Wanting a 1911, which brand is best?

ccwnut · June 27, 2013, 06:55 PM

I have been wanting a 1911 lately, but I honestly don't know which is best. I have absolutely zero experience with them. I have handled both a Springfield and a Kimber, the Springfield feels better in my hand. What's the best move for me?

Wreck-n-Crew · June 27, 2013, 07:01 PM

If cost is no issue the sky is the limit. What price range are you finding yourself in?

You can sped as much as 3g's+ on a nighthawk custom. or get a real decent 1911.

ccwnut · June 27, 2013, 07:09 PM

I might add that I like the historical aspect of the platform. That finds me leaning heavily towards Springfield, Colt, and Remington.

alex0535 · June 27, 2013, 07:10 PM

I think if you gave us your ideal price range it would help us better determine your options.

You could spend $500 on a RIA or you could spend thousands on a custom built 1911.

What sort of 1911 do you want? They range from basic GI versions to elaborate tactical versions with rails and night sights. There are also variations in barrel length to consider whether you want a full size or a shorter version.

Your also leaving out a number of companies that produce 1911's you would be very happy with. Colt being one of them, no other company has a longer history of making the 1911. Ruger being another option if you don't mind it being stainless.

atlantadad · June 27, 2013, 07:19 PM

Early Kimber before the II. Some of the newer Philippine guns are cheap enough to buy and upgrade. Sig or Smith or Taurus.

Gats Italian · June 27, 2013, 07:20 PM

My opinion is that you look at those closest to the actual 1911A1 model, and not 1911-like pistols.

Frankly that means not looking at any 1911 "featuring" an external extractor or other "improvements" like full length guide rods, that complicate the design or make it look worse for its use.

Kreyzhorse · June 27, 2013, 07:44 PM

Springfield makes entry level to high end 1911s and have a great history of making excellent guns.

They also have some of the best customer service in industry so if you have a problem, they will take care of it.

SVTCobra306 · June 27, 2013, 07:50 PM

I voted "high end" but I paid less for my Sig Sauer Nightmare than I could get any Kimber for..

If you like how a Springfield fits your hand, go for it. There is nothing wrong with getting a "lower end" pistol that works for you as opposed to a more expensive one that doesn't. Not that Springfields are necessarily the bottom of the bucket.. their Fully Loaded models are very nice.

8MM Mauser · June 27, 2013, 09:30 PM

Ccwnut: I do want to point out that from the history perspective only Colt really makes sense. Remington just started making 1911's (though I suppose they did make them before for the army) and Springfield armory is just a name used by the modern company, it has no association with the government run Springfield armory.

I say get a Colt!

Oceanbob · June 27, 2013, 09:34 PM

Quote:

Springfield makes entry level to high end 1911s and have a great history of making excellent guns.

They also have some of the best customer service in industry so if you have a problem, they will take care of it.

This^^^

Also, your high end list has some issues IMO. I dislike the SIG 1911s...I have friend with SIGS and they are picky about ammo. I also don't like the external extractor on SIGs.

An honest opinion would include a RUGER SR 1911 which runs 100% out of the box and in much less expensive than a SIG, ED BROWN, WILSON..etc...

Probably the best bang for the buck IMO.

Check out Hickok45s video on the Ruger.

Never buy a cheap 1911. Not worth spending money tuning one up.

Fishbed77 · June 27, 2013, 10:01 PM

None of those "high-end brands" listed are high-end brands for 1911s.

That said, I think $1000 is the sweet spot for a mass-produced 1911, and the sweetest of those is a Colt.

Venom1956 · June 27, 2013, 11:26 PM

yeah your brand selection isn't really correct. besides that around 1k is the sweet spot.

BarryLee · June 27, 2013, 11:33 PM

I would probably go with a Colt.

http://www.coltsmfg.com/Catalog/ColtPistols.aspx

thedudeabides · June 28, 2013, 05:26 AM

Your poll is partially right.

