Author Topic: SA nad RI durability question (Read 631 times)

RedRyder21 · « **on:** July 16, 2005, 08:37:29 AM »

As the day comes closer to the point that I have enough "extra $'s" to purchase a 1911 (will be my first 1911) I am thinking of more and more questions about which to purchase first.

I am torn between the Rock Island Armory and SA GI. I want a less expensive model to learn with so I don't accidentally mess up a $1000 1911. I still want a dependable 1911 I could trust my life with.

Which of these two 1911 would you choose? Don't say both.
I have heard some new models have some plastic parts, do either of these?

One more question, I have seen all of the aftermaket 1911 parts, how hard are these two install on these two 1911's?

Thanks for any advice you might have! :grin:

RedRyder21 · « **Reply #1 on:** July 16, 2005, 08:41:00 AM »

Oh yes, I nearly forgot. I have one more question.

I have heard the new SA 1911's come with a key that you have to have to make the firearm functional?

I know there intentions for safety are good, but I don't need anymore "keys" to keep up with.

greenjeans · « **Reply #2 on:** July 16, 2005, 02:59:58 PM »

I have two of the SA GI spec. Full size and Commander size. Both have been totally reliable. They don't have any plastic parts that I can find other than the short spring guide in the full size. I could be wrong on that, too. I went through the same thing you are and bought the SA just "because". Would probably buy the RI first if I were doing it again. The RI is about $100 cheaper than the SA around here. The gunsmith at my gun shop says aftermarket parts fit both these as well as they fit others and he specializes in 1911's.Have fun with whatever you decide.

Forgot to mention. The SA's do have a safety lock. Mine are unlocked and key in the box. Never been locked and don't intend to.

RedRyder21 · « **Reply #3 on:** July 16, 2005, 06:31:09 PM »

Thanks for the info...

As of now I am leaning towards the Rock Island 1911. I like how it is blued compared to the parkerized 1911's. I just don't dig the "parkerized" look.

greenjeans · « **Reply #4 on:** July 17, 2005, 04:19:50 PM »

Checked my spring guide in the SA. It is metal, not plastic. Are you looking at the single stack or double stack on the RI? Have heard there have been some grip safety problems on the double. Will probably buy a RI before all is said and done. The 1911's are addictive,

tbull55 · « **Reply #5 on:** July 18, 2005, 08:15:52 AM »

I don't have one but I have shot an RI. Great shooting gun, looks to be well built. Only problem is seeing the old G.I. sights.

Tbull