Sidearms & Scatterguns Which 1911 to get?

[breachersup]

I want to get a really nice 1911 (in .45 auto) as my combat handgun/sidearm. What should I get?

Oh and right from the start here guys, if we could avoid having the thread devolve into a storm of arguments and peeing contests that would be really nice, though I won’t hold my breath LOL.....

Extra information to assist in the advising to follow:

I like to “cry and buy” once and be satisfied with what I got – within the realm of being responsible with my funds. Also, without tooting my own horn – so to speak—I am an experienced pistol shooter—though at the same time, I am considerably inexperienced in 1911 knowledge that seems so abundant around here.

I’ve got three pistols in mind, and one that I am pretty set on. The three are as follows; Kimber Tactical Entry 2, Kimber Gold Combat RL 2, and the Wilson Combat equivalent (in external features) as the Tactical Entry 2.

I am set on the Kimber Gold Combat RL 2 right now, and before making a purchase, I’d appreciate fellow hiders input, opinions, and advice.

When I compare the 3 pistols mentioned, I think I want the Gold Combat RL 2 because it has the features of the Tactical Entry 2 that I want in a combat handgun (rail, high profile night sights, checkered grip to include under the trigger guard, extended beavertail, commander style hammer, ambidextrous safety, front and rear cocking serrations) and is supposedly better crafted and assembled than the Tactical Entry 2. – I guess with Kimber’s Gold line they are all hand fitted and assembled.

While at the same time, I like the approximate 2,100 dollar price tag of the Gold Combat RL 2 as opposed to the approximate 2,800 dollar price tag of the Wilson Combat.

I just shot a buddy’s Kimber Gold Combat RL 2 and it was a dream come true. So crisp and so smooth, and more accurate than I am as a shooter right about now.

So I’d like to know if the higher price tag of the Gold Combat RL 2 (2,100 ) over that of the Tactical Entry 2 (1,400) is worth it for a crisper, smoother, more reliable pistol and if I make the right call by not getting close to the $3,000 threshold by avoiding the Wilson Combat.

And if somebody has another recommendation completely, I’m all ears.

Thanks in advance all. I look forward to advice, helpful opinions, and expertise being shared.

 

[bribri]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

You may want to try a search, this topic has been covered more than once.

The only Kimber I would ever own and do own would be the Warrior or Desert Warrior. My reason is because they don't have an internal firing pin block as seen on the rest of the current Kimber Custom models, hence a "II" does not follow the Warrior or Desert Warrior's names, and in comparison to other Kimber Custom models, it has standard length recoil spring guide rod that allows easier field stripping without tools.

You may also want to look into Springfields TRP 1911's, I think if I ever found one with the full length pic rail it would be hard to pass up.

I have never been around a Wilson or a Nighthawk 1911, but I do own one of Wilson's AR-15's and their craftsmanship and attention to detail are outstanding, not to mention it shoots way beyond my expectations. With that being said, in my opinion the juice isn't worth the squeeze.

 

[BOLTRIPPER]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

get one you can hit with, and get good with it

 

[breachersup]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: BOLTRIPPER</div><div class="ubbcode-body">get one you can hit with, and get good with it </div></div>

Truly sage counsel.

 

[pepperbelly]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

I would go with the Wilson Combat. You should also look at the Ed Brown, Les Baer and Nighthawk pistols. If you look around you should be able to find a slightly used pistol from one of those makers for under $2k.
I agree that the Warrior/Desert Warrior are the only kimbers I would go with.

You should also look at the Springfield Armory TRP and TRP Pro.

I would not hesitate to buy any of those used as long as they were in good condition.

Jim

 

[Numb_Skull]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

Sam's Customs - MEU SOC

 

[Hawk45]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: pepperbelly</div><div class="ubbcode-body"> I would go with the Wilson Combat. You should also look at the Ed Brown, Les Baer and Nighthawk pistols. If you look around you should be able to find a slightly used pistol from one of those makers for under $2k.
I agree that the Warrior/Desert Warrior are the only kimbers I would go with.

You should also look at the Springfield Armory TRP and TRP Pro.

I would not hesitate to buy any of those used as long as they were in good condition.

Jim</div></div>

Jim gives excellent advice.. exactly what I would recommend. The TRP is great value for the price.. can be had regularly for around $1300 or less new. I found a lightly used Les Baer TRS for the same price at a gun show and jumped on it. Deals are out there.

 

[Buckeye Scott]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

I would strongly look at a used one in good shape. Sometimes you can find a safe queen at a good price.

 

[Veer_G]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Hawk45</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: pepperbelly</div><div class="ubbcode-body"> I would go with the Wilson Combat. You should also look at the Ed Brown, Les Baer and Nighthawk pistols. If you look around you should be able to find a slightly used pistol from one of those makers for under $2k.
I agree that the Warrior/Desert Warrior are the only kimbers I would go with.

<span style="font-weight: bold">You should also look at the Springfield Armory TRP and TRP Pro.</span>

I would not hesitate to buy any of those used as long as they were in good condition.

Jim</div></div>

Jim gives excellent advice.. exactly what I would recommend. <span style="font-weight: bold">The TRP is great value for the price.. can be had regularly for around $1300 or less new.</span> I found a lightly used Les Baer TRS for the same price at a gun show and jumped on it. Deals are out there. </div></div>

$985 used to me from a private seller after he picked up half the transfer, and it looked like he put two boxes through it. Definitely decent for the money, and if you're picky you can always replace its guts with stuff from a premium "designer" shop.

 

[breachersup]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: bribri</div><div class="ubbcode-body">The only Kimber I would ever own and do own would be the Warrior or Desert Warrior. My reason is because they don't <span style="font-weight: bold">have an internal firing pin block </span>as seen on the rest of the current Kimber Custom models, hence a "II" does not follow the Warrior or Desert Warrior's names,
</div></div>

If ya'll would just pardon me to make a total fool of myself here- won't be the first time and certainly won't be the last time. -What is this <span style="font-style: italic">internal firing bin block</span> and why is it a bad thing?

 

[pepperbelly]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

It's a Schwartz safety, and is similar to a Colt Series 80 internal firing pin block. It is supposed to keep the firing pin from being released until the trigger is pulled. It isn't necessary, and I think it came about mainly from California regulations.
The reason noone likes it is that it makes it harder to get a good trigger pull and can complicate reassembly after field stripping to clean.

Jim

 

[breachersup]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

That sounds like a really good reason why you would not want such a thing in a pistol. Thank you for the help Jim.

<span style="font-weight: bold">So does it make the trigger pull longer and harder just by being present in the weapon?</span>

This is where my 1911 ignorance really comes into play though I'm no novice when it comes to pistol shooting. I used to own a POS springfield GI 1911 before I knew anything about shooting pistols and then once I learned how to shoot, I realized I hated the thing and wanted to be rid of it.

Then this past weekend I shot a friend's Kimber Gold Combat RL 2 and said "Wow! It's time to get a 1911 again"

While firing this gun, I noticed a really nice crisp trigger pull once I had taken in the extra slack prior to that "crispness".

<span style="font-weight: bold">Is that extra slack common in most nice 1911s or does that stem from that internal firing pin block or what?</span>

I guess I started this whole thread becuase I shot that Kimber Gold Combat RL 2 and loved it and now I want to know whether thats really a good thing to go with or if I want a better pistol with the same external features that I liked so much.

Thanks again.

 

[abizdafuzz]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

Another vote for the SA TRP/Pro, or higher for the Wilson, NH, EB, or LB.

 

[turbo54]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

I don't know if you demand a "traditional" style 1911, but consider one of the SIGs. For what you get, they are a screaming deal in my opinion. I think they top out for about $1300 NEW!

ZERO MIM parts
Awesome sights that are equally at home at a match, or combat
fine attention to detail

I bought mine (Sig Revolution) earlier this year used for $650 from Cabelas (believe it or not). It was in 99% condition. I've put about 1k rounds through it and its easily the most accurate pistol I own, including some nice SW revolvers. It has never malfunctioned, not once! The trigger WAS pretty good, but when I noticed the "manhole cover" on the slide that captivates the firing pin safety was coming loose, I sent it back to SIG (free shipping both ways), they fixed it and upon my request, super-tuned the trigger for free - now the trigger is sweet.

 

[noname]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

Look at the Springfield loaded series. Having a light rail on the frame will lock you out of a lot of good holster choices. By a Dillon reloader, lots of bullets practice with the money you saved, then decide if the big names are that much better, instead of trying to buy shots up front.

 

[pepperbelly]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

Don't worry too much about a rail and a holster. I have a Galco that is not made for a railed 1911 but my Kimber Warrior fit just fine. Of course you can't have anything mounted on it and use it. Some holsters might be a problem but you would just need to check and see. Don't pass on a pistol with a rail because of the holster.

Jim

 

[breachersup]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

I will cross the holster bridge when I come to it.

I absolutely want a rail on my combat handgun.

 

[Downzero]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

If you are considering a series II Kimber, you do not have enough money budgeted for your "buy and cry" once philosophy.

Just get yourself an STI Spartan and keep saving. You need about twice as much money as you have budgeted to get something truly nice.

To the other posters who are asking, trigger pretravel can be adjusted relatively easily by anyone who knows what they're doing.

 

[branson1369]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

I had several a Kimber Custom Raptor (crap all the magazine ad print has got to be whats keeping the truth from being written as I am not the only one who has found it to be true), S+W 1911 and then purchased the Sig 1911 Blackwater which is now their tactical. The other 2 are now gone because the Sig is 100% reliable. I shot my 1911 it has over 5k rds through it and has needed no tweaks just spring changes. I require my kit to run so the external extractor is great but does bug traditionalists

 

[TOPO-sniper]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

This, again...
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: TOPO-sniper</div><div class="ubbcode-body">If you like the 1911, be patient and troll the for sale area and you WILL find a deal. I picked up a like new Ed Brown SF for not much more than $1000.

</div></div>

 

[pepperbelly]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: TOPO-sniper</div><div class="ubbcode-body">This, again...
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: TOPO-sniper</div><div class="ubbcode-body">If you like the 1911, be patient and troll the for sale area and you WILL find a deal. I picked up a like new Ed Brown SF for not much more than $1000.

</div></div> </div></div>

That is a nice pistol.
I used to have a Kimber Warrior and didn't like the front strap. I can't believe that not only did they not checker it, but the finish they use is slick. I had to use a piece of skateboard tape. How do you like that they did to the front strap of your Ed brown?

Jim

 

[Mute]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

If you have the money for a Nighthawk or Wilson get it. The Kimber is not in the same league, not even their higher end models.

 

[Shooter McGavin]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

I was looking at Brownells 1911 catalog I just got in the mail and I might make my own. I was thinking of getting a caspian frame and slide. Then little by little buying what parts I want for it. After it's all put together send it to Birdsong to get finished in either two tone or just black T. Just an idea for ya.

 

[Casey Simpson]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

"Although I barely know the difference between revolvers and semiautomatics, I have decided which 1911 to buy. My question is only intended to poll the number of you all who will agree with my decision.

In other words: you're wasting your time. My mind is made up. I'm getting a Kimber something or another because I felt one and it was smooth. Even though the later ones are a piece of shit. Now that I've thrown a bone into the dogpen I'm gonna watch you all argue about which 1911 is best while I go buy what I want. See you all later, suckers!"-Breachers.

 

[stevewix]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

I did that this past winter. Ultimately I'm glad I did, but by the time I bought the tools to fit the slide to the frame, pin reamers, etc. I could've bought a TRP or something similar. The pistol did turn out excellent though and functions flawlessly. I say if you're into learning new things go for it!

Steve

 

[breachersup]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

Casey,

You're wrong. I haven't made up my mind and I'm learning alot here.

So thanks for your input from your latest here, but if you would just keep your oar out of it that'd be just fine too.

- Breachers

 

[Casey Simpson]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

"I am set on the Kimber Gold Combat RL 2 right now, and before making a purchase, I’d appreciate fellow hiders input, opinions, and advice."

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Breachers Up</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Casey,

You're wrong. I haven't made up my mind and I'm learning alot here.

So thanks for your input from your latest here, but if you would just keep your oar out of it that'd be just fine too.

- Breachers</div></div>

Kidding aside, I'm just kidding. Ya' gotta have thick skin around here dude!

Since we're opining: get an SVI, or at least an STI or have Clark build a 1911 for you, or get a Para Expert, send it to Clark and have 'em trick it up just for you. They'll even put your name on it. How's that for custom?

Who's is among the few smiths doing 1911s the longest? Long before accurizing 1911's was vogue. Clark Custom Guns.

 

[breachersup]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Casey Simpson</div><div class="ubbcode-body">They'll even put your name on it. How's that for custom?
</div></div>

Ok, I'll admit it- when I read this, I giggled aloud. Thanks man.

<span style="font-weight: bold">"I am set on the Kimber Gold Combat RL 2 right now, and before making a purchase, I’d appreciate fellow hiders input, opinions, and advice."</span>
- and ya, I guess I did say this too didn't I? Whoops.

Well dang, through the process of this thread, me being set on any particular 1911 has completely changed.

I'm hearing alot of "avoid Kimber" on here. Very well. I wanna get something that has the same features as that Gold Combat RL 2, but something thats a great pistol (if Kimber's not a great pistol)

And I'd also rather just spend somewhere around 2k right up front and have something I never bother upgrading either (as I'm no gunsmith - in case you couldn't tell). On that same note, I'm not looking to spend 3 grand on a handgun either.

Sigh.... I need help. I guess the one thing I've got going for me is I'm not in any rush to hurry up and buy so I've got plently of time decide.

 

[Downzero]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

No, you don't want a gun that has the same features as the Kimber Series II, because they are precisely the reason we're steering you away from wasting your money on an overpriced factory gun.

Just get yourself an STI Spartan for $600 and shoot for a while. You obviously don't know the difference between a Kimber and a Nighhawk or Wilson or RRA anyway, so what's the difference? Just save your money.

 

[breachersup]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

Yes it really is quite obvious.

The difference though, is that once I learn and appreciate the difference I'm gonna wind up upgrading to a different gun.

I'd rather get that different gun the first go round if possible lol.

So what do ya'll think of the Sig 1911 Tac Ops TB?
here she is: Sig Sauer 1911 Tac Ops TB

 

[phideaux]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Breachers Up</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Yes it really is quite obvious.

The difference though, is that once I learn and appreciate the difference I'm gonna wind up upgrading to a different gun.

I'd rather get that different gun the first go round if possible lol.

So what do ya'll think of the Sig 1911 Tac Ops TB?
here she is: Sig Sauer 1911 Tac Ops TB </div></div>

SIG makes an outstanding 1911, the one in your post will do all you could ever ask of one

 

[Veer_G]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Breachers Up</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Casey,

You're wrong. I haven't made up my mind and I'm learning <span style="font-weight: bold">alot</span> here.

So thanks for your input from your latest here, but if you would just keep your oar out of it that'd be just fine too.

- Breachers </div></div>

http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=10303736869

You would be surprised at all the things that you can learn here.

 

[arborpro]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

http://www.champchoice.com/prod-CUSTOM_PREMIER_II__45_ACP_PISTOL-1346.aspx
Your getting a les baer for 1600.00
If you want a good shooter look for a Springfield milspec and have it customized. think about the price of a kimber its pretty high then you need to send it out for work. just my 2 cents.

 

[Lobbinlead]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

I say buy a POS out of your local paper and beat the hell out of it till you make up your own mind.

I have a Kimber Warrior and love it. I never had a problem with it but I have never had a problem with any of my 1911's.

 

[Downzero]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

Sig 1911 is worse than the other options you were considering. It doesn't fit a normal holster, has an external extractor, etc.

Just get yourself an STI Spartan and be done with it. You're clearly not ready for custom gun, so stop trying to buy one and just rock a cheaper 1911 until you can get a nice one.

A $1200 1911 doesn't really have anything that a $6-800 one doesn't. $14-1500+ is where the really nice guns start.

FWIW, I have a Series I Kimber and a Spartan myself.

 

[breachersup]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

Why won't the sig fit a normal holster?

 

[kthomas]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Breachers Up</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Why won't the sig fit a normal holster?</div></div>

I'm guessing it's because of the rail. I'm sure someone who knows for sure will chime in though.

 

[nmcclure]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

there have been several wilson tactical elites go in as new condition for 2000-2250 lately on the auction sites. patience is your friend.

