MrMurphy's Massive M1911A1 Thread

[MrMurphy]

Well..


After 22 years of shooting and wanting one, my next gun, when I return to the United States from Socialist Europe in 2008 or so, will be a 1911.

This is what I look for:

Either Commander or Gov't length.
Memory bump grip safety.
Good beavertail, and usable thumb safety for a shortthumb guy.
Standard mag release and slide lock.
Sights I can change, no problems.
No Race Gun crap (extended stuff, mag funnels etc).
No Full length guide rod.
Original bushing system as JMB intended.

"Accurate enough" but not supertight. Must be fit-wise about the same as an original 1911. I don't mind some sloppiness, I'd rather have reliability than .5" groups at 200 yards.


So far, the Springfield MC Operator seems to fit the bill (don't know if they make a Commander length) and I like the way it looks, heard many good reports.

What else fits?

Price is not a serious worry, but I would like to keep it in the $800 range.

[OUSooner]

MC Operator is there as well as the Kimber Warrior.

[10mm4ever]

massive??:upeyes:

[MrMurphy]

Some of these 1911 threads end up being 92 pages long, the last one I started here ended up being like 8 pgs.

Handled a Kimber Warrior, it was decent.

[CCV]

For that price tak a hard look at S&W.

If you're willing to spend more I recommend you look at Rock River.

[Robert McLeod]

Colt Series 70 Re-Issue, have a good smith do a trigger job, install commnader type hammer and an Ed Brown grip safety. You will not get any better pistol. These last two reccomendations were to meet your grip safety requirement. They are not required from a factory Colt, Series 70.

[Jerseycitysteve]

Originally posted by Robert McLeod
Colt Series 70 Re-Issue, have a good smith do a trigger job, install commnader type hammer and an Ed Brown grip safety. You will not get any better pistol. These last two reccomendations were to meet your grip safety requirement. They are not required from a factory Colt, Series 70.

That's a big +1!!! That's a good Smith. May take him six months to get 'er done but you will have a weapon.

[MrMurphy]

To clarify........ "Out of the box" gun. No smithing.

[spober]

yep!

[Robert McLeod]

Originally posted by MrMurphy
To clarify........ "Out of the box" gun. No smithing.


Why is this a requirement?

[PlasticGuy]

I wanted the same thing. I found a NIB Kimber Royal series 1 (no firing pin safety, internal extractor) for $699 plus shipping. It will be in my hands tomorrow. All I need to do is pull the guide rod out and put in a GI style recoil set-up. I will probably also install a short aluminum trigger. Then I will have:

Full sized 1911
No firing pin block
Internal extractor
Standard recoil plug
Tightly fitted, but not too tight
Matte black finish
Black Heinie style sights
Beavertail grip safety
Undercut trigger guard

It will be a sleeper that will perform, and for right around $800. Sounds like just about what you want.

[MrMurphy]

It's a requirement because I've seen handbuilt (completely) $3,000 guns choke when $500 Glocks did not. A basic factory .45 without the supertight custom-smithed "perfection" is the kind of tolerances I'm looking for.

If the gun DOES need some smithing I have no problem with it, I know who I'd send it to. But I want something that's a basic combat gun without too many bells and whistles (just the improvements I know I want).

Like I said so far the MC Operator seems to fit the bill as does the Kimber Warrior.

[lunde]

An Ed Brown Commander-length 1911 would meet those requirements, and you can get it with Snakeskin (Kobra Carry) or 25-lpi checkering (Executive Carry). Here is my all-stainless Kobra Carry with Gen III coating:

http://www.praxagora.com/lunde/photos/ebkc-g3-ag-left-full.jpg

http://www.praxagora.com/lunde/photos/ebkc-g3-ag-right-flat.jpg

It also has slim AlumaGrips installed.

[Jerseycitysteve]

Originally posted by MrMurphy
It's a requirement because I've seen handbuilt (completely) $3,000 guns choke when $500 Glocks did not. A basic factory .45 without the supertight custom-smithed "perfection" is the kind of tolerances I'm looking for.

If the gun DOES need some smithing I have no problem with it, I know who I'd send it to. But I want something that's a basic combat gun without too many bells and whistles (just the improvements I know I want).

Like I said so far the MC Operator seems to fit the bill as does the Kimber Warrior.

With some exceptions, like the rare out of the box weapon and products by Wilson and Brown, every 1911 requires reliablity work.

IMHO, the 1911, although a great beauty, isn't as reliable as the homely black Glock. So who'd you like as the mother of your children--a high maintenance super bikini model http://sportsmed.starwave.com/i/magazine/new/swimsuit2003_cover.jpg or a nice hard working good loving woman? http://www.pamf.org/images/sutter/woman_cooking.jpg

I have a Colt 1991 with much custom smithing I use for IDPa but the weapon to which I trust my life is a Glock.

If you want romance get a 1911. If you want to launch many rounds, get a Glock.

[10mm4ever]

Originally posted by Jerseycitysteve
With some exceptions, like the rare out of the box weapon and products by Wilson and Brown, every 1911 requires reliablity work.

