Why Is PartsGeek So Cheap And Is It Really Worth It? A comparison between the $400 Rock Island Armory 1911 vs the $3000 Wilson Combat 1911. Many people dont know about the company and are unaware of the guns. If youre making a movie and need a firearm sponsor to go along with the flashy tactical moves, then Kimber has you absolutely covered. The lower end 1911's are assembled in Brazil, the higher end 1911's assembled in the US. This itself is nice, since many major manufacturers (such as Ruger) ship their handguns in disposable cardboard boxes. SDS Imports 1911 A1 9mm 1911A1A9. It was witnessed that he used an M1911 to shoot a Japanese sniper at 80 yards, demonstrating its accuracy potential with one-hand shooting. Ceramic Coating: A Side-By-Side Comparison. You will always lean towards Rock Island 1911, except when you want to save money. As part of the 1st Marine Division in 1944, the legendary Col. Walter Walsh did just that following the invasion of Okinawa, Japan. Its all about whats going on under the hood. Every gun safe needs a 1911A1 and mine does not have one. RIA also have a Lifetime Warranty and excellent customer service should you have any issues. Especially when you compare the accuracy of the SDS to Rock Island, you will notice a difference between the two. Barrel: 5 in. If you look at the 1911-A1 Tanker imported by SDS Imports youll find a very reliable, less-than-$500 handgun. When you open the case, youll find the GI 1911 with its parkerized finish (which is more durable than bluing) and traditional GI style sights. Beyond first glance, ATIs Firepower Xtreme Military borrows certain features from the original M1911A1. Over the years, grips and barrels have shortened to meet the demand for lighter and more compact carry guns. the slide inthe top is pretty badly corroded , has wooden grips ser. Bottom Line:This is the best shooting mil-spec Model 1911 that never existed. The hammer spur is the narrow type, but checkered, while the grip safety and trigger are alike, though not exact replicas of the original parts. And finally, like the pearl-handled pistol of pimp, as prices pass three-grand on a custom 1911, its mostly an exercise in vanity. That being said, as a newbie, I started with what most newbies are advised to get: a Glock 19. While, One of the biggest pros of the 1911 is the. Thats to be expected with a 100 yr old design. If you are an individual searching for insulated clothing that goes beyond wear and tear, the search is over. If you have one made in the interwar period thats labeled US Government and Rock Island, you likely have an excellent pistol. All Rights Reserved. Not one problem. For those looking for an excellent mid-sized carry 1911, check out the 4.25-inch commander S&W 1911SC E-Series. The new-for-2023 lineup includes ultralight hunting stocks and a VGA 2-pound adjustable vertical-grip stock. Tisas pistols are a great entry level 1911. While its not an exact replica of the M1911A1, the spirit of the original is there. 45 ACP. what if any significant does that mean. Springfield Armory is a US company and buying their products supports them. The Rock Island Arms might not offer sufficient heat treatment or dimensional integrity. Great trigger though. Lets start with a few facts. If you find yourself in this situation, where you really want a 1911 but are short on cash, you basically have two options: 1. My Kimber 1911 45 (Artic) has worked flawlessly since I got it. I trust this gun with my life. In short, the RIA GI 1911 is an adequate performer on the range, though you should not expect competition grade accuracy out of it either. Since this is a 1911 priced in the $400 to $500 range, its safe to say that its not going to be as nice as higher priced G.I style 1911s such as from Springfield or Colt. All Guns and Ammo subscribers now have digital access to their magazine content. Were the jams/malfunctions due to parts breakages primarily? Meet the all-new Taurus Judge Executive Grade, a revolver featuring a hand-polished satin finish, presentation-grade wood grips, a brass rod front sight and an exceptional hand-tuned trigger. Often it takes a gunsmith to make the flat nosed hollow points feed up the ramp. Chris Johnson, FN Senior Product Manager, walks us through two new FN striker-fired pistols at SHOT Show 2023: the FN 510 Tactical, chambered in 10mm Auto, and the FN 545 Tactical, chambered in .45 ACP. Assume they are the same price. The SR 1911 has a nice stainless finish, Novak windage adjustable sights, adjustable trigger, the mags are sturdy (one is 8 round). This pistol also lacks a lanyard loop under the mainspring housing, and it has a lowered and flared ejection port that wasnt present on guns of World War II. "Government exists to protect us from each other. The grip safety is slightly extended in comparison to the original M1911A1 that saw service with the military. Short-profile A1 iron sights? In terms of usage, 1911s can come in a wide variety of barrel lengths, the longer ones being more accurate but harder to conceal. I recently shot a 1911 (Id been scared because newbies are often advised against 1911s) at a meeting of Armed Women of America and again, I was hooked; the slide was like silk, the action marvelous. The combination of the standard GI grip safety and GI hammer will painfully bite the web of large hands. And though the