Which 1911?

[Kirk]

Guys,

I recently picked up my revolver for steel challenge, and a bunch of ammo. Now, I'm looking for a 1911 for carry and competition. I'm not looking to spend an outrageous amount on a custom 1911, I just need something that will run, shoot 2-2.5" groups, and needs to have an ambi-safety from the factory. I don't know how to install them and the gunsmith wait time here is outrageous (I'm a lefty). Im going to shoot this gun a lot. Some I have been considering:

- Springfield TRP.

- Sig Max.

- Para Black Ops.

- S&W E-Series.

- RIA Ultra.

Any thoughts or opinions.

[Luke]

1,2,or 4 would be one of my choices.

The new sig Max's look really cool. I know they haven't been out long, wonder if they are really as nice as its competition? I believe sig has never had that good of a 1911 but this one may be different. Those E Series sure our sexy though.

[Wobblie]

I have a SIG 1911 in .40 and it's proven to be an excellent shooter.

[L-2]

Carry and competition can be two different things; or it can be the same thing when it comes to the firearm used.
1 and 4 are my choices given the details in the OP.

The SIG (#2) may be a fine gun. I like the included flat trigger. The adjustable sight can be nice on the range, but can become sharp depending on the holster when carrying. The large magwell SIG is using can also be uncomfortable when carrying. Depending on the holsters and degree of concealment, if any, may determine my concerns are non-issues.

From my moderate experience of having every 1911-owned need aftermarket work, I like the three companies "Luke" has recommended for aftermarket customer service, if needed. I also like the brands' reputation for good products listed in Post #2.

Para-USA. I haven't heard much about the newer products coming out. With the many 1911 brands/models now available, I see no reason to try something from the new, rebuilt company, as it's an "unknown" to me.

Rock Island Armory. While I hear its customer service is good, I don't see this brand currently having as high a build and parts quality. To me, RIA is company to look at when someone doesn't want to spend over $1000, but wants a 1911, just to have.

[RevolverRob]

1 - Springfield TRP

2 - Colt Series 70

3 - Wilson/Nighthawk

[ReverendMeat]

Dan Wesson Specialist has an ambi-safety I believe.

[BillSWPA]

If I were buying a 1911 today, I would look at Springfield, Dan Wesson, and Colt.

[Matt O]

From what I've heard, the Sig Max is a nice version of the 1911, but that won't really fit the bill for carry. From your list, if you've got the scratch I'd go for a TRP, otherwise, for far less money, I'd just get a base Colt model and fit a Wilson BP ambi safety to it.

[Kirk]

Dan Wesson Specialist has an ambi-safety I believe.

For $1700, I can buy a Les Baer.

Not saying that is a bad thing, but something I need to consider.

[Jay Cunningham]

- Springfield TRP.

- Sig Max.

- Para Black Ops.

- S&W E-Series.

- RIA Ultra.

Any thoughts or opinions.


If the above was what I got to choose from, I'd go quite happily with the TRP.

[Robinson]

Just curious -- but why a 1911 specifically?

Buying 'Brand X' because you heard they run good -- well, it might not be as simple as that. There are some makes that will be more likely to operate properly out of the box, but owning a 1911 that runs requires you to do your part as well.

If you are already experienced with the 1911 pistol then just ignore this post.

[Kirk]

Just curious -- but why a 1911 specifically?

Buying 'Brand X' because you heard they run good -- well, it might not be as simple as that. There are some makes that will be more likely to operate properly out of the box, but owning a 1911 that runs requires you to do your part as well.

If you are already experienced with the 1911 pistol then just ignore this post.

I used to shoot 30,000 rounds a year. Put a ton of rounds through a CZ Custom Shadow and competed a lot in USPSA. I could never fully trust my CZ for carry though, as it ONLY would reliably feed a certain OAL. It was also freaking huge. I'm no stranger to doing my part, my CZ was very finicky and I had to adjust numerous thing's before it ran 100%.

The reason 1911? Because I want one and because I want to compete in SS, have a gun I can carry, and because I want one. I do not like plastic guns very much, just a personal preference.

[JohnO]

I would give serious consideration to a Dan Wesson 1911. If you are OK with a rail the Specialist is a great choice.

It is my opinion that Dan Wesson is building the finest 1911 for the money today. I own 3 DW 1911's all after getting a custom Ed Brown 1911. I'm very pleased with my Ed Brown but my next 1911 will undoubtedly be another Dan Wesson. I just can't find any significant difference in a Brown, Wilson, Nighthawk ... that justifies the additional cost.

One of the best kept secrets (not so secret) out there is the Dan Wesson Custom Shop. They will build you exactly what you want and the wait time & price are both great. I had the custom shop build a Lightweight Commander for carry. I had the gun in my hands 8.5 weeks after we agreed on the build details.

[45dotACP]

I'd go with the Springfield and never look back. It has about everything you'd need in a 1911 and nothing you don't. Checkering, magwell, good sights, beavertail, good sized thumb safety and good grips right from the factory. Plus, you'd have the Springfield Custom Shop to do work on it for you if you so decide...


I'd also suggest an investment in armorers tools and some good books on the subject. Add in some CMC 8 rounders and I suspect it'll serve you quite well.

[TC215]

For $1700, I can buy a Les Baer.

Not saying that is a bad thing, but something I need to consider.

I've had multiple Baers and a bunch of DW's. I'll pick DW any day of the week.


I would give serious consideration to a Dan Wesson 1911. If you are OK with a rail the Specialist is a great choice.

It is my opinion that Dan Wesson is building the finest 1911 for the money today. I own 3 DW 1911's all after getting a custom Ed Brown 1911. I'm very pleased with my Ed Brown but my next 1911 will undoubtedly be another Dan Wesson. I just can't find any significant difference in a Brown, Wilson, Nighthawk ... that justifies the additional cost.

One of the best kept secrets (not so secret) out there is the Dan Wesson Custom Shop. They will build you exactly what you want and the wait time & price are both great. I had the custom shop build a Lightweight Commander for carry. I had the gun in my hands 8.5 weeks after we agreed on the build details.

Agreed, I love my Ed Brown, but the DW's are right there with it. They're currently building me a custom CCO.

If I didn't want to spend the money for a DW, the Springfield TRP would probably be the only one on the list that I'd look at.

[Sterling Archer]

Only using your list: Springfield TRP hands down.

Stepping outside that but still priced comparably my list would be:
Dan Wesson Specialist
Les Baer - If you don't mind going used

[HCM]

From your list - TRP no question.

I would look at Dan Wesson, Colt and Used Les Baer.

I have both a DW Valor and a couple Baers. My Baers are older guns (1995- 1997 ) Baers prices have gone up and I've seen issues with some of the newer Iowa produced guns.

My Valor is excellent. My only complaint is it shoots to a " drive the dot " POA/POI.i'm sure Dan Wesson could swap out the front site, just haven't bothered sending it in

[Stumpnav]

I bought a Ruger SR1911 just to check it out. I dropped a Wilson flat wire recoil spring in it. 2500 rds through it and it hasn't had a problem yet. I'm still trying to break it. The new light weight SR1911 is next on my list.

From your list I would choose the Springfield followed by the S&W.

[farscott]

My answer would be none of the above. I would start with one of three pistols:

1) Colt Competition. Take the stock gun and send it to the Springfield Custom Shop for the ambi. Keep the Parkerized finish until you finish changing the rest of the gun to what you want/need. Least costly.
2) Springfield Armory Custom Shop (SACS) Custom Carry specified to what you want. Most costly and longest lead time.
3) STI Trojan 5.0 from Dawson Precision. Have them fit the ambi and get the CRP (Competition Ready Pistol) package. Middle cost and probably fastest to get. Issue is STI bluing is very, very thin. Gun will need oil.

No matter your choice, spend the least possible on finish as you will change the gun to make it work better for you. I like Parkerized finishes for this as the finish does the job as long as you keep it oiled, and it costs a fraction of other corrosion-resistant finishes.

[Gary1911A1]

I have no experience with that Sig 1911 Model, but I have shot other Sig 1911 models and they seemed well made. I have two TRPs' and they are great. Likely you should look at both and pick the one you like the best.

[Glenn E. Meyer]

I have a SW 1911Sc Commander. Very nice looking gun. It's plunger unstaked itself twice - messing up two matches. Been back to SW after time 2 and has been ok since. One gun isn't a world of data but just a report.

BTW, on the second failure - a friend lent me a beater Taurus 1911 he had in is truck to finish the match. Worked fine. How about that!

[Robinson]

1) Colt Competition. Take the stock gun and send it to the Springfield Custom Shop for the ambi. Keep the Parkerized finish until you finish changing the rest of the gun to what you want/need. Least costly.

Minor note: The Colt Competition Pistol is not Parkerized, it is a matte blue.