IMHO, the 1911, although a great beauty, isn't as reliable as the homely black Glock. So who'd you like as the mother of your children--a high maintenance super bikini model http://sportsmed.starwave.com/i/magazine/new/swimsuit2003_cover.jpg or a nice hard working good loving woman? http://www.pamf.org/images/sutter/woman_cooking.jpg

I have a Colt 1991 with much custom smithing I use for IDPa but the weapon to which I trust my life is a Glock.

If you want romance get a 1911. If you want to launch many rounds, get a Glock. First off, you're entitled to your opinion even if you're wrong and secondly it doesnt have to be "either,or", variety is the spice of life.:cool:

[MrMurphy]

My carry gun prior to going active duty was a Glock 30 with over 10,000 rounds of .45 through it.


This is my "There can be only one" 1911.

I want it reasonably accurate, as reliable as a 1911 can be made, fitted to my specifications. And I want it that way, or as close as can be, out of the box. Any other "fixing" I don't mind doing, but I don't want to take a $500 stripped gun and send it off for a year of work. Minor tweaking is fine.

Ed Browns are all overly expensive, and more of the "accurate over reliable" crowd from what I've heard. Like I said I'll sacrifice a little microscopic accuracy for total 1911-level reliability (something approaching the original 6,000 round Army test).

[Jerseycitysteve]

Originally posted by 10mm4ever
First off, you're entitled to your opinion even if you're wrong and secondly it doesnt have to be "either,or", variety is the spice of life.:cool:

Ahh, you young guys: so naive so full of hope :dancingbanana:

If you want to give up half of what you own every few years, go to it :cool:


MrMurphy>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>I see where you are coming from. If Kimber still made the Royal I, I'd jump on it. If they decided to reissue the Royal I, I'd even buy one.

Springfield looks good. I'd only change out the government mandated titanium firing pin.

[Robert McLeod]

Originally posted by Jerseycitysteve
Springfield looks good. I'd only change out the government mandated titanium firing pin.


What Government Mandate is that?

[Jasper G36]

Originally posted by Robert McLeod
What Government Mandate is that?

California's drop test.

[Jasper G36]

Originally posted by Robert McLeod
What Government Mandate is that?

California's drop test.

[Robert McLeod]

Originally posted by MrMurphy

It's a requirement because I've seen handbuilt (completely) $3,000 guns choke when $500 Glocks did not. A basic factory .45 without the supertight custom-smithed "perfection" is the kind of tolerances I'm looking for.

If the gun DOES need some smithing I have no problem with it, I know who I'd send it to. But I want something that's a basic combat gun without too many bells and whistles (just the improvements I know I want).

Like I said so far the MC Operator seems to fit the bill as does the Kimber Warrior.

Originally posted by MrMurphy
This is my "There can be only one" 1911.

I want it reasonably accurate, as reliable as a 1911 can be made, fitted to my specifications. And I want it that way, or as close as can be, out of the box. Any other "fixing" I don't mind doing, but I don't want to take a $500 stripped gun and send it off for a year of work. Minor tweaking is fine.

Ed Browns are all overly expensive, and more of the "accurate over reliable" crowd from what I've heard. Like I said I'll sacrifice a little microscopic accuracy for total 1911-level reliability (something approaching the original 6,000 round Army test).


It sounds like you are wanting something that is as close as possible to the original Military Spec 1911, Colt is as close as you are going to get. They are the only ones that are made to original ordinance specs. Every other manufactuer has reverse engineered their specs from Colt pistols.

If you are wanting a 100% reliable pistol right out of the box Colt currently, has one of the best reputations in that aspect. My Series 70, right out of the box ate any type of ammo that I could feed through it, that is more than I can say for any Kimber or Springfield I ever owned.

If you are wanting an heirloom that you can pass down to your children and your children's children, get a Colt. Like I said, if you HAVE to have a beavertail, then that is great, I chose to install one on mine and I really like the feel of it. A good smith can do that without a problem, in a lot less time than a year.

I know that I sound like a Colt Kool-Aid drinker, however, my Series 70 was the best pistol for the money that I have ever purchased.

[MrMurphy]

My bro's got a 1991A1 (stock) and has never had a problem with it in 9 years.

[Robert McLeod]

Originally posted by MrMurphy
My bro's got a 1991A1 (stock) and has never had a problem with it in 9 years.


There you go, the only reason I prefer the 70 over the 80 is the lack of firing pin safety. Does it really make a difference? Probably not, I just like knowing there are less parts in the gun that are not neccessary.

[Glock21Owner]

Do you have a Rod and Gun Club on base? When your tour is up, why not apply for a COT? Go to Germany, you'll love it. Especially Spangdahlem.

[Bill Keith]

Well, it ain't much but I'm happy with my 1991 Commander I bought 1/6/96 for $458. It has been very reliable and shoots a steady 3" group at 15 yards all day. In 2000 I sent it to Walter Birdsong and he put his Black T finish on it and the factory mag and another Wilson Combat Mag for a total of $140. I found a nice set of stag grips with rampant Colt medallions for $75 at a pawn shop before those things got hard to find. I've kept it stock except for replacing worn out springs with Wolff springs when they crap out. I did use it here in TX for CCW until I fell in with a G36 with night sights in '04. I shoot the Commander now for fun and plan on hanging on to it. I'm always amazed at all the threads about 1911's and the astronomical amounts people will spend on them. I'm also amazed at how much some folks have problems with them. Lots don't like the series 80 guns but it really hasn't been an issue to me. The finish still looks great, and when i put a scratch in the slide, Mr Birdsong graciously repaired the finish by redoing the slide for the cost of the return postage. He even enclosed a nice note complimenting me on what a nice gun I had.

