Springfield Mil-Spec vs. Para GI Expert

[rjacobs]

I am looking at getting a 1911 for a range gun and to add something to my collection since everybody needs a 1911. I have settled on getting something entry level so that I can learn the platform as well as being a cheaper purchase. I know these are not the be all end all of the 1911 world, but I think they both will do what I am interested in. I think the Mil-Spec might be a better built gun and its been around for quite a while vs. the GI Expert which has just been released. I am just looking for some constructive advice on which is the better gun and why.

[Gutshot John]

Get a used Colt 1911/1991.

Same or less money as the other two options...and it's a pony.

A brand new one will cost you a hundred or two more.

[Gutshot John]

Here's one on Gunbroker...listed as used but it appears NIB.

http://www.gunbroker.com/Auction/Vie...Item=130696167

[8200rpm]

If it was my money, I'd rather go with the forged Brazilian rather than the cast Canadian. The Springfield is probably more amenable to upgrading/hacking since it uses series 70 fire control parts.

If you're out to just save money on any ole 1911, then the Taurus and Armscor are other low priced options. The Pony is a nice suggestion if you don't mind series 80 and spending a little more. If I was looking for a long term addition I'd go with a Colt just because it's a Colt.

My last "low-priced" 1911 was a new Kimber series one that I picked up a decade ago for under $600. I was also under the impression that "everyone needs to have a 1911" until the extractor went out of tune after 800 rounds. Simple fix and not a big issue on a range gun. You probably already know that 1911s can be fickle/needy. Personally, it's just not an attribute I want to deal with in a gun anymore.

[Jason Burton]

Between the two you listed I would opt for the Springfield... or as was previously mentioned buy a used Colt.

[rjacobs]

Get a used Colt 1911/1991.

Same or less money as the other two options...and it's a pony.

A brand new one will cost you a hundred or two more.

I'm not looking for a used gun, Colt or not.

If it was my money, I'd rather go with the forged Brazilian rather than the cast Canadian. The Springfield is probably more amenable to upgrading/hacking since it uses series 70 fire control parts.

If you're out to just save money on any ole 1911, then the Taurus and Armscor are other low priced options. The Pony is a nice suggestion if you don't mind series 80 and spending a little more. If I was looking for a long term addition I'd go with a Colt just because it's a Colt.

My last "low-priced" 1911 was a new Kimber series one that I picked up a decade ago for under $600. I was also under the impression that "everyone needs to have a 1911" until the extractor went out of tune after 800 rounds. Simple fix and not a big issue on a range gun. You probably already know that 1911s can be fickle/needy. Personally, it's just not an attribute I want to deal with in a gun anymore.

I know 1911's can be fickle, like I said, I am not worried about it, its not going to be a trust my life to it gun. I have read a ton good about the Springfield Mil-Spec, but the only thing I have read about the Para is reviews with maybe 200 rounds down range. I know the mil-spec has had thousands of rounds down range by some very capable people. I would love to find a Kimber series 1, but haven't seen one locally, well, ever. Its going to be a range gun and thats about it. The shop I generally buy from has the Taurus PT1911(I think thats the model number), I looked at it, but it didnt strike me like the Springfield Mil-Spec did. I cant say the Para struck me as a gun I had to have either though. The guns that struck me as "I want this now" were the Kimber's, but being all series 2 guns, I know the issues with them and am not really interested in them.

[Rob96]

Springfield Mil-Spec!

[Frens]

Springfield Mil-Spec!

ditto!

[John_Wayne777]

I am looking at getting a 1911 for a range gun and to add something to my collection since everybody needs a 1911. I have settled on getting something entry level so that I can learn the platform as well as being a cheaper purchase. I know these are not the be all end all of the 1911 world, but I think they both will do what I am interested in. I think the Mil-Spec might be a better built gun and its been around for quite a while vs. the GI Expert which has just been released. I am just looking for some constructive advice on which is the better gun and why.

Repeat after me, class:

ParaOrdanance is crap. Bottom of the barrel.

The Springer GI guns aren't bad from what I've seen of them and from what I've heard from knowledgeable people.

[NCPatrolAR]

I'd opt for the Mil-Spec; mine has worked well for a 1911.