I love the 1911 style .45 its look, its feel, and the sense of history it evokes every time I touch one. Unfortunately I am a poor student. I want one bad. I have held back for almost two years now(was at the gun store on 21st birthday with a 1911 in my hand, but alas no money). I could probably scrape together enough to get one of the springfield armory's versions, but would this be a wise move? How well do they shoot and hold up? Should I just wait until I can afford something better? What .45 gives me the most for the dollar?

Any guidance would be a great help. Thanks.

Carl

Anvil,springfield builds one of the better copies of the 1911, and is a fine pistol to start with, you can spend more money but it would be a good one to start off with and as you money sitrep improves you can build the pistol as you want.

Anvil63
I am with Dave James on this one. I have shot a few Springfield 1911,s and they all worked well.
I would recommend a "full size" government model if this is your first 45ACP.

The Springfield milspec is a good, basic 1911-A1.

They also have a life time warrenty

I also have to agree the springfield is a fine gun for starters.I don't own one myself but have seen people that don,t complain about them.I own 5 45,s one has been converted to 45 super.the colt is ok but there are alot better i own 2 fine kimber's and would stack them against any out of box gun going.So if you like the springfield 45 and it is in your price range buy it and have fun shooting.

Well, I just got my Springfield Custom Loaded, and my best 5 shot group was one ragged hole. I'm not seeing an attachment option or I'd scan in the target. So far it appears to be more accurate than any of the pistols/revolvers I own, including my 686. And no jams or anything either. I'm quite pleased so far. I think nearly anyone will tell you that Springfield's are first rate 1911's. (you get a certain amount of "Ford/Chevy" type partisanship at times, but I don't think too many people seriously think they are crap). Colt, Springfield, Kimber--they're all good.