[epsylum]

delete

[rick458]

Get the Kimber in a Commander length
I Bought 3 Colts My Stainless MkIV
Series 80 has been perfect
Both 1991s
one a full size and one a Commander size
didnt Make it htrough one box of ammo
Kimber Custom II Stailess has been flawless

[Glock21Owner]

Edited to remove your location, which you'd posted in the past. Sorry.

[MrMurphy]

I am, but I try not to advertise that fact. Please don't advertise it for me.

[Clyde]

Colt Goverment 1991A1 purchased 1994

It's not stock but she is loose and lovely. I would estamate she has had appx 35k rounds though her.

Replaced Colt Parts(Hammer, Trigger, Sear, Beavertail, Safeties, sights)

Solid Gun - :)

[WIG19]

Originally posted by MrMurphy
Well..
This is what I look for:

Either Commander or Gov't length.
Memory bump grip safety.
Good beavertail, and usable thumb safety for a shortthumb guy.
Standard mag release and slide lock.
Sights I can change, no problems.
No Race Gun crap (extended stuff, mag funnels etc).
No Full length guide rod.
Original bushing system as JMB intended.

"Accurate enough" but not supertight. Must be fit-wise about the same as an original 1911. I don't mind some sloppiness, I'd rather have reliability than .5" groups at 200 yards.

What else fits?

Price is not a serious worry, but I would like to keep it in the $800 range.
Hi Murph, always good to hear from you - thanks for what you're doing.
Just some thoughts, since these can be had well-within your budget and even allow you to change some minor things if needed.

5" barrel:
http://www.springfield-armory.com/prod-pstl-1911-fs.shtml
Commander-size:
http://www.springfield-armory.com/prod-pstl-1911-ch.shtml

Take care pard!

:patriot:

[freepatriot]

Colt.

[freepatriot]

Well, on second thought, with a good night's sleep behind me and in the ability to think clearly that morning brings, I am going to say...



Colt.

[Big Bird]

Murphy,
Look at the Colt Gunsite Service Pistol...you can find em for about $1100. More than you wanted to pay but with all the features you asked for and nothing more. Short of that I'd tell you to buy a used Colt Series 70 for about $600 shoot the dickens out of it for a few months to see if the reliability and accuracy are up to your standards then and send it to Ted Yost for reliability/accuracy work (if required), a carry bevel package and sights/trigger/finish upgrade. He won't try and tighten the gun up in any way unless you ask for it!
The current Springfield's are OK but IMO you need to get rid of the retarded lock in the main spring housing and they will probably need some trigger work.
I'd do all I could to avoid the Gen II Kimbers. I own a pair of Gen 1 Kimbers and the new guns simply can't hold a candle to the old guns. Not even close.

[Vic303]

Dan Wesson (CZ). Look at them--if you like you can even play in 10mm with the Razorbacks.

[MrMurphy]

I've handled the Dan Wessons, and i wasn't overly impressed. I'd have to shoot one first.


I could change a mainspring housing myself, and triggerwork is an acceptable smithing job for me.

I've read up on the new GSP and it sounds good, and since i can't buy one for another couple years anyways....... i'm already saving for a Kahr K9 (Pilotkitten) and an M4gery (training gun for work).. what's another $1100.

[MrMurphy]

Anybody else?

[mcmoyer]

Has anyone mentioned Colt yet?

:supergrin: :beer:

[epsylum]

Originally posted by MrMurphy
I am, but I try not to advertise that fact. Please don't advertise it for me.

Oops sorry.

I will delete my post

[romull]

Originally posted by Jerseycitysteve
With some exceptions, like the rare out of the box weapon and products by Wilson and Brown, every 1911 requires reliablity work.

IMHO, the 1911, although a great beauty, isn't as reliable as the homely black Glock. So who'd you like as the mother of your children--a high maintenance super bikini model http://sportsmed.starwave.com/i/magazine/new/swimsuit2003_cover.jpg or a nice hard working good loving woman? http://www.pamf.org/images/sutter/woman_cooking.jpg

I have a Colt 1991 with much custom smithing I use for IDPa but the weapon to which I trust my life is a Glock.

If you want romance get a 1911. If you want to launch many rounds, get a Glock.
nice comparison...a good ol' dependable glock as your primary, then secretly slip out the back and meet up with your 1911;)

[freepatriot]

http://freepatriot.com/imagewarehouse/colt-ammocan-03262006/DSCF3653.jpg


http://freepatriot.com/imagewarehouse/colt-ammocan-03262006/DSCF3662.jpg

[freepatriot]

Originally posted by Jerseycitysteve
IMHO, the 1911, although a great beauty, isn't as reliable as the homely black Glock.

I will argue with this statement all day long, every day, year in and year out.

[happyguy]

It ain't massive yet, but it's getting there.

Regards,
Happyguy:)

[Jerseycitysteve]

Originally posted by scottauld
I will argue with this statement all day long, every day, year in and year out.


My trusty Colt took about 1,000 worth of work to be stone reliable. My Glock 19 out of the box has never bobbled a round.

