I want a 1911, here's my choices...

[jreading]

http://www.para-usa.com/new/product_pis ... .php?id=84

I really like the double stack and the rail. I know it's not really a "1911" if it has a rail and a double stack, but I really think it's nice. I have huge hands and held a double stack Wilson and it called to me....

http://www.springfield-armory.com/armory.php?version=34

Super nice. I like the OD green, but the capacity is lacking....

Anybody have any similar options? I really would like at least a rail or double stack...

[TheEqualizer]

What do you plan on using it for? Plinking, home protection, concealed carry, etc. When it comes to 1911s, the world is your oyster. Just because you want a double stack or light rail does not mean it isn't a 1911. Sure you can get a Rock Island Armory GI mil-spec for 350 bucks and that would be fine. If you want the Para or the Springfield, take the plunge. Basically you are looking at the $500-600 range, the $1000-1600 range, and then the $2000-4000 range for modern 1911s. Personally, any 1911 $1000 and up by a major manufacturer will be a good gun. Hell, they have had 100 years of practice! There are a lot of "tactical" 1911s with light rails. If they had weapon lights back in 1911 I am sure John Browning would have put a light rail on his invention.

The double stack is your choice. I prefer double stacks in 9mm for polymer guns like Glocks, XDs, etc. A double stack 1911 in .45 is going to be wide and heavy. If you can handle that, then go for it!

Good luck.

[t33j]

Basically you are looking at the $500-600 range, the $1000-1600 range, and then the $2000-4000 range for modern 1911s. Personally, any 1911 $1000 and up by a major manufacturer will be a good gun. Hell, they have had 100 years of practice! There are a lot of "tactical" 1911s with light rails. If they had weapon lights back in 1911 I am sure John Browning would have put a light rail on his invention.

QFT

We do not agree on the what makes a 1911 however. With 1911s the first thing I think about is the single stack design.
Ultimately it doesn't matter what you call it so long as it suits your purpose.

[RocKor]

Honestly if you're willing to pay that much for a 1911 I'd go see if I could fondle one or two and see which you like better. The Para 14.45 could be very thick as some double stack .45s tend to be, so it would suit you better if you had bigger hands. But you also can't go wrong with a Springfield. I have a Springfield and love it.

[gunderwood]

The double stack will be wide which may fit your hands well, but if you are using it for home defense, consider who else may need to use it.

[jreading]

I held the Wilson double stack at the range and absolutely loved the feel. I'm 6'3" so the width is not a problem. I kinda like the feel of an all steel gun. I'm rapidly becoming a hater of polymer. Plastic-y, toy crap. hahaha