Low end: RIA makes "decent" entry level 1911s, but their quality has fallen off recently. Citadel/Lecacy/Armscor is also a name they fall under. With that said, yours will probably work. For RIA prices, you can get an STI Spartan which is an excellent gun. Remington and Ruger are also good "entry level" guns. Stay away from Para-USA, Taurus, ATI. DE makes cheap entry level 1911s that will probably work from what I've heard on the forums (really don't care to go looking for another rough around the edges 1911). I don't know anything about Ciappa.

Of your "mid-level" guns, Springfield is much better than Kimber. Operator and TRP are one of the better mid-ranges. Springfield also makes low to mid range guns like the Range Officer and Loaded and some GI repros. I'd also add Colt to the mid level family and the STIs made in the USA. I don't like Kimber, I think they have bad warranties and average at best CS policies.

Low to mid range also includes Sig (I almost fell out of my chair when you called them high end) and Smith and Wesson. If you want a Series 80 1911 with an external extractor, and in the Sig's case an idiotic blocky slide, then you have your gun here. Sigs have had problems with tight barrels, FTRB, chipping Cerakote and other issues lately. Check the 1911 forums.

If you don't know what a high end 1911 is, you probably don't need one yet. The usual suspects are Ed Brown, Nighthawk, Les Baer, Wilson Combat. You also have less known builders like Volkmann, Guncrafter Industries, Cabot. Throw in frame makers like Caspian and the fact that some custom shops actually do full series 70 customs from mystery parts and you have a good way of burning through cash.

Cheapest Baers run at less than 2k. Hi-end guns run on average 2.5-4k, but the sky is really the limit as there are some out there that will send you back over 5k.

With a 1911 it's a lot of variables. But as you go up in price you get "theoretically" better accuracy, better fit, better trigger, better parts and better finish (and once again likely much better longevity), better reliability... Of guns that can still be around 50 years later (assuming they won't be illegal by then), that's always a consideration. I regularly shoot a Colt from the 60s that is all original except for the springs.

jake99 · June 28, 2013, 05:33 AM

I just picked up an Auto-Ordnance 1911a1 for $570. Made in the US, I like it a lot.

loose_holster_dan · June 28, 2013, 06:37 AM

springfield is the only brand of 1911 that you listed that i would go anywhere near. your "high end" list i would put at low-middle grade.

for a new 1911 shooter, i recommend getting an sti spartan v. cheap, reliable, and accurate. they can be had in 9mm, 40, and 45.

if you want to spend a little more money, colt is awesome. a little more money and dan wesson enters the picture. a lot more money and nighthawk, les baer, and wilson combat enter the picture.

here is my spartan v in 9mm.

in the colt range, i like the gold cup trophy. i used to own one, but traded it for an AR and some cash. it's second from the top.

Pilot · June 28, 2013, 06:55 AM

I like Colt. Their 1911's in recent years have been excellent. I have a Springer that is fine, but the Colts are just a bit better.

kutz · June 28, 2013, 07:20 AM

SA TRP

texgunner · June 28, 2013, 07:48 AM

Quote:

Ccwnut: I do want to point out that from the history perspective only Colt really makes sense. Remington just started making 1911's (though I suppose they did make them before for the army) and Springfield armory is just a name used by the modern company, it has no association with the government run Springfield armory.

I say get a Colt!

^^^What he said.^^^

Garycw · June 28, 2013, 07:51 AM

The question is like asking which flavor of ice cream is best? Colt is like vanilla ,Kimber /chocolate and Sig strawberry. Although like the market there's baskin and Robbins with its 31 flavored and everyone has the favorite. Usually the one or one(s) they own. But in the end it all comes back to and starts with the vanilla Colt.
Personally I like Neapolitan !

Olympus · June 28, 2013, 08:13 AM

There is no such thing as "best 1911". Everything is relative. Buy the one that YOU like and don't worry about what anyone else days or thinks.

TwentyToo · June 28, 2013, 08:20 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ccwnut

I might add that I like the historical aspect of the platform. That finds me leaning heavily towards Springfield, Colt, and Remington.

