I've had Kimber, Springfield, Smith and Wesson, and Ruger. I no longer have the first three but I still have two Ruger SR1911's. I think they are a really good value. Mine shoot all types of ammo accurately and without hiccups. The only modification I did were the grip panels. I paid $650 for the first at the LGS and I paid $550 for the second one on the ODT! I won't badmouth the other makers, I just think the Ruger is an exceptional value for an American made 1911.