After shooting the Colt, I clean and lube the weapon.

After shooting the Glock, I have been known to put it in the safe.


Colt--$1,700

Glock--$549

Well?:bringiton:

[Jerseycitysteve]

Originally posted by romull
nice comparison...a good ol' dependable glock as your primary, then secretly slip out the back and meet up with your 1911;)

That works with guns, romull, my boy but not with women. SWMBO is not as forgiving as the G-19 when the Colt and I go out to play.


Also the most expensive 1911s find fiftyish men irresistible. The same cannot be said for bikini models.

[PlasticGuy]

Originally posted by Jerseycitysteve
My trusty Colt took about 1,000 worth of work to be stone reliable. My Glock 19 out of the box has never bobbled a round.

After shooting the Colt, I clean and lube the weapon.

After shooting the Glock, I have been known to put it in the safe.


Colt--$1,700

Glock--$549
Honestly, Colt 1911's are a rip-off. Spend the same money on a Springfield and you'll get a nicer gun without the word "Colt" on the slide. Spend a bit more to get a Kimber and you'll have a much nicer 1911.

Realistically though, good 1911's will cost more than a Glock. That doesn't mean they aren't better in many ways than a Glock. It also doesn't mean that they aren't worse in some ways than a Glock. It just that they cost more to build.

It's worth it to me for the better trigger pull, ergonomics, and accuracy. If you're content with a Glock, I'm not going to tell you that you're making a bad choice, because I own a couple of Glocks also and appreciate them for the tools that they are. I just shoot my 1911's better, and find the slimmer design to be a better fit in my holster and my hand. I guess it's a personal thing, but I think a person's choice in carry guns should be a personal choice and not a math equation.

[Short Cut]

I think the whole idea that only loose fitting 1911s are reliable is a myth. My Springfield Pro, Wilson Tac E and 5 Baers have proven that a tight gun can be perfectly reliable.

[freepatriot]

Originally posted by Jerseycitysteve
My trusty Colt took about 1,000 worth of work to be stone reliable. My Glock 19 out of the box has never bobbled a round.

After shooting the Colt, I clean and lube the weapon.

After shooting the Glock, I have been known to put it in the safe.


Colt--$1,700

Glock--$549

Well?:bringiton:

(Now as I say this, keep in mind that I never said that one is more reliable than the other... YOU DID. I only argue that they are equally reliable.)

My trusty Glocks (which I traded away for a reloading press to feed the 1911) out of the box never bobbled a round.

My trusty new 2005 Colt 1911 never bobbled a round (except the ones I mismanufactured at my reloading press).

My trusty new 2005 Springfield 1911 even gobbled the rounds I mismanufactured.

After shooting the Colt, I sometimces clean and lube the weapon.

After shooting the Colts, I sometimes have been known to put it in the safe. I feel guilty afterwards, because the gun deserves better for being so pretty, but I have never seen the gun misfire due to being unclean.;)


My Colt--$725

My Springfield--got in trade for $200 Romanian AK

Glock--$400

(Are you sure you're not just bitter because you overpaid? ;););))

I'm sorry you had to modify your Colt. I didn't. I guess our anecdotal evidences cancel each other out?

Well?:bringiton:

[happyguy]

My G36 and G17 were so unreliable they were unpleasant even as range guns. I would have only carried one of them for self-defense if it were the only weapon available.

My SW 1911 is a pleasant range gun but I'd rather have something more reliable for CCW.

My G19 and G23 have been perfect through many rounds.

My Colt 1991A1 NRM and Lighweight Commander have also been perfect through many rounds.

I've heard a lot of horror stories about Glock's and seen more than a few in person but I have utter confidence in my two current samples.

IMO my Colts are the equal of my Glocks in every way that matters.

Regards,
Happyguy:)

[MrMurphy]

My G30 has over 10,000 through it with very few hiccups. That's not the point (I've carried it for five years). This is my present to myself when i return from Europe and probably the only 1911 I'll buy for a LONG time. So I want the "perfect for MrMurphy" gun. I know 1911 and Glock reliability etc...that's not the issue.

[freepatriot]

Originally posted by scottauld
(Now as I say this, keep in mind that I never said that one is more reliable than the other... YOU DID. I only argue that they are equally reliable.)

My trusty Glocks (which I traded away for a reloading press to feed the 1911) out of the box never bobbled a round.

My trusty new 2005 Colt 1911 never bobbled a round (except the ones I mismanufactured at my reloading press).

My trusty new 2005 Springfield 1911 even gobbled the rounds I mismanufactured.

After shooting the Colt, I sometimces clean and lube the weapon.

After shooting the Colts, I sometimes have been known to put it in the safe. I feel guilty afterwards, because the gun deserves better for being so pretty, but I have never seen the gun misfire due to being unclean.;)


My Colt--$725

My Springfield--got in trade for $200 Romanian AK

Glock--$400

(Are you sure you're not just bitter because you overpaid? ;););))

I'm sorry you had to modify your Colt. I didn't. I guess our anecdotal evidences cancel each other out?

Well?:bringiton:



Something occurred to me yesterday, thinking about this post:

I like STOCK guns. Not dolled up ones.

