Originally Posted by
David Thomas
The trouble is that Sprinfield and Kimber have been building a ton of 1911's in a ton of variations with quality control that has had its ups and downs over a span of many years. There are too many variables for any real meaningful or extensive comparison in my opinion.
With Kimber and Sprinfield's non-custom shop guns, it is a bit like rolling the dice. I have had great luck with Kimber, but all of mine are older - I think they are all atleast 5 years old or older. New Kimbers do not have a very good reputation.
If you are just getting into 1911's there are at least 2 great buys in the EE of this forum right now. One Yost 1* with a well documented past and a Wilson that appears to be thoroughly tested. There may be others as well.
In my opinion, you cannot get something for nothing when it comes to 1911's. Either you pay for quality in the begining (price tag of $1,500 or more) or you gamble on an inexpensive 1911. However, if you chose the later, do not be surprised if you find out that you have a 1911 that is unreliable or has a part break.