I was hoping someone has had some experience with the S&W. I have heard nothing but good things about the Kimber, but the smith has a few more bells and whistles than the Kimber custom II.

I am looking to upgrade my colt 1991 A1 to a tighter, smoother gun. Want to stay in that 700 dollar range and these two models fit the bill, but can't get much feedback on the new smith.

The new Smith from the custom shop seems to shoot great. I saw one in action at my club the other day.

But the problem is kimber has started building a solid repuation in the past few years with thier 1911. I would bet better and faster resale.

Is there a difference in the custom shop or is that just where all there 1911's are made? The only thing that makes me hesitate on the Kimber is the Custom II I was looking into someone said was a new model for them and had some kinks to work out. That is the first I have ever heard negatively about anything from Kimber.

I got a eclipse Target and think they are wonderful. They might have some issurs but I have neve heard of it. I don't think all Smiths 1911's are custom shop.

I am pretty much sold on the Kimber Custom II. The only negative is possibley the extractor, which if that is true the Wilson Custom shop can replace for very little. I appreciate the advice. Have you had any experience with their 22 conversions?

I am interested what bells and whistles the S&W has over the Kimber... I think Kimber and Springfield offer the most for the money of any of the 1911 makers out there. The S&W is probably fine, but you have to get over the laser engraved SMITH & WESSON 1911 on the side (quite ugly IMO!)

Just asthetics that really don't matter to me at all if the quality is not there, and I am with you on the slide/banner they put on there.

Ive shot both i prefer the Kimber

I've also shot both and would also suggest the Kimber. The Smith I shot was not from the Performance Center, just the standard model. I'm sure the one from the custom shop is a nice pistol, but you can guarantee its going to tack on another $150-200 or so to the price. Now, thats putting you into the $850-900 range and that'll get you one of the better Kimbers. just a thought

I priced both out about a year ago, the S&W didn't really seem to offer as much as the Kimbers for the price, and the Kimbers are much nicer looking as well. I woul dgo with the Kimber. Also check out Springfields, I'm pretty happy with my Loaded Model.