Terrible advise. Don't ruin the man up front nothing else will ever compare.

I realize that the Kimber "custom" designation is part of their model name, not because it's from a custom shop. That's why I said Eclipse Custom, because that's the model name. The Custom shop springfield models aren't anywhere near my price range.

As for the Dan Wesson, I'm not interested in a $1000+ handgun. Ruger full size stainless model at $675 plus tax (LGS price) has my interest. Kimber at $700 seems nice also. Bud's has the two-tone Custom II for $695.

I haven't seen a 70 series Colt for anywhere near $700. Not sure if the 80 series Colts are something to consider, or if a 70 series at $900-$1000 is reasonable?

I read on some other forums that all Springfield non-custom models use the same barrel, trigger, assembly, etc. If that's true, I'm avoiding that like the plague. I had a mil spec model several years ago and it was a complete waste of money. Fortunately, I got a great deal on it and sold it for more than I bought it for, but that was the only positive. It had a terrible trigger and terrible accuracy. If the Loaded or Range Officer won't be any better, then there is no point in wasting my time. Here is the forum thread I read:

https://forums.1911forum.com/showthread.php?t=452982

Look at how the Ruger is built. All American made. Milled out of a single stock of steel. And has Novak sights.

I got mine at GT Distributors. Plus I was able to take advantage of Ruger's LE discount. Ended up getting it out the door for just over $600. Mine is accurate and eats all the ammo that I've fed it. I've run several qualification courses and carry this as my back-up/off-duty weapon. No malfunctions. I'm using Ruger and Wilson Combat 8 round mags. Keep it clean and well lubed.

How is the trigger on the Ruger? I just called the LGS and told him I was looking at Springfield, Kimber, Colt, or Ruger, and he said Ruger was hands-down the best value.

I had a great experience with Ruger customer service in the past, so I'm a Ruger fan.

The trigger is nice. Clean, crisp and not overly heavy. It's adjustable too.

springfield, metro, ruger