That is a very personal preference, and not one I should assume that many other people hold. I bought the COLT with no intention of turning it into a project gun. It very well could be my obsession with bone-stock non-upgraded guns that drive my opinion on the COLT being such a good deal.

If you want dressy 1911s I think there probably are a lot better options out there than a COLT.

Hope that clarifies things.

Scott :beer:

[Big Bird]

Murphey,
Here are my most used .45s. I own a couple of mint series 70 Colts but they are safe queens/investment pieces.

http://www.hunt101.com/img/414869.JPG

From left to right: 1st Gen. Kimber Custom Carry (highly modified), Stock Colt series 70 Commander, customized Springfield Armory 1911, stock 1st gen. Kimber Royal, and a STI Ranger II.

The most used gun is the middle Springfield Armory, I took that gun to Gunsite in the early 90's and Ted Yost worked it over for me while I was there. Two years ago I had the front strap checkered and the whole thing Black-T coated. The standard grip safety has been rounded and the hammer bobbed. It is as comfortable to shoot as any beavertail gun and in many ways I prefer it to the beavertails. If I had it to do over again that gun would be a Colt series 70. But they weren't making them back in 1990 and you can get one now. I'd send it off to Ted Yost and have it worked over in a heartbeat. Just tell Ted you want him to make it a Gunsite Service Pistol the way he made em when he was at Gunsite.

Enjoy.

[MrMurphy]

Bump.......anyone else.

[freepatriot]

This thread is not massive enough yet.

[MrMurphy]

It's growing.... slowly. :)

[epsylum]

You still haven't decided?

I have limited 1911 experience, but Springfield makes a pretty solid one for not a whole bunch of money.

[MrMurphy]

I have another 2.5 years before I can buy it anyways.. so i'm keeping options open.

[zen_grasshopper]

I trust my life to this weapon. It gets carried everyday, on and off duty. 50 to 60 thousand rounds down the pipe, with 1 malfunction that can be attributed to the gun (worn out sear, hammer followed on malfunction clearing drills, so I replaced the sear and hammer) the rest were my reloads and some bad mag followers.

The gun is the lowest cost Kimber. It's a Classic Custom. I bought it four years ago for $550 bucks. It was slightly used and only had 300 rounds through it and no holster wear. It now looks like this.

http://www.itctel.com/~zengrass/Kimber640x480.jpg

http://www.itctel.com/~zengrass/Kimber640x480-2.jpg

My PD issues Glock 22's. Guess what! We had to replace the firing pin safety, the firing pins and the trigger bars, as the firing pin safety and firing pin wore and stopped working on about 33% of the guns we have. We have had malfunctions with the Glocks, one I had to polish the feed ramp before it would feed.

Glocks are excellent weapons, 1911's are excellent weapons. Anything mechanical can and will break it is just a matter of time.

I have tens of thousands of rounds through Glocks, and ten of thousands of rounds through 1911's. Before I put either in my holster I test them before I will trust them. But most of all I continue to do preventative maintainance through out the firearms lifespan.

MrMurphy, if you want to purchase a 1911, kudos for you. If it is what you want, buy one and shoot the heck out of it.

Sorry for the rant, this post is in regards to Glock vs. 1911 reliability. Don't get caught up in internet hype about one gun being more reliable then another. Buy what you want and find out if it has problems. If it does send it back to the factory, fix it or sell it. It doesn't matter if it is a 1911, Glock, Beretta, Sig, or an HK. Brand loyalty means nothing to me.

I end with this, all guns can have problems, most don't.

Jon

[MrMurphy]

I'm not worried about reliability or one gun over another, i carry a Glock, with 10,000+ through it, and I've been shooting 1911s for 15 years or so. I know what I like, but I want this to be my "ONE!!" 1911 i.e, everything that I want done to it, without massive customization etc.

[faawrenchbndr]

I have a Sig Sauer GSR Revolution that I now have 500 rounds thru. Reliable thus far. I like the styling and it feels and ballances better that the Kimber Classic stainless it replaced.

I have a slightly used, 200 rounds fired, Springfield Milspec on thre way.

http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c341/faawrenchbndr/aaa78c5b.jpg

http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c341/faawrenchbndr/72fe9420.jpg

[epsylum]

Originally posted by MrMurphy
I have another 2.5 years before I can buy it anyways.. so i'm keeping options open.

Oh, I guess that makes sense then ;)

[auto45]

Good post by zen-grasshopper which sums up working handguns pretty good IMO.

[Jerseycitysteve]

Originally posted by zen_grasshopper
I trust my life to this weapon. It gets carried everyday, on and off duty. 50 to 60 thousand rounds down the pipe, with 1 malfunction that can be attributed to the gun (worn out sear, hammer followed on malfunction clearing drills, so I replaced the sear and hammer) the rest were my reloads and some bad mag followers.

The gun is the lowest cost Kimber. It's a Classic Custom. I bought it four years ago for $550 bucks. It was slightly used and only had 300 rounds through it and no holster wear. ............SNIP.............................................
My PD issues Glock 22's. Guess what! We had to replace the firing pin safety, the firing pins and the trigger bars, as the firing pin safety and firing pin wore and stopped working on about 33% of the guns we have. We have had malfunctions with the Glocks, one I had to polish the feed ramp before it would feed.

Glocks are excellent weapons, 1911's are excellent weapons. Anything mechanical can and will break it is just a matter of time.