I've a Springfield Loaded Target (PI9132LP) that is a fantastic gun. Had it about three years now and never a problem. Got it for about $800 brand new.

I'd recommend the Springfield 1911s.

JWT · June 28, 2013, 08:28 AM

There are almost too many 1911s to choose from. What is 'best' is strictly personal opinon. Most are very nice, some nicer than others. I like the Ruger SR1911 models in the modest price range. Made in the USA. Mine have been good solid shooters and flawless. Certainly worth a look before you buy IMO.

Rifleman1776 · June 28, 2013, 08:32 AM

What does "RIA" mean?

loose_holster_dan · June 28, 2013, 08:41 AM

rock island armory

View Poll Results: Which 1911 for a noob to 1911's?
High end brands (Sig, Desert Eagle, etc)?	13	14.77%
Mid-price (Springfield, Kimber)	51	57.95%
Low price (ATI, Armscor/RIA, Chiappa?).	13	14.77%
Play it safe and stay away from 'em altogether?	11	12.50%
Voters: 88. You may not vote on this poll

June 27, 2013, 06:55 PM	#1
ccwnut Member Join Date: September 21, 2012 Location: The United States Posts: 95	Wanting a 1911, which brand is best? I have been wanting a 1911 lately, but I honestly don't know which is best. I have absolutely zero experience with them. I have handled both a Springfield and a Kimber, the Springfield feels better in my hand. What's the best move for me? __________________ "Those who would sacrifice liberty for safety deserve neither liberty nor safety."- Benjamin Franklin

June 27, 2013, 07:01 PM	#2
Wreck-n-Crew Senior Member Join Date: March 8, 2013 Location: Ohio Posts: 1,820	If cost is no issue the sky is the limit. What price range are you finding yourself in? You can sped as much as 3g's+ on a nighthawk custom. or get a real decent 1911. __________________ If you ever have to use a firearm, *you don't get to pick the scenario!*

June 27, 2013, 07:09 PM	#3
ccwnut Member Join Date: September 21, 2012 Location: The United States Posts: 95	I might add that I like the historical aspect of the platform. That finds me leaning heavily towards Springfield, Colt, and Remington. __________________ "Those who would sacrifice liberty for safety deserve neither liberty nor safety."- Benjamin Franklin

June 27, 2013, 07:10 PM	#4
alex0535 Senior Member Join Date: November 4, 2012 Location: Georgia Posts: 908	I think if you gave us your ideal price range it would help us better determine your options. You could spend $500 on a RIA or you could spend thousands on a custom built 1911. What sort of 1911 do you want? They range from basic GI versions to elaborate tactical versions with rails and night sights. There are also variations in barrel length to consider whether you want a full size or a shorter version. Your also leaving out a number of companies that produce 1911's you would be very happy with. Colt being one of them, no other company has a longer history of making the 1911. Ruger being another option if you don't mind it being stainless. Last edited by alex0535; June 27, 2013 at 07:16 PM.

June 27, 2013, 07:19 PM	#5
atlantadad Member Join Date: March 21, 2001 Location: Atlanta, GA Posts: 36	Wanting a 1911, which brand is best? Early Kimber before the II. Some of the newer Philippine guns are cheap enough to buy and upgrade. Sig or Smith or Taurus. Last edited by atlantadad; June 27, 2013 at 08:12 PM.

June 27, 2013, 07:20 PM	#6
Gats Italian Senior Member Join Date: November 12, 2008 Posts: 451	My opinion is that you look at those closest to the actual 1911A1 model, and not 1911-like pistols. Frankly that means not looking at any 1911 "featuring" an external extractor or other "improvements" like full length guide rods, that complicate the design or make it look worse for its use. __________________ Leave the gun, take the cannoli.

