Aluminum framed 1911???

[Mity2]

So I have been eyeing this model at my local fun shop for some time.
http://www.kimberamerica.com/1911/ta...ical-custom-ii

I have had a Kimber before, and I know they are reliable(as far as feeding ammo of all type goes), and fit and finish are top notch.

But I have never bought 1911 chambered in .45ACP with Aluminum frame before(i have had Para 9mm 1911 in an aluminum frame before), and I'm concerened with the durability of Aluminum frame.

Because of the price, this is going to be something I'm gonna have for long time, and I'm trading Stainless framed/slide 1911 towords it.


Gun will likely NOT going to be carried.
It'll be something that sees a holster only when I'm at the range.
It'll likely see a 1000 or so rounds of variety of ammo - FMJ, and several types of defencive ammo fast(to establish its reliability), then it'll spend most of time next to my bed as home defence weapon once reliability is established. and occasional range session.


I just want to know what everyone's opinion on the aluminum framed 1911...

[JP8]

Because of the price, this is going to be something I'm gonna have for long time, and I'm trading Stainless framed/slide 1911 towords it.


Gun will likely NOT going to be carried.
It'll be something that sees a holster only when I'm at the range.
It'll likely see a 1000 or so rounds of variety of ammo - FMJ, and several types of defencive ammo fast(to establish its reliability), then it'll spend most of time next to my bed as home defence weapon once reliability is established. and occasional range session.

The only reason I would consider buying an Al frame pistol would be expressly FOR carry. Aluminum has it's applications but it's an unpredictable material and should be used when a situation warrants it. If weight is not a consideration (bed side pistol), I see no reason to buy one.

[ithinkimamedic]

If you are only going to be using it as a night stand gun in the long run keep the stainless one, no reason to go to an aluminum frame unless you planned on carrying it.

I would be worried about galling to the aluminum frame in the long run

[Asmodeus6]

If you are only going to be using it as a night stand gun in the long run keep the stainless one, no reason to go to an aluminum frame unless you planned on carrying it.




I would be worried about galling to the aluminum frame in the long run

I agree with the first part. The idea of the aluminum frame is the fact it's SO light. It's like a Glock grip frame light without a slide on it. The Kimber UC II I have is aluminum.

Of the rounds put through it. I'm not seeing any wear any place. IDK, I think they are probably good to go at this point. And the functionable life cycle of the gun vastly out numbers the days you will likely be on this earth.

[Mity2]

I actually want their Tactical Entry II model(with rail and Stainless frame and slide). But noone seems to have one in stock, and Tactical II is available...

I'm thinking about it at this moment. But I do want it.

[Pagoda240]

I have two with aluminum frames a Kimber UCII and Para P15 . I love them both the kimber carrys very well and I use the Para for USPSA and I think i can drive the gun faster than a steel frame gun, even with 15 rds of 45acp in the boot. Like people have said its a weight thing and personal preference vs durability.

[abner13]

I've carried (and shot) a Colt Lightweight Commander for many years with no issues other than the frame nicked easily.

[Gun]

Colt was producing the Commander with an AL frame since about
1950 or so.

This is nothing new.

[bob308]

skeeter skelton did an endurance test on a colt comander with al. frame back in the 70's. it had a long run with out problems.

[Curmudgeon]

I have the Tactical Custom HD II, which is the full size 5" model. It is all steel. I've never owned or carried a lightweight pistol of any kind, but I have to agree with "Gun", this is nothing new. Aluminum-frame pistols are not exactly disposable.