Reccomendations for first 1911

[spenceyadigg]

I'm looking to buy my first 1911 in the $1000 to $1500 range. Prefer black but open to stainless steel as well. I'm looking for a full size and am willing to do SSE. It doesn't matter if it has a rail or not, just that it is reliable and accurate. Also, it will be just a range gun so do you guys recommend the fixed or adjustable sights?

[InGrAM]

I like my SigArms GSR/SIG-Sauer 1911. It is worth a look, IMO. Mine has been 100% reliable since I bought it in 2008.

http://sigsauer.com/CatalogProductDetails/1911-target-nitron.aspx

[erik_26]

Kimber or Sig come to mind.

[Snoopy47]

Knowing what I know now I will always seek the following features in a 1911:

Front strap checkering
Aggressive grips
Beaver tail
Extended safety
Quality sights

The above are useful features that actually improve shooting endurance, positive control of the gun, and sight acquisition, everything else is personal preference.

[The Right to Bear Arms]

Well not surprisingly there hasn't been much of response to this thread. I say that because 1911's are a hot topic that inspires passion in fans of each of the major manufacturers not to mention the genre, as a whole.

That said, not sure you can find it in your stated price range but I like S.A.

RBA

[twoyellowlabs]

Take a good look at the Springfield Armory MC Operator. I have a SA Loaded Stainless, had a Colt and of the 3, the MCO is the best gun of the 3. After I got all of my guns, I sent them to my gunsmith for tuning and when he got the MCO, he took it apart and said nothing needed to be done. Very tight, excellent accuracy right out of the box and it has the half rail just in case you want to put a surefire light on it. Best 1200 bucks I have spent on any of my guns.

[cindynles]

I've been really happy with my Springfield Loaded (PX9109LP). $850 and its on the rouster. It comes with most of the major options (beaver tail, novak cut night sights, ambi safety) already installed. I added VZ grips and an Ed Brown Maxi-Well and I have been happily blasting away.

[Spdjunkie]

imho:

Approx. $1500 = Used Les Baer

[hefedehefe]

Desert Eagle

[oneway]

Take a good look at the Springfield Armory MC Operator. I have a SA Loaded Stainless, had a Colt and of the 3, the MCO is the best gun of the 3. After I got all of my guns, I sent them to my gunsmith for tuning and when he got the MCO, he took it apart and said nothing needed to be done. Very tight, excellent accuracy right out of the box and it has the half rail just in case you want to put a surefire light on it. Best 1200 bucks I have spent on any of my guns.

Going to have to second this. The MC Operator is very nicely put together for 1200. It was my first 1911 as well, and although I have acquired a few Les Baer examples and have owned other Springfields in the past, the MCO stacks up quite nicely in terms of fit and finish. Accuracy and feel in the hand is great.

[cwin]

I'm partial to Springfields. I'd recommend either the Loaded, MC operator, or TRP. All of them within your price range. Very reliable, great fit and finish, comes with a lifetime warranty.

[Striker]

Springfield TRP, Colt XSE/Rail Gun or you might be able to find a stainless Dan Wesson Valor. All at the top of your price range and all nice guns.

[Press Check]

If you have $1,500, spend a few bucks more and get a Springfield Tactical Response Pistol. You'll thank me later.

[Press Check]

Desert Eagle

What the fizzle?

[spenceyadigg]

has anyone had any experience with the smith and wesson 1911 e series? i love the look of railed version