One good reason to buy a Kimber is that the passive firing pin block safety is disengaged when the grip safety is depressed, not when the trigger is pulled, so it does not affect the trigger pull. Others do.

Beware of older used 1911's, as they may not feed hollowpoints reliably, most have probably had some gunsmithing done (maybe not by a qualified one), and some completely lack a firing pin block safety altogether.

Springfield's World War II Gi version is , I think< one of the best deals out there if you're looking for a basic, no frills M1911A1. A forged frame, slide, and barrel for less than $500 (usually). Here's mine:


http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y167/pb57/HPIM0133.jpg

Kimbers are the way to go in my opinion, they have several models now that are priced right there with the nicer Springfields, Colts, S&W, and the likeand offer superior craftsmanship. Don't like high standard and more than likely never will.