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1911 compact carry options

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  • lastchance1701d

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    Jun 4, 2009
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    Fort Worth, TX
    I have recently been gripped by the whole 1911 addiction... I purchased a Colt Government model and it is absolutely the most accurate and smooth handgun I have ever encountered. So, of course, I find myself wondering about the possibility of purchasing a more compact version to carry on a daily basis. I have looked at the Colt Commander model but the 4 1/4 barrel isn't really a significant enough difference from the Government Model. I looked online at the Springfield Loaded Champion. Any suggestions?
    Military Camp
     

    Hoji

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    May 28, 2008
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    If you are in Austin on July 4th, go to Lonestar Gun Range. Free range day and free gun rentals { you have to buy the ammo at the range}

    Matt, the owner, has several of the ParaOrdinance compact 1911s in both 9mm and .45 ACP. Give em a whirl if you are in the area

    Oh , and free BBQ while it lasts.
     

    lastchance1701d

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    Thanks for the suggestion Hoji, I haven't really looked much at the Para. Although I have heard good things. I will have to check it out. I actually have some friends down in Austin that I have been meaning to visit when I get the chance.
     

    JKTex

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    Mar 11, 2008
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    The only real difference you're going to get going to a smaller 1911 than a full size is either go to an alloy frame for lighter weight, or to something with an officers frame for shorter grip (which is what really makes a difference in concealing) and lighter weight.

    I've got both Pro and Compact sized Kimber's. The Pro is like a commander but with a 4" barrel (barrel length doesn't really make a difference in concealed carry) and the Compact is an officers frame and 4" barrel. The Pro is now bobtailed and is an easier carry that the shorter officers frame. It's all steel and my Compact has an alloy frame and besides the weight difference, I'm carrying the heavier bobtailed "commander" all the time now.

    Lots of people carry a full sized 1911 every day. I know a lady who does as well. ;)
     

    bikerbill

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    Apr 1, 2008
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    Lago Vista
    Kimber makes an excellent 3-inch 1911, the Ultra Carry series. I have a UCII in black, got it for under $700 NIB at the gun show in Austin, and I love it. It's more accurate than my 4-inch Springfield Loaded, is resonably lightweight, holds 7+1 and is easy to conceal. I use either a Galco paddle holster or a mini-slide belt holster ... I've never shot a Para, so I can't compare them, but I am totally satisfied with my Kimber.
     

    lastchance1701d

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    JKTex,

    I agree that people can easily carry a fullsize handgun. Although, for me the fullsize, 5in barrel is really uncomfortable. I'm a smaller guy and it sucks to carry especially when driving or sitting in general. I would prefer something with a 3 maybe 4 in. Barrel. Like the springer ultra compact or maybe one of those Paras Hoji recommended earlier.
     

    dadoo

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    At the risk of repeating myself...

    I have posted in other threads my Rock Island compact (CS) model. 3.5" barrel, 7 rnd magazine (Colt Officer size). Weight is about 29 oz, so it's just a tad lighter that a full sized 1911, but the shorter grip provides better concealment. Standard GI sights, beavertail grip and combat style hammer. Bushingless bull barrel and Parkerized finish.
    I have about 500 rounds through it now and not a single issue. I purchased it at the Dallas gun show back in Jan for about 395.00 but they can be found on-line for less, but by the time you pay for shipping and FFL charges, you come out the same.

    therock.gif
     

    ducksps

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    Mar 3, 2008
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    Austin, Houston
    STI Ranger

    I've carried an STI Ranger on my hip for 3 years and love it. The 1911 in Commander size or smaller is a great carry item. The magic is in how thin the pistol is and how it sits on the waist. Any of the premium brands should work but I am partial to those made in Georgetown TX.

    Previously I carried a Glock 23, Browning HP, then HK p7. Of those three the Browning is the only other option I would think to carry.

    Don't forget, 45 does not shrink.

    Chris
     

    PeterGunn

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    Dec 23, 2008
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    Paris TX
    I've carried an STI Ranger on my hip for 3 years and love it. The 1911 in Commander size or smaller is a great carry item. The magic is in how thin the pistol is and how it sits on the waist. Any of the premium brands should work but I am partial to those made in Georgetown TX.

    Previously I carried a Glock 23, Browning HP, then HK p7. Of those three the Browning is the only other option I would think to carry.

    Don't forget, 45 does not shrink.

    Chris

    I, too have a penchant for the STI brand. I will become the proud owner of an Escort on Tuesday.

    I have had several officer size guns. I even tried out the LS9 from stiguns.com It was a sweet size medium cal. gun. VERY THIN and concealable.
    I just like the .45 so I have a Springer, with special work, I'll sell to a buddy. I'll be totin' a gun made in Texas. Gotta love it.
     

    lastchance1701d

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    Jun 4, 2009
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    Fort Worth, TX
    Allright guys. I went to the gun shop this weekend and there happened to be a Colt lightweight Commander model. Has anyone shot this handgun? If so, what did you think... how did you like the alloy frame... balance, recoil, any other insights?

    Also, I am leaning toward a 4-3.5 inch barreled model, but am still looking at 3 in. (and I guess 4.5 in. models also since Im partial to the Colt Commander) models as well. Has anyone seen any good deals around the DFW, and surrounding area, or seen any Colt Commanders, New Agents, Springer Champions or Ultra Compacts around at all. The only thing close I have even seen was that Colt lightweight Commander for 949.00. But I haven't shot any lightweight alloy models so I was a bit hesitant to jump off the deep end and grab it. Plus I'd like to see what everyone else has seen around. Give me a shout. Thanks. :1zhelp:
     

    JKTex

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    Mar 11, 2008
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    DFW, North Texas
    Dont forget the STI brand made in Georgetown Tx.

    Keep in mind, and I think this came up earlier or in another thread in regards to 100% American made, not all STI's are all American made. The do use imported frames for quite a few. Still great guns, but don't think they're 100% American made.

    I think Kimber is the only production 1911 manufactured 100% in the US.

    Just keep'n it real.
     

    juwaba98

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    May 9, 2008
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    North Zulch, TX
    Keep in mind, and I think this came up earlier or in another thread in regards to 100% American made, not all STI's are all American made. The do use imported frames for quite a few. Still great guns, but don't think they're 100% American made.

    I think Kimber is the only production 1911 manufactured 100% in the US.

    Just keep'n it real.

    From STI's FAQ on their website here: [URL="http://www.stiguns.com"]www.stiguns.com STI states that all except the GP6 and the Spartan are built in TX.[/URL]


    If you'll look here at the write-up Alan did on his tour of STI's facilities you'll see pictures of frames in production:

    [URL]http://www.texasguntalk.com/forums/articles-how-tos/2859-tour-sti-1911-2011-production.html[/URL]

    So while yes 2 are imported, the rest are not. 2 out of 33 available semi-auto pistols isn't bad and damn sure not as bad as you make it sound.
     
    Every Day Man
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