Para Ordnance durability

[Candiru]

I've been thinking about buying a Para LTC in stainless (with the steel frame, of course) for a while because I like the features it offers. However, when I mentioned my interest to one of the guys behind the counter at the range, he mentioned that their rental Paras go out for maintenance pretty frequently. He then went on to temper his remarks with the observation that a lot of their rental Kimbers also go out, and I should talk to some people to get better information about how Para Ordnance 1911s stand up to hard use.

So here I am.

Does anyone have experience with Para Ordnance 1911s and how well they hold up compared to other makes of 1911s?

 

[Ala Dan]

I have found Para's Regal finish too be very "soft"~! Especially,
when a LTC or SSP comes in contact with other hard surfaces.

 

[Candiru]

I have found Para's Regal finish too be very "soft"~! Especially,
when a LTC or SSP comes in contact with other hard surfaces.

I heard the same thing, which is why I want to go with the stainless steel, even though it makes cleaning more difficult if you are very particular about the cleanliness of one's gun. Aside from the finish, have you noted any mechanical durability issues?

 

[Ala Dan]

Negative, on the durability issues~! The new "power extractor" seems
too work just fine. All said and done, I still think Para's are quality firearms;
just a bit over priced.