Im at a crossroads between 1911's...

cwblackwell88

cwblackwell88

CGN Regular
Rating - 98.4%
248   4   0
Location
Alberta
Alright guys..

So i am in the market for a "commander" style 1911.

features that it must have:

-3 dot night sights OR cut for novaks.

-blued/nitron type finish.

-45ACP

i have narrowed down to either:

-Sig 1911 carry in black nitron.

-STI Ranger II

-And the S&W SW1911PD Gunsite Edition

I have owned a kimber tactical pro before and loved it but i would like to buy new/ close to new and that wont happen.

So im looking for any advice from anyone who has owned any of these along with 1911 pros out there to help my decision. Any other suggestions are welcome also!
 
I have only ever shot the Ranger and I really liked it. I have huge hands and for a commander style 1911, it fit better then my Kimber Warrior.
 
In the same price range as the Ranger II, you should consider the Dan Wesson Commander Bobtail. ArmsEast has some in stock. If you want to move into a higher price bracket, you should look at the Nighthawk Talon II or Wilson Combat Professional.
 
cwblackwell88 said:
Thanks Darko thats good to know. Can anyone verify if the Ranger II is cut for novaks?

Freedom Ventures seems to be going right to the msg machine.
Click to expand...
What's a msg machine?

Yes, it's cut for Novaks.

Sight options are heinie straight 8 trits, the Tactical adjustable Sight and Fixed Heinies. All on the Novak cut.
 
UncleWalther said:
In the same price range as the Ranger II, you should consider the Dan Wesson Commander Bobtail.
Click to expand...

I've got both (though my Ranger is 9mm) and the STI is a better gun. Its completely problem-free, whereas the DW is a little picky with ammo and just doesn't cycle as smoothly. The Ranger is like butter. Better trigger too.
 
Good to know again, Darko.. How does the finish hold up on your Ranger?
It seems from the pictures i have seen they all like pretty worn in.. im hoping because the pistol makes you want to use it non-stop!
 
The finish seems average... I bought mine used and it has some light scratching on the slide and such. I remember shooting another member's RangerII last year and his had considerable wear in the finish around the grips and slide from regular use.

My personal opinion is that all these finishes are just okay... eventually you'll have to refinish it. In this department the Dan Wesson would treat you much better since its stainless. Mine is still spotless.

I bought the Ranger for tactical shooting and holster use and don't personally care about the finish. It shoots 110% and that's all I need. I don't mind the worn look at all.

dansti1.jpg
 
Last edited:
STI ranger II is not a true Commander. The frame has a Gov't length dust cover. Barrel is not true 4.25". You're need to buy a holster for Gov't model trimmed down to it's length. It will NOT fit a true commander holster that's finely boned or Kydex.
 
Yes and no.

BKP99 said:
STI ranger II is not a true Commander. The frame has a Gov't length dust cover. Barrel is not true 4.25"...
Click to expand...

That is essentially true. It has a government length dust cover and a 4.15" barrel.

...You're need to buy a holster for Gov't model trimmed down to it's length. It will NOT fit a true commander holster that's finely boned or Kydex.
Click to expand...

With use, the Ranger ll quickly swages out the (quarter of an inch difference of leather in the) finely-boned Milt Sparks SS-2. It sits (about a quarter of an inch) high in the closely-moulded kydex Sidearmor, but it looks, fits, and works fine nonetheless - and certainly much better than most pistols' fit with most manufacturer's holsters.

No trimming required. :cool:
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom