It's so apples to oranges, that it's really not possible to compare popularity. But think about this....how many 1911's have been made, and are still around - and how many more are being made every year??? Have a feeling that the numbers for 1911's are WAY over those of the AR-15. I own 2 built AR's, have the lowers for another 12 - but I own 20+ 1911's....and I'm always lookin' for another!
You are not going to get flamed by the 1911 lovers. I promise!Your comparing apples to oranges.
But I'g guess the AR-15.
The AR-15 is gaining popularity. The 1911, or at least the .45 auto, isn't nearly as popular as it used to be, IMHO. The price of shooting and buying them has gone up realatively over the years and there are so many other quality pistol options that can be had for the price of your baseline 1911.
Just my 2 cents.
(I'm gonna get crusified by the 1911 people, aren't I.)
Apples to oranges...yes but since both appear to be a similar price range, and popularity, I'm just curious which direction people would go.
Your comparing apples to oranges.
But I'g guess the AR-15.
The 1911, or at least the .45 auto, isn't nearly as popular as it used to be, IMHO. The price of shooting and buying them has gone up realatively over the years and there are so many other quality pistol options that can be had for the price of your baseline 1911.
Just my 2 cents.
(I'm gonna get crusified by the 1911 people, aren't I.)
Actually, adjusted for inflation, the basic Colt 1911 Government model is about the same as it was in 1915.
There are over 25 diferent makers of 1911 pistols today. Some can be had for less than $400 and full house customs for as much as 10 grand.
It depends on what you want. Alot of the cost of the above inflation pistols is for value or perceived value added options like beavertails, FCS, night sights, Novak sights and the list goes on.
The 1911 is gaining in popularity. All the makers are selling all they make and people are screaming for more.
yes, and no.
I know some people have a talent for finding great guns and a great deal (cough TexasRedneck cough).
The price of .45 auto is expensive. I've seen plinking ammo for $.35+ a shot. 40 S&W closer to .30 9mm closer to .22-23/shot. .
A brand new glock at academy is 540 + tax a bit more for the model 21 and 20 or long slides, Sig (600-750) .
I know this is all anectodal and based on my very limited experience. I see a 1911 as more of a gun with class and style, as opposed to a utilitarian gun. I think it woud be really ineresting to see the average amount people pay for a new 1911. I admit, I haven't looked at 45 ammo prices untill recently.
I know the question was about popularity. I'm not really disagreeing with you that the 1911 being an incredibly popular pistol. I'd like to see numbers as to how many 1911 are sold each year, but I'd bet that the newer shooters are buying less 1911's than other pistol types.