We're looking for feedback & reviews on the Ruger SR 1911 government model from experienced owners/ users. This pistol is a very serious contender for our next firearm purchase. We'll be buying 3 of them, and they will be for self-defense for my family. We like that they're American made, reasonably affordable, stainless steel, and the included features. We're a little leery of the cast frame, and have no idea how reliable they are.
WILL
Ruger SR 1911
Hi WILL - some issues of note I've seen with them as they come back for service
1) Tight last round fit in mags - Ruger had an issue and will replace your mags if you call them.
2) Slide slamming into battery after inserting fresh mag. While some pistols are designed that way, this one is not. Again, Ruger is aware of that and will address the issue free of charge.
3) NEVER saw one NOT go boom and they feel great in the hand, too.
4) Lastly, if you're a fan of the SR1911, I'd encourage you to fondle a S&W MP.45 Pro Series. In the $550 range retail. 4.5lb trigger, night sights, ambi manual safety (or you can eliminate it to go 'slick side'), etc...
I have one similar in appearance to this one:
http://www.smith-wesson.com/webapp/...Product4_750001_750051_765777_-1_757911_757798_757797_ProductDisplayErrorView_Y
1) Tight last round fit in mags - Ruger had an issue and will replace your mags if you call them.
2) Slide slamming into battery after inserting fresh mag. While some pistols are designed that way, this one is not. Again, Ruger is aware of that and will address the issue free of charge.
3) NEVER saw one NOT go boom and they feel great in the hand, too.
4) Lastly, if you're a fan of the SR1911, I'd encourage you to fondle a S&W MP.45 Pro Series. In the $550 range retail. 4.5lb trigger, night sights, ambi manual safety (or you can eliminate it to go 'slick side'), etc...
I have one similar in appearance to this one:
http://www.smith-wesson.com/webapp/...Product4_750001_750051_765777_-1_757911_757798_757797_ProductDisplayErrorView_Y
No problem with mine, about 2-3000 rds down the pipe so not that heavily used but enough to be comfortable with it. Few stove pipes here and there. Fit and finish is better then my colt. The grips feel cheap but no real complaints
WILL - Have you checked out the Para Ordnance line of 1911's?
If you haven't, take a minute to do so. I have their P14 which is a 14rd ambi 1911 that feels as good in the hand as a regular 1911. The 14rds really doesn't enlarge the grip too terribly much. Here's a link:
http://para-usa.com/2013/firearms/tactical/combat.php
If you haven't, take a minute to do so. I have their P14 which is a 14rd ambi 1911 that feels as good in the hand as a regular 1911. The 14rds really doesn't enlarge the grip too terribly much. Here's a link:
http://para-usa.com/2013/firearms/tactical/combat.php
Mine is one of the early ones, no problems so far. I've put about 3k rounds down range and haven't had a failure yet. Other than my Glock 22 this is one of the only other pistols I count on to protect myself and my family. Haven't heard about any magazine problems or the issue with the slide slamming shut after inserting a magazine. I would check with Ruger about that.
Will,
I have owned an sr1911 for about 2-1/2 years now. I have run 3000 or 4000 rounds through it without a single malfunction. I have tested it with a very wide variety of ammo and bullet types. However, I have not used the factory mags with it. I use Wilson Combat mags in all of my 1911's because they simply work. the mags that ruger provided with my sr1911 were made by Checkmate. Their m14 mags have worked great so far, but I have had terrible luck with their handgun mags.
I like my Colt Series 70 a lot better, but I think the Ruger is basically a good gun. I was concerned about the cast frame and all of the MIM and cast parts on the sr1911, but I have not had any problems to date. Most manufacturers use a lot of MIM and cast parts, and Ruger is a first-class casting company, I probably would not have bought it if it didn't say "Ruger" on it.
It is quite accurate. It groups as well as my Colt, but keep in mind that I am half blind. YMMV.
I do not like the grips that came on mine. They are uncomfortable. They have a sharp spot that eats up my palm after a long range session. I swapped them out for a pair of VZ Gator grips I had lying around. Problem solved. Plus the Gators are probably indestructible.
Overall, I think it is a good gun for the money. I would compare it to a Springfield Mil-Spec, only with a more comfortable beaver-tail grip safety. I am still not sure about the stainless steel construction. Just doesn't seem right on a 1911.
I also have a Glock 21 which I like very much. Once I got used to the trigger, it shoots as well as a 1911. It also costs less money and holds 13 rounds of 45 ACP in the magazine. It may be a better choice if SHTF. The more I shoot it, the better I like it. Yes, that's blasphemy coming from a die-hard 1911 fan!
Anyway, good luck on coming to a decision on what you purchase. FYI, I think that most of the Dan Wesson 1911's are built with all forged and machined parts. Very pricey, but something to keep in mind.
- Joe
I have owned an sr1911 for about 2-1/2 years now. I have run 3000 or 4000 rounds through it without a single malfunction. I have tested it with a very wide variety of ammo and bullet types. However, I have not used the factory mags with it. I use Wilson Combat mags in all of my 1911's because they simply work. the mags that ruger provided with my sr1911 were made by Checkmate. Their m14 mags have worked great so far, but I have had terrible luck with their handgun mags.
I like my Colt Series 70 a lot better, but I think the Ruger is basically a good gun. I was concerned about the cast frame and all of the MIM and cast parts on the sr1911, but I have not had any problems to date. Most manufacturers use a lot of MIM and cast parts, and Ruger is a first-class casting company, I probably would not have bought it if it didn't say "Ruger" on it.
It is quite accurate. It groups as well as my Colt, but keep in mind that I am half blind. YMMV.
I do not like the grips that came on mine. They are uncomfortable. They have a sharp spot that eats up my palm after a long range session. I swapped them out for a pair of VZ Gator grips I had lying around. Problem solved. Plus the Gators are probably indestructible.
Overall, I think it is a good gun for the money. I would compare it to a Springfield Mil-Spec, only with a more comfortable beaver-tail grip safety. I am still not sure about the stainless steel construction. Just doesn't seem right on a 1911.
I also have a Glock 21 which I like very much. Once I got used to the trigger, it shoots as well as a 1911. It also costs less money and holds 13 rounds of 45 ACP in the magazine. It may be a better choice if SHTF. The more I shoot it, the better I like it. Yes, that's blasphemy coming from a die-hard 1911 fan!
Anyway, good luck on coming to a decision on what you purchase. FYI, I think that most of the Dan Wesson 1911's are built with all forged and machined parts. Very pricey, but something to keep in mind.
- Joe
I have several of the Ruger 1911s, both Government Sized and Commander Sized. Great Gun. Lots of rounds down ranger and now problems with any of them. I've used lots of different mags in them and they all work. I use Wilson E-Lite Tactical Mags for social occasions when I carry.
I have lots of different 1911s, from Rock Islands to Wilsons. Rugers are excellent 1911s.
But so are Colts, Remingtons, Rock Islands, CZs and Kimbers. Just depends on how much money you want to spend.
Good luck with what ever you decide to purchase.
Jungle Work
I have lots of different 1911s, from Rock Islands to Wilsons. Rugers are excellent 1911s.
But so are Colts, Remingtons, Rock Islands, CZs and Kimbers. Just depends on how much money you want to spend.
Good luck with what ever you decide to purchase.
Jungle Work
I have one and just recently replaced the hand grips because they didn't feel right in my hand. Other than that they are excellent guns.
Will, I've had my SR1911 for over two years now. I think it is a really nice gun. Like most Rugers, you get a lot of bang for your buck. I own several 1911s in different price ranges. The Ruger is not quite as good as my Colts or Kimbers, but it is also $500+ less than those guns. It is the best $650 to $800 1911 I own. The difference is mostly fit and finish, not function when compared to Colt or Kimber.
When I was still working at a gun shop, Para Ordnance 1911s were constantly being shipped back b/c of various issues. No disrespect to Para owners, but I personally would stay away from them.
