Pennsylvania Firearm Owners Association
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  1. #1
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    Default To build or buy? 1911s

    Hi all-
    Looking for some general information. First and foremost, I want a 1911. I will have one. Fact. But, I'm going through the debate of whether to simply buy one or build one. I do not want/need a STI or other mutli-thousand dollar high-end gun/parts. I'm looking to keep it under $600. Ps. I really like the Sig Scorpions, just don't have the cash.

    So, should I build or buy? If build, any suggestions on parts distributors would be great. I know Sarco is PA but I've heard mixed reviews. Thanks!

  2. #2
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    jersey shore, Pennsylvania
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    Default Re: To build or buy? 1911s

    With a $600 dollar budget I would say buy. There are plenty of decent 1911's in that range that will be good shooters. Rugers would be high on my list for that money. They are well built and a good value. I would also say RIA and Citadel (both made by the same company) are good deals and under $600. If you like the Scorpian look then you could always save a few bucks up for a cerakote job and have a RIA done up just like one.

    Another option is if you have already saved $600 for a 1911 you are 2/3 of the way to a Scorpian anyway. You could always just save for another couple months and get one or find a LGS that has a layaway option and put the $600 as a down payment on one then pay it off weekly for a couple of months. This is the way I do it a lot of the time. If that is the model you really want then saving another $300-350 for one might be a good option.

  3. #3
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    Windsor, Pennsylvania
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    Default Re: To build or buy? 1911s

    Buy a quality mid range pistol ( Para expert, RIA, etc.) and improve it yourself over time. This way, you start with a solid base that shoots well and you improve your skill and knowledge as you customize it to suit you. The other option is to buy a higher quality used pistol, I've seen many Sig's, Kimber's, S&W, and STI's fall into the mid 600 range.
    TERRA MAGNUM IMPERIUM

  4. #4
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    Default Re: To build or buy? 1911s

    I recently bought a Tisas GI 1911. I like it alot. I like the finish, the accuracy, and the basic aura(?) of it. I don't, however, like the non-beavertail bite it gives me. I thought of having one installed, but have reconsidered. Moneywise it doesn't make sense with the fitting, parts, and refinish cost. My advice, get a midrange with bt with better than GI sights.

  5. #5
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    Apolacon Township, Pennsylvania
    (Susquehanna County)
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    Default Re: To build or buy? 1911s

    Buy a good mid-range priced pistol. I think even the Springfield Range Officer will be within your budget.

    Like cars, the sum of the parts will be more than the cost of a ready made piece.


    "Those who can make you believe absurdities can make you commit atrocities".

  6. #6
    Join Date
    Aug 2013
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    Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania
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    Cool Re: To build or buy? 1911s

    Quote Originally Posted by DClan View Post
    The other option is to buy a higher quality used pistol, I've seen many Sig's, Kimber's, S&W, and STI's fall into the mid 600 range.
    THIS is a good idea for getting more bang for your buck! (pun intended) I like to wander into various LGS when I travel and I have seen some good 1911s from good makers well within a $600 budget.
    Also keep an eye on our classifieds as well. Good luck!

  7. #7
    Join Date
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    Mohnton, Pennsylvania
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    Default Re: To build or buy? 1911s

    1911s don't snap together like ar15s or Glocks. They have to be hand fitted to be right.

  8. #8
    Join Date
    Jun 2010
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    warminster, Pennsylvania
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    Default Re: To build or buy? 1911s

    gunsandwater has a point. they require fitting. you'd probably be able to find a decent used 1911 for that kind of coin. you can always alter it to fit you over time.

    a lot of the "entry to mid level" 1911s that you will find new in that price range may surprise you for that price level, as well.

  9. #9
    Join Date
    Jan 2013
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    Richboro, Pennsylvania
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    Default Re: To build or buy? 1911s

    Where can you find the individual parts you need for under $600? Who made the frame and what slide and barrel.

  10. #10
    Join Date
    Nov 2012
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    Ford, Pennsylvania
    (Armstrong County)
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    Default Re: To build or buy? 1911s

    Buy

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