AS the title expresses, I'm lost. I'm looking into a 1911 and thinking of building from a basic gun. I've been looking at these for a month or two so I'll just post a poll of my top picks. If you could vote and be kind enough to explain why you voted the way you did I would greatly appreciate the help.
what 1911 I'm lost and need some guidance
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osteodoc08
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I don't see a poll.
If you're unsure of what you want, you may want to reconsider building one. If its not what you wanted, you'll never get your money back out that you put in.
I say purchase a mid level full sized 1911 from a respected manufacturer. Shoot it and make a list of what you like, don't like and want to change. Then consider building or semi custom/custom.
I'm not sure of what your budget is, however there are tons out there new and used.
Edit:
I see a poll now. I'd vote for none listed
If you're unsure of what you want, you may want to reconsider building one. If its not what you wanted, you'll never get your money back out that you put in.
I say purchase a mid level full sized 1911 from a respected manufacturer. Shoot it and make a list of what you like, don't like and want to change. Then consider building or semi custom/custom.
I'm not sure of what your budget is, however there are tons out there new and used.
Edit:
I see a poll now. I'd vote for none listed
TanklessPro
Member
Being a fanboy of 1911's, I'm not sure what to pick of your choices. I have a basic gi and I like it the least of all mine. I know nothing of Citadel. I have a para expert and its ok but the trigger is the worst thing about it. I have heard good things about the metro's/RIA but their machining is not good.
Of these choices, I would pick none. Save your money and buy a SA Range Officer for less than $800.
Of these choices, I would pick none. Save your money and buy a SA Range Officer for less than $800.
blueskyjaunte
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The Para seems to be the odd man out here. However, if it's in your budget then so is the Springfield GI Stainless. The Remington R1 Stainless is less than $150 more.
Either of those options would be a significantly better choice than the rest you have listed.
In my humble opinion.
Either of those options would be a significantly better choice than the rest you have listed.
In my humble opinion.
mdThanatos
Member
Having dabbled in the 1911 world I will make this recommendation, see if you can rent a few different models, from a basic GI configuration to one that has some bells and whistles. This has helped me decide on what I want out of a 1911 and one day hope to enjoy.
Since you have no "Other" option I voted for the Citadel, and here is why:
It is an Armscor product just like the Rock Island, which means it has the exact same warranty service from the exact same company.
I like the slide serrations better on the Citadel than the Rock Island. The Citadel are angled where as the RIA are vertical.
I like the company that stands behind them and that is why I chose it over the others listed.
Since you have no "Other" option I voted for the Citadel, and here is why:
It is an Armscor product just like the Rock Island, which means it has the exact same warranty service from the exact same company.
I like the slide serrations better on the Citadel than the Rock Island. The Citadel are angled where as the RIA are vertical.
I like the company that stands behind them and that is why I chose it over the others listed.
IdahoSkies
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10mm is the new black. Get one while the getting is good.
osteodoc08
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“The bitterness of poor quality is remembered long after the sweetness of low price has faded from memory.”
-Aldo Gucci
-Aldo Gucci
jr_roosa
Member
I picked the Rock Island, but I wouldn't get a 10mm.
Your first 1911 should be a full size in .45ACP and then move on from there.
I would strongly consider a Springfield MilSpec or a range officer over any of the guns listed. I would also take the RIA GI model over the ones listed.
Go rent a GI style grip safety gun first and see if your hands are meaty enough to get bit by the hammer. If you get bit with a good high grip, then you know you at least need a beavertail. If you don't, get the GI style gun and upgrade as you go...you'll be happier.
If somebody could only have one 1911, I would say they should have a full size Colt 1911 with everything bare bones.
The Colt O1991 would be the go-to, maybe stainless if you live somewhere really humid. The current production series 70s would be just as good, and maybe a little better, but they cost more.
The Colt XSEs would be the thing to get if you know you need the beavertail. Other than a trigger job, I don't think you'd ever need another 1911, and you could tinker a bit with the colt to get it just right for you.
-J.
Just saw that. Get a used Colt or Springfield. You can get a new springfield mil-spec for right above $600. Rock Island would be worth a try too, but you might get a lemon. Not a big deal since they have good customer service.