Ruger also has excellent customer service. Which is nice if there are any issues. Yes, all guns, even Glock, can have issues from time to time.
Bottom line, if you want a good 1911 in the $700ish price range, I would pick a Ruger. Hope this helps.
When I was still working at a gun shop, Para Ordnance 1911s were constantly being shipped back b/c of various issues. No disrespect to Para owners, but I personally would stay away from them.
Ruger also has excellent customer service. Which is nice if there are any issues. Yes, all guns, even Glock, can have issues from time to time.
Bottom line, if you want a good 1911 in the $700ish price range, I would pick a Ruger. Hope this helps.
FWIW, I think Springfield offers quality 1911s in the same price range. Not trying to muddy up the waters, but they are good too.
I have a Commander size. Fit, finish and function are great. Though I've not weighed them, it feels heavier than my Colt #80 Commander. Supplied mags have a very strong spring, but my Wilson and Colt mags also work. My only gripe is mine seems to have an extraordinary long trigger pull. I'm shooting low on follow up shots (My fault). I'm gonna have a smith lighten up the length of pull. I would certainly recommend the SR 1911.
I got one from the wifey for my birthday last year. Only a few hundred rounds down range on it, but it shoots a lot better than I do. Only 1911 I own, but I am a bit of a Ruger fan, so it's the one I wanted. Feels good in the hand and gets lots of compliments. The price point is good on it too. We tried to get a hiccup out of it, (rapid fire, dirty rounds, odd angles) and it chewed through everything we gave it with no problem. And when I say dirty, I mean filthy grubby rounds. Took it home, cleaned it back up and shot fine again. I recommend it.
I have a Sig Tacops 1911...I got it because of all the features it offers and at the time they were giving away a free 1911-22 with purchase.
But over Memorial Day weekend the Sig was as cheap as $699! They come with 4 Checkmate mags...I've bought some Wilsons, but I haven't had to take them out of the package because the CM's are gtg.
I've also shot factory Colts and high customized Springfields. I really like the 1911 platform (I shoot it accurately) and I'm sure the Ruger will do fine. I've shot lots of other Rugers and I own a few rifles and revolvers and they are all good.
Personally, I'd get the Sig Tacops for the magwell, checkering, night sights, light rail, and the ability to put a factory threaded barrel on it especially since the price was $699.
But over Memorial Day weekend the Sig was as cheap as $699! They come with 4 Checkmate mags...I've bought some Wilsons, but I haven't had to take them out of the package because the CM's are gtg.
I've also shot factory Colts and high customized Springfields. I really like the 1911 platform (I shoot it accurately) and I'm sure the Ruger will do fine. I've shot lots of other Rugers and I own a few rifles and revolvers and they are all good.
Personally, I'd get the Sig Tacops for the magwell, checkering, night sights, light rail, and the ability to put a factory threaded barrel on it especially since the price was $699.
I REALLY like my SR1911. Among my favorite firearms and my favorite 1911. Great value, aesthetics and reliability.
I also purchased the SR1911CMD when it came out. Nice gun but I like and shoot the SR1911 better.
The SR1911 is a frequent CCW choice for me. That Mitch Roosen holster that ShopRuger.com sells is very comfortable and secure - even during a pretty good down hill tumble I took not long ago.
I also have the M&P 45c. Very nice pistol too. I shoot the Ruger better. Nothing wrong with the S&W though. I find the SR1911 slightly easier to carry even though it is heavier. The S&W is slightly more reliable with a greater variety of ammo (like cast SWC or WFN bullets).
Another VERY GOOD 1911 is the Taurus. I could never get past the "made in Brazil" stamp but it shot great and I never had a problem with it. It was only slightly less finicky about ammo styles, otherwise the Ruger was its equal.
I also purchased the SR1911CMD when it came out. Nice gun but I like and shoot the SR1911 better.
The SR1911 is a frequent CCW choice for me. That Mitch Roosen holster that ShopRuger.com sells is very comfortable and secure - even during a pretty good down hill tumble I took not long ago.
