[Streetking]

I wouldn't. STI makes a inexpensive one and I love my Ruger SR1911 and Springfield Mil Spec. They both shoot great.

[rtl]

follow up.......i picked up a NIB unfired Norinco off gunbroker. the price was pretty high ($662 all told), but i really like it. there's not a blemish on it, it has both mags and the accessories. The plastic grips were replaced with 60's era GI wood grips and the original sear was replace with a new one from Wilson Combat, but the originals were included too, as were two additional new mags. it's a shame to fire it, but pretty sure i will

[NCWalrus]

Originally Posted by JaPes

Will a Ruger SR1911 fit the "introductory" role?



I was also looking for an introductory priced 1911. Because I feel that owning a 1911 is a firearms enthusiast moral imperative, I needed just one. I'm not an 1911 aficionado, so I read BAC's 1911 buying guide.

I wanted just one decent 1911 that wouldn't break the bank, made in the U.S.A., and backed by a reputable manufacturer. The SR1911 fit the bill.

Exactly what JaPes said

[deermasher]

i bought my RIA tactical for $419.00 plus tax....not a bad gun for the money

[Rancho_Nirvana]

I will defer to BAC1023 as he is far more knowledgeable than I am...however, that being said...

Having owned and carried 1911's for 25 years, I have a recommendation for you.

Whatever you do, do not purchase a "low cost" 1911...

Save your money, hang in there a little longer, and get yourself a 1911 that's worth owning.

There are few things as fine as a well made 1911, on the other hand, there are few things as disappointing as owning a cheap one.

I have owned Les Baers, Nighthawk Customs, Kimbers, and several others, and they were all great pistols, but at the end of the day what I still own are an Ed Brown Kobra, and a Bill Wilson Carry.

The few I compromised on and bought that were lesser quality were frustrating and unsatisfying, but the rest have given me many, many hours of enjoyment, and a rock solid confidence in the design.

I hope you will heed my advice, it would behoove you to.

Best wishes with your new addiction...I mean, your interest in 1911's... ;-)

****************************************************

Oh, looks like I am too late, well, good luck with the Norinco.

[1BAD-LS1]

I have several norinco's,here is a couple

[doc540]

RIA

(and I just traded for a Norinco yesterday, but sold it this evening....if the deal falls thru I'll give you a shout, OP)

[Reconinforce]

From another perspective about waiting for a better quality model.. I did not have a ton of cash and only one other handgun but was able to find a great deal on a GI model RIA. I totally love it and it has performed perfectly for me. Shoots great, no ftf or other issues. Just a solid great looking gun (opinion) and if not for the low price I probably would have never been able to get the 1911 experience. To me it was this... get a good deal on a RIA after watching/reading a lot of positive reviews or just not get a chance to own/fire something so sweet as a 1911. I knew that I could always sell it and upgrade later but I am glad I took the opportunity and gave it a chance. When I got into glocks I traded off my XDM before my 1911 RIA if that tells you how much I love this gun.

[MD357]

RIAs are OK but Norincos are made with better steel and better small parts.

[Topher01]

Actually the steel used by Norinco is sourced from the philipppines yet RIA chooses to use a different material.

Heres my 1911 build from a Norinco base:

[MikeG36]

I agree with the others on Norinco - if you can find one for a good price.

[Baba Louie]

follow up.......i picked up a NIB unfired Norinco off gunbroker

kudos rtl. Enjoy shooting it. Mine is pretty darned accurate. Range report once you get her dialed in?