1911 decision, please help

Ed2000

New member
After talking to you guys, and a few others on the other boards, I have decided to trade a 9mm in and get a 1911 format .45. I have two choices within my price range and am unsure which one to get. The first one is a Springfield govt. model with extended slide release, extended thumb safety, and commander hammer. It does not have an extended grip safety nor does it have a full length guide rod. It has a black matte finish and is priced at $499.00 new. My other choice would also be a Springfield, but a true load model with the beavertail grip safety, full length guide rod, and extended slide release and grip safety. It would also be black matt and it would run $585.00. The problem lies in the question of do I need the beavertail grip safety and full length guide rod for an additional $86.00.

If I got the loaded model I would probably nix the full length guiderod (to facilitate easier disassymbly) and have the upswing of the beavertail ground down a la the gunsite GSP design.

If I got the 1st gun, I wouldn't have to buy a standard guide setup, but I would have to get the extended grip safety installed and ground to GSP design. Although, I guess I could buy the jigs and attempt the grip safety alteration myself.

Anyway, before I start rambling, let me get your opinion. Thanks.
 
Yesterday I bought a SA "Loaded" 1911. Overall I have been impressed. As for the accessories, I will be getting rid of the full length guiderod, it does make takedown a wee bit harder, but not much. My slide release seems about standard, but the thumb safety is extended. I personally would go for a smaller one that has been dehorned. But otherwise I have been pleased with the pistol, but I have only put 100 rds through it so far. I like the beavertail myself. I think that what you like on a 1911 is a personal thing, so if you think the added cost is worth it, go for it. Otherwise, be happy with what you have on the less accessories.
 
I got a few Springfields - the LOADED Model 1911A1 is the best deal I got out of all of them.
My only complaint is those forward slide serations. I hate those.

For anyone wanting to buy a first time 1911 - It's probably the best option out there.
Kimbers can be had for cheap - but those are hard to find... and I aint a big Kimber fan.
 
Ed, how about...
1911 Blued Loaded PX9608 $535.00 New in the box Springfield Armory Blued Loaded 1911 (PX9608). In case with 2 mags & all paperwork
Springfield Armory Parkerized Loaded - $525.00
Springfield Armory Stainless Loaded 1911A1 Pistol (PX9151) - $575.00

Seller: JERSEY CITY ARMORY
Phone :(201) 432-1077
Email: koele@erols.com


------------------
"The Gun from Down Under !"
http://www.para1911fanclub.w3.to/
E-mail hotshot_2000@hotmail.com
ICQ # 68806935
 
IMHO the full length guide bar is neither essential nor useful in a full sized 1911 style gun.

The beaver tailed grip safety might have some usefullness if you are suseptable to hammer bite with the full sized .45 - although the commander style hammer may solve that problem.

Personally I've not had any difficulty with the "standard" sized slide release, ditto for the standard safety. And I'm so used to them after all these years that the built up versions don't "feel right". (Though I have a Randall LeMay with both and I really like the gun.)

If you find the extended slide release and/or the beaver tailed grip safety useful - you should get them. Otherwise you're paying $80+ for cosmetics. Don't discount the cosmetics though. Lord knows I've bought more than one gun because I thought it prettier than another that would have been equally functional.

Either way - enjoy.

------------------
Jim Fox
 
Kimber Custom Classic + Night Sites + 4 mags $400
I BOUGHT THIS GUN NEW IN JANUARY OF 2000 I HAD A GUN SMITH PUT ON A SET OF ASHLEY EXPRESS NIGHT SIGHTS.I HAVE BOX AND ALL PAPER WORK COMES WITHE 4 EXTRA MAGAZINES AND A EXTRA SET OF GRIPS,PLUS A HOLSTER THIS GUN MUST GO BECAUSE OF PROBLEMS IN THE FAMILY.

GunsAmerica Stock # 976044183

Seller: BEN MATHIAS
Address: P.O BOX 411
WINCHESTER, OH 45697
FAX: (937) 695-0880
Phone: (937) 695-0068
Mail: popo_71_24@yahoo.com




------------------
"The Gun from Down Under !"
http://www.para1911fanclub.w3.to/
E-mail hotshot_2000@hotmail.com
ICQ # 68806935
 
HS, you got my attention on the prices. I checked another dealer or two today and found higher prices than what I had posted. I think I will try to sell what I have rather than trade (not sure). Then, I may be able to go with the Jersey City deal. One local dealer had a mil-spec SA priced at $625.00 (parkerized).
 
Oh, I think other posters have swayed me away from the Kimber due to it not having complete interchangibility with aftermarket 1911 parts. I have also decided to look around for a Colt 1991A1. I would go for it if the price was right in order to get the firing pin safety. Incidently, do you think the firing pin safety is needed?
 
No the firing pin safety is not needed, and true 1911 snobs don't like it. The trigger is allegedly not as nice as a result and is harder to tinker with. That's why there is a premium on Series 70 Colts.
 
Back
Top