I forgot to mention that you should check out the 1911 Forum. The one that I am familiar with provides a lot of information, and even has subsections devoted to certain brands.
As for my not recommending SIGs, I didn't because as far as I know, they don't have a GI model, they are usually close to $1K new, which is about twice your stated budget, and they do have a FPS. SIG's CS is pretty good, although it does have its highs and lows.
I didn't recommend Colt for the same reasons (although some models are available without a FPS.) Colt does have good service, if you are in no hurry...like several months, in most cases. Colt gets too preoccupied with its large military contracts sometimes...at least that's the best explanation I have ever heard. I've never had a problem with any Colt that I've ever owned, but I've read about the experiences of many other owners...and they have all said pretty much the same thing: it takes months to get your gun back. Take that for what it's worth...they may be exaggerating the time interval (like when my mother-in-law visits, or I'm waiting for a gun I ordered to come in, the clocks/calendars seem to stand still.) With a Colt, though, you can be pretty much assured it will retain its value, unless you abuse it or don't take care of it. It's an American icon, much like Harley Davidson, and some Colts do rattle and leak too.
I've read good and bad about Remingtons...I didn't have any problems with mine, but didn't keep it (I thought maybe I could figure out a grip that wouldn't get me bit, but I wasn't able to.) They also have a FPS, no lifetime warranty (unless that has changed), and don't get glowing reviews on their CS, as far as what I have read.
Based on my bad experiences, I wouldn't wish a Kimber on anyone...and I don't care for Taurus products either (poor CS, poor QC, and resale value sucks.)
As for my not recommending SIGs, I didn't because as far as I know, they don't have a GI model, they are usually close to $1K new, which is about twice your stated budget, and they do have a FPS. SIG's CS is pretty good, although it does have its highs and lows.
I didn't recommend Colt for the same reasons (although some models are available without a FPS.) Colt does have good service, if you are in no hurry...like several months, in most cases. Colt gets too preoccupied with its large military contracts sometimes...at least that's the best explanation I have ever heard. I've never had a problem with any Colt that I've ever owned, but I've read about the experiences of many other owners...and they have all said pretty much the same thing: it takes months to get your gun back. Take that for what it's worth...they may be exaggerating the time interval (like when my mother-in-law visits, or I'm waiting for a gun I ordered to come in, the clocks/calendars seem to stand still.) With a Colt, though, you can be pretty much assured it will retain its value, unless you abuse it or don't take care of it. It's an American icon, much like Harley Davidson, and some Colts do rattle and leak too.
I've read good and bad about Remingtons...I didn't have any problems with mine, but didn't keep it (I thought maybe I could figure out a grip that wouldn't get me bit, but I wasn't able to.) They also have a FPS, no lifetime warranty (unless that has changed), and don't get glowing reviews on their CS, as far as what I have read.
Based on my bad experiences, I wouldn't wish a Kimber on anyone...and I don't care for Taurus products either (poor CS, poor QC, and resale value sucks.)
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