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MojoTexas wrote:I had looked at the Taurus 1911s before buying my Kimber back in February. From what I've heard, they're a great value for the money, but they're not exactly 100% compatible with other 1911 pistols. In other words, your mileage may vary trying to find holsters that fit perfectly, or trying to use aftermarket parts like grips and stuff. I don't know how true this is...but it's what I've heard. I would think that if you're just looking for an inexpensive range gun, a Taurus 1911 would be a great buy, especially if you're okay with keeping it stock.

I know what you mean about the first time shooting a 1911. My buddy has a Springfield TRP and shooting his TRP was what hooked me.

My son has a Taurus 1911. I don't know about "100%," but the old stainless slide-stop lever from my Kimber Stainless UC II has been doing duty in my son's Taurus 1911 for the past 2 years now; so that part at least appears to be compatible with other 1911s. The primary trouble my son has had with his Taurus is finding a holster to fit it. His is the PT1911AR with the accessory rail, and the Taurus rail is larger and more obtrusive than the rails on similar Kimbers or Springfields. So unless you can get someone to make you a custom holster, it doesn't look like anyone makes a standard model of holster to fit that gun.

lostcow550 wrote:What are others experience when first firing a 1911 or first shooting experiences in general?

I forgot to add that the very first pistol I ever shot was the 1911 I inherited from my dad when he passed away. It is a 1943 Ithaca, and it was his sidearm during WW2. Anyway, when I shot it, I had no other frame of reference, so it was great. And like you, after the first shot, I looked over at the friend who was teaching me to shoot, and I grinned from ear to ear and said, "I could get used to this!"

PS: I just noticed that 10 more posts will put me over 6,000!

lostcow550 wrote:I don't want to sound stupid how will the springfield gi compare to the kimber I shot or are their other recommended 1911's that a little more affordable?

I know Kimber's are generally really nice 1911's from what I've read. But I'm looking for something on the cheaper end with quality, not looking for a ccw weapon just a fun range gun.

I'm sure the "cheap 1911" topic has been beaten to death here but I am still interested in others first experiences and impressions.

I own both a Kimber and a Springfield - different models than you're asking about. Both manufacturers are excellent brands. But if you're going to compare a Springfield GI to a Kimber Custom II, the Kimber is definitely the nicer gun - considering the beavertail grip safety, upgraded sights, a match grade barrel and match grade barrel bushing, and match grade trigger. The Springfield GI is your "basic" 1911 without those upgrades. Springfield has offerings similar to the Kimber Custom II, but not at the GI price.

If you want to buy into the 1911 mystique without breaking the bank, Rock Island Armory pistols are definitely worth a long look. There is nothing wrong with those pistols at all.