Bushing-less 1911s: thoughts and experiences?

[subneural]

I am a big fan of 1911s. I find that the size, weight, and single-stack grip just "fit me" best. Up until now I've stuck with Brownings original design - full size 5" in .45 ACP (an STI if these things matter).

I fully admit that I have 1911-itis, so now I'm looking at one commander-sized in 9mm. Some (like the Para LTC) have a standard barrel and bushing, while others like the Kimber Carry line have a bushing less, direct fit bull-barrel.

I value any feedback from commander owners; is there anything I need to know before possibly going to a bushing less design?

 

[Sambaru]

I think the main "concern" with bushingless 1911s is that the barrel is fit directly to the slide instead of barrel>bushing>slide which would mean if any fitment needs to be done, you basically have to alter either the barrel or the slide instead of being able to mate a bushing (a much cheaper part) to the two. As long as you go with a reputable 1911, this should not be an issue. And even if it became an issue, I think we are looking at the hundreds of thousands of rounds mark anyway.

On the plus side, bushingless bull barrel 1911s are softer shooting so it's a good choice for a commander length in my opinion.