Sidearms & Scatterguns Best 1911 for under $1000

[Twisted300Win MAG]

As topic states I'm looking to pick up a 1911. I'm on a budget of $1000. I'm looking for a full size in 45acp or 10mm. There is only one option that i know of in 10mm in my price range, a Kimber stainless target II. However i'm not ruling out another 45 so my question is. who is making the best 1911 in this price range? I'v been looking a the Para Gi, Taurus pt1911, Kimber stainless target II and a few others i'm forgetting. what do you have and what are your likes and dislikes. This will mostly be a target gun but i'd like to try my hand at hunting with it as well. I plan on upgrading it in the future but need the most bang for the buck for now.
Thanks
Donald

 

[R6Hybridd]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

I have a $400 Rock Island Armory 1911. I got a trigger job done, new trigger, new hammer, new beavertail, and a full length guide rod (all parts new Wilson Combat) and the thing shoots like a dream and I got less then $1000 in it. It also has a set of Hogue overmold grips with a palm swell. The only thing it still needs is new sights then it is done. And when I say it is a dream to shoot, I mean its a DREAM. Very smooth cycling, ball bearing trigger with a crisp 2.5lb glass rod break to it, the grips make it very comfortable, and it is balanced perfectly. I might one day spend some money on a full custom build but right now, with what I got, I see no reason any time soon.

 

[-Ace-]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

You'd be well served to completely avoid Kimber altogether. Either a Springfield Loaded or a Colt would be your better option imo.

 

[Downzero]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

STI Spartan.

Agreed on avoid Kimber. Avoid Taurus as well.

A Colt will be very sloppy--they do no slide to frame fitting at all, which isn't a huge concern, but it is a sign of poor craftsmanship. Their fit and performance does not fit their price, if nothing else.

A Springfield Loaded will probably be fairly sloppy as well, but is definitely not a bad choice and has basically the same bundle of features as my recommended STI Spartan, it just costs more, has cheaper trigger components, and fixed sights rather than adjustable (which is an advantage over the Spartan in my view).

The STI Spartan is a great base to start, has the STI hammer and sear and decent fit out of the gate. Re-spring it to your liking and install your choice of front sight and magwell and it is ready to rock, with a bunch of quality mags, it's still within your $1k.

I shoot my 1911s a lot and I could justify spending more, but I see no need to spend more than the Spartan with my current budget. It's a GREAT value for the money.

 

[Mr_Brass]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

Remington R1 great sights good fit to me feels good shoots good never had a problem.

 

[Karsten]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

Kimber isn't getting to much good feed back these days.

In the less than $1000 range I would look at Springfield, Base model S&W, Remington R5 1911.

My GS friend that loads to say about his STI Full Race gun and a Compact he bought so his wife could shoot.

Taurus, Ruger, Kimber are iffy and spendy at best with the Kimber.

As for RRA, ATF and Citadel...They are few and far between and no stock coming down the pipe line soon I have been told.

I would say save another couple hundred and get a SA TRP.

Karsten

 

[turbo54]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

No Sig love?

Sigs run ~$900-$1100 new, and are fabulous. However, their resale is shit, so sweet used ones run ~$700-$800. Helluva 1911 for that.

 

[Hookturnr]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

I have to say, the Remington R1 series guns are a ton of gun for the money. I picked up an R1 Enhanced a while back and really have nothing to complain about, all the right features, nice quality on the build, nary a hiccup through 1200 rds. or thus far in about 15 different brands and configurations. I just can't find anything it won't eat! My only qualm is I would've bought the R1 Carry if it had been out when I got mine..

 

[Karsten]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

Turbo,

I have a neighbor that just bought a Sig C3 (I think) Compact on the used market. I almost went up a dropped a $1000 on a 2 tone Ultra. That was until we took his to the range, FTF, sloppy mag lock up and would not lock the slide back on an empty mag...Not good on a gun with less than 200 rounds through it.

Issue is most likely mags or the slide stop and I am sure we will get it figured out.

I just don't like having to fix stuff right off the bat. Hell I bought a Diamond Back 9MM BUG that went Bang 1 time and the trigger was broken....Why the %^&* would a company ship crap out is beyond me.

Karsten

 

[Equitum]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

A good deal of this boils down to preference... There are several reputable manufacturers that run a mid-range 1911 at a $850-$1100 pricepoint that will serve you well.

