Any activity using a firearm has the potential to be harmful and can lead to death, serious injury, permanent disability, or property damage. Only general educational and informational purposes are served by the advice, graphics, photographs, videos, and information found on Ballachy firearm reviews. The knowledge provided about guns, gun handling, tactics, training, legal issues, and marksmanship skills on this page is the author’s opinion based on his experience and education. This knowledge, which includes advice and training methods, is applicable only in a given set of conditions that the reader cannot precisely recreate. The author disclaims any liability for improper use or incorrect interpretation of the information on this website. Use of this website as a replacement for training or any information found on this website is not legal advice of any kind.
Disclosure: Products are selected by our editors. We may earn a commission on purchases from a link. How we select gear.
You might be tempted to buy the first 1911 you see for under 1000$, but that’s not always the smartest decision. There are a lot of factors you need to consider before purchasing the best 1911 under 1000 dollars. There are many options, and it’s hard to know what’s good and what isn’t. The choices can seem overwhelming at times.
We’ve done all the research for you on the Best 1911 Under 1000 so that you don’t have to waste time reading dozens of reviews or watching hours of Youtube videos trying to figure out which one will fit your needs. This article will compare five of the best 1911 pistols for under 1000 dollars. Moreover, we’ll help you figure out which one is right for you and give you some tips on how to shop for a gun safely and securely.
Table of Contents
If you are in a hurry to purchase the best 1911 under 1000, and you want to make the best decision, here are our top 3 picks:
Top 3 Best 1911 Under 1000
The term “1911” is a designation for a model of handgun that was designed by John Browning and manufactured by Colt. First introduced in the early 1900s, it has since been declared as the official service pistol of the United States armed forces. Since then, it has been modified and is now used in various parts of the world. It was revolutionary for its time and remained one of the best pistols ever made to this day. When you start looking for 1911 under 1000$, there are many options available. Each gun has strengths and weaknesses that can make them more or less desirable depending on your needs and preferences. The following will give you a quick rundown of what five we consider to be the best 1911s under 1000:
5 Best 1911 Under 1000 (Ranked And Reviewed)
Specifications
-
Caliber:
.45 ACP
-
Sight:
Novak Style 3-Dot
-
Action:
Single
-
Barrel Length:
5 Inches
-
Slide:
Stainless Steel
-
Capacity:
8 Rounds
-
Barrel Material:
Hammer Forged Stainless Steel
-
Frame Finish:
Stainless Steel
The SDS Imports 1911 is one of the best 1911 under 1000 dollars if you are looking for a solid shooter that you can easily customize to fit your needs. This gun comes with great sights already, but you can always replace or upgrade them. The safety of this gun is extended, which makes it ideal for people with larger hands. The grip is good, and the gun gives an excellent feel in hand. The gun comes with a great finish, but if you are the kind of person who wants to do your customization, this is not where you should stop. The stainless steel barrel reduces any chances of corrosion and adds durability.
The polished finish gives the gun shine that would look good in any situation. This extra bit of care taken by SDS Imports shows that they genuinely care about the end consumer. This gun is an excellent example of why one should not judge a book by its cover. On looks alone, this gun isn’t going to dazzle you, but it’s still an all-around solid shooter. Once you start using it, though, the value becomes apparent. It is elegant and straightforward, yet it has all the features of a first-rate firearm.
Positive
- It has high-quality construction, durable and reliable
- You can customize it to fit your needs
- It has a good grip that feels comfortable in your hands
- It is an affordable pistol to use as a beginner
Negatives
- It has only an 8 round magazine capacity
2. MAGNUM RESEARCH Desert Eagle 1911
Specifications
-
Caliber:
.45 ACP
-
Grips:
G10 (Black/Grey)
-
Action:
Single
-
Overall Length:
6.85 Inches
-
Width:
1.28 Inches
-
Capacity:
6 Rounds
-
Height:
5 Inches
-
Weight:
25.8 Oz
The Magnum Research Desert Eagle 1911 pistol is one of the most popular handguns available in this price range. This gun has a magazine capacity of 6 rounds, which is standard for single stack .45 ACP pistols. It weighs 25.8 ounces which are slightly heavy, but it is still manageable for most people. The slide is made of stainless steel, which reduces the chances of corrosion. The grips are G10 (black/grey) and provide an excellent grip for controlling the gun. It also has a checkered front strap. The trigger has a very smooth pull, making this gun efficient for quick target acquisition.
