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I have been a polymer striker fired shooter for years but I think I would like to add a 1911 to my safe. I'd rather not break the bank picking one out but I also don't want anything so inexpensive that safety becomes an issue. So my question is are there any American made 1911s that are quality without the hefty price tag? Does anyone have any experience with Iver Johnson? Thanks!

I recently bought a Colt 1991 from Buds for $749. An excellent buy, IMO. Everything about it is smooth and with very tight fittings. The fit and finish is excellent. There are probably other brands that are just as good and a little lower in price, but I am a huge Colt fan, especially the ones they have put out the last several years. Also within the last year I bought a series 70 Colt and a Commander... they also being the same quality. I'm soon going to get a Defender.

I pretty much had the same idea and settled on a Ruger SR1911 (full size). Very happy with it. Made in USA.

Although not made in the USA, I added an Armscor to my 1911 collection (of which there are quite a few) and it cost me $449.00. I have several hundred rounds through it without a malfunction and would not hesitate to carry it.

Can't think of a high quality American made that isn't expensive by my book. You get what you pay for usually. Maybe look for some used stuff and you could come up on a less hefty tag on a quality 1911.

That being said, I have a cheapass Llama 1911 that cured my itch. Never once had an issue with it, I've put plenttyyyy of rounds through it over 15 years or so I've had it.

I don't know if it's a "starter" but I love my CZ 1911, which I believe is made in the Dan Wesson factory in the U.S. I paid $780 for it.

I can vouch for Ruger SR1911 as I have 2 in Commander size. Can't beat the value and customer. Service is second to none!

Thank you guys very much. I'm looking towards Ruger

Para makes an affordable gun and shoots great.

You might look at Springfield as well... they are about the best value in the under $1K, 1911 game, IMO. No offense to the Ruger but I think the Springfield is just a little more gun for the money. (ILS not withstanding)

Soccerdad1995 wrote:I don't know if it's a "starter" but I love my CZ 1911, which I believe is made in the Dan Wesson factory in the U.S. I paid $780 for it.

Wish they still made those, I hesitated buying one then poof gone

I just bought a KIMBER super carry custom hd this morning off gun broker. And it is my first 1911

flechero wrote:You might look at Springfield as well... they are about the best value in the under $1K, 1911 game, IMO. No offense to the Ruger but I think the Springfield is just a little more gun for the money. (ILS not withstanding)

If not Dan Wesson or Colt the Springfield would be my next choice. I am not a real fan of Kimbers. I also like the series 70 safety better.

My friend who is a bit of a 1911 guru ( he tunes them for both the local PD Swat Unit and Airforce Special OPs ) prefers Colt and Dan Wesson American made firearms. He also likes the RIA 1911s for a budget 1911. He considers Kimber to be over priced and overrated.

swilkes wrote:I just bought a KIMBER super carry custom hd this morning off gun broker. And it is my first 1911

Nice!