Your first 1911 should be a full size in .45ACP and then move on from there.
I would strongly consider a Springfield MilSpec or a range officer over any of the guns listed. I would also take the RIA GI model over the ones listed.
Go rent a GI style grip safety gun first and see if your hands are meaty enough to get bit by the hammer. If you get bit with a good high grip, then you know you at least need a beavertail. If you don't, get the GI style gun and upgrade as you go...you'll be happier.
If somebody could only have one 1911, I would say they should have a full size Colt 1911 with everything bare bones.
The Colt O1991 would be the go-to, maybe stainless if you live somewhere really humid. The current production series 70s would be just as good, and maybe a little better, but they cost more.
The Colt XSEs would be the thing to get if you know you need the beavertail. Other than a trigger job, I don't think you'd ever need another 1911, and you could tinker a bit with the colt to get it just right for you.
-J.
Just saw that. Get a used Colt or Springfield. You can get a new springfield mil-spec for right above $600. Rock Island would be worth a try too, but you might get a lemon. Not a big deal since they have good customer service.
Last edited:
orionengnr
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If it's going to be your first 1911, I would not build one. I'd buy a good, reliable 1911, shoot it a lot, learn how it works, and then decide what about it (if anything) you would like to change...and then decide whether you would rather modify the one you own or buy a better one. Or do both....in time
There are lots of 1911s out there, starting around $400 and going (way) up from there.
Let me try to draw an analogy: If you wanted to buy your first Harley, you could find a beat up, crappy Sportster on CraigsList for $1800...or you can buy an Arlen Ness custom for $45,000+. And there are about a million choices in between. 1911s are similar in several respects--the basic design has been around a long time...they are both well-loved by their supporters and bashed by their detractors. You can easily overpay if you don't know what you are looking at. If your first experience is a positive one, you may very well enjoy a lifelong passion....and vice versa
The fact that 1911s have been around forever means that there is a huge aftermarket parts and accessories selection out there. On the flip side, this encourages lots of people who know very little about their 1911 to attempt to "customize" them. For that reason, buying a used 1911 for your first is probably not a good idea; although it could potentially allow you to save a good bit of money, you can just as easily buy someone else's headache...esp if you don't know what you are looking at.
If you have several hours, the following thread may make your initial decision process a lot easier...and save you a lot of money and heartache in the long run. Most of us do not have the wherewithal to buy "one of each" (to say nothing of the ammo!) and then own and shoot them all. Fortunately, this guy did, and does, and has done much of the work for us:
http://www.1911addicts.com/showthread.php?511-Buyer-s-guide-for-all-you-1911-addicts
There are many great 1911s, but none are perfect, although many 1911 owners would debate that statement.
The real question is...which one is perfect for you, at this stage of your 1911 journey?
The above guide will also allow you to start with a dollar figure in mind, and then allow you several good options within that price range.
If you are like many of us, your first 1911 will not be your last. There is a reason the design has been around over 100 years, and is more popular today than at any time in its history. Check that--lots of reasons.
1911s are available in 3", 4", 4 1/4", 5" and 6" barrel lengths.
1911s are available in 9mm, .38 Super, .40S&W, 10mm, .45acp chamberings (also .400 CorBon, .460 Rowland, .50GI and others, but I am starting with the more common cartridges).
1911s are available with frames made from the traditional carbon steel as well as stainless steel, aluminum alloy and Scandium (and I believe there may be a polymer frame or two out there somewhere).
There are probably 40+ manufacturers out there who sell a 1911, and many of them sell a whole bunch of different ones.
All of this adds up to untold kazillions of possible combinations.
To attempt to answer your question directly (and bear in mind, this is only my opinion...)
--Shoot several, if you can. If your range rents handguns, that is a good place to start.
--Decide upon a cartridge --.45 acp is the most common, and hard to go wrong with. It will also afford you the largest number of choices/options. (If you have numerous handguns and are an experienced handloader, you may choose to disregard this advice.)