June 27, 2013, 07:44 PM	#7
Kreyzhorse Senior Member Join Date: April 12, 2006 Location: NKY Posts: 12,463	Springfield makes entry level to high end 1911s and have a great history of making excellent guns. They also have some of the best customer service in industry so if you have a problem, they will take care of it. __________________ "He who laughs last, laughs dead." Homer Simpson

June 27, 2013, 07:50 PM	#8
SVTCobra306 Senior Member Join Date: March 18, 2013 Posts: 434	I voted "high end" but I paid less for my Sig Sauer Nightmare than I could get any Kimber for.. If you like how a Springfield fits your hand, go for it. There is nothing wrong with getting a "lower end" pistol that works for you as opposed to a more expensive one that doesn't. Not that Springfields are necessarily the bottom of the bucket.. their Fully Loaded models are very nice.

June 27, 2013, 09:30 PM	#9
8MM Mauser Senior Member Join Date: October 16, 2011 Location: Grand Rapids, Michigan Posts: 647	Ccwnut: I do want to point out that from the history perspective only Colt really makes sense. Remington just started making 1911's (though I suppose they did make them before for the army) and Springfield armory is just a name used by the modern company, it has no association with the government run Springfield armory. I say get a Colt!

June 27, 2013, 10:01 PM	#11
Fishbed77 Senior Member Join Date: November 23, 2010 Posts: 4,862	None of those "high-end brands" listed are high-end brands for 1911s. That said, I think $1000 is the sweet spot for a mass-produced 1911, and the sweetest of those is a Colt.

June 27, 2013, 11:26 PM	#12
Venom1956 Senior Member Join Date: October 4, 2008 Location: WI Posts: 3,656	yeah your brand selection isn't really correct. besides that around 1k is the sweet spot. __________________ E-Shock rounds are engineered to expend maximum energy into soft targets, turning the density mass into an expanding rotational cone of NyTrilium matrix particles, causing neurological collapse to the central nervous system.- Yeah I can do that. I guarantee you will know it if a bicyclist hits your house going 1000 mph. -Smaug

June 27, 2013, 11:33 PM	#13
BarryLee Senior Member Join Date: July 29, 2010 Location: The ATL (OTP) Posts: 3,946	I would probably go with a Colt. http://www.coltsmfg.com/Catalog/ColtPistols.aspx __________________ A major source of objection to a free economy is precisely that it ... gives people what they want instead of what a particular group thinks they ought to want. Underlying most arguments against the free market is a lack of belief in freedom itself. - Milton Friedman

June 28, 2013, 05:26 AM	#14
thedudeabides Senior Member Join Date: August 22, 2012 Posts: 1,031	Your poll is partially right. Low end: RIA makes "decent" entry level 1911s, but their quality has fallen off recently. Citadel/Lecacy/Armscor is also a name they fall under. With that said, yours will probably work. For RIA prices, you can get an STI Spartan which is an excellent gun. Remington and Ruger are also good "entry level" guns. Stay away from Para-USA, Taurus, ATI. DE makes cheap entry level 1911s that will probably work from what I've heard on the forums (really don't care to go looking for another rough around the edges 1911). I don't know anything about Ciappa. Of your "mid-level" guns, Springfield is much better than Kimber. Operator and TRP are one of the better mid-ranges. Springfield also makes low to mid range guns like the Range Officer and Loaded and some GI repros. I'd also add Colt to the mid level family and the STIs made in the USA. I don't like Kimber, I think they have bad warranties and average at best CS policies. Low to mid range also includes Sig (I almost fell out of my chair when you called them high end) and Smith and Wesson. If you want a Series 80 1911 with an external extractor, and in the Sig's case an idiotic blocky slide, then you have your gun here. Sigs have had problems with tight barrels, FTRB, chipping Cerakote and other issues lately. Check the 1911 forums. If you don't know what a high end 1911 is, you probably don't need one yet. The usual suspects are Ed Brown, Nighthawk, Les Baer, Wilson Combat. You also have less known builders like Volkmann, Guncrafter Industries, Cabot. Throw in frame makers like Caspian and the fact that some custom shops actually do full series 70 customs from mystery parts and you have a good way of burning through cash. Cheapest Baers run at less than 2k. Hi-end guns run on average 2.5-4k, but the sky is really the limit as there are some out there that will send you back over 5k. With a 1911 it's a lot of variables. But as you go up in price you get "theoretically" better accuracy, better fit, better trigger, better parts and better finish (and once again likely much better longevity), better reliability... Of guns that can still be around 50 years later (assuming they won't be illegal by then), that's always a consideration. I regularly shoot a Colt from the 60s that is all original except for the springs.

