Hey everyone, there's a lot of questions about running the pistol empty. Part of my training with the 1911 was to reload before you're empty so you're not standing there with an empty gun.
Thanks Paul. I was wondering myself and was just about to formulate my question about it. Bersa's also seem to get crapped on because of their low prices but I've never had an issue with my tpr9c and a buddy has had a Thunder as long as I can remember and has zero issues with it.
So much more intimidating than "Are you feeling lucky, punk?, from Dirty Harry Because Harry was out, and he knew it. Paul on the other hand has one in the chamber, and he knows it, and you know it, and you're dead.
Back in 2008 I went searching the local gun stores in my area for a 1911. I was prepard to spend $600 to $800. I am a former MP in the US Army and carried the 1911 from 1979-1982. I was shown many different brands of 1911's. Kimber's, Springfield's, etc. None of them felt good in my hand. Finally the salesman pulled the Rock Island off the bottom shelf. As soon as I held it, it felt like being reunited with an old friend. It was just a well built copy of a US Government issued 1911 to me and when he told me it was $410, I was sold. Had it now for almost 14 years and have run 1000's of rounds through it and its never falled me.
I was in the navy from 1985 to 1995 as an Operations Specialist ( Radarman ) . I carried Colt 1911a1 pistols on a Destroyer and a Cruiser in the surface fleet , and for two years on shore duty as an MP . Today I put on layaway an RIA 1911a1 pattern pistol chambered in 10mm .
I have a RIA 9mm 1911 and it is a good pistol. However it's been having some troubles running hallow points and as Paul said different brands of ammo will act differently. Have you run hallow points with yours? and if so, what brands have you noticed work the best? Thank you!
@Wayne Smith I'm not a gun enthusiast, nor a 'gun nut' nor any other descriptive form of avid gun person. In fact, I'm a libby-lib-lib. True story! But I'd put my money on Gun Jesus being Ian from Forgotten Weapons.
I would actually really like that, even though I understand why hes apprehensive to do so. It would offer some good balance to other videos recommending various makes and models.
That's why we respect Paul more than most of the tacticool guys who will utterly fail to find fault with a budget gun, yet refuse to endorse it because it says anderson or RIA or hipoint on the side.
About 3 years ago, I bought a Rock Island FS Standard in 45ACP because of this video. I have used it in competition, probably several thousand rounds of FMJ (mostly Fiocchi, Armscor, Blazer Brass and some of lots of brands, whatever is reasonably priced), have had maybe 2 jams that were probably my fault(and yes that is really annoying...) Based on this video, I don't use Federal HST, but I have shot a few hundred Hornady CD, Speer GD and some old reloaded JHPs (bullet manufacturer long forgotten) from the 1990s with great success. I share this video with anyone looking to buy a 45. Rest in Peace Sir, your legacy lives on. Thank you.
speak for yourself I still have to work! but its great having something to look forward to besides the old ball and chain nagging me to death cause shes bored as hell!
@@cem19771 I am also lucky enough to still be working, I just happen to be on the 2nd day of my 'weekend.' But I'm bored stiff because it's cold, there's still snow on the ground & I'm keeping up with the social distancing. A week ago it was in the 50's, and I was out at the rifle range where the tables are more than 6 feet apart!😁
He could be out of work right now tbh. He's mentioned he's a dental assistant in his videos before. Granted, I don't know if he still works his day job.
I’ve owned several 1911s from kimber, Springfield, auto ordnance and rock island. All are good guns worth every penny. don’t let people trash talk what you buy, it is none of their business
Kimber's reputation for their quality control have been continuously going down over the past decade while Rock Island Armory's reputation has gone up.
@@HandsFreeProductions there's a difference in being poor and being frugal. My dad is a millionaire, but drives around in a 2000 model Pontiac and wears dollar general shoes and goodwill clothes. He thinks that spending $10.00 on a hamburger meal is idiotic. You cannot judge a book by its cover, only the contents.
@@JohnChoidotOrg bought a kimber last year, it would literally jam every other shot, kimber customer service isnt so great. Never buying one again. Got an ria 1911 no issues at all, awesome gun
Imagine being a home invader, and you hear "Bear with me, we're at the house today with a home intruder so my speech may be impeded on by some --gunfire--."
Kingman101 for me it was “the next subject we will name, explain, and conduct practical work on...” and then “for demonstration purposes you will bring the trail foot alongside...”
