Both Kimber and Springfield make really nice guns with most of the bells and whistles in the $600-$900 range.but then I would have to put off my purchase of a 1911. I haven't started to research that yet, but will be looking for something that is of decent quality but nothin fancy. ANyone knowledgeable on what I can expect to spend?
If you looking for a simple design without all the bells and whistles then I would recommend to Springield Mil-spec models. They are nice shooting guns and you could always customize it at a later time.
Don't overlook Colt. My experiance with them hasn't been stellar, but that's just one instance. Most are good guns, but for more basic models the Kimbers and Springfield are better values in my opinion.
I'm sure others much more knowledgeable about 1911s will be along shortly.