I have tens of thousands of rounds through Glocks, and ten of thousands of rounds through 1911's. Before I put either in my holster I test them before I will trust them. But most of all I continue to do preventative maintainance through out the firearms lifespan.

MrMurphy, if you want to purchase a 1911, kudos for you. If it is what you want, buy one and shoot the heck out of it.

Sorry for the rant, this post is in regards to Glock vs. 1911 reliability. Don't get caught up in internet hype about one gun being more reliable then another. Buy what you want and find out if it has problems. If it does send it back to the factory, fix it or sell it. It doesn't matter if it is a 1911, Glock, Beretta, Sig, or an HK. Brand loyalty means nothing to me.

I end with this, all guns can have problems, most don't.

Jon


Your 1911 is from the golden age of Kimber: no stupid Swartz safety and solid internals.

[zen_grasshopper]

Jerseycitysteve,

Yes it is a pre-series I, but I have no problems with the Series II either. When they first came out with the Series II, I know that they had a few teething problems, but that has since been resolved. Kimber made a mistake with the external extractor and have gone back to the internal. Kimber, Springfield, S&W, Colt and many other companies make fine 1911 design firearms. I will shoot any and all of them.

I am still trying to figure out what you mean by solid parts. From what I can tell the parts are the same. The new ones have the same parts just with the extra Series II components. Maybe you can explain.

And sorry to MrMurphy for the thread drift. I know that you want your 1911 to be the "one". Just keep looking at the different manufacturers out there and you will find one that meets your desires.

Jon

[rick458]

Murph Be Honest with yourself, No man can own just 1 1911
and few can resist the siren song to Modify them it is all just part of the experience

[epsylum]

Originally posted by rick458
Murph Be Honest with yourself, No man can own just 1 1911
and few can resist the siren song to Modify them it is all just part of the experience

So true. I only have one, but desire to have many more.

[steve1911]

I picked up a MC operator 3 yrs. ago have'nt had one problem with it sofar, got about 9400 rds thur it.
the only thing i changed was the mainspring houseing, put an ed brown in it, the pistol is very accurate it's my go to gun know. hope this helps murph.

1911club#410

[js1392]

Well, in an effort to make this thread more massive, and since no one else has really said it in an understandable way yet...

COLT.

[Honkie]

Originally posted by js1392
Well, in an effort to make this thread more massive, and since no one else has really said it in an understandable way yet...

COLT.

I think Scott beat ya to the point......;)

I know I have posted this pic at least a dozen times, but here it goes agian. My series 80 BONE STOCK Colt OACP. Not one problem at all, loves remmy golden sabers, and can put all 7 of them in a fist size group at 15 yards.



http://i1.tinypic.com/1zzib79.jpg

[WarpSpeed]

Just one 1911 to my name at this time, my newly acquired Kimber Warrior. In the past I've had a pair of Para Ordnances (P14-45 Ltd and a home-spun alloy framed P12-45 Ltd.) and a nicely setup Kimber Eclipse Custom II I still kick myself for selling.

[Short Cut]

Originally posted by js1392
Well, in an effort to make this thread more massive, and since no one else has really said it in an understandable way yet...

COLT.

http://home.comcast.net/~1911brass/Colt_45_Series_70.jpg

[freepatriot]

Originally posted by glock22fan1
I think Scott beat ya to the point......;) [/IMG]

I need to get some new pics of the Colt done, with the new holster

[Honkie]

Originally posted by scottauld
I need to get some new pics of the Colt done, with the new holster

Naw, your Colts are good as-is...;)

[krept]

Originally posted by zen_grasshopper

The gun is the lowest cost Kimber. It's a Classic Custom. I bought it four years ago for $550 bucks. It was slightly used and only had 300 rounds through it and no holster wear. It now looks like this.


in my humble opinion, this is one of the best looking 1911s that I have seen. Outstanding and thanks for sharing.

[quantico]

Originally posted by MrMurphy
Ed Browns are all overly expensive, and more of the "accurate over reliable" crowd from what I've heard.

My Ed Brown executive carry has been 100 percent flawless.. They are tight and reliable... They are somewhat expensive . I wish you were closer.. as I would suggest you take my ED Brown to the range or maybe run an IDPA or IPSC course with it and see what you think after a day of getting to know one.



I would recommend a colt series 70 or a series 80 if the safety parts don't bother you. My series 80 colt now has 54000 rounds or so and it rocks.

The springfield loaded models are also very good, they feel a bit clunky compared to my high end 1911's , but I would trust my springfield longslide any day.

[quantico]

Originally posted by rick458
Murph Be Honest with yourself, No man can own just 1 1911
and few can resist the siren song to Modify them it is all just part of the experience

You sure know what you are talking about.. Compared to owning 1911's things like a crack habit or heroin addiction must seem like a " hobby" :upeyes:

[SomeGuyInAHat]

Truly massive, mon.

We need a Rasta smiley.

[A_Swede_17_1911]

All I think of is a Kimber Custom II or a Springfield Fully Loaded.


I think both those would suit what your looking for. Simple, have all the mods that you want already. Out of the box and should be dead reliable.

[MrMurphy]

Bump for the new guys.


So far, the Springfield MC Operator, Colt Gunsite or a lightly accessorized Colt Commander may do the trick.