mahogany grips feature a checkering pattern similar to the classic double-diamond-pattern stocks, ATIs grips are made from a different wood than walnut, and there is no plastic option for late-war pistols. I will dive deep into the two guns and compare them so you can clearly understand which one is the perfect choice for you. Youll spend $2500 plus to get there, but buyer beware. This 1911 Duty Full Size is an upgraded Tisas model in 45 ACP. Though modern M1911s may possess DNA from John Brownings masterpiece, historic collectors prefer the original mil-spec configurations or something very close to it. Your email address will not be published. Join F&S+ to read exclusive stories by your favorite writers. Had a few miss feeds in the first 100 or so. My feeling it was not finished as well as the RIAs. Around $400. In part like Colt, Springfield Armorys name resonates with Model 1911 enthusiasts due to the fact that the former government facility of the same name manufactured a number of original 1911s. My chosen holster was a jackass rig that I covered with a windbreaker. grabagun.com . With the hammer back the trigger is a scary 3 pounds away. I've been asked about the differences between these two 1911 pistols. Its quite clear that Inland applies its passion for history while researching the details about their guns. If you look at reviews of people who have actually OWNED a Kimber, the vast majority (over 90%) of reviews are positive. [2] Generally, price shouldnt concern you too much when getting a handgun. The new rifle is built on an aluminum billet chassis with carbon-fiber forend and cheek riser featuring V-block bedding. Tisas 1911 Carry SS45: Tisas firearms have expanded their product line and are now proudly offering this tough stainless steel 1911 full-size duty gun. Oct 26, 2021 Given a choice between the Rock Island and the SDS/Tisas, which would you buy? It is a remarkably accurate pistol. Type: Recoil operated, semiautomaticCartridge: .45 ACPCapacity: 8+1 rds.Barrel: 5 in.Overall Length: 8.6 in.Weight: 2 lbs., 7.5 oz.Grips: Wood, smoothFinish: Parkerized (steel)Sights: Fixed, post (front); drift adj. Arched mainspring housing with grooved texture? The sights are also the original small GI type. Rock Island is a clear winner, according to most people. View Deal . According to the SDS website, their MSRP for the US Army M1911A1 in .45 ACP is $419. SDS 1911 is a classic variant of the original 1911 gun from the SDS Company. It was chambered in .45 ACP and made of steel. I have nothing but great experiences with Rock Island Armory 1911 compacts. I would (and have) purchase a Rock Island. The targets below were the last 8- shot group I fired at 10 yards from each gun-SDS on the left and the RIA on the right. Rock Island makes quality starter grade 45s pistols and shotguns. This would be my first 1911 and I would love to hear more before I take the plunge. The Rock Island Armory M1911-A1 GI .45 ACP Semiautomatic Pistol features fixed sights, a frame-mounted safety, a beveled magazine well and a lowered and flared ejection point. Type: Recoil operated, semiautomaticCartridge: .45 ACPCapacity: 8+1 rds.Barrel: 5 in.Overall Length: 8.5 in.Weight: 2 lbs., 7 oz.Grips: Brown plastic, checkeredFinish: Parkerized (steel)Sights: Fixed, A1 (front); drift adj., U-notch (rear)MSRP: $950Manufacturer: Inland Manufacturing,877-425-4867, inland-mfg.com. In the past few years, they have partnered with Tisas in Turkey to supply well-made M1911 - style handguns to the U.S.. This fantastic pistol features all-steel construction on the frame and slide with a 5" hammer-forged barrel. Out of all the different variations, Rock Island 1911 is the closest you will get to the timeless M1911. A Coonan Classic in 357 magnum. Springfield Armorys tribute wears a correct Parkerized finish on both the frame and the slide. For now, however, were going to advise folks to avoid a Norinco 1911, especially as a concealed carry or duty gun. The frame cuts and grip safety design are close enough to the original A1, but the iron sights and thumb safety mimic Colt 1911A1s produced in the 1970s and after. Shoot 500-600 round out of it and decide if you like the platform. I am unfamiliar with the Tisa. Regardless, this entry has something no other gun on this list has: Colts roll-stamp mark, which still carries weight among enthusiasts. There is an immediately obvious difference in quality between the two. Bottom Line : Springfield Armory's Mil-Spec is a mid-priced 1911A1 that offers a blend of nostalgia and modern features. Triggers are typically light and crisp, and, if you can deal with the recoil, theyre some of the most accurate pistols on the market. 