re: Kimber Deal

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1911 Crew.

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Someone call my name?

I've shot a few Kimbers and they've all been nice. Then again, there are very mixed reviews from people who buy them. You'll find both haters and die hard lovers of Kimber.

On the other hand, I've fired Springfields and Rugers and own a Smith and Wesson. And I have to say these of those outdo the Kimbers I've shot. Granted, anytime you shoot a 1911 it's gonna be smooth, the Springfield, Ruger, and S&W just surpassed my expectations.

Impressions:

Springfield Operator (I know it's a bit more expensive):

Pros:
-Very tightly fitted (pro or con; user preference)
-Reliable
-Smooth action
-Crisp safety
-Novak sights (options aplenty)
-GI guide rod

Cons:
-Very heavy hammer spring (makes racking it slightly more of a task)
-Very heavy recoil spring (pro or con; up to user)

Ruger SR1911 Commander:

Pros:

-Snug fitment (not as tight as the Springer)
-Reliable
-Smooth action
-Crisp safety
-Extremely crisp trigger break! *cannot stress how awesome the Ruger trigger is
-Novak Sights
-GI guide rod

Cons:
-Loose trigger (meaning side-to-side and up-and-down play)


And the 1911 I have the most experience with... my S&W1911 (full sized):

Pros:
-Snug fitment
-Extremely usable serrations (my favorite serrations; same as M&Ps)
-Crisp safety
-External extractor (I happen to prefer it over internal)
-Unique upper slide and rear slide serrations
-Best looking 1911 in my opinion

Cons:
-Proprietary sight cuts (others use Novak cut)
-Magazine picky (well mine was; Commander-sized Smiths I've fired have been flawless with any mag though)
-Full length guide rod (GI guide rods are just smoother and easier to disassemble; hotly debated though)

These things being said, I think the best VALUE is the Ruger 1911 hands down. The other ones are good 1911s but just cost a bit more than the Ruger. It really just depends on what you're looking for in a 1911.

Ruger has been making some great firearms lately. Bill Ruger may be pissed in his grave but true 2A supporters love the direction they're going.