Hey guys.. Well first off let me say that i hope everyone is safe and trying to get back to somewhat normal after the storm and am keeping anyone who needs it in my thoughts..

Now, I have two pistol permits that need to be used and I'm thinking of getting a 1911 with one and possibly a Beretta 92 with the other. I know regarding 1911's there are thousands of options and I dont want this to become a shouting match.

 

I am basically looking for a 1911 for fun at the range and in the woods and maybe home defense if needed. I DO NOT plan on using it for any big time competitions or anything. That being said, I dont really like the looks of the customs and 2tone guns (to each his own) and really like the classic or as close to original as possible. The first thing that comes to mind is the Springfield Mil-Spec. I have heard good things about the Rock Island also but I would probably prefer the Springer between those two. I am looking to stay around 4-700 range. I saw the range officer but dont like the target sights (I prefer the 3 dot combat sights). So anything else I should check out?

 

The other issue is locating one. I know Para, Remmy and Auto Ord have 1911s close to the original and I know a lot of the shops carry 1911s galore but does anyone know any place that carries either used 1911s or these GI type models? Ideally I'd like to compare a few at one location. I will start calling places but figured I'd throw it out there. I am in Monmouth County. Thanks again guys!

 

-Rich

Can't go wrong with a 5" classic Springfield 1911!

Good luck Rich!

The range officer is an Amazing 1911 for the price. You can swap out the rear sight, but that just adds to the overall cost. I haven't changed mine yet, but i planned on getting night sights for it anyway. The mil spec is in that range but i'm not sure how it compares and you might be able to dig up a used GI SA on gunbroker or something. You could always venture into the customs. Of course shop around tho, you can find nice used custom 1911's. It's hard to find 1911's that have original detail so that really limits you. i big no for me was front slide serrations, that knocks a whole mess of 1911's out of your options. Maybe a colt gov.?

I said this a few days ago when BlueLineFish asked the question

 

Go with the Auto Ordnance. Mine is a WWII reproduction complete with the crappy GI sights. But it is made in the USA, looks like a WWII pistol and says "Model 1911A1 U.S. Army" on the side, just like the one I was issued almost 20 years ago.

 

It's not a tack driver - it's accuracy is minute-of-dinner-plate at 7 yards, but it will hit a man in the chest at 7 yards which is about the max home defense range you will ever encounter if you think of shooting down a hallway.

 

IMHO, buy the Beretta for home defense first. Then buy the .22LR practice kit so you can shoot for pennies. Then buy the 1911.

 

If you want to try mine out, PM me. You'll have to drive down to Ft. Dix, but you are welcome to meet me there and put a few mags through it.

For my gi I will be going with the auto ordinance. Looks great plus the made in USA seals it for me.

You should just forget about committing to a price range since you'll be spending more on ammo anyway.

Springfields & Smiths are good.

I personally would just skip the 9mm stuff

Springfield GI Mil-spec or STI Spartan would be my first choice. If you wanted to spend more money then a STI Trojan.

get a Colt

Ramsey Outdoor has a few although its a bit of a drive for you. Mil spec's are so very cool, just be aware of potential hammer bite. It hurts. Otherwise I say go for it. Good luck.

 

C

Thanks for the replies guys. Yea I definitely want to check out the MilSpec and the Auto Ord and woulnt mind seeing a Colt (i like the series 70 and 80) also but it seems that most of the shops I've been to at least mostly have target or custom stuff. It seems I will most likely end up having to buy it online and shipped but want to get my hands on a few of the ones I havent seen yet.

mcbethr, thanks for the offer and I may take you up on that when I get a chance. Thanks!

 

Thanks again guys for the input. My buddy is coming down and wants to go shoot off some rounds saturday so may call the local shops and see what they have.

 

-Rich

I have a taurus 1911. I upgrade the trigger and polish, hummer ang sear, 16 lbs recoil spring and main spring, wilson combat magwell and bulletproof firing pin. 2500+ later and still firing strong and accurate