Which 1911 Should I Get?.....

Since price isn't a factor, the series 70. If it was, either the SA milspec or Norinco.

Kimber Custom Stainless Target II. Maybe not quite as 'traditional' but it will shoot where you point it.

Of the options listed, I'd take the Colt.

I really like the traditional 1911A1 looks of the arsenal refurbished Argentine Sistemas

Click to expand...

Where have you found these Sistemas, and how much do they want for them?

I have to say the Model 1927 Argentine is a Colt in all but name. They were made on Colt machinery, under Colt supervision, and are identical in quality to 1930s-era Colts. I would not hesitate to pick up one of these guns at a good price -- I already have one, and for several years it was my carry gun.

Sistema--but only if you have a time machine. Otherwise, Springfield Mil-Spec or GI.

Springfield

Springfield Mil Spec is hard to beat. One tuff sidearm.

Everyone who owns a 1911 for defense should buy a Springfield Mil-Spec. It is the easiest way to become an expert at clearing jams. Mine jammed at least once every couple of magazines. I finally sold mine.

If you buy one of these used, I sure hope you don't end up buying mine.

From that list, the Colt S70 is the clear winner.

I have 2 Springfield Mil-Spec's; a 4" and a 5", never a hic-up out of either of them. It's hard to beat the Mil-Spec.

second I'd take the Colt 70s

Sig GSR
Smith and Wesson
Kimber
Colt

Oops, just noticed you are looking for traditional...
Well.. the Sistema or the Colt, Sistema is a better value.

First choice: 70 series Colt.

Second choice: Springfield Armory mil-spec.

Other two: Don't waste your time/money. JMHO.

as you have presbyopia...

Why would you choose any of these pistols. Without actually seeing through your eyes I would bet you will have trouble with the sights on all the guns you mention.

I second buying a kimber or S&W or a springfield even but get one with good sights if you are gonna shoot it. I love love love my S&W!

If you are buying one just to have I prefer the sistema as it is the oldest and coolest of those you mention.

-bevr

Find a used Springfield "Loaded" model. You will have upgraded sights, beavertail grip safety and an upgraded thumb safety.

If it doesn't work send it to Springfield Armory and they will fix it.

If you are dead set on a 1911 with crappy sights I voted Colt.

They are beautiful guns, blued not Parkerized.

The Springers will be Parkerized.

If it were me, I'd go w/ the Colt every time

Springfield Armory MIL SPEC~!

A very fine pistol for the money.

If money's not a factor I'd go with the Colt Model 70 repro. Otherwise I'd go with the SA MilSpec. Excellent pistol. They're great shooters.

I voted Mil-Spec. I like Springfield's & that is a good one. BUT!! Don't forget to check out the Taurus PT1911!

I'm on my second Norinco 1911A1, only because I was once dumb enough to sell the first one. It never failed me, and so far the second one hasn't either.

The first one fed everything I gave it. I have only tried 230 grain FMJ and 185 grain JHP with the second one so far, but it fed both without a problem. I paid $450 for the first one (Massachusetts prices) and $290 for my current Norc (NH prices) in excellent condition.

My only other 1911 was a pre-Kahr Auto Ordinance that was a piece of junk. I decided to stick with what I knew would work.

Norinco 1911A1 pistols come with three-dot sights, btw.

Colt Series 70

Colt Series 70 Stainless. I have one and it's awesome. Accurate, reliable.

Doc2005

Based on what I have seen and shot of New guns most recently :

- the Springfield.

-Caspian.

If I may suggest one not in your poll. You mentioned money was not really a concern, not sure about your time frame.

Caspian has a bone stock Miltary version that is really nice!
This would mean having a someone qualified to get the frame, slide and parts from Caspian, assemble it, get it blued, but these truly are nice!

The Sprinfields are running out of the box and not missing a beat. Some folks are just shooting these as extra guns to compliment other 1911s. Others will replace any MIM parts.

Caspian has the good steel parts, and IIRC anything else they need one can use Ed Brown for a source too in regard to parts made right with good metallurgy.

Pricing will depend on your locale, and your gunsmith, still might be something to consider if time is not a concern.

1911a1-Kimber, Springfield Armory Mil-Spec .45acp

If I were to buy a NIB(new in box) model 1911a1 .45acp, I would save up for a Kimber. Para-Ord and Springfield make good 1911a1s and SIGarms/S&W have some nice designs but Kimber sells more .45acp pistols than any other. The LAPD SWAT .45acp is a nice Kimber model and so is the spec ops sidearm used by the USMC.

Of your listed choices I'd buy a new MilSpec Springfield Armory .45acp.

PS: Use Wilson .45acp magazines too, .

RS