1911 reccomendations

[BenningBoy]

I'm convinced that I need a 1911 to help stimulate the economy. I can afford about $400, would probably conceal carry, and don't need bells and whistles. Reliability is of paramount importance to me, and I swear allegiance to no manufacturer. Maybe more important than the best choice is what do I want to stay away from. Your opinions are appreciated.

[XD45]

you dont get very far on 400 in the gun world these days, look at the rock island 1911 or springfield mil-spec.


not sure i'd carry either though, but thats your call

[BenningBoy]

What's the downside of the Springfield Mil-Spec?

[Geol22]

I've got a Taurus PT1911. mid 500s, and very good quality

[Lycanthrope]

The Rock Island and Spring Mil Specs are relatively decent guns....they will run and shoot fine.

But....the sights are poor and hard to change. The spur hammers can bite you if you like a high grip. The thumb safety is too small to activate quickly for many people.

The above guns are nice nostalgic range shooters, but I really recommend the Taurus 1911 or the STI Spartan. Those are running in the $550 range and you can't put on the extra options they have for $150 and some hassle.

Lycansavejustalittlethrope

[RocketFoot]

I have a Taurus PT1911 and highly recommend it! I also like RRA and SA for the price, but as others have said...$400 ain't gonna get you too far! Plan on about $500-600 for anything decent.

[PisnNapalm]

Pred, here on the forums, has a Charles Daly 1911-A1 for sale. I think he's asking $350. Do a search.

[QuakertownRich]

For a reliable 1911 for $400 you will first need a time machine to take you back about 20 years. J/K. I don't know much about RIA 1911's other then they are made in the Phillipines and sell quite well on gunbroker.com for about $365. I wanted a 1911 for the longest time and debated whether I should go low for instant gratification or save up for a lifetime keeper. I chose the latter and do not regret my decision. I got a Springfield Loaded in SS. Very accurate, fun and feeds everything I give it. Someday one of my kids will have it.

[CoyoteJack]

Add my vote for Taurus PT1911. Shop around and you can find a blued one for about $500 which is what most others charge for a stock GI model. I really like the Heine straight 8 sights they come with.

[jdlv4_0]

Given your price range, I'd have to go with a Rock Island Tactical



That should fall within, or just higher than your desired price.

It has better sights than a base model RIA, but not that much more hurt on the pocket.

Shop around, I bought an older used Springfield Loaded for $450 and it's one of the best 1911s I've owned.

GunsAmerica pricing shows the RIA Tactical @ $425-$499.