The gun has high-profile steel 3-dot sights, making it easier to acquire. The windage and elevation adjustable rear sight also aids in target acquisition. With its matte black slide and grey G10 grips, this gun looks as if it means business. The gun is built to military specifications and comes with a crisp, short reset trigger. This gun is an excellent choice for all shooters, whether beginners or experts. It is well-made and feels comfortable in your hand. The grip helps to steady the pistol when you are shooting, so there’s no need to worry about fumbling with controls while trying to take your shot.
Positive
- Its compact frame makes it easier for concealed carry
- It is a lightweight option at just 25.8 ounces
- It is easy to operate with a smooth trigger pull
- It is built to military specifications
Negatives
- It is challenging to find compatible aftermarket accessories
3. TAURUS 1911
Specifications
-
Caliber:
9mm Luger
-
Grips:
Checkered Black
-
Action:
Single Action Only
-
Overall Length:
8.60 Inches
-
Overall Width:
1.50 Inches
-
Capacity:
9 Rounds
-
Overall Height:
5.80 Inches
-
Weight:
42.00 Oz
The Taurus 1911 has an outstanding build quality and is well balanced, making it easy to hold and fire for novice shooters. This pistol has a capacity of 9 rounds, which is excellent for target practice or home defense. This gun also features Novak Drift-Adjustable Sights that provide quick sight acquisition every time you draw the weapon. The light, crisp trigger pull lets you shoot with accuracy and make use of all your firepower in no time at all. The Taurus 1911 was built to military specifications, which means that it will last for a long time. This gun is great for novice shooters because of its safety features and ease of use. It has manual safeties for both the slide and grip, so keeping this gun safe is easier than with other pistols.
The grips are checkered for better handling and control over the weapon when you’re shooting it. Its steel alloy frame is very durable, and the stainless steel barrel is resistant to corrosion. The matte finish reduces glare when shooting outdoors, so you can focus on your target. Overall, this is an excellent gun for a first-time shooter because it does not have too many features that complicate using it. This pistol has outstanding build quality, backed up by Taurus’s superb service policies on all their products. This gun is an excellent choice because of its relatively lower price and good reliability.
Positive
- It is easy to fire for novice shooters
- The Novak sights make target acquisition easier
- It is most accurate
- Its steel alloy frame promises durability
Negatives
- It requires some work to be field stripped with the guide rod
4. TRISTAR American Classic Government 1911
Specifications
-
Caliber:
.45 ACP
-
Grips:
Custom Hardwood with Logo
-
Barrel Length:
5 Inches
-
Overall Length:
8.5 Inches
-
Finish:
Blued
-
Capacity:
8 Rounds
-
Frame:
Steel
-
Weight:
2.47 Pounds
The Tri-Star American Classic Government 1911 is a good value for the money spent. The gun has a perfect fit and finish for the price. It is full-sized with a 5″ barrel, 8 round magazine capacity, and features custom hardwood grips with a logo. This gun has an outstanding construction that is built to last. Its steel frame and slide are corrosion resistant. It has an overall length of 8.5″ inches, making it easy to carry on your side without being cumbersome. The grips provide a firm grip so you can keep your shot as accurate as possible. The Tri-Star American Classic Government 1911 is an excellent choice for beginners or anyone looking for a good handgun on a budget.
This gun comes with rear and front sights that are Mil-Spec, which allow you to shoot at any target you see with ease. It has an 8 round magazine, which is excellent for long shooting sessions or target practice. This gun has perfect accuracy and can hit targets at medium distances. It is also elementary to clean and maintain, which adds to its good value for the money spent. This handgun has a classic design that makes it look desirable. The blued finish gives it a lovely shine, and its steel frame and slide make it look very well made.
