I am really considering a Smith & Wesson E series 1911SC with the bobtail frame and the 4.25" barrel. I am, however, not up on the variations available. Did S&W make any of their models that had a stainless steel frame as opposed to the Scandium alloy? Preferably stainless frame and slide with a Melonite finish(my first choice) or just plain stainless? If not how do people that have owned and used the alloy frame models feel about them? I've never been a big fan of alloy.

I have the 5" stainless E Series and I love it. I carry it nearly everyday and, after 250 rounds, I am convinced that it is the nicest 1911 that I've ever owned. If you are not specifically sold on a commander sized model, I would give one of these a look.

S&W doesn't make a stainless commander. I've had my S&W PD commander since 07 and it been flawless. With the scandium frame you will forget your even carring it, at 28 oz. you can get the S&W in stainless in the 5 inch and they are a great 1911 also. My E-series has been flawless also. Best of luck and hope this helps some..

Is their a 5" stainless bobtail? Or a 5" all stainless with black Melonite finish? Also what should I expect to pay for one of these.....ballpark?

No 5 inch bobtail but you can get the E in all stainless with the melonite finish and rail. I've seen them from $900 to $ 1200 and are a lot of 1911 for the money. Best of luck.