RE: Pistol $500 and under
I agree with uncle matt, the Tauras 1911, although if you check the right gun stores they usually retail for under 500. I can get a new one from Sportman Supply in Woodward OK for 400. That is a great deal especially when you consider what all Tauras has already done to them. A lot of aftermarket customizing parts are already on this gun from the factory. I really like the ambidextrous safety as I am left handed. They also come with better sights than a lot of the high end 1911 are built with.