Positive
- It has excellent construction that is built to last
- It has a corrosion-resistant steel frame and slide
- It is easy to carry on your side without being cumbersome
- It comes with aesthetically pleasing custom hardwood grips
Negatives
- It comes with only one magazine of 8 rounds capacity
5. BROWNING 1911-22 BLACK LABEL SR
Specifications
-
Caliber:
22 LR
-
Grips:
Textured Checkering Grip Panels
-
Barrel Length:
4 1/4 Inches
-
Overall Length:
7 1/2 Inches
-
Sight:
Black A1
-
Capacity:
10 Rounds
-
Barrel Finish:
Matte
-
Weight:
14 Oz
The Browning 1911-22 has a steel barrel and receiver and a matte finish throughout its frame. The checkered grips are made from polymer with an alloy skeleton to provide greater control over the gun. This handgun has a single stack magazine and can hold up to 10 rounds of 22 LR ammunition. The polymer frame and alloy skeleton make it lightweight and easy to carry with you on long trips or outings. This gun also features a matte finish that reduces glare from sunlight and doesn’t wear off quickly over time. The Browning 1911-22 has a black A1 style front post and a fully adjustable rear sight. This gun also features an alloy trigger, matte black finish, and alloy skeleton, making it very light in weight.
The polymer frame provides a firm grip to keep your shot accurate. This handgun is excellent for target practice and plinking because it is very affordable. It has a good build quality that is sturdy and will last you for many years. It features beavertail grip safety, allowing a firm grip when shooting. It also features an extended slide stop and extended thumb safety, which you can easily activate with a quick flick of the thumb. This handgun is an excellent option for people looking for a reliable firearm on a budget. It comes with factory performance accuracy that ensures your shot goes where you want it to without any misses or errors.
Positive
- It is lightweight and easy to carry for extended periods
- It has a modern ergonomic design
- Its polymer frame makes it extremely lightweight
- Its checkered front strap ensures a firm grip
Negatives
- It may look flimsy and cheap
What To Consider While Buying The Best 1911 Under 1000?
Price is one of the most important factors to consider when buying a gun. If you are on a budget, it is constructive to look for firearms under $1000. However, if you feel like splurging, plenty of options are available for pistols that exceed this price point. Apart from price, there are many other factors that you need to consider when buying a gun like:
Materials Used
The materials used to make the gun can affect its durability and weight. For example, a metal frame is very durable and stiff, while a polymer frame is lightweight and space-efficient. Suppose you are looking for a gun to carry with you while hiking or hunting; it is advisable to go for a lightweight one. On the other hand, if you want a weapon that you can use for target practice or shooting competitions, then go for one with a metal frame and steel construction. The weather in your area also needs to be considered. If you live in a place where it is very hot, then you need to find a gun that doesn’t heat up too quickly. Otherwise, you will have problems when firing your weapon. Similarly, cold weather places can rust or corrode metal guns, making them unfit for use.
Size and Weight
The size of the gun is also critical to consider. If you are looking for a handgun that can be easily concealed, it is advisable to get a compact design. However, if you need something more significant to provide greater stability while shooting or hunting, then go for one with a larger frame. The weight of the gun is also significant. If you plan to carry your weapon with you during hunting or hiking, it would be advisable to get something that isn’t too heavy or big. However, if you plan on using it for target practice or shooting competitions, then a heavier gun provides greater stability and steadiness for your shot.
Ergonomics
The ergonomics of a gun can significantly affect your comfort while shooting. For example, a pistol with a high grip provides greater stability and control over the firearm. Similarly, an oversized trigger guard allows for easier access when firing. If you have small hands, it is advisable to look for guns with compact designs and reduced reach triggers to provide greater comfort. Some guns also come with an ambidextrous safety and magazine release, useful for left-handed shooters.
Aftermarket Parts Availability
When it comes to 1911 handguns, aftermarket parts are usually very beneficial because they allow you to personalize your gun according to your preferences. They can also enhance the performance or functionality of your firearm. For example, aftermarket grips can provide greater stability and control over the gun when shooting.