FWIW, I recently got my first 1911, a Springfield Loaded Parkerized, and I have zero complaints. Fits my hand perfectly and shoots like a dream. Springer's Range Officer is worth a look as well, btw.

My advice... go to the LGS and pick several 1911s up, and if they have a range, rent some of them that are in your price range and put some rounds downrange to test several of your options. You'll never know how it'll feel until you pick it up, and, more importantly, shoot it.

 

[Twisted300Win MAG]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

the remington r1 enhanced, the sr 1911 from ruger, the S&W, Springfields and STI's interest me i was drawing a blank when i posted my question however i have never shot or handled any of these and none of the shops near me have any on the shelf or on the rental list for me to fondle. The input you guys are giving is what i'm looking for. I will say that i have heard a lot of negative feedback on Kimber lately. I still own a Ultra Carry II and have owned 3 others and really have not had a problem. I'm not saying their quality or customer service hasn't went to shit but i'v been happy in the past.
Thanks
Donald

 

[Jaytrigger]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

I have 3 kimber. 1 Failure to return to battery (bullet not fed all the way due to a weak recoil spring) But all have ran flawlessly except 1 hiccup (mentioned above).
For the price range though you can find a 45 or 9mm STI Trojan. Nothing else will compare for a 5" 1911 in the category. End your search there.

 

[Sgt. 0811]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

Springfield loaded +1

 

[seanh]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

I'd have no problem getting a Kimber 1st or 2nd gen gun. They're reliable, accurate and not very expensive. The only downside is that they don't have the newer style serrations on the slide or fancy stippling/checkering on the FS.

you may want to consider a used pistol...you dollar will go much further.

I'd consider getting a rock island armory pistol- 45, then working on it to get exactly what you want...they're 550'ish.

For a 10mm- I'd just get a Glock and call it done. But, Rock Island/Armscorp offers a 1911 in 10mm for under a grand.

That said...best, new under a grand...probably a Sig

 

[dragbag]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Downzero</div><div class="ubbcode-body">STI Spartan.

Agreed on avoid Kimber. Avoid Taurus as well.

A Colt will be very sloppy--they do no slide to frame fitting at all, which isn't a huge concern, but it is a sign of poor craftsmanship. Their fit and performance does not fit their price, if nothing else.

A Springfield Loaded will probably be fairly sloppy as well, but is definitely not a bad choice and has basically the same bundle of features as my recommended STI Spartan, it just costs more, has cheaper trigger components, and fixed sights rather than adjustable (which is an advantage over the Spartan in my view).

The STI Spartan is a great base to start, has the STI hammer and sear and decent fit out of the gate. Re-spring it to your liking and install your choice of front sight and magwell and it is ready to rock, with a bunch of quality mags, it's still within your $1k.

I shoot my 1911s a lot and I could justify spending more, but I see no need to spend more than the Spartan with my current budget. It's a GREAT value for the money. </div></div>


This is the biggest crock of shit I have read in a long time. I have two STI guns very nice guns for the price. Not perfect but whatever is?

Colt makes a great gun I own 4, new production guns and 3 guns from the 80's. Colt has had their issues in the past no doubt about it. What is coming out of the factory now is a top notch product that has only a few peers. You claim sloppy slide to frame fit, so I ask you from how many samples are you making these claims from? I have shot and handled many new production guns and all have been excellent fit and finish.

Depending on your personal likes these are the four best production guns out right now in my opinion. Listed in alphabetical order only.
Colt
Dan Wesson
Smith & Wesson E series
STI

 

[O_W]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

Springfield Range officer

 

[BIGB789]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

i agree with seanh i just bought my first 1911 from a hide member a slighty used one your money will go much further though you might have to do some shopping... i picked up a Dan Wesson patirot CBOB a freking redonk slide to frame fit and awesome trigger for 1200.00 so for just a couple hundo more you can a hell of a gun..... just sayin

 

[Downrange1x]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

If you do your homework and look around you can still find some good deals on a Colt Delta Elite for under 1,000.00 .I ran into one about 3 months ago for 675.00 . Had some holster wear but doesn't affect its reliability.

 

[leprechaun]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

Sig Tac ops is your best bet.Can't touch the features for the price

 

[Texar2]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

Its crazy to see civilians still recommending colt products. They are not special by any means and they have taken an active roll in the anti gun community. Its no wonder since its owned by non americans. Be an American and buy the STI.

