One of these two 1911’s for my first?

[Texpatriate]

I’m looking at two different 1911’s available used right now locally, a Kimber Custom Shop Combat Carry, and a Colt Mark IV. Both are priced in my price range at $900. Should I be considering one over the other for any particular reason? Should I pass on both in favor of something else?

I’m leaning toward the Colt to be honest, but this will be my first 1911 and I fully confess that I don’t know much about them other than that I want one.

[Texpatriate]

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[L-2]

Even though I don't know you or really care what you buy, I recommend buying a brand new 1911 for one's first 1911 (with few exceptions).

Although any new popular or desirable firearm may be hard to get right now, look over Springfield-Armory's product line to narrow it down to what features you're wanting and get back to here if you still can't decide. If a 1911 doesn't work right it can take several months or longer and easily eat up another $900, paid to a, hopefully, good gunsmith.

There's no way for anyone to determine which used 1911 to buy of those two without a knowledgeable person examining &/or shooting those guns in person.

Also, I personally don't care for Kimber "series II" or Colt "series 80" firing pin safety systems, not to say those two have them as I can't tell if they do.

Below, is Springfield-Armory's 1911 website.

https://www.springfield-armory.com/1...ries-handguns/

[pag23]

I would get the Colt out of the two.

But for a first 1911 for me I got a Springfield Mil Spec...decent cost and a good learning tool.

[Gary1911A1]

I agree with L2's post and add Springfield's CS is excellent and they will fix their 1911 pistols if you do have a problem.

[1986s4]

I agree with L2's post and add Springfield's CS is excellent and they will fix their 1911 pistols if you do have a problem.

Totally agree that Springfield's CS is second to none. I've owned 2 Springfield's and two Colts. Both of the Springers needed to use their excellent CS. The Colts didn't need anything and I still have the Colt .38 super which I have used and abused for 8 years now. Springfield did correct the problems and they returned working 100% but I don't have them anymore.
Good luck in your decision !

[usmc51]

I'd pass on the Kimber. Their quality control has really been up and down over the years. I have an okay one from one of their peaks, but have seen quite a few troublesome ones over the years. The Colt will also have it's own issues but, generally, be within "fixable" specs. A 5" gun is always going to be more reliable than a shorter 1911. $900 is pretty steep for either, in my opinion.

I had always advised starting with something inexpensive, like a Springfield Mil-Spec, until I began building 1911s. They may run alright, they may have some major problems. Spending a little more to go with the Springfield Loaded or higher models will get you into their better production line guns.

[gaijin]

Of the two- Colt. All day long.

[RugerMKII]

The Colt would be easier to resell later on if you decide to go a different direction. Since this is your first one there is a good chance you will buy another one after you've had a chance shoot it and learn it capabilities.

[glocktogo]

Colt or Springfield.