I need some 1911 schooling.

[mojo]

I own and have owned many different polymer semi-auto pistols including Glock, S&W, Sig, Ruger, etc. I have also owned many revolvers. Mostly S&W 586/686. I am contemplating buying my first 1911. I don't know a whole lot about them and need some advice. I don't buy cheap pistols but I don't want to spend a fortune either on my first 1911. This will not be my home defense or my carry gun as I will continue to use the what I trust and am familiar with for that. I am trying not to spend over $700-$800. I have been looking at the S&W E, but am up for suggestions. I prefer full size pistols. Any expertise in the area will be greatly appreciated.

 

[JohnnyPlant]

I also recently got into the 1911 platform, after years of experience with other platforms. After reading many reviews and asking for advise like you are, I decided to go with the Ruger sr1911 and I am very pleased with my decision. It is priced right in your range as well. The only problem is that I now love the 1911 and my hobby just got much more expensive. Good Luck!

 

[fattboyzz]

In your $ range is the Springfield loaded .

A little less than it is the Ruger SR1911 in government or commander size.

These are excellent choices and built solid .

 

[Mentos]

In your $ range is the Springfield loaded .

A little less than it is the Ruger SR1911 in government or commander size.

These are excellent choices and built solid .

^^ these are great for what you are looking to do.

 

[rockdawg]

I have a S&W E-seried and love it. It's a very solid pistol for the money. Mine shoots great and very accurate. The Rugers are a good value also. Either one would make a great entry into the 1911.

 

[jcountry]

Never depend on the palm "safety"

It only locks the trigger, not the sear. The hammer can snag on something and then get released and the pistol will fire. I know two people this has happened two. One of them blew a huge hole in his hand.

The only reliable safety is the one on the slide.

Many people don't understand the difference.

 

[fslc94]

Springfield or Ruger

 

[Flashover16]

Never depend on the palm "safety"
It only locks the trigger, not the sear. The hammer can snag on something and then get released and the pistol will fire. I know two people this has happened two. One of them blew a huge hole in his hand.
The only reliable safety is the one on the slide.
Many people don't understand the difference.

HMMM? interesting??
so apparently both were series 70 1911's and additionally if it happened as described both had the half cock notch defective as well?
of course if a series 80 then the firing pin block also must have malfunctioned while the half cock notch failed as the hammer was accidentally dropped.
man some really unlucky guys there.
just saying????
theres a whole lot that has to go wrong for a 1911 to accidentally fire, I mean these things were designed to be drawn and fired from horse back and that was before the series 80 system.

 

[Flashover16]

If I were going to suggest a particular 1911 to someone that was using it almost purely for recreation, but could stills serve home defense duty.
I would suggest that you look at the Springfield Armory Range officer.
it is a basic design entry level competition model 1911 that can be had in the 750-800 buck range.
it has fully adjustable sights, the beavertail, vent trigger/ring hammer and a decent blue job, they are very nice right out of the box.
nothing wrong with the others mentioned either, I just think the range officer covers a lot more bases for your particular need.
another thought and equal in my opinion is the STI entry level 1911, it comes in 4-5-inch barrels as well.
Here's a ho-hum everyday range time with my all stock (except front sight) springer.

 

[Tony2X]

In your $ range is the Springfield loaded .

A little less than it is the Ruger SR1911 in government or commander size.

These are excellent choices and built solid .

X2 on the Springfield loaded model. Get a trigger job and a mag. well and your good to go.
BTW, the stock trigger aint really bad at all.