I strongly suggest that since you live in B/CS go to Champion Firearms and rent several different 1911s so you can test out which one feels best and you like best. I love my 1911s, but they can be a little more picky than a Glock or my M&P.Craig8d8 wrote:So the other day I picked up a new sig p238 I've put 200 rounds down it and love it. My range of choice is an indoor range which is owned and attached to my gun dealer of choice. So every time I go shoot I always find myself looking around after I practice. So here's my question: what would be a good non bank breaking 1911 to carry? I've heard about tons of problems and warranty issues with kimber so I'm kinda leaving that on the way back burner. I currently carry a Glock G27 and love it. I've never owned a 1911 style pistol and think Iay like one(not over my trusty Glock)!
Thanks!!
The Rock Island Armory 1911s (RIA) seem to have had good reviews. They are made by Armscor in the Phillipines, under the supervision of a good custom 1911 smith named Fred Craig. The Taurus PT1911 that I own has been extremely reliable and not picky about what ammo it eats. My Springfield National Match had some problems, but that was caused by the previous owner tinkering with it and not knowing what he was doing. Springfield did a great job of fixing all the problems for me under warranty.
Personally, I do not and have not owned a Kimber. I have shot a couple and they have shot well. I have heard of problems with them as well. All of the STI pistols, with the exception of the Spartan line are made in Georgetown, TX. The Spartan line is imported from Armscor. It is probably msnufactured at the same time in the same plant as the RIA.
Oh, BTW yes you can carry a full size 1911 5" gov't model even during the summer in Texas. I do it all the time.