and after 3000 rounds I'm happy with mine, never had a FTE

If I wanted a "Build' 1911 - Colt 70 Series.

Randall M
 
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