Want a decent 1911... What do ya say?

[JTQ]

I'm really thinking the colt xse combat elite with the blued slide and stainless frame. What do you think of it for a first 1911.

I think that is a fine choice. My first 1911 was the old model Combat Elite I bought in 1991.

 

[JTQ]

The more I read these 1911 threads, the more confussed I get on which one to buy.

Excellent point. Most of the problems arise when the OP will state the following requirements

I would prefer something american so im not really looking at ria 1911s, but can't afford something custom like wilson combat.
I would like the best gun in the $600 to $1200 range.

In spite of these requirements, of the 51 posts,there are
- 11 recommendations for the Brazilian made Springfield
- 3 recommendations for the Brazilian made Taurus
- 3 recommendations for the PI made RIA (specifically said he wasn't looking at the RIA)
- 3 recommendations for the Les Baer, least expensive model $1,800+
- 1 recommendation for Wilson $2,000+ (specifically said he can't afford a Wilson)
- 1 recommendation for Bersa (Argentine?)

It's a lot less confusing if people would read the requirements and keep their answers confined to those applicable to the question.

 

[rd2007]

There are a few very vocal critics of PARA, but as an actual owner, I have no problem recommending the ESP and it matches all the requirements specified by the OP. They used to be Canadian, but are now made in North Carolina. I have had zero issues with mine and that includes shooting HPs, which many 1911s seem to have an issue with. I also haven't had any issues with the coating. The only issue I do have is taking it apart, but that goes with every 1911. I just prefer the much simpler take downs like my XDm and P64. That's how every gun should be.

 

[mljdeckard]

My Kimber Custom II is the best handgun I have ever owned. With night sights put on it will probably cost about $900 these days, and 100% American.

In all fairness, if I were to replace it tomorrow, I would probably look hard at an STI Spartan, which is an Armscor frame assembled in the U.S. by STI. I'm not sure if your preference for an American made pistol comes from patriotism or a perceived quality difference, but the truth is, the quality difference is VERY difficult to discern.

 

[flusher]

go for a pre 70 Colt Government
Here's a 1951

 

[KyJim]

In that price range, the best American made 1911s are Colt (XSE series, especially Combat Elite), STI Trojan (Spartan is assembled out of country), and Dan Wesson Razorbacks. The other current DWs are out of the range you mentioned. Springfields are good pistols but the slide and frame are imported and then assembled in U.S.

 

[Russ Jackson]

There is so much you can do with a 1911. Decide what you are going to do with it and go from there. A carry 1911 is totally different than a standard one. Pretty versitile gun with lots of options. Some good deals on custom guns right now that you will spend alot more building youself. You might want to wait and save up...JMO...Russ

 

[Dodger02WS6]

Per you "requirments" and my personal experience.

Kimber Custom TLE II or something similar.
Dan Wesson, if you can find one you like in your price range.
Colt

 

[jackpinesavages]

STI TargetMaster. 6" .45 with Dawson FO front sight.

 

[trillium]

Magnum Research 1911 799$

 

[Russ Jackson]

You can buy Kimber Custom II 45 ACP for $699 at vancedoutdoors...Russ

 

[Olympus]

It's hard to beat a Colt Combat Elite! One of my all time favorites. I don't know how the quality of the newer ones are, but I know the older models are slick!

 

[robctwo]

http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/product_info.php/cPath/21_39_71/products_id/11748

I have the S&W 1911PD Commander with CT grips. Great carry/nightstand gun. I have a few full sized adjustable sight guns for the range and the outdoors.

 

[Demitrios]

Dan Wesson, STI, hell you could probably even find a used Les Baer in good shape.

 

[possum]

I had a SA MC Operator, $1080 out the door, too bad it didn't run like a gun that cost that much. i own 2 xd's with crazy numbers of rounds through them so it was natural that when i wanted a 1911, i went SA, as well that is the 1911 that i always wanted.

first during approx a 700rd training session with the new 1911, the sights came loose, and almost drifted all the way out of the rear dovetail.

at approx 3,500rds the extractor broke. to say the least i was very dissapointed. i had the extractor replaced, and sold it and never looked back.

I am looking into giving the 1911 a try again, however i have stipulations for mine.
1) It will never be carried, and or used for defense
2) It will only be used at the range, and to add one to the collection.
3) It will be kept meticulously cleaned
4) it will never be shot more than 200-250rds in a single day once every few months.
5) I will never attend a training course of any kind with it.
6) It may be used in IDPA.

so for my requiremenys i am gonna look into a RIA Tactical, change the look a little, and add some things here and there and that is it.

Obviously the op said no RIA, all i can tell you is my personal experiences, and if you get a SA i hope that mine was a lemon.