What would you do?

What would you do?

  • Buy the tactical and be done with it

    Votes: 37 94.9%
  • Buy the base model and tune away, virtually file free

    Votes: 2 5.1%

  • Total voters
    39
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halfded

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Feb 5, 2009
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Alright, I've decided on a rock island armory 1911 thanks to the good ratings I've seen around here. I have the option between the standard 1911-a1 and the 1911 tactical. There's seems to be a difference of opinion about whether to buy the gun already built to my taste, or to buy the base model and build it myself. I had a really good time putting the goodies in my 10/22 was a blast and didn't take a lot of fitting to install. I like tinkering but don't want to spend any angry evenings at the table with a file.

So here's the question: Would you buy the tactical and have the pistol how you want it (for the most part) out of the box; or would you rather build it yourself, at extra cost, but it's more yours because you did it yourself? Keep in mind the ease of part installation.
 
If you have the money and the tactical fits the bill I would go for it.

Unless you really enjoy doing the work (some do, I just don't have the time, patience or, sadly, the ability), I doubt you'll end up saving money in the long run.

Just my humble opinion.
 
I agree. If you want to do it yourself because you really enjoy that kind of work, go for the base model and enjoy making it your own.

I bought a Springfield "Loaded" as my first 1911. Love the gun just as it is and would not trade down to a Mil-Spec and then customize it myself. However, there are features on the Loaded model that I would not put onto a Mil-Spec, if I were to do it that way. Truth be told, if I DID do it that way the end product would be closer to mil-spec than Loaded.
 
I enjoy doing the work, as long as it doesn't involve custom fitting. I don't want to chance ruining the part or the gun just for my amusement though. Do most of the parts drop right in, or do they take some "adjusting"? The sights aren't really that big a deal, still young with (fairly) good eyesight. Kinda like the GI look of the low sights anyway. I'm willing to spend the extra money to be able to say that I built it when I'm asked where I got it though, always liked that idea.
 
i would go with the tactical if it was me. it has the things that you (I) would like to have, but not to much, and it is still at a great price.
 
I'd buy a good pocket knife

Far more practical than any .223 caliber rifle for cutting fishing line monofilament or stripping a well-used pork rind from a Johnson Silver minnow's hook. If you've ever attempted to shoot the pork rind off of a Silver minnow's hook with a .223 Remington, even with 36 grain Barnes Varmint Grenades, you know how this action can swiftly put a hole in your canoe's hull. I carry a folding pocket knife with a 2 1/2" blade when I fish. cliffy
 
If it's exactly how you want it.....why NOT buy the model that's covered by some kind of manufacturer warranty if anything goes awry?
 
Cliffy, you have me a little worried... :uhoh:

Definitely go tactical.

Most things in the 1911 world really aren't "drop in" fit (ask me how I know :D). They need some tinkering to get them to fit and function properly. When you tinker, what can that do to reliability?
 
Halfed, Again, Get the Tactical, I just bought my second one. Love shooting them both. Both mine are Bi-Tone. Also got a Springfield Mil-Spec. Just haven't got around for the "Customization" stage for the Mil-Spec. But get the Tactical for familiarization then get a GI or Mil-Spec for the Custom work.
 
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I just found a place that has the tactical model for $449 plus tax. Think I'm gonna go for it. Anybody ever dealt with ssgtactical? They're based in the same town I live in and I wanted to know if they allow pick ups. I don't want to pay $30 to have it transferred half an hour down the road if I can help it.
 
Update

Just got back from the pawn shop, picking up my 10/22 I had to put up during hard times, and happened to ask him about the RIA tactical. He said he could order me one for $500 out the door; shipping, tax, background check and everything. I think I'll pay the extra $50 to be able to deal with someone face to face. $500 is still a good price right? Gander mountain has the standard model for that much, plus tax and everything. Just waiting on Uncle Sam now. I'll be sure to post pics as soon as it's safely home and cleaned up.
 
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