Caliber
Different firearm calibers have different barrel diameters and bullet weights, which can affect the performance of your weapon. Caliber determines the type of ammo you will need for your gun and its size. For example, a .45 ACP is bigger than a 9mm cartridge. It is advisable to go for smaller calibers if you want your gun to be more compact.
Type of Grip
There are different types of grips that users can choose from. The kind of grip you choose for your gun is mostly a matter of personal preference, but knowing about it beforehand will help you make an informed choice. Most gun manufacturers offer standard grip, beavertail, and combat grip. Most people prefer standard grip because it is the most functional and doesn’t add too much bulk to the weapon. However, combat grip provides greater comfort and control over the firearm for people with large hands or spending a lot of time shooting. Beavertail grip is more prevalent among 1911 users, and it allows you to hold your hand higher on the gun without disturbing recoil.
Magazine Capacity
Magazine capacity is another crucial factor to consider. If you plan to carry your gun around with you all the time, then find a pistol with a higher magazine capacity because it allows you to shoot more rounds without reloading. It also provides greater protection if attacked or robbed because an assailant will have fewer chances of getting the upper hand on you if they have to reload during an emergency. On the other hand, magazines with larger capacities are more expensive than standard capacity models. They are also bulkier and may not fit some gun holsters.
FAQs
Is 4″ barrel better than 5″ barrel when it comes to shooting with 1911?
It depends on your needs and preferences. Some gun users prefer a shorter barrel because it is more compact and easier to carry around or conceal when needed. Other people find the longer 5″ length more useful for target practice and shooting competitions since they allow shooters to have greater stability and steadiness for their shots.
What should I consider when choosing between aluminum alloy and steel 1911?
Aluminum alloy is relatively lighter than steel, but it is also weaker. It may not be the best option if you plan on carrying your firearm around all day. However, it is essential to note that aluminum alloy guns are less expensive.
What is the best way to clean my 1911?
You should clean your gun regularly because it can help prevent rust and corrosion from affecting its performance or functionality. The best thing you can do is read the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning before tackling this task.
How can I get the most out of my 1911?
It is imperative to be familiar with your gun and practice regularly if you want to get the most out of it. You should know how to correctly hold, aim and fire your weapon so that you will enjoy using it more often.
Can you customize your 1911?
Yes, you can customize your 1911 to suit your needs and preferences. You can add scopes and extra sights for better accuracy. There are various external features that you can attach, such as grips and holsters. You should buy parts explicitly made for the gun, whether a rail accessory or laser sight.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the best 1911 under 1000 dollars is a difficult decision. It depends on your budget and preferences. However, the choices listed above are all excellent options to consider. All of these pistols are great choices for anyone looking for an affordable 1911, but they each have their unique strengths and weaknesses. We hope this article has helped you decide which 1911 to buy, and we wish you all the best in your shooting endeavors. Do you have any other 1911 models that you think deserve a spot on this list? Let us know.
Our Research Process
Our curated list of products has been provided to you by our experienced team of researchers and writers at Ballachy who have tested and scrutinized product recommendations on the market. Our experience in the field, in-depth research and hands-on approach has allowed us to objectively analyse products for years and continuously providing value for buyers who are looking to get accurate and unbiased reviews. If you would like to know more about our research methods, we welcome you to visit our page here detailing how our recommendations are done. Furthermore, as we are always looking keep our guides updated and welcome any feedback from readers regarding different experiences or recommendations to adjust our list. If you consider that we have missed on some important recommendations, please let us know here, so we can add-on any valuable feedback.
Author Profile
- Gabriel Tackett
- Gabriel Tackett is an experienced shooter and hunter for over 15 years with a degree in Engineering from the University of Minnesota. He is also a certified National Rifle Association (NRA) officer for 10 years And his passion lies in teaching others how to safely enjoy the hobby by recommending the best practices & products in the gun industry.
- Sights2022.07.30Best Red Dot Sights