I admit, getting a 1911 style handgun is on my want list. Why? Just because. I don’t have a need for one, this is pure want because of the platform that it is.
Up until now I have been looking at models from companies like Kimber, Springfield Armory, STI (tho they’re too expensive for a first 1911), and I was probably going to lean towards a Springfield because you can get a decent model at a reasonable price. Good for a first 1911, especially given how they’re customizable to the Nth degree.
Well, my buddy foo.c just picked up a Rock Island Armory 1911. You can see some pics here. IMHO, there’s no rail so it’s not tacti-cool enough to be called “tactical”. 😉 Stupid marketing….
I’ve heard a lot of good things about RIA 1911’s. People say they are solid for the money, good quality, shoot straight, and so on. It’s all praise. Sure there’s some things about the RIA that aren’t up there with say a Wilson Combat, but that tends to be some spit and polish and other things. Yes they can make a difference, but it all depends what you want. I’m certainly looking forward to a little range time with foo.c and trying the RIA out. For the price, it may be the entry point for me into the world of 1911’s.
Stuff From Hsoi 
For the price, they are good, basic, relatively reliable 1911s, at least from what I understand about them. Likewise, I have heard similar statements about Taurus 1911s, who seem to offer a little more bang for your bunk, assuming you are willing to accept the name.
After a fashion, I do love how many firearm manufacturers are producing certain models of firearms (1911s, AR-15s, etc.), but sometimes, the markets can be darned confusing.
For whatever reason, Taurus guns just don’t thrill me. Don’t know what it is. But whenever I have the money to buy a 1911 (got other expenses to deal with right now), I’ll just do all of my homework because yes, it’s a very confusing and saturated market. Frankly, getting the snub nose revolver is a higher priority than a 1911.
Actually, the “Tactical” is a few steps beyond basic, and still a great value. (Basic in my mind being a GI model.)
I don’t think you can find a better 1911 for under $400.
I finally got a chance to check out an STI Spartan at the SHOT show
would be what I would recommend if you want a good 1911 without spending a ton of money
plus, being that they are local means if you have an issue it will be easy to get resolved
I have Springfield loaded stainless with some work done to it, magwell, dawson sights, trigger job, etc..
I love that gun!
I really like the Spec Ops from Wilson Combat that I have but I must admit I am considering having one built to my specs… 4″ barrel, shortened grip, round butt, alloy frame in 9mm
basically like a Bill Wilson carry model but in 9mm and alloy frame
I admit… STI being a Texas company… it’s a nice reason to support them. Of course, the gun is actually made by Armscor then STI tweaks it. But still. I’ve never heard a bad thing about it.
I’ve shot your Springfield. Yes, it’s sweet.
Me and my buddy Adam spent the day shooting at the private training facility he has access to
shot probably 500 rounds and videoed a lot action
I gotta tell you that running the Wilson Spec Ops 9 hard engaging steel targets at speed REALLY made me like it a LOT more than just shooting indoors at paper…
I think I just got officially hooked on it