WTB my first firearm

[neoexodus]

Good to know, my biggest concern is more that the GI model is the cheapest model, which most people, myself included, equate to being lesser quality. My problem is that each of my guns has to fit my world view of what a gun should be, and my view of the 1911 is a no frills, army issued sidearm circa 1940's/WWII, which the GI model, by my eye, fits. Again, thanks for the advice!

ETA: also, I am torn between my love of the 1911 (emotional) and my need for accuracy and caliber consistency (rational). If I don't go with the GI, I will most likely be looking at the 92FS/M9 (I apparently have a thing for military/LE, go figure on that). I also kicked around the idea of the 1911 in 9mm, but I'm not sure I can convince myself to be that guy (again, world view = 1911 can only be chambered in 45)

[gunderwood]

Sorry to thread jack, but I'd love to hear more about the 1911's; I was looking for the Springer GI at the show, and not a single dealer had one, which blew my mind. Anyway, that is usually around $500, so do you feel that your comment above would hold to this example (i.e. it'll be hit or miss) or is Springfield generally accepted as making a good gun for the money? Thanks!

The GI is generally a good gun for what it is, but it isn't a good OC/CC piece. It is made to be a low cost/firing replica since the real deal costs a lot more and/or shouldn't be fired since it is collectible. The GIs lack many of the "combat"/CC enhancements that most modern 1911s have; e.g. decent sights. Also, reliability of very short 1911s (if your looking at small) is always a question IMHO and as Ayoob said anything less than 4.25" has never been demonstrated to cycle as designed (probably a slight exaggeration).

The GI is a good gun for its intended purpose; a replica. I would not recommend one for SD/CC, although the Springfield is one of the better examples in that price range. The Taurus PT1911 is another reasonable option, but IMHO if you compare a $500-$700 1911 to a more modern semi-auto (SIG, Glock, Springfield, S&W, etc.), in every case you are better served with the modern semi-auto.

Between the extra ammo costs of a .45 (I'm assuming since most generally at .45 when dealing with the 1911) and the extra recoil, I'd suggest a new shooter is far better off buying a Ruger "P" or S&W Sigma in 9mm than a cheap 1911. If you want to stretch the budget to $500ish look at Glocks, S&W, CZ, FN, and Springfield (no particular order).

The 1911 is probably the greatest combat handgun ever designed, but it seems to require more skill to master than say a basic Glock. You're going to need thousands of rounds to get really good and by then the cost difference between shooting 9mm and .45 will pay for a new gun in .45.

[zephyp]

I've got a Taurus PT-145 Millenium Pro...45, light, small, and a little snappy. I picked it up used and have put around 300 rounds through it without a hitch.

I wouldnt recommend it as a first HG (unless you have other experience) but its a safe queen and I havent had it out for a while. And, you did mention .45. If you're anywhere close to Springfield and are interested let me know. I'll meet you at Sharpshooters so you can check it out for some live fire. I'll even bring a couple others.

If you like and are able to handle it I'm willing to make you a good deal. Its a decent carry gun and hasnt given me any problems.

Edit: Btw, would most likely fit your budget too, but dont let that drive a decision unless you can handle a .45.

[neoexodus]

We'll see, have to make it out if this week first; work is eating me alive right now, but I may take you up on that offer to shoot; I have an XD in 9 and a buddy with a Springer Operator, so am not new to handguns; just been on a 3 year hiatus from shooting them need to get back out to the range, just never seem to have the time.

[zephyp]

We'll see, have to make it out if this week first; work is eating me alive right now, but I may take you up on that offer to shoot; I have an XD in 9 and a buddy with a Springer Operator, so am not new to handguns; just been on a 3 year hiatus from shooting them need to get back out to the range, just never seem to have the time.

Ah, so you do have some experience...great. Yes, please do shoot me a note when you have some time...

[dmharvey]

Here is a good pistol in your price range, the Bersa Thunder 9
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bersa_Thunder_9

[RocKor]

Hey Heavy804 what part of VA do you hail from?