If I can totally distact you, have you looked at any of the new Colts? They are a great psitol for the price! I bought a S&W SW1911 at the end of last year to use in USPSA Limited 10 competition. Great pistol! Then , I found a Colt 1991 NRM Government model this summer and had to have it. No frills, basic blue government model. The Colt is unbelievable! It outshoots the SW1911 with ease and cost nearly $200 less. I have used the Colt in competition once now and was very impressed. I'm not the fastest shooter on the line, but my hits were about 85%-90% "A" zone.
I have talked with a lot of guys looking to get into my sport, and they all seem hellbent to buy 1911's with all the bells and whistles. The Colt is stock except for an arched S&A mag guide and a little filing of the stock grip safety and hammer to reduce the hammer bite potential (got me once in the competition). A lot of guys swear by adjustable rear sights. In 14 years of competition, I have yet to own a 1911 with other than fixed sights.
Everyone...take your shots at my comments. I started shooting 1911's and immediately started swapping parts and adding beavertails. After a long break from the action, I came back with a new philosophy.