Help me buy my first 1911

[Road King Jeff]

Greetings to all.

I've been shooting a number of years, and own a variety of wheel guns and pistols.

I want to buy a 1911, but with so many makes & models to choose from, I'm looking for suggestions.

I want to keep this long term, like my 70's Python, and it's main use will be at the range, possibly with some competition. I don't plan to use it as a carry weapon, so I'm thinking full size.

I'm willing to spend $1,00.00-1,200.00 It doesn't have to be new, but I want a gun I can shoot, not pamper.

I like Colt, but I'm open to other brands.

Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Thanks

Jeff

[Chuck S]

For a trial horse and first M1911 I recommend the Springfield PX9109L. This has all the bells and whistles (including night sights) and a rugged Parkerized finish. Shoot this a couple of seasons and you'll know what you like and don't.

I dislike the ambidextrous thumb safety, and full length recoil spring guide and would personally toss them during the first cleaning -- but you may like them! Can't get rid of the front "cooling vents" (really cocking serrations) but you can order the next pistol without them if you agree.

This pistol may be the perfect fit, but is not so expensive you're afraid to modify or even sell it for something else. Street price for this pistol is maybe $650 so you can spend the rest of the $1K on a couple cases of .45ACP ball ammo.

http://www.springfield-armory.com/images/pistols/PX9109LLarge.jpg

This is my main M1911, but is a poor place to start:
http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2004-11/892154/TJZFF-IMG_0241.JPG

-- Chuck

[Road King Jeff]

Thanks Chuck, this is the kind of info I'm looking for. I went through a number of guns before landing on my SIG P228. I've done enough to it now that I won't sell it. Same with the Python.

[Married2NAVCOP]

This will sound boring, but I like colts and then customizing over time. However, if you made me choose a back up brand I would have to say Kimber. My Bro. has a full size CDP and it shoots every bit as accurately as my custom Gold Cup. Kimber offers a lot of custom features right out of the box w/o a semi-custom price. Springfield "Loaded" do too, but the Trigger, Barrel and bushing are not "Match-Grade" as on the Kimbers. Not slamming Springers.....just pointing out differences in the packages. :)

If your into Pythons and Sigs, I think you'll appreciate the fit/finish and triggers on the Kimbers vs. anyother factory 1911 offering.IMHO

[wichaka]

'Jeff, check the other thread you started in the Colt forumasking about the same thing...........I've got an idea for you.

[Hawkmoon]

Also please read the rules for this site, since the rules specifically prohibit posting the same question in more than one place.

Sorry, but I am closing this thread.