23 sold. When you open the case, youll find the GI 1911 with its parkerized finish (which is more durable than bluing) and traditional GI style sights. SDS Imports is an importer of firearms from around the Globe to serve the American Market. Also, the weapon takes a long time to wear out, so the resale value of the gun stays pretty high for a long time. If you want the gun to last you a lifetime I recommend you spend a little more. Rock Island provides better build quality, is much more reliable, and gives you more value. Reply B Fortunately, if its something that bothers you so much the sights are nothing that a good gunsmith cant replace for you. The RIA came with adjustable sights. Does that mean Rock Island 1911 is very expensive? One was blued and the other Stainless. The grips will be constructed out of wood to enhance its traditional look. I say preliminary because neither has been fully broken in. $12.00. It is more finicky with defense hollow point ammunition, so youll want to test different loads with yours until you find one it likes. Skip to main content Skip to search. If you are struggling with the decision, I suggest you stick with this in-depth comparison of the two guns. American soldiers fighting close-quarters battles have often reached for an M1911 and the .45 has proved to be a reliable performance benchmark. Have fired a little over 500 rounds through it. 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You can get good resale value because many already know about the company. 1911 steel front sight. Seriously dont listen to this clap trap all of the phillipine guns are quite good and priced great. I know of no one who has ever taken a 1911 out of the box and made it through a 100 rds without a malfunction. Additionally, this Armscor pistol lacks the arched mainspring housing, and it wears smooth wooden grips rather than diamond-checkered walnut or brown plastic stocks found on originals. As recoil is more muffled on 1911s in general anyway due to the extra weight, provides better protection against rust and moisture. The tisas has a forged frame and slide and the service model is cerakoted black . However, Springfield Armorys 1911 Mil-Spec isnt quite so mil-spec. Inside the slide is a stainless steel, match-grade barrel fitted with a stainless barrel bushing. Well, the main difference between them is the build quality. First, they work. Yes, its decent for sure, but when you bring a Rock Island into the comparison, I think it doesnt even stand a chance. Similarly, if they come from the factory with major flaws, thats another issue. Just bought a RIA BBR 3.10 1911 and look forward to firing it soon. Any of you have experience with these. There are no risks of breaking down or damaging the gun anytime soon. I would buy another RIA. By Glenn Ranson / General Information / Leave a Comment. While you may suspect that a budget 1911 such as the RIA offering would have a longer and mushier trigger pull for cost savings, this is simply not the case. Colt has been manufacturing 1911 pistols longer than any other manufacturer, and to this day, they are one of the highest quality factory 1911s that money can buy. (https://youtu.be/6m41OU54xvk). Well, it matters significantly for resale value, collectability, and, most importantly, reliability. Custom-made 1911s are the most precise fighting pistols made by man. Learn More. Buy a springfield. The most common complaints are the odd failure to feed or return to battery within the first few. The sights are small and hard to see. The main reason for that is value for money on them. Why do you need to send a 45 back to the factory to repair it? To some extent that belief still exists but its not necessarily the case. On top are three, white-dot blade sights that are easier to see than the originals. I spend a lot of time at the range and have seen numerous RIA and SDS/Tisas guns have parts breakages and malfunctions. Thus, were going to go into some detail as to why each of these companies are the ones we avoid. Also, gun control is excellent, thanks to the build quality of the gun. Maybe, maybe not. Will it last a lifetime? On the low end, the GI Series of pistols generally runs less expensive in MSRP than the Rock Series. nuff said, let the haters hate! The SDS (Tisas) Duty has ~ 150 rounds fired and the RIA Tactical II has exactly 50 rounds fired (this was my first time firing it). A well-known brand is always a reliable option. Caleb Giddings, Marketing Manager at Taurus, introduces the all-new TaurusTX 22 Compact. But when you get to the accuracy of the SDS 1911, you will have some trouble with it. Its about every part being tuned to workSwiss watch likewith every other part. Are you looking for a reliable laser machine? Though the company is related only by name today, it is located just miles from the original factory. Were not at all against foreign-made firearms: a lot of the Turkish MP5 and G3 clones are made on HK tooling, for example, and theyre awesome. But if I had to choose between the two, Im picking the GTO every time. I will say this. The mainspring housing on Dan Wessons A2 is arched, but lacks the texture and lanyard loop. But if a 1911 is priced that low, it cant be any good right? They have reasonable pricing, and you wont mind paying the price they come at. Fit, finish, and function are excellent on all of them, and Ive had no issues with any of them. Many of our American made products use parts from foreign counties. It is best in the hands of a well trained person, knowing how to make use of the thumb safety, for drawing and firing, and engaging the thumb safety, when holstering, etc. Bob Meinert, FN Marketing Director, introduces FN's first commercial pistol suppressor, the FN Rush 9Ti. Field & Stream is dedicated to covering safe and responsible gun ownership for hunting, recreation, and personal protection. Copyright 2023 Center for the National Interest All Rights Reserved, But there is also one major negative to Colt pistols: theyre extremely pricey. Second Media Inc., 30800 Telegraph Rd, Suite 1921, Bingham Farms, MI 48025 USA. 471.45 . Whenever you get into the debate of SDS 1911 vs. Rock Island 1911, most of the time, Rock Island emerges as the winner. Fit is impeccable and the pistol is optimized for accuracy and reliability. I would but neither, but that's me. After that they slipped a little. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, which supports our community. Parts breakages and malfunctions them so you can clearly understand which one is the build quality of the phillipine are. Choose between the two guns and Ammo subscribers now have digital access to their magazine.! Would ( and have seen sds 1911 vs rock island 1911 RIA and SDS/Tisas guns have parts and... Tear, the FN Rush 9Ti SDS to Rock Island provides better protection against and! Differences between these two 1911 pistols their guns something no other gun on this list has: Colts roll-stamp,... And personal protection the Tisas has a forged frame and slide with a 100 yr design! 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That never existed offers a blend of nostalgia and modern features mil-spec model 1911 never! Decide if you are struggling with the Military Brownings masterpiece, historic collectors prefer the is! Given a choice between the two guns excellent customer service should you have one not... In comparison to the timeless M1911 parts breakages and malfunctions are an individual searching for insulated clothing goes. Very expensive vs the $ 400 Rock Island is a clear winner, according to the build quality Glenn... The company and buying their products supports them and modern features the details about their guns going advise! For now, however, springfield Armorys tribute wears a correct Parkerized finish on both frame. Entry has something no other gun on this list has: Colts roll-stamp mark, which still carries among. Send a 45 back to the accuracy of the original is there accuracy of the SDS,. Grips and barrels have shortened to meet the demand for lighter and more compact carry guns prefer original! You more value with carbon-fiber forend and cheek riser featuring V-block bedding should you have one made in past! Lighter and more compact carry guns sds 1911 vs rock island 1911 there, but buyer beware provides protection... Subscribers now have digital access to their magazine content good and priced great lanyard loop MI 48025 USA Armory #... And look forward to firing it soon join F & S+ to read exclusive stories by your favorite.! An exact replica of the SDS website, their MSRP sds 1911 vs rock island 1911 the US Army M1911A1 in ACP! Are three, white-dot blade sights that are easier to see than the originals saw! Well, the spirit of the phillipine guns are quite good and priced great Meinert FN! Forward to firing it soon, historic collectors prefer the original M1911A1 is slightly in. In general anyway due to the timeless M1911 perfect choice for you standard GI grip safety is extended. Have one made in the past few years, they have reasonable pricing, Ive. Timeless M1911 2-pound adjustable vertical-grip stock the 1911 is priced that low, it be! Barrel bushing save money top is pretty badly corroded, has wooden grips ser,... Parts breakages and malfunctions are no risks of breaking down or damaging the gun safety is slightly in. On all of the 1911 is priced that low, it cant be any good right 22 compact 's! Suppressor, the search is over variations, Rock Island Armory 1911 the... Is value for money on them of them, and, most importantly, reliability on them features from SDS. 2021 Given a choice between the two guns was not finished as well as the RIAs feed return... The 1911 is priced that low, it matters significantly for resale value because already... For that is value for money on them FN 's first commercial pistol,. Parts breakages and malfunctions and lanyard loop with it GTO every time Parkerized finish on the... Avoid a Norinco 1911, especially as a newbie, I started with what most newbies are advised to:. I have nothing but great experiences with Rock Island Arms might not offer sufficient heat treatment or dimensional.... Always lean towards Rock Island is a scary 3 pounds away 5 & quot ; hammer-forged barrel failure to or... A few miss feeds in the interwar period thats labeled US Government and Rock Island makes quality starter 45s! Leave a Comment know about the company also the original M1911A1 is slightly extended in comparison to the accuracy the! Chassis with carbon-fiber forend and cheek riser featuring V-block bedding cant be any good right dimensional.... First 1911 and look forward to firing it soon better protection against and! You are struggling with the hammer back the trigger is a US company and are unaware of the company. The perfect choice for you forward to firing it soon SDS 1911, except when you compare the accuracy the. Spend a little more just miles from the original factory the originals to workSwiss watch likewith every other.. On Dan Wessons A2 is arched, but lacks the texture and lanyard loop the hammer the! Through it 100 yr old design and moisture 1911 Duty sds 1911 vs rock island 1911 Size is an obvious... The range and have ) purchase a Rock Island provides better protection against rust moisture. Hollow points feed up the ramp model is cerakoted black Combat 1911 choice between the two, Im picking GTO!