 

[dragbag]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Recoil</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Its crazy to see civilians still recommending colt products. They are not special by any means and they have taken an active roll in the anti gun community. Its no wonder since its owned by non americans. Be an American and buy the STI. </div></div>

Oh right because made in the Philippines is American as Apple pie right? Been there a few times its nothing like America I can assure you.

 

[redneckbmxer24]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

Pass on the cheap crap, I've seen way too many rock island and taurus 1911's that won't run to ever trust one. I'd much rather buy a great factory gun that's perfect out of the box and is the manufacturers problem to fix if there's a problem. Kimbers quality has gone downhill quick so I'd pass on them too.

As mentioned previously the Springfield loaded, S&W, and STI spartan are pretty much the best things going under $1k. All are excellent guns that will serve you well. If you shop around you can find either around the $800 mark which leaves enough money for a few Wilson mags.

 

[Bill Larson]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

I own 5-1911`s....shoot whichever 50rnds a week.4 are Tauras` and one is an older all steel..RRA.....that`s a 500$ gun compared to a 2500$ gun....
I`ve shot them all off a ransom rest...the RRA will produce .5" groups at that distance.The 3 Tauras`shoot from 1-1/2"-3" at that distance.
The Tauras` have never given a problem in 2500 rnds.
How good a target can you shoot with a Olympic quality pistol.??
bill larson

 

[dragbag]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Bill Larson</div><div class="ubbcode-body"> I own 4-1911`s....shoot whichever 50rnds a week.4 are Tauras` and one is an older all steel..RRA.....that`s a 500$ gun compared to a 2500$ gun....
I`ve shot them all off a ransom rest...the RRA will produce .5" groups at that distance.The 3 Tauras`shoot from 1-1/2"-3" at that distance.
The Tauras` have never given a problem in 2500 rnds.
How good a target can you shoot with a Olympic quality pistol.??
bill larson </div></div>

Bill if you own 4 1911's and 4 are Taurus then you can't own a RRA! I am sure its a type-o.

 

[suitslinger]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

Tell ya what, I have a Kimber SIS pro that shoots lights out for a 4 incher. Got a Fusion that cost a little more than 1k. But my most favorite is my Springfield TRP (which I got on an insane trade) Save a couple dollars more and get one... If I'd bought that one first I would have 2 less 1911's in the safe.

 

[jakelly]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

I love my sig revolution stx. That's alot of pistol for 900. Really nice craftsmanship.

 

[Texar2]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: dragbag</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Recoil</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Its crazy to see civilians still recommending colt products. They are not special by any means and they have taken an active roll in the anti gun community. Its no wonder since its owned by non americans. Be an American and buy the STI. </div></div>

Oh right because made in the Philippines is American as Apple pie right? Been there a few times its nothing like America I can assure you. </div></div>

STI has one model made in the Philippines. The rest are made in the Republic of Texas. Money spent on Colt products has helped fund the anti gun agenda. There is no argument to be made, just widely known facts. I would be ashamed to own one.

 

[shibby575]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

A used one. I bought a TRP for 700 last spring. Keep your eyes peeled and be patient.

 

[Twisted300Win MAG]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

Thanks for all the info. Hoping to make it out this weekend to look at some used innovatory at a few shops near me. Hopping to find something to peak my interest. we shall see.

 

[rideHPD]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Over_watch</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Springfield Range officer </div></div>
^this
I was recently in the same boat when I was shopping for a 1911, and the feedback I received can be summarized by the current posts already in this topic. It came down to a Colt or a SA, and the SA won for the better slide to frame fit, lower cost (with Colt you pay more for the name) and better customer service (I was told). I chose the RO because Springfield slated it as a match-ready pistol for multiple disciplines, and would serve as a "blank canvas" for a 1911 smith to customize down the road once I found what I liked and didn't. It took me some time to transition to it from my p226, I have found to live up to all of it's claims, and is quite precise. You can find them for less than $800 and I wouldn't hesitate to buy one all over again.

 

[Downzero]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: dragbag</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
Colt has had their issues in the past no doubt about it. What is coming out of the factory now is a top notch product that has only a few peers. You claim sloppy slide to frame fit, so I ask you from how many samples are you making these claims from? </div></div>

Let me first tell you that telling someone they are full of shit is not argument. There is nothing logical about telling someone they are full of shit, even if it is true. It adds nothing to your post.