--Decide upon a barrel length--the standard 5" is a good starting point, esp. if it is your first 1911, and esp. if it is to be used for range/HD use. If you later decide to carry a 1911, you have a reason to research further, and perhaps buy another
--Decide upon a frame material--for the same reasons stated above, the steel "original" is a good starting point.
--Decide on a manufacturer...or at least narrow it down to three or so that you will accept if the price is right.
Here is where it gets tricky. Everyone has their favorite. If you are going to buy new, (IMHO) a manufacturer with a good reputation for quality AND AN IMPECCABLE REPUTATION FOR CUSTOMER SERVICE/WARRANTY should rank very high. I have owned many a 1911, most of them bought used, and had only a few that needed serious work.
My experience does not mirror that of some...for example, I have had three Colts and will likely never own another.
The following manufacturers all have exceptional reputations for Customer service (CS), and I would recommend each without hesitation, based both on my experience and upon their reputations in the industry:
I have owned three Springfield 1911s, and while their initial quality was disappointing, Springfield did everything they could to make the guns right. For that reason, I have no problem recommending a Springfield 1911--new or used.
I have owned two S&W 1911s (one new/one used) and neither has needed attention, but S&W has an outstanding reputation for CS. I have owned other S&Ws that needed a trip back, and S&W's CS was exemplary.
I have not owned a Ruger 1911, but one is on my list. I have owned a number of other Rugers...one of which had to go back. Again, exemplary CS.
Each of these manufacturers will pay shipping both ways (which is a significant consideration), and will fix a gun even if you are not the original owner. Now if you or the prior owner butchered it...probably a different story, but at least in the case of S&W, they have even been very gracious in some extreme cases.
Each of these three also build several 1911s that offer (IMHO) quality/features/value well above their prices.
Okay, I've been pretty long-winded, and I apologize for that. But many people make a poor choice, then regret it, and then bash either the manufacturer or 1911s in general for the rest of their lives.
Good luck with whatever you decide, and please let us know what you buy and how you like it.
There are lots of 1911s out there, starting around $400 and going (way) up from there.
Let me try to draw an analogy: If you wanted to buy your first Harley, you could find a beat up, crappy Sportster on CraigsList for $1800...or you can buy an Arlen Ness custom for $45,000+. And there are about a million choices in between. 1911s are similar in several respects--the basic design has been around a long time...they are both well-loved by their supporters and bashed by their detractors. You can easily overpay if you don't know what you are looking at. If your first experience is a positive one, you may very well enjoy a lifelong passion....and vice versa
The fact that 1911s have been around forever means that there is a huge aftermarket parts and accessories selection out there. On the flip side, this encourages lots of people who know very little about their 1911 to attempt to "customize" them. For that reason, buying a used 1911 for your first is probably not a good idea; although it could potentially allow you to save a good bit of money, you can just as easily buy someone else's headache...esp if you don't know what you are looking at.
If you have several hours, the following thread may make your initial decision process a lot easier...and save you a lot of money and heartache in the long run. Most of us do not have the wherewithal to buy "one of each" (to say nothing of the ammo!) and then own and shoot them all. Fortunately, this guy did, and does, and has done much of the work for us:
http://www.1911addicts.com/showthread.php?511-Buyer-s-guide-for-all-you-1911-addicts
There are many great 1911s, but none are perfect, although many 1911 owners would debate that statement.
The real question is...which one is perfect for you, at this stage of your 1911 journey?
The above guide will also allow you to start with a dollar figure in mind, and then allow you several good options within that price range.
If you are like many of us, your first 1911 will not be your last. There is a reason the design has been around over 100 years, and is more popular today than at any time in its history. Check that--lots of reasons.
1911s are available in 3", 4", 4 1/4", 5" and 6" barrel lengths.
1911s are available in 9mm, .38 Super, .40S&W, 10mm, .45acp chamberings (also .400 CorBon, .460 Rowland, .50GI and others, but I am starting with the more common cartridges).
1911s are available with frames made from the traditional carbon steel as well as stainless steel, aluminum alloy and Scandium (and I believe there may be a polymer frame or two out there somewhere).
There are probably 40+ manufacturers out there who sell a 1911, and many of them sell a whole bunch of different ones.
All of this adds up to untold kazillions of possible combinations.
