I think I've settled in a colt xse full size for my first 1911.

 

Which holds up better over time?

 

I've noticed some scratches on the blue in pictures where the slide meets the frame? Does this happen often?

 

I realize it's mostly personal preference but if anyone have some pictures of there 1911s post them up it will help me decide. 

Get one of each.

 

And here's mine.

 

I have a STI Spartan.  It originally came with a parkerized finish.  After some heavy customization by a buddy of mine, he simply blued it.  So far no issues after a few thousand rounds.  You can always get some touch up to re-blue it.

 

 

My brother has the Springfield RO.  It is also parkerized but he has not put much rounds thru it.

 

I would just shoot it.  You can always cerakote it whatever color you want.

 

As for pictures, I would check out the 1911 thread (http://njgunforums.com/forum/index.php/topic/45676-show-us-your-1911s/)

Stainless if available..

Anybody know any good websites that gets into all the pros and cons and durability of different kinds of finishes?

 

I don't know my ass from my parkerize

Only gun i have parkerized has rust on it.. rem 87 youth shotgun.. 

If you ever think you may have a notion to 'upgrade' it, get it blued, otherwise SS. Blued guns are easier to trick out than SS.

Depends what you like. It'll be your gun. Personally, I think a 1911 should be black/blued.

stainless would be easier to maintain. 

But since no holster used, go for blue.

I have two stainless ones that I may get NPC or Robar coated.  I don't love the "plain" look of them.  If they aren't holstered you wont get blue wear so I'd go blue.

Id say bluing is prettiest and also can reduce a lil glare depending on the coating. SS is easily the easier one to maintain the same look of. Everyone has accidents and "derp" moments and finishes chip or scratch, it's life. If your lazy about maintaining the gun then SS is safest as it is naturally rust resistant even without a coating. Keyword resistant tho, it can still get rust.

Blued.

Have both. 

 

I really like the Desert Eagle 1911.  Made by BUL in Israel.  Very high value proposition for the price.

 

 

 

If you can get over the bill board on the side. =)

Go for stainless IMHO