.45 ?

[stingray]

Hi guys newbee here.

Looking to get a 1911 style pistol (I like this style)

I do a lot of gold prospecting out in the desert by myself and I need a handgun to carry on my belt.

I found a few that seem to fit the bill but I don't know enough about them to make a wise choice.

Here's what I found:
1. KBI/Charles Daly Blue/hardwood 529.00
2. Llama Maxi Gov. Blue/ Rubber 299.00
3. Springfield Armory Mil Spec Blk 502.00
4. Smith Wesson Blk/ Rubber 783.95
5. Colt Blk/rosewood 870.00

This gun will be seeing rough use, as it will be strapped on my side in harsh desert environment. And must last a full weekend without cleaning.

Thanks
Ray

[klittlet]

I have the Mil spec springfield is a great gun but, I don't know if I would use it in a dirty environment my 45 tends to jam when it dirty.

[DeadeyeUSP45]

If you're still looking, and have to have a 1911, I'd think about the Springfield. From what I've been seeing, they're the best value for the money. I'd stay away from the Llama, as I've known two people who have had them and had problems with them.

If you're open to other styles of handguns, I'd check out the Springfield XD's for something that holds up to dirt, sand and general abuse. It's not available in a .45acp, but I think it is now available in a .45gap as well as a .40, .357sig and a 9mm. Although it is a polymer frame, it has the same grip angle as the 1911's and is available in 3", 4" and a 5" tactical model.

I shoot mostly HK USPs right now, but I'm in the market for a .40 and I'm leaning toward the XD mostly for the rave reviews and price $449 street price here with 2 hicap mags.

[kynardsj]

I'd stay away from the Charles Daly, the LLama and the Smith. The Colt is a good gun but I really lean toward the Springfield. I've owned one and they're great. A Glock would be another good choice. Unless you're just wanting a semi auto another choice would be a S&W model 625. It's 45 acp that uses full moon clips so a fast reload is easy. I own one and love it. It's very forgiving when digesting different kinds of ammo and being a revolver it's not as likely to hang up without a proper cleaning. Good Luck.

[ranger2]

It seems to me that you have a wide variety to choose from.
From my experience, I have had good luck with the ones you mentioned. The one you didn't mention was the Firestorm. I had real good service with the one I had,also the new Auto-Ordnance is one to look at. I have one and so far it has NOT manfunctioned in any way.
I do have one of the "new" 70 Series from Colt. If money is no object, I'd try and find one of these.
Whichever you choose, I'd suggest new.
So, good luck in your journey.....