I've had a Colt Defender for about a year and put at least 1000 rounds through it. It has been flawless. Also, excellent accuracy up to 15 yards. However, my shooting partner bought one in .40 S&W at the same time and it was a POS from the beginning. After several gunsmiths tried to make it work reliably and couldn't he sold it. If you get a good Defender you'll really like it, but it seems your chances are only 50/50. Good Luck & Good Shooting.....Rod.
Springfield's are hard to find around Orlando for some reason? Kimber's are little easier but only in full size. Looks like I need to go on a pilgrimage for a little 1911.
I do not own one but I have shot a Kimber Compact a lot. My opinion of it is is is the best factory 45 acp I have shot. Will I buy one yes. I am waiting to see how my Colt Officer Model turns out. It is in the shop getting a trigger job, sights and a Kings bushing. If it turns out well I will delay the purchase of the Kimber. If it doesn't I will move the purchase of a Kimber to the next purchase. Regards, Richard.
Cobraman, I did some minor work on a Kimber this weekend. I just didn't care for the feel. It felt... well, kind of cheap and flimsy (sorry, Kimber guys, JMHO). The Springfields have a much more solid, substantial feel.
The solid steel platform that the Springfield gives you allows for better shooting, and gives you plenty of steel for custom work. Also the weight makes shooting that much better. Especially once the gun is chopped down to Compact Size.
[This message has been edited by George Hill (edited June 26, 2000).]
Another vote for the Colt Officer's ACP. I just LOVE my customized lightweight sample. If I was buying today, it would be the Kimber compact CDP, with the alloy frame. This is a carry gun right? Mark / FL
[This message has been edited by Mark King (edited June 26, 2000).]
Probably going to be a carry gun. I almost bought a Springfield Champion a couple of years ago but $700 was alot of money. I was also going to pack it as a hiking gun. Since the fall of Jumbo Sports I have yet to see a compact Springfield in Orlando.
Cobraman, Wait until the next gun show at the Orlando Fairgrounds. There's usually several large dealers there who carry the Springfields. You should be able to find exactly what you want, if your paitent. I havd to go to four or five shouws before I found my Lightweight Officer's ACP. It was worth the wait. BTW Where in the Orlando area do you reside? Maybe we can hook up for some range time, be happy to let to try out my little Colt. Mark / FL
Mark, I am in Geneva, which is near Oviedo if you arent familar with it. Right range time is pretty limited for me(I am working two jobs). But also keep me in mind Thanks for all the help guys. I think I will try for a Springfield compact or champion.