TexasCHLforum.com

With 1911s there are two approaches:

1. buy a basic gun and add parts until it fits you perfectly.

2. try and find the gun with all the bells and whistles already in place.

With your budget and lack of history, I would go route 1. and I would advise a basic Kimber Custom II. I just bought 1 NIB for $682 out the door from AJC sports at a gunshow. Stainless is same price I think. You might want to go with the Night Sights version but I suggest looking at the sights on other shooters guns before deciding what you want on YOUR 1911.

Now the only way to properly pursue route 2 requires MORE money and waiting for someone like Dane Burns or Ed Vandenberg to get around to your order. (not really all of the Big names have scads of variation that make it possible to find one set up to your satisfaction)

1 peice of advise, 1911 owners are almost universally glad to let you throw some lead downrange from their babies as long as you stroke their ego's by admiring their SUPERIOR firearms. This is a CHEAP way to try out different 1911s.