educate me to alloy frames and best bang for the buck

[Cap]

I'm in the market for an alloy frame 1911 for daily carry.
Preferably commander length, though a FS is more than acceptable as well .
(that's what I carry now when a 1911 is on my hip)

I've pretty much ruled out the compacts and sub-compact as an option.
(my Airweight snubby fills that niche just fine)
Don't want an LDA trigger either


Obviously the virtue of alloy frame is carry weight, and that's why I want one.

So please educate me to the draw backs of alloy framed 1911s

also, money/budget constraints are always a concern with me.
having said that, i also know a .10 cent steak isn't worth a dime if it's uneatable .
So your guidance/thoughts/opinions on which "worth buying" alloy framed 1911s are the best value for the money would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you


..L.T.A.

[dogdollar]

Cap,
I am a big fan of the Gunsite CCO, which has an alloy, officer's frame and a steel Commander slide.
The thing I hear the most about alloy frames is that sometimes, if you use a mag with a steel follower, the follower can "follow" the last round, jumping out of the tube and dinging the feed ramp, which is of course is softer than steel. This means, in the worst case, you would have to have the feed ramp milled out and put in a steel insert, then have the ramp re-cut.
I just use Wilson mags so to me, it's a non-issue (except that I am not especially fond of Wilson mags).
Also, due to the lighter weight, the gun is a bit more "lively" in the hand during recoil....
I'm sure someone else will come along with other comments, but I will tell you that the lighter weight of the alloy frame REALLY makes a difference to me.
What kind of budget do you foresee for this acquisition?
DD

[kenhwind]

The Colt Lightweight XSE Commanders are nice IMO, and Colt has been making alloy frames longer than anyone else.

[Baldy]

I have a S&W 1911 PD-SC Commander. I have carried it about 95% of the time when I leave the house. I shot it in a league for awhile and have put thousands of rounds through it plinking and shooting targets. I have replaced the the recoil spring a couple of times over the last 4yrs. That was just preventive maintance. I have never had a problem with this pistol. :D

http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h268/4Baldy/Dads45.jpg

[wjkuleck]

Don't overlook the older Colt Commanders:

http://www.1911TimeWarp.com/Pics/GunsiteCommander-599.jpg

I found this one for $400 (because of a botched sight installation) and had it given the once-over-lightly by Garthwaite. A very nice carry piece is is, indeed!

Regards,

Walt

[Cap]

What kind of budget do you foresee for this acquisition?
DD


not as much as I'd like, DD
Trying to buy new and stay below 7 bills OTD

$650 or there abouts is what I'm hoping for.
I really don't need any doo-dads on it.
Just decent sights is all.
I'll de-horn and install a bobtail myself.
may or may not put a beavertail on it, since it's not intended to be a gun I'll "shoot the barrel out of"


..L.T.A.

[wgppp]

My LW Commander XSE is a frequent carry gun because it works, carries well and is noticeably lighter than my Commander. I don't think you'll find one at your stated price, however.