My first 1911 - Suggestions welcome!

[zman]

Hello fellow CalGunners! I started this hobby a few months ago and now I have 5 handguns and a rifle I am itching to get my first 1911 handgun. All suggestions are welcome that fit into these categories:

A. Brand new - and hopefully easily attainable here in SoCal (I am in the Inland Empire)
B. 5 inch version
C. Stainless Steel (may consider two-tone)
D. $800-$1500 (best features/value for $$$)

I will appreciate it if you also tell me why you recommend such handgun. Thanks in advance.

[stphnman20]

Any of the Kimbers will do you good!

[Greg-Dawg]

Any of the Kimbers will do you good!

+1...in 10mm!

[Gator Monroe]

1943-5 USGI Ithaca 1911A1 ($750.00 $ to $1200.00)

[Black Majik]

Stainless steel huh..?

Springfield Armory TRP
Kimber TLE II Stainless
Colt Government XSE

[hi_desert]

No brand loyalty here, here's a few stainless versions to check out ...

http://www.calguns.net/calgunforum/showthread.php?t=42409&page=61

[zman]

Stainless steel huh..?

Springfield Armory TRP
Kimber TLE II Stainless
Colt Government XSE

What is the reason for Springfield's backlog? I haven't seen one in any of my local stores (Bass Pro/Turner's/Shootist/Iron Sights).

Also, how does the Dan Wesson Pointman 7 stack up to the above suggestions?

[hi_desert]

PM7 and TRP are some of the best in class in their respective price ranges. DW's don't have the huge following of Colt, SA, or Kimber but their production counts are low compared to the big names which I equate to better QC. Definitely, handle the TRP cause the 20lpi checkering on the frontstrap is pretty rough.

[5150Marcelo]

Go big. Go wilson!

[Gator Monroe]

Go big. Go wilson!

Go Bigger (War Trophy Bringback)

[zman]

Go big. Go wilson!

Any new CA legal Wilson's that fit my budget?

[smokingloon]

I just bought my TRP through thefloridagunexchange. It came promptly and could not be happier. I get to pick it up on monday. can't wait.

[hk4ca]

Colt xse

[gunsmithcats]

1500?
Wait patiently and find a slightly used les baer, either a TRP or a pm.
Not only will u save on tax because its used, its an outstanding 1911 for its buck. No fancy tactical, just an amazing shooter.

[Black Majik]

1500?
Wait patiently and find a slightly used les baer, either a TRP or a pm.
Not only will u save on tax because its used, its an outstanding 1911 for its buck. No fancy tactical, just an amazing shooter.

This was going to be my initial response too, except the stainless steel didn't match the criteria.

There have been a LOT of lightly used Les Baer TRSs for sale lately hovering around $1500. But, it's not stainless steel. However it'd be your best option for the $800 - $1500 price range. A lightly used PII would be even cheaper.