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So I am throwing around the idea of purchasing up a .45 1911. I've never owned one so I am looking for opinions. I am looking at something that can be used for EDC, so I am thinking a 4" barrel, since they tend to be lighter. I was at a store earlier and handled the Kimber Pro Carry II and it felt better in my hand that the larger Kimber Custom, even though I haven't shot it, just dry fired. I'm also considering the Springfield Champion Operator Lightweight as a good alternative.

Looking for input on Kimber or Springfield as a manufacturer in general (customer service with issues, etc.) as well as any reliability issues that should be considered. Or should I be looking at others such as Ruger, Colt, etc.?

On a side note, does anyone have any experience with the Master Carry Pro?

As a side thought, will the weight prove to be an issue for the .45? Kimber was listed at 28oz while the Springfield is 31oz, empty.

Buy both. Pick one. Give me the other.

While I have no first hand experience with either manufacturer, I think I can be confident in the statement that you wont be UNhappy with either.

I have a Les Baer and I love it, but 7 rounds is not a proper EDC for me.

I have no experience with Kimber, but I do have a Speingfield 1911 Range Officer and love it! Smooth action, nice trigger pull and good weight to it. I have always been a Sig P226 guy until I bought the Springfield, now it's my go to gun at the range, although my EDC is a Shield 9mm with a Crimson Trace green laser and a mag extender on it.

Go with the Springfield. I have the TRP and the Trophy Match. Both are excellent pistols and a great value. I have been considering the pistol you mentioned.

I bought a Kimber Super Carry Pro a few years ago and had major issues with it. They ended up buying it back from me. I went to the Springfield's and have not look back.

I am also looking for another 1911. If I could afford the Kimber, that's what I would get. But champagne taste on a beer budget is where I always find myself. I'm also looking at Para, Colt, and Ruger. The Springfield may win out. Whichever you choose, you will enjoy it.

Lynyrd wrote:I am also looking for another 1911. If I could afford the Kimber, that's what I would get. But champagne taste on a beer budget is where I always find myself. I'm also looking at Para, Colt, and Ruger. The Springfield may win out. Whichever you choose, you will enjoy it.

If you're looking for a nice, well built and equipped 1911 on a budget; I would take a look at the Rock Island Armory. It's a nice gun, made well and shoots good.

I am a huge Springfield fan, but there is a quality about my Colt Commander that is undeniable. The Colt would be my first choice.

TexasJohnBoy wrote:Buy both. Pick one. Give me the other.

While I have no first hand experience with either manufacturer, I think I can be confident in the statement that you wont be UNhappy with either.

Hmm, wouldn't this be considered a straw purchase

LTUME1978 wrote:Go with the Springfield. I have the TRP and the Trophy Match. Both are excellent pistols and a great value. I have been considering the pistol you mentioned.

I bought a Kimber Super Carry Pro a few years ago and had major issues with it. They ended up buying it back from me. I went to the Springfield's and have not look back.

Which one were you considering? The Springfield Champion lightweight?


As a side thought, will the weight prove to be an issue for the .45? Kimber was listed at 28oz while the Springfield is 31oz, empty.

Springfield is top notch and their customer service is great, they fixed an issue with my champion for free even though I'm the one that caused it. Had my pistol back within a week

Right now I'm eyeballing the new range officer operator

I have 3 1911's. A Springfield TRP, a Range Officer, and a Sig TacOps. All 3 are excellent. Right now the Sig is my EDC. Can't go wrong with any of them.

I'd find a buddy that has some or a range that rents them and try some out before buying.

They do become addicting though...

b4aftr wrote:I'd find a buddy that has some or a range that rents them and try some out before buying.

They do become addicting though...

Maybe I'll have to get with Distinguished Rick... He isn't too far from where I am located

I'm leaning towards a light champion operator myself. Very excited, can't wait till I can get it.

I really want a 4 inch with a rail, can anyone recommd something comparable in the price range? (750)

Rock Island. If your just getting into a 1911 then they are a good option. My wife just got the 3.5 inch GI model. If you have played around with the 1911 platform before and stuck on the Kimber or Springfield my vote is on the Springfield. I personally own a Sig XO and thats after owning a Kimber.