June 28, 2013, 05:33 AM	#15
jake99 Member Join Date: January 2, 2013 Location: PA Posts: 48	I just picked up an Auto-Ordnance 1911a1 for $570. Made in the US, I like it a lot.

June 28, 2013, 06:37 AM	#16
loose_holster_dan Senior Member Join Date: April 5, 2011 Location: NE Ohio Posts: 2,461	springfield is the only brand of 1911 that you listed that i would go anywhere near. your "high end" list i would put at low-middle grade. for a new 1911 shooter, i recommend getting an sti spartan v. cheap, reliable, and accurate. they can be had in 9mm, 40, and 45. if you want to spend a little more money, colt is awesome. a little more money and dan wesson enters the picture. a lot more money and nighthawk, les baer, and wilson combat enter the picture. here is my spartan v in 9mm. in the colt range, i like the gold cup trophy. i used to own one, but traded it for an AR and some cash. it's second from the top. __________________ Favorite range gun for the money - CZ 75B or STI Spartan V 9mm Go-to carry setup - Walther PPS or PPQ in FIST kydex holster 1AK Favorite semi-auto design - HK P7 "A Sig is like a lightsaber - not as clumsy or random as a Glock."

June 28, 2013, 06:55 AM	#17
Pilot Senior Member Join Date: December 21, 2000 Posts: 4,193	I like Colt. Their 1911's in recent years have been excellent. I have a Springer that is fine, but the Colts are just a bit better. __________________ Pilot

June 28, 2013, 07:20 AM	#18
kutz Senior Member Join Date: September 24, 2012 Location: Arizona Posts: 393	SA TRP

June 28, 2013, 07:51 AM	#20
Garycw Senior Member Join Date: May 27, 2011 Location: Ohio-Kentucky - florida Posts: 1,221	Wanting a 1911, which brand is best? The question is like asking which flavor of ice cream is best? Colt is like vanilla ,Kimber /chocolate and Sig strawberry. Although like the market there's baskin and Robbins with its 31 flavored and everyone has the favorite. Usually the one or one(s) they own. But in the end it all comes back to and starts with the vanilla Colt. Personally I like Neapolitan !

June 28, 2013, 08:13 AM	#21
Olympus Senior Member Join Date: December 15, 2008 Posts: 770	Re: Wanting a 1911, which brand is best? There is no such thing as "best 1911". Everything is relative. Buy the one that YOU like and don't worry about what anyone else days or thinks.

June 28, 2013, 08:28 AM	#23
JWT Senior Member Join Date: March 16, 2007 Location: Southern Arizona Posts: 3,888	There are almost too many 1911s to choose from. What is 'best' is strictly personal opinon. Most are very nice, some nicer than others. I like the Ruger SR1911 models in the modest price range. Made in the USA. Mine have been good solid shooters and flawless. Certainly worth a look before you buy IMO.

June 28, 2013, 08:32 AM	#24
Rifleman1776 Senior Member Join Date: April 25, 2010 Location: Arkansas Posts: 3,309	What does "RIA" mean?

June 28, 2013, 08:41 AM	#25
loose_holster_dan Senior Member Join Date: April 5, 2011 Location: NE Ohio Posts: 2,461	rock island armory __________________ Favorite range gun for the money - CZ 75B or STI Spartan V 9mm Go-to carry setup - Walther PPS or PPQ in FIST kydex holster 1AK Favorite semi-auto design - HK P7 "A Sig is like a lightsaber - not as clumsy or random as a Glock."