1911 shopping help

[Deano]

I've got the itch for a 1911. In my search for what would be my first 1911, I've made a couple of observations.
1) Models by Colt, SA, Ruger, S&W are impossible to find. When searching I've found the annoying "Out of Stock" at every web site.
2) I went to the gun show this past weekend and handled a few used ones, and observed that they generally felt uncomfortably large in my small hands. My thumb was not long enough to reach the slide release lever on any of them.

As an example, my CW45 feels perfect in my hand. My Glock 19 gen 3 grip feels large to me, although I still shoot it pretty accurately. So I was wondering if anyone has recommendations on one that you can currently find "In stock" that would be a good pistol for someone with pretty small hands. I do not plan to carry, but do plan to use around the house for self defense, and for putting holes in targets that have been bad.

[Dirt doc]

Check out Bud's for a springfield EMP. The grip on the EMP is smaller than standard 1911's. Otherwise the grip size (other than length of grip between standard and officers models) will not change much between brands. However, to my knowledge EMP's only come in 9mm or 40 S&W.

[muggsy]

For people with small hands the short trigger is preferable to the long trigger. This video will help you with the mag release.

http://www.youtube.com/user/flicksgu.../7/uUaEVFM6eMA

[Bawanna]

I can't manipulate the mag release or slide stop without a grip change or use of the weak hand. Doesn't bother me. I have small hands but I still much prefer the long trigger over the short.

Slim grips do make a huge difference in the feel of the gun in hand. I still usually use standard thickness but I may whittle me out another set of slims for myself.

There's lots of 1911 choices out there, more than ever it seems. Have fun in your hunt, take your time and get what you really want, don't settle for less.

[Tinman507]

At the risk of hijacking the OP's thread (like that never happens) why is it we don't see much discussion about the AO (Kahr) 1911's?

Where are they on the 1911 spectrum? they seem reasonably priced and they're built by Kahr so customer service is a known entitiy.

Anyone have experience with them?

[Bawanna]

Not first hand but my reliable sources say they are high on the quality food chain certainly of those in the under 800-1000 price range. Very well put together and very accurate.

I think they are still getting over the history from the old AO days.

Your right that the customer service is there and that's worth a lot but I doubt they are needed much.

I've got one on my radar sometime in the future.

I believe they are all series 80 designs now which isn't a horrible thing but many still prefer the 70 series. Doubtful the average shooter would even notice or care.

[Tinman507]

I am still lusting after a Ruger SR1911, but the AO 1911A1 is really sexy in a minimalist kind of way. Just basic GI with no frills or doo dads. It speaks to me.

[Deano]

Check out Bud's for a springfield EMP. The grip on the EMP is smaller than standard 1911's. Otherwise the grip size (other than length of grip between standard and officers models) will not change much between brands. However, to my knowledge EMP's only come in 9mm or 40 S&W.

Thanks for the suggestion. Pretty sure I want to stick with 45.

For people with small hands the short trigger is preferable to the long trigger. This video will help you with the mag release.

http://www.youtube.com/user/flicksgu.../7/uUaEVFM6eMA

Thanks for the vid. Short Trigger? Can you elaborate? Is that an option when you purchase a 1911, or something you change out after you get one?

I can't manipulate the mag release or slide stop without a grip change or use of the weak hand. Doesn't bother me. I have small hands but I still much prefer the long trigger over the short.

Slim grips do make a huge difference in the feel of the gun in hand. I still usually use standard thickness but I may whittle me out another set of slims for myself.

There's lots of 1911 choices out there, more than ever it seems. Have fun in your hunt, take your time and get what you really want, don't settle for less.

Do you find a difference in the feel of different 1911 models in your hand. Is there one you particularly like?

At the risk of hijacking the OP's thread (like that never happens) why is it we don't see much discussion about the AO (Kahr) 1911's?

Where are they on the 1911 spectrum? they seem reasonably priced and they're built by Kahr so customer service is a known entitiy.

Anyone have experience with them?

Yes, AO and MR DE, both owned by Kahr. I've read good things about the Desert Eagle. Don't see much on the AO. Why is that? Also wondering about the Sig?? No MIM parts except the slide release lever, right? No one really talks much about them. Looks like a very nice pistol.

Also 5" vs. 4.2"?? Preferences. Is the 5" significantly more accurate?

[TheTman]

I don't think the 4.2" barrel vs the 5" barrel affects accuracy as much as it does bullet velocity. A friend just ordered an STI Spartan 5 for around $600. They are supposed to be one of the better 1911's in that price range. Has the fiber optic front sight. There so many good 1911's out there it's hard to choose. Heck, I'd go for a Rock Island Armory for $400 if I didn't have a couple 1911's already. Our Mod. Greg seems happy with his in 9mm.

[ruf45]

The RIA seems like a decent gun at a good price. I would go for the one with a beavertail grip , its a lot easier on the hand

[Bawanna]

Thanks for the suggestion. Pretty sure I want to stick with 45.

Thanks for the vid. Short Trigger? Can you elaborate? Is that an option when you purchase a 1911, or something you change out after you get one?

Do you find a difference in the feel of different 1911 models in your hand. Is there one you particularly like?


Yes, AO and MR DE, both owned by Kahr. I've read good things about the Desert Eagle. Don't see much on the AO. Why is that? Also wondering about the Sig?? No MIM parts except the slide release lever, right? No one really talks much about them. Looks like a very nice pistol.

Also 5" vs. 4.2"?? Preferences. Is the 5" significantly more accurate?

I have the MRI 1911G, the full size and it's a keeper. Very accurate, very nice gun. I went to the shorter 1911's and then found myself going back to full size, I just shoot them better. I mostly carry my Cbob 4 1/2".
Most all the 1911's are going to feel the same in hand pretty much.

The short trigger referred to is relatively easily changed if needed. Most of the GI basic 1911's have the short. It's just how much of the trigger is exposed in the trigger guard. The short trigger is nearly up against the rear of the guard when pulled. I much prefer the long but if you want to stay GI looking, the short works just fine too.

[Tinman507]

I much prefer the long but if you want to stay GI looking, the short works just fine too.

I'm all about keeping it GI looking.

[Bawanna]

Must be one of them Smart Carry rigs. Never seen one before. Looks like it has potential.

[Deano]

Tinman, I swear I almost pissed my pants.

Bawana, thanks for all your input. You've been extremely helpful. How do I give you rep points?

[Bawanna]

I don't know what a rep point is.......if it's a good thing maybe just tell the boss not to fire me?

Did you see the Fathers Day 1911G thread. Another fine endorsement for the MRI.