[farscott]

Minor note: The Colt Competition Pistol is not Parkerized, it is a matte blue.

Good catch. Only a few were every Parkerized, and mine may have been a pre-production sample that ended up getting out of the factory. I forgot that the production ones are matte blued.

[Peally]

Must... resist... "the fantasy one that works" joke... so... tempting...

[Robinson]

Good catch. Only a few were every Parkerized, and mine may have been a pre-production sample that ended up getting out of the factory. I forgot that the production ones are matte blued.

Just curious -- does yours have a Commander hammer? I saw a picture of a CCP prototype that did.

[farscott]

Just curious -- does yours have a Commander hammer? I saw a picture of a CCP prototype that did.

Yes, it has a regular rowel Commander hammer. Is that unusual?

[Robinson]

Yes, it has a regular rowel Commander hammer. Is that unusual?

The production guns have the more modern type hammer. I actually prefer the Commander style hammer, not that it makes a big difference functionally.

[StraitR]

Good catch. Only a few were every Parkerized, and mine may have been a pre-production sample that ended up getting out of the factory. I forgot that the production ones are matte blued.

I like anything that "ended up getting out of the factory" when it should not. Going to need some pics of said escapee.

[john c]

I have a Springfield Trophy Match stainless, which is basically an adjustable sight version of the TRP. Make sure you handle and/or shoot one before buying. The 20 lpi checking is like a cheese grater on your hands. I have a love/hate relationship with it. It anchors the pistol in your hand, but you definitely feel the sharpness to the point of discomfort. I've shot it in a few 200 rounds/day classes, and it's been fine. But I did have red imprints on my fingers for a day or so afterwards.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Ntexwheels]

I might get boo'd here by those that don't like Philippine made 1911's, but what the heck.

I carry a Metro Arms American Classic Commander. It's all steel and at the present time has over 6000 rounds through it and has NEVER had a failure. Total cost tax and all was $519.00 bucks.

As Ive said before, I've carried a 1911 for over 46 years and this is the best out of the box gun I've ever spent money on!

[Sigfan26]

I love my TRP!... But, the 20 lpi checkering is not for the faint of heart. If it doesn't bother (I personally prefer it over 25 or 30 lpi) it's an amazing pistol.

[Gio]

I would go with the Dan Wesson Specialist or Valor over the others mentioned here. They use quality parts, are fitted fairly well, great customer service, and they have been very reliable in my experience.

[Tom Duffy]

Another vote for the TRP. Mine is approaching 5,000 rounds with no problems. Different brand magazines, different ammo all work and the gun shoots exactly to point of aim. I've added more aggressive VZ grips and filed the checkering on the front of the grip a little bit. I think that it's about the cheapest out of the box gun that has lots of desirable features that doesn't need any tinkering after you buy it. I've found it to be accurate and reliable. It just runs.

[That Guy]

I have a SW 1911Sc Commander. Very nice looking gun. It's plunger unstaked itself twice

I have one of those, too. The plunger tube became loose once on mine - luckily I caught that before it became a real problem.

How's the feed ramp on yours holding up? Mine is kind of messed up, leaving me wondering what to do about that.

[Robinson]

How's the feed ramp on yours holding up? Mine is kind of messed up, leaving me wondering what to do about that.

How bad is it? If it's just cosmetic, don't worry about it. If it's bad enough you worry it will affect function, there are steel inserts that can be installed by a good gunsmith.

Consider only using magazines with plastic/captured followers as opposed to the normal GI-type mag followers in guns with aluminum alloy frames.

[BillSWPA]

How bad is it? If it's just cosmetic, don't worry about it. If it's bad enough you worry it will affect function, there are steel inserts that can be installed by a good gunsmith.

Consider only using magazines with plastic/captured followers as opposed to the normal GI-type mag followers in guns with aluminum alloy frames.

I am curious about the reason for the difference between a plastic follower and metal follower.

[That Guy]

It has definitely crossed over to the "worry about affecting function"-category. Finding a good gunsmith isn't such as simple task though, and the few that are out there are both expensive and have long wait times... Probably should do that though. (That gun used to be my primary pistol for several years, but lately ammunition prices have gone insane - I'm mostly stuck with 9mm until I can start to reload pistol ammunition. On the other hand, I don't exactly have too many reliable pistols to begin with...)

I really doubt it's the magazine follower that's damaging the feed ramp though. For one thing, wouldn't any damage done by a magazine follower be below where the bullet impacts, and thus strictly cosmetic...?