Just bought a RIA 1911 for 517 two days ago for my first gun. Put 50 rounds through it and it shot beautiful. Glad to see another Harrell approving the purchase haha great video
@@Lucky-bg1di haven’t put more than 20 hollow points but didn’t have any problems. I’ve run over 1500 rounds of steel wolf ammo and have probably had 3 malfunctions that were caused by a misfeed
@@Lucky-bg1di how u gonna hide a full size 1911 lol. The ria loaded is easily a over 2 and maybe upwards to 3lbs. I'd at least get a tac model ria and forget the government model.
Excellent review, many thanks for that. I have an ancient 1911 I bought at a private sale. He told me it was new in 1942, it had been used hard in combat by an uncle and was given a new barrel and new slide several years prior. It had 4-500 rounds through it after the refit and before he bought it. It worked flawlessly for about 300 rounds until I tried to use hollow points. It did not like to load them, especially if they were on top of the magazine. I could put them in the #3 slot and they worked most of the time. I took it to a local gunsmith. He used a dremel like tool to polish the loading ramp and installed a new barrel bushing to tighten that up. He was impressed with the accuracy at 50 feet and after that, it loaded hollow points with no problem. That could be what is up with the Rock Island 45.
I’ve carried a RIA 1911 as my daily piece for almost 10 years now and I can attest that your video is pretty much spot on: I’ve only had issues with select hollow point brands but most work fine (and that appeared to lessen as I broke the pistol in over time), shoots accurately and quickly, and only cost me $500. Only thing different is that I’ve never had a problem engaging my grip safety that I can recall, and I’d describe my trigger as light, crisp, and smooth compared to your observation (though again, this may be due to ~10 years of use). Great video as always, and great to finally meet you for pizza in Salem last month!
I too have had a RIA 1911 for a little over 10 years. 1st gun I ever bought. And after a little breaking in, it hasn't jammed on me in over 9 years. It's accurate as hell. I've replaced the trigger, barrel bushing since then, but never any problems; I just wanted better parts.
To save you all by removing an example from general circulation, years ago I bought as my first 1911 pattern pistol an Auto Ordnance M1911A1 made in Worcester MA. I wanted a West Hurley NY example, to really do my duty re: self sacrifice, but they are so rare in the wild that I had to settle for the MA pistol. Probably that is due to their being so poor in reliability and accuracy that their owners have buried them deep and placed cesspits over their graves. My goal with my AO is to have a gunsmith turn it into a firearm. At the moment I would rely on it as a doorstop or a paperweight.
@Michael Wolff never tried anything but hardball. Tried various mags, McCromick, Checkmate...the one that sort of works is the odd mag that came with it. I tried my original 1918 Colt mag with the dimple on the follower. No joy.
Hey friend, looking to CCW a Citadel(RIA) 1911that I've purchased, my CCW instructor indicated that the safties on these guns aren't very durable and become very loose over time. With your years of owning one, how would you describe the condition of yours?
That last comment of yours, regarding the "Top ten..." list sounds like an intriguing video idea. I'd be interested in that! Thanks for your content; when it comes to making decisions about quality and reliability, you're my first go-to channel.
The Philippine 1911s are absolutely solid. They're probably the closest you'll get in terms of tolerances to the originals. I'd never knock a rock island or an a.t.i.
IT MUST BE EMBARRASSING FOR COLT TO HAVE SUCH A close competitor that sells for 1/3 the price.I would rate my Fillipino made High standard as actually being of better quality than the several colts ive owned over the years....just my opinion
I had two 1911s; one was a RIA, the other a Springfield. It took awhile to break in the RIA while the Springfield was good out of the box. But once the RIA was broken in, it worked like a champ. You can't go wrong with a RIA 1911 for the money.
I didn't have to break my 1911 rock island gi in. Mine worked fine. 200 rounds 4 different shooters. No jams no problems 230 grain fmjs 230 bonded hollow points even the 180 grains worked fine.
Sgt. Harrell, it's been 28 years since you last taught me something. Today I learned something new. What I thought was a trigger safety in my Kimber is in fact not. I carry it daily and chamber a round in the house every Sunday night. I'd love to know your thoughts on a slow-rack or riding the slide. Thanks for what you do. You are truly a service to the firearms community.
Sportsman’s Warehouse currently has these on sale for $299 and I plan on picking one up before the sale ends. Thank you Paul for your informative video and wishing you the best.