To attempt to answer your question directly (and bear in mind, this is only my opinion...)
--Shoot several, if you can. If your range rents handguns, that is a good place to start.
--Decide upon a cartridge --.45 acp is the most common, and hard to go wrong with. It will also afford you the largest number of choices/options. (If you have numerous handguns and are an experienced handloader, you may choose to disregard this advice.)
--Decide upon a barrel length--the standard 5" is a good starting point, esp. if it is your first 1911, and esp. if it is to be used for range/HD use. If you later decide to carry a 1911, you have a reason to research further, and perhaps buy another
--Decide upon a frame material--for the same reasons stated above, the steel "original" is a good starting point.
--Decide on a manufacturer...or at least narrow it down to three or so that you will accept if the price is right.
Here is where it gets tricky. Everyone has their favorite. If you are going to buy new, (IMHO) a manufacturer with a good reputation for quality AND AN IMPECCABLE REPUTATION FOR CUSTOMER SERVICE/WARRANTY should rank very high. I have owned many a 1911, most of them bought used, and had only a few that needed serious work.
My experience does not mirror that of some...for example, I have had three Colts and will likely never own another.
The following manufacturers all have exceptional reputations for Customer service (CS), and I would recommend each without hesitation, based both on my experience and upon their reputations in the industry:
I have owned three Springfield 1911s, and while their initial quality was disappointing, Springfield did everything they could to make the guns right. For that reason, I have no problem recommending a Springfield 1911--new or used.
I have owned two S&W 1911s (one new/one used) and neither has needed attention, but S&W has an outstanding reputation for CS. I have owned other S&Ws that needed a trip back, and S&W's CS was exemplary.
I have not owned a Ruger 1911, but one is on my list. I have owned a number of other Rugers...one of which had to go back. Again, exemplary CS.
Each of these manufacturers will pay shipping both ways (which is a significant consideration), and will fix a gun even if you are not the original owner. Now if you or the prior owner butchered it...probably a different story, but at least in the case of S&W, they have even been very gracious in some extreme cases.
Each of these three also build several 1911s that offer (IMHO) quality/features/value well above their prices.
Okay, I've been pretty long-winded, and I apologize for that. But many people make a poor choice, then regret it, and then bash either the manufacturer or 1911s in general for the rest of their lives.
Good luck with whatever you decide, and please let us know what you buy and how you like it.
Furncliff
Member
RIA in addition to the fact that they work, the CS is A+.
I bought one to get experience with 1911's. I now have two (one in 9mm).
I bought one to get experience with 1911's. I now have two (one in 9mm).
bannockburn
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I voted for the RIA Tactical (my choice in caliber would be .45ACP), because I have worked on them (modifications not repairs), and found them to be very well built and a great value for the money.
fastbolt
Member
I'm a long time 1911 enthusiast owner & shooter. I'm not a competitor. Neither am I a gunsmith, although I've been through the Colt pistol armorer class.
I own 4 Colts and a SW1911SC 5".
If and when I buy another 1911, it'll be another SW1911, probably an Enhanced or PC (both of which are above your price point).
I've seen at least my fair share of our folks bring any number of 1911's through qual & training ranges. From basic to custom ($3K-$4K+ guns).
When any of our guys ask about buying their first 1911-style pistol, I generally suggest they consider a Colt, SW1911 or a Springfield.
S&W has a great customer service warranty program. It's a limited lifetime warranty for the original owner, and it provides pre-paid shipping to return the gun for warranty (and of course paid shipping to return it).
Everybody and their brother seems to be jumping into the 1911 pistol market with both feet.
For a first 1911 it might be prudent to start basic and LEARN to safely manipulate, use and properly maintain the gun.
Use GOOD magazines, and good quality ammunition (made by one of the major American ammunition companies).
I'd not recommend a 1911 to a beginner, but every 1911 owner had to start somewhere.
Start with a good one, and having a great customer support program behind it is helpful. If it's your first one, leave the manufacturing, assembly & fitting to the people who do it for a living.
LEARN to properly use the gun as built by a good quality maker.
There's always time to figure out what you'd like different, and why, once you've learned about and mastered the basic gun.
Just my thoughts.
I own 4 Colts and a SW1911SC 5".
If and when I buy another 1911, it'll be another SW1911, probably an Enhanced or PC (both of which are above your price point).
I've seen at least my fair share of our folks bring any number of 1911's through qual & training ranges. From basic to custom ($3K-$4K+ guns).
When any of our guys ask about buying their first 1911-style pistol, I generally suggest they consider a Colt, SW1911 or a Springfield.
S&W has a great customer service warranty program. It's a limited lifetime warranty for the original owner, and it provides pre-paid shipping to return the gun for warranty (and of course paid shipping to return it).
Everybody and their brother seems to be jumping into the 1911 pistol market with both feet.
For a first 1911 it might be prudent to start basic and LEARN to safely manipulate, use and properly maintain the gun.
Use GOOD magazines, and good quality ammunition (made by one of the major American ammunition companies).
I'd not recommend a 1911 to a beginner, but every 1911 owner had to start somewhere.
Start with a good one, and having a great customer support program behind it is helpful. If it's your first one, leave the manufacturing, assembly & fitting to the people who do it for a living.
LEARN to properly use the gun as built by a good quality maker.
There's always time to figure out what you'd like different, and why, once you've learned about and mastered the basic gun.
Just my thoughts.
mljdeckard
Member
What is it you think you can buy and do to a 1911 on a $600 budget?
The main thing I would recommend is get something with dovetail cuts for the sights. If you want to get different sights, that will make it a lot easier and cheaper. Everything else can be changed out fairly easily.
The main thing I would recommend is get something with dovetail cuts for the sights. If you want to get different sights, that will make it a lot easier and cheaper. Everything else can be changed out fairly easily.
VetPsychWars
Member
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- Jun 30, 2011
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- 101
Need to?
I have a Remington R1S and there was nothing that NEEDED to be changed on it, but a couple things I did change to make it uniquely my own... and one of those beavertail grip safeties was NOT a change I made.
Tom
Beach Nut
Member
I don't own any of the 1911's in your poll except for the Rock Island. For what you
pay, you get a good gun. The cycling is smooth and the trigger is tolerable. The
accuracy is decent and I've had no mechanical issues. My only peeves with it is
the factory grips (they are easy to upgrade) and the sights. Whatever you decide
on, I'll give you a word of warning, 1911s are highly addictive!
pay, you get a good gun. The cycling is smooth and the trigger is tolerable. The
accuracy is decent and I've had no mechanical issues. My only peeves with it is
the factory grips (they are easy to upgrade) and the sights. Whatever you decide
on, I'll give you a word of warning, 1911s are highly addictive!
Zaydok Allen
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- Feb 12, 2011
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- 13,274
I'd go with a S&W "E" Series full size or the Ruger full size as my first. JMO, and not sure if you have the money.
Mooseman
Member
another nod to the Rock Island tactical
Vern Humphrey
Member
I'm gonna do what infuriates a lot of people -- I'll vote "none of the above."
For an M1911, especially a first time buy, go with a stock Colt, Kimber or Springfield.
For an M1911, especially a first time buy, go with a stock Colt, Kimber or Springfield.
tomrkba
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- May 30, 2010
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- 2,370
Plastic mainspring housings are abominations and the engineers who designed them should be tortured, drawn and quartered
The back of the new ambi safeties are not beveled and are very uncomfortable under recoil.
I add Trijicon night sights to all my guns and buy ones where I can easily install a new front sight.
Regarding cost:
Your problem is patience. I assume you have other guns. Save a little longer and buy a quality production gun. You can buy cheap and you will end up with a monthly gun fee. FedEx is now $84 one way and 45 ACP is too expensive to waste on testing.
The back of the new ambi safeties are not beveled and are very uncomfortable under recoil.
I add Trijicon night sights to all my guns and buy ones where I can easily install a new front sight.
Regarding cost:
Your problem is patience. I assume you have other guns. Save a little longer and buy a quality production gun. You can buy cheap and you will end up with a monthly gun fee. FedEx is now $84 one way and 45 ACP is too expensive to waste on testing.
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