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One item that is often not mentioned when carrying with a belt holster (especially important for any of the heavier pistols) - get a good gunbelt Most holster makers offer them. Don't try to use just your everyday belt. You need a heavy duty, thick leather belt to help support the extra weight of the gun. They're not cheap so far as belts go, but they are worth it if you're trying to carry a full size pistol.

I have a Taurus PT1911 and it is my primary carry weapon. I have had excellent luck with this pistol - I consider it an excellent value for the money. When I bought mine, the prices were still right at $500 - they are a bit higher now. In a side-by-side comparison with my friend's Kimber Eclipse, accuracy was every bit as good and reliability was considerably better. The Eclipse has been back to Kimber twice and it still has issues with extraction. All this said, I have never had to use Taurus' customer service - I think if I ever have a problem with the pistol, I'll pay a 'smith to have it fixed. The pistol now has over 1000 rounds through it with no issues whatsoever.

Common complaints I've read about the Taurus are:

- Shoots low with the Heine straight-8 sights - TRUE. These sights are designed for a center hold as opposed to the more common target shooters 6'o clock hold. Just something you need to get used to. The more recent PT1911s can also be had with Novak sights. After shooting with the Heine's for the last couple of years, I find I like them. They are quick to get on target and do not snag on clothing.
- Sight dovetails are not milspec - TRUE. If you go with an aftermarket sight, you'll need to have the dovetail adjusted. All other parts appear to be milspec.
- Blued finish is not durable - I have not found this to be true. Mine has held up well.
- Ambi safety breakage - I have not had this problem, but this does appear to be the one common mechanical problem at least with the early PT1911 pistols based on what I've read. If it breaks, just buy a new safety from Wilson or Cylinder & Slide.

As far as "features" go on a 1911, you won't find a better value. These are not cheap 1911s, just less expensive.

IMHO - concealing a full size 1911 is actually quite easy. As another poster said upstream, the slimness of the design really helps. I frankly find it more comfortable to carry IWB than my P64 (which is nearly identical to a Walther PPK). The 1911 doesn't cause any pressure points on my hip when carrying (I carry at about 4'0clock on my hip); whereas, the P64 seems to always find an uncomfortable spot. Carrying OWB is by far the most comfortable, but you're limited to having to pretty much wear a jacket in that case. I have Bullard IWB tuckable holsters for both my 1911 and the P64 - these work well for me. I also use a Galco OWB holster for the 1911 on occasion. Your mileage may vary...