I've had experience owning and shooting Norinco 1911's and Springfield Armory 1911's. It's kinda like comparing apples and oranges (different price points).
At around the $ 400 price point, I loved my .45 and my NP29 9mm Norinco. Both shot well and reliably. I regret selling them, but my fingers were little sore and scratched from the sharp edges... mind you, an India stone smoothed that out. I'm still saving up for another NP29 once Marstar gets them in....
At around the $ 875 price point, I still love and shoot both my .45 AND 9mm Springfields. Much better fit and finish, lovely to look at and lovelier to shoot. Better yet, I just got out this morning in the cold snow and my friend put through 50 rds of .45 ammo through the Springer. Both my Springers shoot point of aim, point of impact. I could not ask for a better setup.
Like anything else, you get what you pay for. Would I choose one brand over the other ? Hell, just buy BOTH brands. In the meantime, if that option is not available, go visit your favorite gun shop and hold them in yer hand(s). See what feels right and which ones you and your budget can live with.
When I was over at
www.ellwoodepps.com for example, I picked up a Springfield Armory Loaded M1911 in .45 and I immediately said, "I HAVE GOT TO GET ME ONE OF THESE !!" That's when I bought a .45 Springer in a parkerized finish, since I'm a Service Pistol kinda guy.
My Norinco NP29 was a fabulous shooter and I do have to say, I'm gonna get another and re-finish it since bluing just drives me bananas. I plan on having the pistol "de-horned" or sharp edges stoned down and then I'll have the pistol bead blasted and re-parkerized.
I hate to advise you what YOU should buy, but frankly the Norcs are a great start into the handgun addiction. Great entry price also. Later on you will realize why I suggested that you just get both. Work a few extra shifts... trust me... you ain't gonna regret the 1911 purchase with either brand.
Cheers and happy shopping.
Barney
