.45 acp

[k.i.m.b.e.r.]

that's a good one.. thanks.. i'll make another one..

[ChrisTKHarris]

that's a good one.. thanks.. i'll make another one..

No need to make a new thread, just search. 1911s are well covered on this forum.

[goathead]

kimber or smith and wesson

[L-2]

I see no better or worse in either of the three brands. I'm assuming "k.i.m.b.e.r." is in the $800-$1200 MSRP range.
Being a 1911, either brand's gun may have minor, but correctible problems when new; or the gun could be completely reliable. To ensure any break-in and reliability, budget in another $200+ for ~500 rounds of ammo. Also, some folks want more than one or two magazines (which is a whole other
subjective topic).

I need to qualify my response as I haven't owned the Springfield Armory or Para-Ordnance 1911s. Currently, my three Kimbers are working just fine, but two of them needed just a bit of fine tuning to get them reliable.

Out of the three brands, determine what features you like (finish, thumb safety, grip safety, trigger pull, checkering, grips, etc.) and go from there.

[freonr22]

There is a nice series 70 for sale here for $1000

[Black Majik]

Kimber

I did a post about this recently. When it comes to <$1000 1911s, between Kimber and Springfield I prefer Kimber's line. Over $1000, I find Springfield makes a better 1911. Springfield overall makes better 1911s, but when we're comparing a Custom II to a Springfield Loaded, I personally prefer the fit, trigger, and feel of a Kimber.

Of course, totally subjective. Springfield's warranty is much better than you'll find at Kimber. I'm just comparing gun to gun. For a more detailed observation, look through my previous posts and you'll find my post comparing the two in more detail.