Thoughts on 1911s vs. 2011s in California

[dvoncock]

I’m thinking about getting an accurized, full size 1911 in 9mm. Obviously, 45 ACP is God’s caliber…two world wars…Boomers gonna boom, etc. But, 45 ACP is so dang expensive, and I really just want an SAO autoloader to practice OG one-hand bullseye shooting.

When I went to a few LGS to browse, multiple Gen Z sales guys told me, “if you’re into 9mm 1911s, you should consider a 2011 instead.” GunTube tells me a double stack +1 in 2011s versus 7 to 8+1 in 1911s (or 8 to 9+1 with 9mm) is the main advantage. But I don’t really see the point when I’m limited to 10+1 anyway.

What’re everyone’s thoughts on the pros and cons 2011s versus 1911s, specifically in California given roster and capacity limitations?

 

[SlayingMantis]

Old vs new, outdated vs updated, low capacity vs high capacity... Doesn't seem like too hard of a choice to me.

Just use those 2011 mags you bought years back and you won't be limited to 10+1

 

[2azone]

Well for the roster it matters less as single shot is a thing. That said, if you want single stack starting with a Springfield 1911 9mm target that's on roster would get your base going and you could tweak from there. It's very budget dependant, I would highly recommend VKTR as a fantastic 9mm 1911DS, or a stealth arms platypus if your budget is under 4k. What are you looking to spend all in?

 

[dvoncock]

Well for the roster it matters less as single shot is a thing. That said, if you want single stack starting with a Springfield 1911 9mm target that's on roster would get your base going and you could tweak from there. It's very budget dependant, I would highly recommend VKTR as a fantastic 9mm 1911DS, or a stealth arms platypus if your budget is under 4k. What are you looking to spend all in?

Good point about budget that I should probably clarify. On the low end, price wise, I was looking at the SA 1911 Loaded Target in 9mm. On the pricier side, I was looking at a couple Dan Wessons under $3k, but their 9mm options seem limited here.

 

[Diabolus]

If you're super serious about bullseye I would think a .45 would be more advantageous for the larger hole. Maybe another factor would be hand size and a smaller frame 1911 might be better than a 2011. Other than that, I would have a hard time convincing someone to get a 1911 over a 2011 based on what you described.

 

[dvoncock]

If you're super serious about bullseye I would think a .45 would be more advantageous for the larger hole. Maybe another factor would be hand size and a smaller frame 1911 might be better than a 2011. Other than that, I would have a hard time convincing someone to get a 1911 over a 2011 based on what you described.

Not looking to compete or anything. I just find bullseye plinking meditative and relaxing. I usually shoot a mag or two one-handed at 25 yards after monthly(ish) defensive point shooting practice at 7 to 10 yards. My EMP 3 does okay, but obviously isn’t optimized for that.

Good point about grip size. The Beretta 92 is way too big for me and most Glocks are too chunky for my tastes. Double stacks I find comfortable are the S&W Shield.

 

[Plenty_Pack_556]

2 World Wars (design) vs. 0. /s.

If you plan to only stick to CA 10 round mags, get a 1911 in 9 and lots of ammo.

 

[9mmContagion]

2011 ALL DAY! Skip the BS and get an Atlas. If you really want to skip ALL THE BS, get an Atlas Erebus /thread

 

[RustVendor]

a Shield is a 1 and a 1/2 stack, if your hands are that small I wouldn't touch a 2011 with a ten foot pole. Single stack with some thin grips is probably good

 

[Diabolus]

Not looking to compete or anything. I just find bullseye plinking meditative and relaxing. I usually shoot a mag or two one-handed at 25 yards after monthly(ish) defensive point shooting practice at 7 to 10 yards. My EMP 3 does okay, but obviously isn’t optimized for that.

Good point about grip size. The Beretta 92 is way too big for me and most Glocks are too chunky for my tastes. Double stacks I find comfortable are the S&W Shield.

I think you'll find people have a lot of opinions on which is better, and they are all giving sound advice based on their experience. Narrow down a few must have requirements and the more subjective factors won't matter as much. Example would be the grip size, if a Beretta 92 feels too big, a chunky 2011 grip might be a no go.

 

[WWJMBD]

Not looking to compete or anything. I just find bullseye plinking meditative and relaxing. I usually shoot a mag or two one-handed at 25 yards after monthly(ish) defensive point shooting practice at 7 to 10 yards. My EMP 3 does okay, but obviously isn’t optimized for that.

Good point about grip size. The Beretta 92 is way too big for me and most Glocks are too chunky for my tastes. Double stacks I find comfortable are the S&W Shield.

Given your preference for a smaller grip, I would recommend you get your hands on a Hi-Power and see how you feel about that. With a little tuning/hammer/sear work they can shoot very nicely, but ultimately the grip is too small for me to get two hands on. I like my FEG, but ultimately end up shooting 1911 Gov/Commander because they fit my hands better.

 

[Gawernator]

P211 just hit roster. That’s the ticket. Accepts your 21 round freedom week p320 magazines you bought

 

[Mannyy]

I think you'll find people have a lot of opinions on which is better, and they are all giving sound advice based on their experience. Narrow down a few must have requirements and the more subjective factors won't matter as much. Example would be the grip size, if a Beretta 92 feels too big, a chunky 2011 grip might be a no go.

If your hand feels best in a 1911 vs a 2011 get a 1911. Don’t force yourself into something your not comfortable in especially if your not gonna hit the range often, a handgun being comfortable/ergonomically balanced in your hand will give you some forgiveness for lack of skill when you have to use it. Springfield Target 9mm 1911, Kimber Stainless II Target 9mm 1911, can try the compact Springfield EMP 1911 9mm, but if I were you just go straight for a 10mm 1911 better than a .45 imo.