Help on deciding on 1911

[The 49er]

I want a 1911 but don't wanna break the bank

rock island tactical

springfield Mil-spec ( step up from basic GI )

Para Gi Expert?


What one is the better gun?

not going to trick it out, just want a 1911

[jrs93accord]

The Rock Island Tactical is a fine gun at a really decent price. I have one I bought about a year ago for $400. The Springfield Mil-Spec will run a couple hundred dollars more and worth every penny. I would say to get the RIA Tactical and spend a few dollars on some nice Wilson 8-round mags.

[MD357]

Springer Mil-spec hands down. Don't get me wrong I like the RIAs but people tend to change things a bit down the road even though they think they won't and the springer is a perfect base.

Para's aren't an option for me. I've just seen too much of their junk fail.

[Quack]

STI Spartan.

no to Para.

RIA is good, but the Mil-spec has more potential if you get the bug to modify it.

[BlayGlock]

If you think you may want to upgrade later get the Springfield.

If not I really like the STI Spartan at that price point.

Stay away from Para. Poor workmanship and bad customer service.

[PlasticGuy]

I'd get the Springfield of those three. It has the best quality frame, slide, and barrel. It will shoot well out of the box, and is also a great candidate for custom work if you want to go that route later.

[bac1023]

Definitely the Springfield out of those choices.

[das9mm26]

Another vote for the SA!!
A bit more than a "bare bones " RIA...but forged frame and generally tighter-fitting parts.....Not to knock RIA.....for a "bargain" 1911 - and a VERY GOOD base for a "build" - it's hard to top!!
BTW....BOTH SA and RIA offer some of the BEST customer service in the industry!!!!
Good luck in your "quest"!!! You should be fine with ANY of your choices.....

[dakrat]

I would pick the Springfield out of those three. fine base gun with a great customer service and custom shop to back it up :)

[alwaysshootin]

RIA, or Springfield hands down. I'm not a gunsmith, but a very close friend is, and he rates the RIA very highly. I have no experience with Para, but from others advice, don't think I ever will. Don't get me wrong, I don't think there is anything wrong with Springfield. It does perterb me that they have gone up so much in price for their basic models. That being said, before I spent 6ish for a Springfield, I would definitely step up to the Kimber before I spent that much for a springer. So that once again brings me back for substantial savings to the ROCK Island!:cool:

[Cerebrus]

I would look into STI as well.. at that price point the Spartan is a viable option as well