Norinco / S.A.M. / R.I.A.

Jayph

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Always wanted a 45 but just don't see myself shooting it much to justify lots of money (recoil & cost) Truth is I barely shoot my 9 since I bought my GSG and m&p22. I seen these three go for 500 or less. Is one noticeably better than the other or will I regret a bargin model and should plan on spending a bit more?

Thanks
 
If you eventually get into reloading then the cost of shooting .45acp drops by a LOT. And you'll be inclined to shoot it more often. Until then why jump in just yet? If you're having fun with your other toys stick with them.

If you're simply keen on trying something really different then what about a revolver?
 
If you eventually get into reloading then the cost of shooting .45acp drops by a LOT. And you'll be inclined to shoot it more often. Until then why jump in just yet? If you're having fun with your other toys stick with them.

If you're simply keen on trying something really different then what about a revolver?

I reload already but don't have time to load for my rifles let alone the amount I fire the pistols. Already own revolvers, the GSG was my first 1911 style handgun and I really like the design and have never owned a 45 so figured why not try one. No one local sells any of the above three so I can't handle them to draw my own conclusions. So I figured I would see what the consensus on here was.
 
SAM are great handgun for the price much more refined than Norinco however that being said QC has improved over the years with the Norcs. SAM are mil spec so they will take after market parts as much as I understand.
 
The SAM's have gained a loyal following,they look good and they shoot good and after many trips to the range mine is still going strong.
 
I've had good experiences with Norc 1911's. Still have a couple of the older series. Personally, I don't care for the new series with the foward cut slide serrations, though. Although, I have to say they have done a very nice job with the sites on the new model compact [commander].

If I was just starting out in the 1911 world again, I'd go right for a STI Spartan or new Ruger SR1911, though. Worth the extra money out of the gate, IMHO.

:canadaFlag:
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NAA.
 
shooting a ruger sr1911 for a review right now, great gun for the money, I also own a spartan and it is quite a good deal as well. ruger is miles better looking though
 
Maybe I did not handle an average ruger 1911 but the one I handled was very loose frame to slide fit. This thing rattled like a baby toy! I agree it looks nicer than my spartan but if I had to do it over again I would still pick the spartan.
 
I would read reviews on SAM and their compatibility issues on other forums... some serious issues.
There are older SAM pistols that when first sold in the US were not well received....same with early Armscorp pistols. This was late 90's early 2000. They have come a long way since then. SAM uses cnc machines since 2008 to make these pistols. Fit and finish is better then the armscorp pistols now. Small parts for any 1911 can require some fitting, very few drop in parts in my experience...
In the US they are sold under the American Tactical Imports name.....and get good reviews.
 
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Have to add one for he "norc"
I know people love to knock them, but mine has been flawless...... Going to get a 9mm as well just for fun.... Maybe I was lucky, I just don't think so?..... Has to be the best value .45 on the market.. IMO. Lots of other pistols on my want list, but value.... Can't be beaten.
Whatever you choose, enjoy ... I want all of them .
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