Oh no! another what to buy question?

[Ed Hill]

I read all the previous posts, and will try to narrow it down some. I'm interested in buying a 1911. I'm in KA, so there is virtually no used market, if it's not on the approved list, dealers can't sell it. I'd like to spend about $650, but figure due to the efforts of my state government, I'm gonna pay $60 to $100 more than in civilized states. A springfield Mil Spec, when you can find one, is $599.

I'm looking at a Stainless Mil-spec for $659, a Para-Ordnance PX745E for $660, is there a Kimber in this range? I don't want a Daly or RIA. Ordering on line isn't an option, the dealers know they have you over a barrel, and charge $50 to $100 to receive the firearm with their FFL. One dealer I'm friendly with charges the $50 if it's something he absolutely can't get.

Any favorites in this price range? Anything i need to stay away from??  Thanks for your help!
ED

[rbwillnj]

You can get a Kimber Custom II or Custom TLE II for pretty close to your number.   I wouldn't exclude used guns.   There are a lot of great deals out there on guns that have hardly been shot.

[MI VHNTR]

Ed, this may be another option for you if you have an FFL that will receive a firearm for you. Look at this link:

http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/index.php/cPath/21_141

It's linked to Colt handguns for my purposes, but they carry many brands at very good prices. If nothing else, it can give you a good idea on handgun prices for negotiating purposes. Hope it helpds you out.  MI VHNTR

[Ed Hill]

Thanks! I'm not overlooking used, there just aren't that many. CA has it's own safety/ drop test, and if a gun isn't on the list, it can't be sold here. The dealer can list a non-approved gun as a consignment ( I think) sell to LEO's or sell out of state. C&R guns are OK. The lack of used guns and the lower priced models not being on the approved list keep the prices high. I saw a used Springfield Army today (well used) for $550. That's more than new in most areas. 
Some of the wholesalers list individuals with FFL's that will accept mail orders for you, but most of the small timers have been pushed out of the business, and $50 is the minimum charge unless you have a friend in the business.

I'll take a look at the Kimbers and see if anyone is having a sale.
ED

[Ed Hill]

Thanks to all for the replies. I put the word out that I was interested in a 1911, and wonder of wonders a friend located a used
( previously sold) but unfired Springfield 1911 A-1 loaded. I got it and hope to get to the range next week.

Next question, does anyone know if Springfield has a manufacture date code? This serial number starts with an "N".

Ed

[44 Man]

Congratulations on your Springfield, I'm sure you will enjoy it!  Sorry about all of the People's Republic of Kalifornia bull***t.  Can't you vote those people out?  There's only a few states left without a 'shall issue' carry permit also and California is one.  Personally, I guess I'd try to move somewhere that I could enjoy my gun hobby.  Sorry about the soapbox, some politician's treatment of the 'common people' irk me to no end.  Enjoy that gun!  44 Man

[Ed Hill]

44Man, the PRK is so lefty people think Gov Arnold is a Republican! I had hope of fleeing the state after retirement, but my daughter and her husband moved back here, and are planning a family. My wife says I can leve the area, as long as I don't mind leaving alone...
 
Ed