Colt commander or full size?

[LAKings22]

Ended up at the LGS during lunch and couldnt decide which one to get. Commander 4" or the full size 1991? Commander was $1040 and full size was $1030. This gun will probably see the range a few times but mainly want to add a colt to the collection.

Getting both is an option but which would you get first?

[StrikeIndustries]

If both is an option, then why not both?

[NoSpam]

I like 1911's fullsize, especially if it'll be a safe queen. If I had to carry all that weight on my hip every day, I'd consider a smaller size.

[GunDog]

Colt's Commander features a 4 1/4" barrel unlike the 4" barrel on the Kimbers, RIAs, etc.

[wjc]

Unless you're going to use the Commander for concealed carry I'd stick with a Government model (full size).

I'm partial to the Government anyway as they fit better in my hands..

[ptgarcia]

I'm partial to the Government anyway as they fit better in my hands..

Government and Commander models have the exact same grip. It's the Officer model that is smaller.

[trigger945]

Commander. A little harder to find. Then a government later on.

[California44]

For reliability, the full size. Not that the commander is not reliable, it is, but the platform was designed to function optimally in the full size format.

[trigger945]

Which store was this? Turner's in Pasadena? I was there and they surprisingly have a bunch of Colt 1911's on their shelves.

[RealBarber]

Only thing better than one Colt is two Colts


If getting both is an option go for it

[NewGuy1911]

What Cal44 said, "For reliability, the full size. Not that the commander is not reliable, it is, but the platform was designed to function optimally in the full size format."

But I sure do like the Commander size.

[cannon]

Since I have Gov models but no Commanders. I'd go with the Commander.

[LAKings22]

Which store was this? Turner's in Pasadena? I was there and they surprisingly have a bunch of Colt 1911's on their shelves.

Yup Turners, but the one in Reseda.

[LAKings22]

Commander. A little harder to find. Then a government later on.

If it wasn't for this reason. I would get the full size first.

[flyer898]

One of my prized handguns that has, and will be again, on my CCW is a pre-70 series Lightweight Commander. A previous owner upgraded (read-destroyed its collector value) it by opening the ejection port, adding an ambidextrous safety (Yaa-I am left-handed), beavertail grip safety, and modern sights. It carries well, shoots straight, and is utterly reliable.

I will go to my heirs. I already have a 70 series Gold Cup (that has once upon a time been on my carry permit) if I feel like a want a full size 1911.