I'm new to the 1911 scene, but I'll share what limited knowledge and opinions I have.
Personally I've purchased two 1911's in the last three months. A 70 series Combat Commander with a satin nickel finish, and a 10mm Delta Elite. I just got the Delta a few days ago, and haven't had the chance to shoot it yet. However, I love my Commander.
My answer would be it depends. Are you looking for a new or used gun.
Used, my suggestion would be a 70 series of some type. This will probably take some searching on your part, but I think you'll be happy. I would suggest looking at either auctionarms.com or gunsamerica.com, I've seen several 1911's for under $1000 on both sites lately.
If you are looking for a new gun I would also suggest the Springfield Armory Loaded. I believe it is now being used by the FBI hostage rescue teams now, for what that's wourth.
You might also check out what Wilson Combat has to offer at wilsoncombat.com. I checked their site before I posted this, I didn't check all the makes available, but currently they offer the KZ-45 for $995, from there the prices only go up. They do offer a couple others for under $1500. The Millennium is now at $1235, inflation sux
.
Atleast if you spend that kind of money on a Wilson you won't have to work on it near as often as a Ferarri.
I hope this helps.
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As to marksmanship, it is not what you once did, rather it is what you can do on demand.