A Springfield Milspec or GI will come along later as my beater 1911 for range fun/backup piece for training.

Still got 2 years and surviving a deployment before I can get either of them though.

[Geeorge]

This was my first 1911 :)

[MrMurphy]

Looks like a 1911, not an A1.....how'd you pull that off?

[DreamWeaver88]

Originally posted by lunde
An Ed Brown Commander-length 1911 would meet those requirements, and you can get it with Snakeskin (Kobra Carry) or 25-lpi checkering (Executive Carry). Here is my all-stainless Kobra Carry with Gen III coating:

http://www.praxagora.com/lunde/photos/ebkc-g3-ag-left-full.jpg

http://www.praxagora.com/lunde/photos/ebkc-g3-ag-right-flat.jpg

It also has slim AlumaGrips installed.

Wow. So plain looking, but at the same time, so much to see.

Those AlumaGrips really set it off.

Beautiful gun!

DW

[Geeorge]

Originally posted by MrMurphy
Looks like a 1911, not an A1.....how'd you pull that off?
Well it was born in 1918;)

[cjlandry]

Originally posted by Cletus VanDamme
This was my first 1911 :)

Now that's a beautiful 1911!

[freepatriot]

Originally posted by cjlandry
Now that's a beautiful 1911! Word!

[freepatriot]

Originally posted by scottauld
I need to get some new pics of the Colt done, with the new holster


Only took me five months to get this done :)


http://freepatriot.com/imagewarehouse/coltrubbergrips122506/small/DSCF5242miltsparks1.JPG

[cjlandry]

Lookin' good, Scott!

[freepatriot]

Thanks, CJ. How y'all is?

[Robert McLeod]

Originally posted by scottauld
Only took me five months to get this done :)




Looking good Scott, that Colt is actually getting some character to it, unlike some of the other "carry" pistols I see on here most of time.

[freepatriot]

Hiya Robert.

When I bought the Colt I had the notion of keeping it "immaculate" but it shoots too well to be left at home when I go to the range. What can i say.. all the bullets go to the center of the target, and that makes me want to shoot it a lot, and that makes me want to put it in the holster and carry it.

Immaculate be damned. I'll let Short Cut maintain the safe queens. ;)

[Robert McLeod]

I think the Colts look much better used. The finish on mine is starting to run really thin. after I get it checkered I am probably going to parkerize it and be done with it for good as far as the finish is concerned.

[Alaskapopo]

Originally posted by Jerseycitysteve
With some exceptions, like the rare out of the box weapon and products by Wilson and Brown, every 1911 requires reliablity work.

IMHO, the 1911, although a great beauty, isn't as reliable as the homely black Glock. So who'd you like as the mother of your children--a high maintenance super bikini model http://sportsmed.starwave.com/i/magazine/new/swimsuit2003_cover.jpg or a nice hard working good loving woman? http://www.pamf.org/images/sutter/woman_cooking.jpg

I have a Colt 1991 with much custom smithing I use for IDPa but the weapon to which I trust my life is a Glock.

If you want romance get a 1911. If you want to launch many rounds, get a Glock.

Glocks are fine. But if you need the best combat pistol ever made that is the choice of LEO SWAT Teams and Military Special Force groups, as well as the choice of the majority of competition shooters then the 1911 is the only logical choice. Glocks will do and for the money their a better gun. But if money is no object then 1911 can be made better than a Glock could ever hope to be.
Pat

[Jerseycitysteve]

True enough. I suppose that's why the Donald Trumps of this world go for the high maintenance type.

All the elite units have armorers on call 24/7. The shooting prodigy Daniel Horner got his start at our club. He's on the Army Shooting Team headquartered at Ft. Bragg. You ought to see the armorer's shop! All the special ops soldiers get there weapons fine tuned at the shop as well.

So for Thousands of dollars, you may go the 1911 route. I just got another used 1911 Springfield to send to smith.

[Alaskapopo]

Originally posted by Jerseycitysteve
True enough. I suppose that's why the Donald Trumps of this world go for the high maintenance type.

All the elite units have armorers on call 24/7. The shooting prodigy Daniel Horner got his start at our club. He's on the Army Shooting Team headquartered at Ft. Bragg. You ought to see the armorer's shop! All the special ops soldiers get there weapons fine tuned at the shop as well.

So for Thousands of dollars, you may go the 1911 route. I just got another used 1911 Springfield to send to smith.

A good 1911 is not cheap but how much is your life worth. I shoot a 1911 better than I do any other pistol. My Wilson CQB and my Kimber Series 1 have been very reliable for me. If your on a limited budget then 1911 is not for you. Also when it comes to durablity the 1911 will last for well over 100000 rounds if maintained properly. So once you buy one you will not have to replace it anytime soon.

Also 1911's are not that high maintance as many people think. An annual inspection along with changing the recoil spring every 2000 rounds will keep it running along time. That combined with normal cleaning. Although I did fire my CQB 2000 rounds when it was new during the break in period without cleaning it without any malfunctions. The ammo fired was a mix of lead semi wadcutters, ball and factory JHP's.

Pat

[vanilla_gorilla]

Originally posted by Alaskapopo
If you want romance get a 1911. If you want to launch many rounds, get a Glock.