[Shumba]

I have one of those, too. The plunger tube became loose once on mine - luckily I caught that before it became a real problem.
.
It is best to replace the plunger tube and apply red Loctite(stud and bearing mount) before staking the tenons.
Restaking the tube will often crack the flanges and they will fail at the worst possible moment.
Shumba

[Robinson]

I am curious about the reason for the difference between a plastic follower and metal follower.

It may not matter at all, but it is possible for the front of the follower to extend enough to impact the feed ramp. Some say this could also be a problem with the Devel style followers. This will probably only cause a line to form at the bottom of the ramp, and like Tony1911 suggested it will be below where the bullet hits the ramp anyway. That is why I suggested it as a possible "consideration" with aluminum framed guns -- not a definite problem.

Anyway, if the ramp is sufficiently damaged to cause problems then the only solution may be to have a steel insert installed. I believe EGW still offers theirs for sale. I guess you could also have a ramped barrel installed as an alternative.

[That Guy]

Hilton Yam recommends not using ramped barrels in .45 1911's, as the angle of the feed ramp is too severe.

Fortunately, EGW still ships some parts internationally. :)

[Robert Mitchum]

Not breaking the bank TRP or Dan Wesson.


My favorite

7686

[Isaac]

Is there any difference in reliability or durability between the bull barreled TRP vs standard barrel? I thought I read once that the bull was more accurate..

[Shumba]

Hilton Yam recommends not using ramped barrels in .45 1911's, as the angle of the feed ramp is too severe.

Fortunately, EGW still ships some parts internationally. :)

The EGW steel feed ramp must be installed by someone who knows their business and 1911s.
This is master machinist work for a master 1911 smith.
Jim Milk did my ancient LW Commander and it now feeds anything. The frame is milled and the insert installed from the top. Permanent Loctite and a hidden set screw keep it in place.
Shumba

[BillSWPA]

Is there any difference in reliability or durability between the bull barreled TRP vs standard barrel? I thought I read once that the bull was more accurate..

You want a barrel with a standard bushing. The bushing is a softer steel than the barrel of slide, and thus will wear instead of the barrel of slide wearing. On a bull barrel 1911, when the gun starts to lose accuracy from wear, you will need to replace the barrel, slide, or both. On a gun with a standard bushing, just replace the bushing and it is as good as new.

[JAD]

You want a barrel with a standard bushing.
Plus, it's a lot easier to add a threaded barrel to a gun set up with a bushing -- or a comp.

[MolonLabe416]

DW Valor is likely the best combination of fit, finish, parts for the money. On the lower end, the Ruger is good at that price.

My EDC is a SW 1911PD Scandium Commander Gunsite model. No issues, more accurate than most of us, and a joy to carry.

[45dotACP]

I'm blaming this thread for the 9mm Colt Commander that is following me home...

Ya jerks ;)

No, in all seriousness, I've been planning on making the switch to 1911s being my full time pistol (against all logic and rationale) and everything else being range toys and only occasional match guns. Running a 1911 does require a certain attention to parts, maintenance and cleaning. Hilton Yam has some good ideas, and I'd follow his 1911 users guide to a T.

[Robinson]

Huh. I recently traded in my 9mm Commander on another 9mm Colt Competition Pistol. I liked the Commander but I just didn't feel as confident in it as I do the Government models. Plus I really like the CCP.

[45dotACP]

Huh. I recently traded in my 9mm Commander on another 9mm Colt Competition Pistol. I liked the Commander but I just didn't feel as confident in it as I do the Government models. Plus I really like the CCP.

In making the decision to settle with the 1911, my Glocks will likely be on the way out of the door in favor of a new 1911 in 9mm...probably full sized and probably from Springfield. I am fairly confident I can get the Commander framed pistols running, seeing as the original commander was designed with the 9mm in mind.

Though hopefully, it'll just run out of the box :D

[BillSWPA]

In making the decision to settle with the 1911, my Glocks will likely be on the way out of the door in favor of a new 1911 in 9mm...probably full sized and probably from Springfield. I am fairly confident I can get the Commander framed pistols running, seeing as the original commander was designed with the 9mm in mind.

Though hopefully, it'll just run out of the box :D

At least for me, training with 1911 and Glock carries over well between platforms. Don't be too quick to get rid of the Glocks.

[45dotACP]

At least for me, training with 1911 and Glock carries over well between platforms. Don't be too quick to get rid of the Glocks.

I wouldn't be, but for the fact that I've found that for me, the Beretta just fits me better as a modern service pistol, even in spite of the DA/SA transition (which is hardly the big deal people make it out to be). With the Beretta 92, I get my favorite parts of the 1911...a pistol that's mild to shoot and has a fantastic trigger.

I want to say I'll probably still have a glock of some sort lying around because...well because glock. But in all honesty, they're fairly commonplace and perfectly easy to acquire should I feel the need again. I've been thinking of swapping over to 1911's and Beretta 92s for all serious training/gaming/defensive uses for some time mostly because I own pistols that are DA/SA, SAO, SFA, and DAO and I think it's probably time to thin the herd and focus on developing skill over building an armory...not that there's anything wrong with an armory of course :D

[Robinson]

In making the decision to settle with the 1911, my Glocks will likely be on the way out of the door in favor of a new 1911 in 9mm...probably full sized and probably from Springfield. I am fairly confident I can get the Commander framed pistols running, seeing as the original commander was designed with the 9mm in mind.

Though hopefully, it'll just run out of the box :D

Yeah my Commander just ran and ran and ran with ball ammo but I had a few glitches with HPs. I was at a point where I was going to either commit to getting the pistol to run reliably with hollow point ammo or get into another Government model. Since I already owned a CCP and really liked it I made the decision to go that way. I only have a couple hundred rounds of HST through the CCPs so far but those have been without incident. Good luck with your Commander.

[Desertrat]

1 - Springfield TRP

2 - Colt Series 70

3 - Wilson/Nighthawk

this, exactly!!

[azerious]

Colt M45A1 :cool:

[JonInWA]

I'd suggest a Colt 70 Series as your best value-the right grip has the cut for an ambi safety lever, so you'll just need to get an ambi. And a $9 Wilson frontstrap grip checkering piece.

While I've been exceptionally pleased with my 2006-vintage SIG XO, and have seen fairly recent SIG 1911s running well, I'm a tad wary of recommending them, especially as a hard-use 1911. The current guns reportedly are of far different parts sourcing and quality than the 2004-2006 guns internally.

Nighthawks have gone from "fairly spendy" to REALLY spendy, in my opinion. Great 1911s, just not sure that the cost-to-value relationship is really there. I think your money would be better spent with the Colt and some range/training time.

In my opinion, the current Colt Series 70 Repros are among the best sub-$1000 1911 values available, and can be easily dressed up/modded to your needs and desires easily.

Best, Jon

[Robinson]

In my opinion, the current Colt Series 70 Repros are among the best sub-$1000 1911 values available, and can be easily dressed up/modded to your needs and desires easily.Best, Jon

Agreed. I have a S70 Repro and it is a very good pistol. I've made a few changes but the trigger and reliability were excellent out of the box.

[VolGrad]

Based on the 1911s I've owned - if I were to buy another as a defensive weapon it would be a Wilson Combat. Period.

Now, having said that I wouldn't mind trying a Colt 70 series mentioned in this thread the next time I have a pile of cash to blow on a range gun. Unfortunately, I have no idea when that might be as home repairs and additions are the flavor of the day.

[VolGrad]

Based on the 1911s I've owned - if I were to buy another as a defensive weapon it would be a Wilson Combat. Period.

To expand a little on my previous post (was on my phone) ... I've previously owned;
Kimber - 2 of these
Dan Wesson - 2 or 3 of these
Ed Brown - lost count of how many of these I've owned
Wilson - 2 of these
Springfield Operator - 9mm - 1 of these
Probably more that I have forgotten.

My first 1911 was a Kimber Custom TLE II and was actually a decent gun. I don't think I ever had a malfunction with it over a few thousand rounds. I actually wish I still had that one as it was relatively inexpensive, was reliable, and was as accurate as I am. I don't see me carrying it but for a range or competition gun it would do fine. I think I sold it for like $600 with night sights and a bunch of mags.

Dan Wessons, mostly CBOBs and all had reliability issues.
Ed Browns - various models and most were reliable. I had to send a couple back to EB for warranty work though. For the money I'd prob go a different route but they sure are pretty.
Wilson - one Elite catch & release and one plain Jane. That plain Jane was simply awesome. I would love to have it back. I'm sure I blew the money I got when I sold it on something I no longer appreciate.
The Springfield was the infamous Lipsey's exclusive that had to go back immediately for warranty work. I couldn't dump it fast enough when it came back (working).