The 1911 pistol is a revered firearm with a rich history. It has been used by the military and law enforcement for over a century, and it still enjoys a strong following among firearms enthusiasts.
However, the 1911 is not without its detractors. Some people claim that it is unreliable and that its manufacturing quality leaves something to be desired.
In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the 1911 pistol, some 1911 brands to avoid, and discuss some of the pros and cons of owning one.
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1911 Brands To Avoid
A 1911 pistol is a semi-automatic, single-action handgun with a magazine capacity of between seven and ten rounds. The 1911’s reputation for reliability has resulted in the gun being copied by manufacturers worldwide.
However, many of these companies have not lived up to the 1911’s standard for reliability and design quality. Here are six 1911 brands that you should avoid:
- Norinco: 1911s made in China by Norinco are inferior to 1911s manufactured in the United States. They tend to be unreliable, and some experience rusting within a few months of use.
- Taurus: 1911 pistols produced by Taurus often have problems with their mag release buttons becoming stuck or breaking off while the pistol is being fired.
- Kimber: Inexpensive Kimber 1911 models can have several quality control issues, including loose safety levers and slide stop levers that are difficult to operate. Some users also report malfunctions after firing only 300 rounds through these guns.
- Wilson 1911s: 1911 pistols manufactured by Wilson are often unreliable, and users have reported problems with the slide stop pins breaking. Other reports indicate that 1911 models made by Wilson can be fired even when the safety is engaged in a “fire” position, resulting in an accident.
- Charles Daly 1911s: 1911 pistols from Charles Daly are usually very inexpensive and poorly constructed. Users have reported problems with these guns jamming or failing to fire regularly.
- Springfield Armory 1911 Models (XD): Springfield Armory produces several different models of 1911 pistol, including the Range Officer Elite Champion Compact model and the XD series of polymer-framed handguns chambered for .45 ACP cartridges featuring double-action/single-action (DA/SA) triggers. 1911 pistols from Springfield Armory are often much more reliable than 1911s made by other manufacturers. Still, these guns also tend to be more expensive and difficult to find in stock at local gun stores due to their popularity among consumers.
1911 Ownership – Training, Maintenance, And Attention Required
To ensure that your 1911 pistol remains reliable, it is crucial to understand the proper ways to handle and care for this firearm.
- First and foremost, you should always receive training from a certified firearms instructor before using your 1911. In addition, it is necessary to perform regular maintenance on your 1911 to keep it functioning correctly. This includes cleaning the barrel after every 100 rounds fired, checking the recoil spring for wear and replacing if necessary, lubricating all moving parts with gun oil, and inspecting the sights for damage or misalignment.
- Be sure to pay attention to any warning signs that may indicate that your 1911 is not functioning correctly. These include jams, stovepipes (rounds getting stuck in the ejection port), failure to feed, and failure to eject. If you experience any of these problems while shooting your 1911, stop using the gun immediately and take it to a qualified gunsmith for inspection.
- 1911s are often considered “high-maintenance” firearms when compared to other types of handguns available on the market today. This is partly because 1911 pistols require more attention and care than most other guns to remain reliable. However, if you are willing to put in the extra effort, a 1911 can be an incredibly enjoyable firearm to own and shoot.
How Much Does The 1911 Cost?
The price of a 1911 pistol varies depending on the gun’s model, manufacturer, and condition. Newer models will typically cost more than older ones because they are more reliable and easier to shoot accurately. The typical range for new models starts at around $500. However, some can be much higher priced (up to $2500).
Used 1911s may also vary in price depending on their age and previous owners’ modifications. Typical prices start at about $400, but can go up considerably if extensive changes are made or other work is done to improve performance.
These can be things like fitting quality triggers with adjustable over-travel stops or installing match-grade barrels/bushings, which allow them to fire far more accurately than factory-standard handguns.
Generally, the more expensive models are made with higher-quality materials. They will usually last longer than cheaper versions if they’re taken care of properly over time, while also being easier to shoot well due to their design features (such as having better recoil springs that make it so that you don’t have to apply as much pressure when pulling the trigger).
Affordability Vs. Reliability: Which Gun Is Right For You?
The 1911 pistol is a classic firearm that has been around for over 100 years and continues to be popular among gun enthusiasts today. This gun offers shooters the ability to shoot .45 ACP rounds, which are some of the most powerful cartridges available on the market.
In addition, the 1911 is a very reliable handgun when adequately maintained. However, it does require more attention than other firearms to keep it functioning correctly.
Conclusion
So, which 1911 is right for you? If you’re looking for an affordable and reliable option that doesn’t require too much maintenance, there are many models available today that will fit those criteria.
If you’re willing to spend a little more money for a gun that is made with higher quality materials and is easier to shoot accurately, there are also many great options available.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to what you are looking for in a 1911 pistol, and you now know which 1911 brands to avoid too.
