Prices for the Colt's have always been high, I guess because people pay the $$. Having been a full-time LEO since 1981 I have had occasion to shoot most everything out there. My 2 cents worth: the Colts are no better than any of the SW's when it comes to revolvers and there are many many 1911's that are as good or better than the Ponys. I only have one Colt, a 1981 series '70 stock 1911. I also have a SW 1911 and a Springfield 1911. I can tell no difference in the three as far as quality and all the other measures you look at in a 1911. I like to shoot so I'll go with what I can afford and there are many other companies out there that make quality products but don't have to rely on a name. As far as revolvers go, I own 8 various SW's, all made before 1992. I'll take the Smiths over the Colts all day long. Look at the AR-15 market, Colt had this wrapped up for the civilian and LE market for many moons... no longer. Again, just my 2 cents worth.

__________________
TMW
ExFed