I also have the M&P 45c. Very nice pistol too. I shoot the Ruger better. Nothing wrong with the S&W though. I find the SR1911 slightly easier to carry even though it is heavier. The S&W is slightly more reliable with a greater variety of ammo (like cast SWC or WFN bullets).
Another VERY GOOD 1911 is the Taurus. I could never get past the "made in Brazil" stamp but it shot great and I never had a problem with it. It was only slightly less finicky about ammo styles, otherwise the Ruger was its equal.
I purchased one for daily carry, I have about 4500 rnds down the pipe. Only issues were magazine related.
I like the grips ok, but I am thinking of some houge wrap arounds.
this gun is as reliable as my colts and Springfields
I like the grips ok, but I am thinking of some houge wrap arounds.
this gun is as reliable as my colts and Springfields
OK, so the site I ended up buying the pistol from was an off-shoot of the Slickguns site. Here it is….
http://www.kygunco.com/ruger-sr1911-centerfire-pistol-45-acp-8rd-5in-stainless-44522
The gun cost a total of $634.99, including tax and shipping since I paid by check. I expect to get the gun in about a month. Then I’ll pay another $16 for the FFL. So about $650 total. I’m pleased I was able to buy full featured, stainless steel, American made 1911 from a very reputable company for that price. I’ll give some reviews when I get it, and again after some time has passed. Thanks for the advice everyone.
http://www.kygunco.com/ruger-sr1911-centerfire-pistol-45-acp-8rd-5in-stainless-44522
The gun cost a total of $634.99, including tax and shipping since I paid by check. I expect to get the gun in about a month. Then I’ll pay another $16 for the FFL. So about $650 total. I’m pleased I was able to buy full featured, stainless steel, American made 1911 from a very reputable company for that price. I’ll give some reviews when I get it, and again after some time has passed. Thanks for the advice everyone.
The SR 1911 came in a few days ago. Having only fire 8 rounds in it so far, my first impressions are good. It seems like a quality build, just as good as my Kimber.
I noticed two changes that need taking care of right away. The first is a typical issue I have with 1911 checkered main spring housings. I love that the Ruger one is metal, but as usual the checkering abrades my palm on the bottom edge. I filed it smooth on that edge, resolving the issue. Somewhere, someone cringed…I know it….
My next issue is also a personal preference. I’m happy the SR 1911 came with a single sided safety. As a righty, I deplore the oversized ambi-safties, finding they come off safe inadvertently during carry. Can’t have that. Well, the single sided safety on the Ruger 1911 is still a bit too large for my taste, and I’ll be swapping it out for a GI safety ASAP. Unless you’re into some sort of speed shooting competitions, I think John Browning got the safety right the first time.
Other than that, the gun appears serviceable right out of the box. I’ll update this thread in a few months after Ruger and I have spent more shooting time together.
I noticed two changes that need taking care of right away. The first is a typical issue I have with 1911 checkered main spring housings. I love that the Ruger one is metal, but as usual the checkering abrades my palm on the bottom edge. I filed it smooth on that edge, resolving the issue. Somewhere, someone cringed…I know it….
My next issue is also a personal preference. I’m happy the SR 1911 came with a single sided safety. As a righty, I deplore the oversized ambi-safties, finding they come off safe inadvertently during carry. Can’t have that. Well, the single sided safety on the Ruger 1911 is still a bit too large for my taste, and I’ll be swapping it out for a GI safety ASAP. Unless you’re into some sort of speed shooting competitions, I think John Browning got the safety right the first time.
Other than that, the gun appears serviceable right out of the box. I’ll update this thread in a few months after Ruger and I have spent more shooting time together.
Nice looking pistol, congrats!
My buddy has one that I've shot, and I think Ruger got it right.
I feel the same about ambi safeties, had the safety knocked off several times. Not the best thing for a SA pistol!
Enjoy, and looking forward to the range report.
My buddy has one that I've shot, and I think Ruger got it right.
I feel the same about ambi safeties, had the safety knocked off several times. Not the best thing for a SA pistol!
Enjoy, and looking forward to the range report.
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