Moving on, there is a youtube video, which was posted on here in the last year, that shows the inner workings of the Colt factory. And if you ever wondered why their slide to frame fits are so sloppy, it was revealed in that video. They don't fit a slide to a frame--they fit every slide to some jig that they have, and at some later point, the slide and frame are assembled into a gun.

Kimber pioneered selling 1911s with slides and frames that were mated to each other throughout the production process--in the 1990s. Now that I know 1911s produced in this manner are available, I, as a discriminating consumer, expect this on all levels of gun. Because once your competitors are offering it, if you're not, and your price doesn't reflect that, your product simply isn't a good value. I don't care what roll mark you use. Kimber has since allowed their reputation to go to shit, so I don't recommend their product. I still will give credit to them for vigorously competing and producing what used to be a semi-custom gun (in features) in a production line with a production gun. They've simply been passed by their competition.

I will shoot anything. And if you gave me a brand new Colt today, I'd shoot it until it fell apart. But if someone asks me what they should spend their hard-earned money on, I will steer them to the guns that I have seen demonstrate consistent quality. For me, that means STI (and perhaps Springfield Armory) because they support the shooting sports and have no-bullshit lifetime warranties on their products.

I still recommend the Spartan if you want an adjustable Bomar-style rear sight and while not my favorite recommendation, perhaps the Springfield Loaded if you don't.

There is plenty of room to disagree without being "full of shit" by the way. I didn't say you were wrong. I simply disagree as to how I would spend my hard-earned money.

 

[dragbag]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Downzero</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: dragbag</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
Colt has had their issues in the past no doubt about it. What is coming out of the factory now is a top notch product that has only a few peers. You claim sloppy slide to frame fit, so I ask you from how many samples are you making these claims from? </div></div>

Let me first tell you that telling someone they are full of shit is not argument. There is nothing logical about telling someone they are full of shit, even if it is true. It adds nothing to your post.

Moving on, there is a youtube video, which was posted on here in the last year, that shows the inner workings of the Colt factory. And if you ever wondered why their slide to frame fits are so sloppy, it was revealed in that video. They don't fit a slide to a frame--they fit every slide to some jig that they have, and at some later point, the slide and frame are assembled into a gun.

Kimber pioneered selling 1911s with slides and frames that were mated to each other throughout the production process--in the 1990s. Now that I know 1911s produced in this manner are available, I, as a discriminating consumer, expect this on all levels of gun. Because once your competitors are offering it, if you're not, and your price doesn't reflect that, your product simply isn't a good value. I don't care what roll mark you use. Kimber has since allowed their reputation to go to shit, so I don't recommend their product. I still will give credit to them for vigorously competing and producing what used to be a semi-custom gun (in features) in a production line with a production gun. They've simply been passed by their competition.

I will shoot anything. And if you gave me a brand new Colt today, I'd shoot it until it fell apart. But if someone asks me what they should spend their hard-earned money on, I will steer them to the guns that I have seen demonstrate consistent quality. For me, that means STI (and perhaps Springfield Armory) because they support the shooting sports and have no-bullshit lifetime warranties on their products.

I still recommend the Spartan if you want an adjustable Bomar-style rear sight and while not my favorite recommendation, perhaps the Springfield Loaded if you don't.

There is plenty of room to disagree without being "full of shit" by the way. I didn't say you were wrong. I simply disagree as to how I would spend my hard-earned money. </div></div>

WOW so your opinion is based off of a youtube video! Simply Amazing. Man you got me!

 

[ZLBubba]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

You can get a Springfield Armory Operator for right around $1000. They're solid guns with about 80% of all the fixins you might reasonably want on a pistol.

I've also heard great things about some of the STI models.

 

[KChen986]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

I own three different 1911s, a Springfield, a Charles Daley, and a Sig. Of the three, the Springfield has been the least problematic. I'd say look for a Springfield Operator--right around the $1,000 mark with a nice rail to boot.

If you can find one too, the S&W 1911s are also well engineered. A couple years ago, I came across a couple for the mid $850s, although with the release of the E-series, the prices may have increased.

 

[WeaselWalker]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

If you're looking for a new gun, then look at the Springfield range officer. Can't beat them for the price. If you're open to getting a used gun, you might be able to find a Dan Wesson for around a grand.

 

[yz45067]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

I have had my Kimber for about 6 years with no malfunctions in 1500+ rounds including hot reloads. As far as the new ones go I hear nothing but problematic. Older colts have been proven to me as safe, reliable and accurate. Springfields are a great starting platform as well. Sti and spartan are to me in race gun category shoot and feel solid as rocks. As the advice of others here look for an used 1911, parts are plentiful and sky is te limit. Dan Wesson is a damn fine piece of steel to put in your hand. Good luck on your search and shoot straight. You will not be disappointed either way!

 

[PZCF]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

I have a Sig and and I cant say anything bad about it. I would personally recommend them. Ive put about 1500 rnds through it in just this past year alone with not one hiccup. Its the most accurate hand gun Ive ever owned.

 

[Twisted300Win MAG]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

So I'm down to Springfield range officer or STI Spartan v. Went to a few shops today. Not much to speak of along the lines I'm looking for new or used. Held both today slide to frame fit and lock up are nice on both. Trigger feels better on the STI finish is nicer on the Springfield. The STI has front cocking striations. On the STI the edges around the grip safety and back of the frame are a bit on the Sharp side seems like it may get anoying when shooting for long periods of time. Going to do some more reading tonight and try and come to a decision.

 

[kansas]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

I've owned lots of Kimbers and currently have two high end 1911s however one of the best shooting 1911s I ever had was a Springer Range Officer and I think I got it for around $750. It was every bit as accurate as my Wilson just not near as smooth operating and didn't have near the features that my Wilson and Les Baer have. Great gun for the money.

 

[cmh2007]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

I guess i have two of the odd kimbers that just seem to work. As long as they stay nice and wet, and the proper parts are changed as they wear out you should be good. I have a procarry that is going on 7000 rounds with a total of 6 problems all on the same day and all were due to a brand new recoil spring that was too heavy, my fault for not reading the package prior to opening it and installing.

 

[Bill Larson]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: dragbag</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Bill Larson</div><div class="ubbcode-body"> I own 5-1911`s....shoot whichever 50rnds a week.4 are Tauras` and one is an older all steel..RRA.....that`s a 500$ gun compared to a 2500$ gun....
I`ve shot them all off a ransom rest...the RRA will produce .5" groups at that distance.The 3 Tauras`shoot from 1-1/2"-3" at that distance.
The Tauras` have never given a problem in 2500 rnds.
How good a target can you shoot with a Olympic quality pistol.??
bill larson </div></div>

Bill if you own 4 1911's and 4 are Taurus then you can't own a RRA! I am sure its a type-o. </div></div>

Thanks DRAGBAG........ changed post.......
bill larson

 

[stan462]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

I carry two Wilson Combat however that is not in your price range. I do however also a Sig 1911 and it shoots very good too. I would recommend it within your price range. As far as Kimber, I know they had a batch with barrel issues, like rusting or discoloration.
My friends owns a local gun shop so I have seen quite a bit. My friend at works has over 20 various brands, Sig, Colt, Wilson, Springfield and I have shot them all. Springfield are good but the TRP line is way over a $1,000. Take a look at the Sig, it shoots a tight group too.

 

[-Claybuster-]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

I like new Springfield TRP can be had in that price range.

 

[VKC]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

Sig or s&w

 

[Ghogs Nightmare]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

Not on the "fancy" end but just throwing the idea out:
http://www.hausofguns.com/2013/01/18/rock-island-10mm-tactical-vz-shot-show-2013/
.
If you reload I'd def recommend the 10mm for versatility but of
course the 45acp has much more common support. But I am a fan of the 10, Kimber an G20 in the stable.

 

[Yustax]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

SIG Sauer 1911 XO model. You can find em from 650 to 850. I've seen some in 600. They are sturdy pistols built for combat, and they are very rugged and with a very nice construction. 3 dot sights.

And there's a variation with a rail under the frame.

 

[Deej]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

well, i'll throw my 2 cents in. i think there is 2 questions here. if want to hunt with it in the future i would look at a 10mm. better knock down and flatter shooting. STI does make a 10mm but don't think will get it for under a grand. eaa, glock, and colt have them. glock and eaa can get for under a grand. the colt you would have to look for a used one.
if wanting a shooter in 45 acp and want to stay under your budget look at springfield. i have 3 of them and love them. if want more rounds look at para. i got 2 and only issue i have had was me being stupid.
if looked used can pick up a wilson KD-45 also. i know not all steel but they shoot and mine has over 6000 rounds threw it w/o a hiccup and still more accurite than i am.
and last i heard guys the frames for the lower priced springfield frames are made in PI also. that's just what i heard, have no proof.

 

[rojkoh]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: graynewbie</div><div class="ubbcode-body">well, i'll throw my 2 cents in. i think there is 2 questions here. if want to hunt with it in the future i would look at a 10mm. better knock down and flatter shooting. STI does make a 10mm but don't think will get it for under a grand. eaa, glock, and colt have them. glock and eaa can get for under a grand. the colt you would have to look for a used one.
if wanting a shooter in 45 acp and want to stay under your budget look at springfield. i have 3 of them and love them. if want more rounds look at para. i got 2 and only issue i have had was me being stupid.
if looked used can pick up a wilson KD-45 also. i know not all steel but they shoot and mine has over 6000 rounds threw it w/o a hiccup and still more accurite than i am.
and last i heard guys the frames for the lower priced springfield frames are made in PI also. that's just what i heard, have no proof. </div></div>

10mm is a joke. It's why it's never been popular or used to any degree and why the FBI changed quickly.

Springfield 45's are ok, depending on the amount of shooting you'll do and with what type of ammo. Understand that most of the pressure is dealt with by the barrel. The question of how much shooting they can stand up to if using hardball type ammo is another. I had a SAI commander for some years and it held up nicely. I was NOT using hardball in it. There are no real great .45s under $1K. Preference these days for me is a Les Baer. I used to use nothing but Colt 70 series, but I don't trust Colt anymore since the 80's. I carried an 80 series on duty. I don't care for Wilson because he's always the most expensive and personally I don't care for Bill.

 

[rojkoh]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Yustax</div><div class="ubbcode-body">SIG Sauer 1911 XO model. You can find em from 650 to 850. I've seen some in 600. They are sturdy pistols built for combat, and they are very rugged and with a very nice construction. 3 dot sights.

And there's a variation with a rail under the frame. </div></div>

Rail guns are fairly stupid and awkward. As someone that's been using a 1911 type since the 70's, there's no real reason for them if you put the work into building a good skill set with the weapon. I've used the "Harries" flashlight technique when it was needed, works just fine. No real reason to hang sill things on the weapon. Makes it heavy and awkward.

Want to cheap the process with goodies, it still won't get you the skill set needed to build superior superior skills needed to be good with the weapon. This has been proven for decades.

We used to shoot a lot of night time "practical" matches put on typically by some of the Gunsite instructors I've known over the years... That's where you get good.

 

[rojkoh]

Re: Best 1911 for under $1000

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Twisted300Win MAG</div><div class="ubbcode-body">As topic states I'm looking to pick up a 1911. I'm on a budget of $1000. I'm looking for a full size in 45acp or 10mm. There is only one option that i know of in 10mm in my price range, a Kimber stainless target II. However i'm not ruling out another 45 so my question is. who is making the best 1911 in this price range? I'v been looking a the Para Gi, Taurus pt1911, Kimber stainless target II and a few others i'm forgetting. what do you have and what are your likes and dislikes. This will mostly be a target gun but i'd like to try my hand at hunting with it as well. I plan on upgrading it in the future but need the most bang for the buck for now.
Thanks
Donald </div></div>

1) stay with the .45. It's got a long standing and proven record where the 10 doesn't.
2) Stay away from Kimbers... I've seen to many problems with them including in LE. On top of that you have a very bad customer service dept. since Kimber's never wrong about anything and their "production" can't be questioned.. ya.. right. Cost a friend of mine $900 in gunsmithing to fix a Kimber that wouldn't "shoot in" the way they said to. I've had an SAI commander (equivalent to the Colt combat commander).. didn't use hardball type ammo in it and it held up nicely. But also understand that I shoot my pistols a LOT (although not as much as I used to). In the old Practical/IPSC days of the 70s and early 80s... we used to burn an average of 2-3000 rounds a month. I can tell you how well a 70 series Colt will stand up to hardball type ammo. I know.. I've shot out more than one.

I'm waiting on a Les Baer. I know Les's work and we've talked years ago. It's worth the money since I simply don't trust Colt anymore (saw to many problems with their auto's in the 80's and we had arguments about offering a "tuned" 45 auto).

One last note about 10mm. Inside the house it's about the same as a .357. You will have penetration problems. Something that isn't to bad with the .45acp. I know.