But I don't want to just "launch many rounds", I want to hit my target, and do it well. A 1911 does that for me.

[DoubleDog]

Murph,

Ya crack me up!

You are, IMO, one of the most all around knowledgeable gun guys on GT, and I'm amazed that after wanting a 1911 all these years you don't already know exactly what you want...

(OK...maybe you do...I didn't read the whole thread...;))

Anyway, hope all is well, stay safe...

DD~

[MrMurphy]

I know the general package, doesn't mean I know EVERY SINGLE VARIATION of 1911 out there.

Read the first post.

[DocH]

Murphy,I agree 100% with the specifications you descibed in the original post.A 1911 should be a real 1911. Good luck finding the right one.They're out there.:)

[G36's Rule]

I've really become fond of my Warrior. Pretty straight forward 1911 except for the rail.

It fits your list except for the price.

[jonathon]

Just get a Colt 1991 and call it good :thumbsup:

http://i42.photobucket.com/albums/e330/jonathonswiger/guns/Colt1911/Colt-Forty-Five031.jpg

[Glockdude1]

http://nas4.atlanta.gbhinc.com/GB/063082000/63082667/pix2801593251.jpg

:thumbsup:

[freepatriot]

Originally posted by Glockdude1
http://nas4.atlanta.gbhinc.com/GB/063082000/63082667/pix2801593251.jpg

:thumbsup: :banana: :banana: :banana:

[jonathon]

http://i42.photobucket.com/albums/e330/jonathonswiger/guns/Colt1911/Colt-Forty-Five018.jpg

[Robert McLeod]

jonathon, that is a fine looking pistol.

[jonathon]

Originally posted by Robert McLeod
jonathon, that is a fine looking pistol.

Thanks! Coming from you that is a real compliment!

[NucSub]

Originally posted by Jerseycitysteve
That works with guns, romull, my boy but not with women. SWMBO is not as forgiving as the G-19 when the Colt and I go out to play.
Also the most expensive 1911s find fiftyish men irresistible. The same cannot be said for bikini models.

Far too many truths to the above statements.
I know it is a "smithed" gun but Cylinder and Slide R&D.

[freepatriot]

Nice pic, Jonathan. What's the round count up to now?

[freepatriot]

Originally posted by jonathon
Thanks! Coming from you that is a real compliment! +1, Robert knows his stuff

[freepatriot]

http://freepatriot.com/imagewarehouse/coltrubbergrips122506/small/DSCF5261leftside3.JPG




http://freepatriot.com/imagewarehouse/coltrubbergrips122506/small/DSCF5259leftside1.JPG

[MrMurphy]

Does anyone actually own a Colt Gunsite?

[younggun22]

i dont own one but a buddy of mine does. i think he paid 1400 for it and i dont really see where its worth it, you go out for that money and get a pretty nice semi custom gun that nicer than the colt

[Robert McLeod]

Originally posted by younggun22
you go out for that money and get a pretty nice semi custom gun that nicer than the colt


Which semi-custom, and how is it nicer?

[PlasticGuy]

Originally posted by MrMurphy
Does anyone actually own a Colt Gunsite?
I don't own one, but I've handled a couple. It seemed like a slightly gussied up Colt 1911, selling for quite a bit more than I'd be willing to pay. I don't mind paying big dollars for a good 1911, and I have done so twice when I bought my Les Baer 1911's, but the Colt seemed like a cheap gun that was priced high. The level of fit and finish and the overall tightness just wasn't up to what I would expect of a $1400 1911.

[younggun22]

+1 the one i handle was quite loose... in fact the remington rand i have is tighter than the gunsite

[juggy4711]

Originally posted by scottauld
Something occurred to me yesterday, thinking about this post:

I like STOCK guns. Not dolled up ones.

That is a very personal preference, and not one I should assume that many other people hold. Scott :beer:

Huge +1. I feel the same way. Unfortuantely my gun budget is limited so I need performace out of the box. Even if I was rolling in cash I would still prefer that a gun be great stock. Plus getting a good gun out of the box means you can spend the money others spend on smithing on ammo or another gun.

There's a 1911 in my near future and more than likely a Kimber custom II but the Operator sure looks sweet:thumbsup:

[vanilla_gorilla]

Originally posted by younggun22
i dont own one but a buddy of mine does. i think he paid 1400 for it and i dont really see where its worth it, you go out for that money and get a pretty nice semi custom gun that nicer than the colt

If I'm going 1400 deep into a piece, I'm on the phone with Yost-Bonitz.

[SIGShooter]

New pic of the CQB.


http://i91.photobucket.com/albums/k299/davidjinks/CQBWartime.jpg

[MrMurphy]

Interesting grips.

[jonathon]

Scott,

Sorry I didn't answer! I'm right at 900 rounds. Runs like a top and puts big holes where I aim :supergrin:

I've got an EGW firing pin stop, Wolf 16lb recoil spring, and Wolff Extra Power firing pin spring on order. I had just put a new 16lb spring in my Springer and it feels much stiffer than the stock Colt one(Which I know has no more than 900 rounds on it), so I'm replacing it. Then I also read that the Series 80 Colt's tend to have soft firing pin springs, so I figured for $2 what the heck :supergrin:

Did I miss some mud on those grips? :supergrin: