[CCO]

I need a graduation 1911 for my brother in law. I had decided on the STI Guardian, but I can't find one anywhere in my time frame, so I'm back to punt.

Requirements:

1. Need it in a month
2. Under $1500
3. .45 Caliber
4. Prefers SS or SS Slide

The SS thing, I think he can live without. I found a government sized Fusion on another board for $1400 and will probably snatch that up if I can't find something with a SS slide that looks like a good deal. I really wanted to get him that Guardian, since we live in TX (STI is TX), and it's a great carry size while being what I'd consider a heirloom piece. I don't want to get him a run of the mill Springer, Kimber, Remington, or Sig. Nothing against those guns, but I want this to be something special.

This will be his first gun, although he's handled a Beretta plenty during his 3 tours in Iraq and Afganistan. About the BIL: Former marine, Current law student graduating in May. Thoughts?

[jwhite75]

Springfeild Armory TRP...Done

BTW....any way I can marry in to your family....That is an AWESOME gift

http://www.gunbroker.com/Auction/Vie...Item=280712349

[Paul7]

Dan Wesson Valor.

[CCO]

Man, I don't even buy guns that nice for myself. But I'm an only child, so he's like my own brother.

[jwhite75]

The TRP fits your criteria and is an absolute top of the line gun he will always remember and cherish.

[CCO]

I'm looking at both now. I like both, but this review by bac has me thinking Valor for this particular gift. Even the name seems to go with my bro's military past:

http://glocktalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=885646

[Goldendog Redux]

The TRP and Valor are fantastic solutions. I would submit getting him a Commander sized gun like a Dan Wesson V-Bob or Guardian. Maybe you can up your price a little and look into a Les Baer. There is nothing wrong with finding a great Colt 1911 although it might take some searching and probably some tweaking.

The commander sized guns are every bit as awesome as a 5" 1911 and are easier to carry should he decide to use it in that fashion.

Keep us in the loop.

MF

[jwhite75]

Only thing that keeps me from the Valor...they are fine guns, but I would rather have one made by an American Company. Dan Wesson is owned by CZ.

A 1911 is an American Icon.

You wont make a bad choice with either.

[Vanman2004b]

Dan Wesson CCO?

[CCO]

Hmmmm, maybe I posted too soon. I just got an email that somebody has the Guardian in stock. I think I'll just go that route. Perfect carry size, and a nice pistola to boot, something different than the masses. Thanks though guys!

[faawrenchbndr]

Guardian would be an outstanding choice!

[bac1023]

At $1500, its hard to beat a Springfield TRP.

[GeorgiaRedfish]

Used Baer?

[TN.Frank]

If I had $1500 to spend on a 1911(never will but hey, I'll play along.) I'd either go with a Springfield Armory gun(for some reason I really would like one, not sure why.) or maybe this.
http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/p...Carry+II+45ACP
I know Kimber has a mixed reputation from reports and reviews I've read, some folks love em', some can't stand em' but this looks like a pretty decent gun for the money. With what's left over you can get him some extra, quality mags, a holster and some ammo and he'll be set. Lucky guy.

[Troubled Gecko]

Dan Wesson Valor, no mim parts. www.covecreekoutfitters.com has them (4 or 5 inch) for $1450.00.

Bob Serva is the owner of Fusion (sold CZ the rights to Dan Wesson), you can't go wrong with a Fusion either. Bob is a great guy and will build pretty much anything to your liking. I believe the wait is like 14 weeks depending on finish and what you want done.

[dakrat]

Dan Wesson Valor at budsgunshop. around $1300. Valor > TRP all day everyday.

[Mr. Gekko]

Originally Posted by Troubled Gecko

Bob Serva is the owner of Fusion (sold CZ the rights to Dan Wesson), you can't go wrong with a Fusion either. Bob is a great guy and will build pretty much anything to your liking. I believe the wait is like 14 weeks depending on finish and what you want done.

Must of got a good one built to your spec's.... I wouldn't trust "Bob the builder" to run a lemonade stand, let alone a gun manufacturer.

[fnfalman]

The new for 2012 blued Colt Gold Cup National Match. A remake on a classy pistol.

[Icelander513]

Dan Wesson Valor for a 1911 under $1500. Easy.

[paul45]

CCO, you sure must be a nice guy. What a outstanding gift for the BIL!

[bac1023]

Originally Posted by paul45

CCO, you sure must be a nice guy. What a outstanding gift for the BIL!

[Travclem]

Originally Posted by bac1023

At $1500, its hard to beat a Springfield TRP.

SA is working on a run of Stainless TRPs right now.

[Troubled Gecko]

Originally Posted by Mr. Gekko

Must of got a good one built to your spec's.... I wouldn't trust "Bob the builder" to run a lemonade stand, let alone a gun manufacturer.

Honestly your the first person I heard say something negative about Fusion builds and Bob Serva for that matter. I'm not saying you're wrong as you may have had a bad experience that didn't end well (every maker puts out a less than stellar once in awhile).

[38 Super Fan]

TRP, or a used Baer would be my choice.

[SauerChoi]

Dan Wesson gets another vote. TRP is a great gun as well but just too busy for my taste. Your BIL may like all the bells and whistles on the TRP though