 

[gmphk]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

I have a few 1911s and like them all, from a slightly modified Springfield Mil-Spec to a Volkmann Custom. I think the Nighthawks are very well made and carry one daily. I have never cared for any of the Kimbers but have not shot one either. Many people buy them and they have a good price point. Good luck on your decision.

 

[gathumper]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

You should look at the Smith & Wesson PD 1911! It's a pretty trick 1911 that comes with a lot of high end parts for around $1000. Crimson trace, trick trigger, a lot of nice goods for an awesome price. I own a lot of 1911's and would say that this 1911 is just as nice, if not nicer than most of my other high end 1911's. Hope this helps.

 

[Aubrey]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

If you are serious about a 1911 as a carry/duty pistol versus a "fun gun", I highly recommend you check out Hilton Yam's articles on his 10-8 Performance site.

I have a couple of mildly-customized Kimbers (pre-Series II) that I have faith in after significant investment, but I would not in good conscience recommend any current-production Kimbers. The Schwartz safety is difficult to time properly and there have been numerous reports of issues. At least they have gotten away from their external extractor, which was a poorly-executed great idea. IMO Kimber today is run by marketeers and not shooters, and their customer service has a poor reputation.

Springfield Armory gets consistently good feedback for their customer service, and their Custom Shop Pro models are among the few out-of-the-box 1911 that is recommended for hard use. Wilson Combat has a similar reputation.

Best bet is a 5" pistol in .45ACP with a conventional bushing.

ETA: If the above recommendations are beyond budget, buying a used Pro or WC is not a bad way to go if you can find one with a relatively-low round count. The Les Baer Thunder Ranch Specials also have a good reliability for reliability and value on the used market.

 

[Downzero]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Breachers Up</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Why won't the sig fit a normal holster? </div></div>

Slide profile is all wrong.

 

[M. Reno]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

All I have to say is Wilson CQB!!

 

[M24_SWS]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

Colt is what id get.

 

[turbo54]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

If you dig the styling of the Sig (I do) and don't need the traditional internal extractor (I don't), get it. You will not be disappointed.

In my opinion, you have to spend $2500+ to get a 1911 that equals the Sig that you pay $1000 for. All billet steel parts, no MIM, super-fine attention to detail, runs flawlessly. I am amazed by mine. Mine is one of the earlier "Revolotion" models that is in the "worry-zone" of serial numbers. Sig's customer service is top notch, and it is garaunteed for life.

As for holsters: Just get a custom holster made. I'm lucky because I have a local leather guy that does beautiful work for very reasonable prices. I think I gave $50 for a custom holster with a cap, border stamping, stitched toe - at least as nice as a Milt Sparks.

I'm not hating on any of the other brands, but if you want something top-notch, either buy a Sig, or pony up the cash for a Wilson or Nighthawk.

 

[Onemoretime]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

http://10-8performance.blogspot.com/

Go here and educate yourself. Hilton Yam is one of the premier pistol builders out there. He is (was?) a full time LEO in Florida and so builds and tests his handguns as a dedicated "end user".

 

[SSGC]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

When I'm in the US I run a James Garthwaite. several classes my ususal carry gun the silly thing runs

 

[96hog]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

Smith & Wesson and SIG 1911's are tough to beat dollar for dollar.
I have a Smith Gunsite that runs great and I now have my eye on a SIG TACOPS.
Not to say that I wouldn't give my left nut for a Nighthawk T3...

 

[mgpatty]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

May I recommend you check out Ed Brown customs. I had a Ed Brown 'Special Forces' for a little while. It was the nicest handgun I've ever owned. It's contour was smooth as soap and the slide action was unbelievably smooth. It digested everything I fed it without a hiccup. Had I not wanted range-finding binos, it would still occupy a space in my safe.

FYI, you can order it without the tacky 'Special Forces' engraving.

 

[Inline6]

Re: Which 1911 to get?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Shooter McGavin</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I was looking at Brownells 1911 catalog I just got in the mail and I might make my own. I was thinking of getting a caspian frame and slide. Then little by little buying what parts I want for it. After it's all put together send it to Birdsong to get finished in either two tone or just black T. Just an idea for ya. </div></div>

IMHO that is not the best finish to use on a hand gun(I found it to be to soft). It will show holster ware fast even if it is leather. Ion Bond would be something you may want to look into. I have been down that road.