Help me choose

[glockk9mm]

Does anyone own one of these service models from springfield? If so how reliable are they? I am debating on getting the springfield service or the kimber custom II. What gun would you guys think is more reliable and is better built?
pros & cons?

http://www.springfield-armory.com/armory.php?version=4

http://www.kimberamerica.com/pistols/custom/custom.php

[slick_711]

I'm a Springfield fan, but those two are really similar and fairly comparable quality wise. I think you'd be happy with either. Springfield has a lifetime warranty and excellent customer service, but I have heard of a few issues with recent loaded models. A bit of a toss up really.

[SirMikeAlot]

Either way you should be good to go. I have a slight preference for the Kimber though.

[triaged]

I would (and did: I have a customII) go with Kimber just because they are USA made and the SA's have Brazilian frames. They are both good guns but most Kimbers I have seen are fitted a bit better then SA's...then again that is a bottom of the line kimber against a middle of the line SA...

Unless you are left handed you don't really need the ambi-safety. The night sights are a nice addition though.

[glockk9mm]

How does the aftermarket compare as far as grips,sights,mags, spare parts?

[triaged]

Both are 1911's and for the most part are interchangeable with other 1911's. Kimber uses the Swartz firing pin safety (that S&W also uses) while SA uses a titanium firing pin in lieu of a firing pin safety (to pass drop tests). The SA comes with a lock in the main spring housing while the Kimber does not. Both devices can be removed if you don't like them. The only other real difference would be the sight cuts if you plan on replacing the sights. All other parts (mags, springs, grips, etc.) are common 1911 parts.

Take a quick look at www.midwayusa.com or www.brownells.com and see what they have.

[railroader]

I have a kimber custom 1 and a kimber gold match 1. Both are are great guns with very good triggers. My buddy has both a long slide springfield and a springfield loaded model. Both are good guns but the out of box triggers on my kimbers have his springfields beat by far. Mark