Excaliber wrote:They're surprisingly easy to shoot. My 3" Kimber Ultra Carry almost always surprises folks who try it because the recoil is not at all uncomfortable or difficult to manage.
I use 230 gr. +P Ranger SD rounds, and though snappier than standard 230 gr. FMJ practice rounds, the load is still not uncomfortable at all, even one-handed, in my 3-inch Kimber.I didn't own any 1911-format pistols that weren't 5-inch barrels until 2007, so I kinda know where your purist friend is coming from. However, I think your purchase needs to be purpose-driven. If you want a carry pistol and don't think you want to carry a full-size 1911, then you may be really happy with a 5-inch as a range gun, but it may get left behind as a daily carry in favor of something smaller. If you're wanting something suitable for NRA pistol competition, a 5-inch with an adjustable rear sight will be better.Rugerboy50 wrote:A co worker says to truly appreciate a 1911 you have to get a 5" barrel 1st.
But as someone else said, 1911s are like potato chips: even with best intentions otherwise, once you have one, you'll want another.
