First 1911

[Bad Andy]

Hello all. I don't have a 1911 (yet). I have decided that that is the next gun on my list. Obviously, there is a wide range of what is available. I plan to use the gun just at the range. I have other guns for carry, and home defense. Plus adding a new caliber (.45) is exciting. I'm not interested in a 9mm (or other caliber) 1911.

After much research, I think I want a Springfield Armory. I hear nothing but good things about them and their warranty. I kind-of narrowed my search down to a stainless steel TRP. Everyone seams to love the TRP. I don't have the budget for the FBI Professional model.

Then, upon more research, I figured that if it is only a range gun, I should probably have target (adjustable) sights. The Stainless TRP only comes with combat sights. It looks like the full rail comes with the adjustable sights.

I would prefer no rail, as it seams useless on a range gun. I think un-railed guns look better too.

This leads me to think that maybe there is a better option out there in the Springfield line. I do see the loaded target, but I think that is a step down (in fit and finish) from the TRP. At one time there was a Target Match, or something similar, but don't see that listed on the roster anymore. Would prefer to buy new, but could be interested in used, if there were no customizations done to it.

Anything else I should consider in that quality and price range? Or do I just buy the railed TRP with the target sights?

Thank you in advance for your help.

[Lead Waster]

Buy the gun you want, then buy adjustable target sights later to add on. Don't buy a gun based on the sights it comes with. Besides, you might be happy with the non-adjustable sights.

[timeexposure]

TRP is great, but for the price I'd also look at the Dan Wesson.
Personally I'd get the DW PM7 (Pointman 7) before a TRP as a range gun. If you're outside California you have even more choices.

[Diamondi88]

Congratulations on your decision to get a 1911. I love my Para Elite very much; however, after shooting thousands of rounds through it the one option I wish I had considered was the front strap checkering. I use skateboard tape on it right now, but it does take a bit away from the looks. For that reason alone I would go with the TRP over the DW Pointman 7. Either way you will get a great gun!

[Rhyyke]

It's fine without the target sights. If you want target sights get the Dan Wesson timeexposure mentioned above.

[threeperreaper]

Can't go wrong with a TRP.
I've had two and both were solid.
I have owned both sights and prefer non adjustable night sights, but that's just me

[RiflePistolShotgun]

Les Baer, solid trigger, no roll marks on slide, no front cocking serrations.

Target sights are completely unnecessary. I have some on one of my 1911's. I adjusted them once when I got the gun and that's it. Waste of money. Get some 10-8 sights or Heine Straight-8's.

[robert101]

I have both a SA Loaded (combat sights) and a Dan Wesson PM-7 in 10MM. I shoot the SA Loaded with the combat sights just as well and the DW. I personally like adjustable sights as you can move them in adjustment of varied ammo choices. A TRP is a fine choice and hard to go wrong with SA warranty and product quality. Good luck in your decision.

[Rhyyke]

Get some 10-8 sights or Heine Straight-8's.

10-8's black/fiber or heinie straight 8's are the sights to have.

[wisco]

First 1911,
Welcome to the world of one of the most tinkered with, heavily modified platforms in firearm history. Find what you like in your price range and buy it. Shoot it lots and when you discover that there's a "gotta have" modification you missed in your stock gun, open up the parts catalog. Just stay away from the dremel and files unless you're a gunsmith.

[newbutold]

I like my Kimber. Get whatever you like. Does anyone really care what someone else shoots?

[Barbarosa]

Lots of good options out there, so my only suggestion is before you pick up your new gun Google "Idiot Scratch (or Idiot Mark), 1911" and learn how not to do it.

[jhmc2000]

The 1911 are like rabbits. Turn your back there are 3 in the safe then 5 a month later.

[MosinVirus]

If you are looking at the price range of a TRP (around $1500-2000), Look at DW as well. Sights can be switched out...

[559BearDown]

Lots of good options out there, so my only suggestion is before you pick up your new gun Google "Idiot Scratch (or Idiot Mark), 1911" and learn how not to do it.

Absolutely. There's really no excuse for idiot scratches, besides being an idiot.