@Woodsquatch I had a Springfield TLE II that I carried as an off duty for years. Never had any reliability issues with it, though I made a point on ammo selection to look for JHPs that matched the profile of ball as close as possible. 230gr Gold Dots tended to work well, and I had a bit stiffer recoil spring dropped in and Wilson Combat mags which might have helped shove the JHPs in fast enough that they hit the ramp instead of biting the ramp. I quit carrying it, mostly because of the bulk for the round count, and because a 1911 really is 'an elegant weapon, for a more civilized age'. Went to carrying one of my '16oz Framing Hammer Pistols' aka a Glock.
@Woodsquatch Yeah, we all get guns that do like that. My Glock 42 that I used on patrol as a vest gun had some feeding issues until I went to using the homemade combo the rangemaster uses....80W gear oil and Lucas Oil Treatment mixed. Now that stuff is amazing, even after a 600rd range day even my AR15 will still have lube on the bolt. I'm not a 'glock guy' whatsoever, but I appreciate them for what they are, the '16oz Framing Hammer' of pistols....they're reliable, do the job, and hold up well even if you are moderately abusive to them.
Byron Hamilton I had exactly the opposite experience even sent it back to RIA for repair still didn’t function properly. Eventually sold it. Guess I just got a lemon. I’m willing to try again though. Probably with a 10 mm tactical model.
@@jeremychildress8701 yeah maybe so, one of my buddies bought a GI model like mine and never had an issue with it. Hes had it about the same time. Mine has been a truck gun and EDC for a long time. First thing I did on it was replace the grip safety with a beaver tail. I have powerlifter hands so that regular safety gouged into the meat in between my thumb and index finger. Added that and a hogue grip. Might have jammed on me a handful of times due to crappy magazines. Never had issues with the Novak magazine it came with
I love my RIA 1911. It's accurate, barely any recoil and feeds my RIA and Winchester ammo flawlessly. I also found it on sale, for $299. You can't beat that!!
What the heck! That should be like a crime or something lol. That should be called giving an arm and a leg. It’s like 600 plus in Cali… so you could basically buy two RIA with that money
@diane Taylor - throw in some ammo and we can call it even ^)^ lol. Planning on getting the RIA 1911 45 or a Springfield xd 45. I'm used to Springfield since i have the 9mm verison, but i'm trying to branch out into other guns that are in the budget of 550.
I've had a 9mm RIA 1911 for a couple years now, got it for about $400. I try to hit an indoor range at least once a month and put at least 50 rounds through each time. So in those 1200 rounds, all FMJ, I've had no failures and I've had a fun and accurate shooting experience every time. I do want to get myself a Springfield 1911 in .45, but for the price, my RIA 1911 has been absolutely amazing.
I remember being on the shooting range FT McClellan AL in the Army with a 1911 and I'm SURE the one I was shooting was made in 1911. It shot flawlessly but man you could tell it had been around longer than I was at the time.
Same type of situation but I was at the US Navy range in Charleston, SC in the early eighties. The 1911 worked great but you could tell that it had been around for awhile.
The 1911 and m9s often get a bad wrap but that’s because it military property, you have a bunch of guys beating up old worn out guns constantly that have thousand upon thousand of rounds thru them so yea there gonna be pretty shit but if you replace them when you have to, replace the parts as well they will work just fine.
I bought a RIA 1911 about 10 years ago and had the same issue with the grip safety. Pulled it out, measured it, and the height of the arm in the safety where it contacts the trigger bar was way out of spec - it was too tall meaning you had to overengage the grip safety for the trigger to move. A little bit of file time got it in spec and resolved the issue
I bought one of them RIAs years ago and I absolutely love it. I’ve always wanted a 1911 but I didn’t want to break the bank at the time. The first time I saw the RIA I thought it was some cheap piece of junk. After I looked up some reviews on the internet I was amazed to find that everyone praised these things. I then caved in and bought it. I’ve ran over 1000 rounds through mine and have had very little issues. Years later I bought a Kimber Custom 2 from a friend just to see if it was any better than the RIA. I’ve found them to be incredibly similar. In fact, I seemed to have more problems with the Kimber due to the fact it was basically brand new and didn’t have its break in yet. I’ve been looking at getting a Colt M45A1 recently but I’ve been having trouble finding one. If you want a good quality 1911 for an affordable price, you’ll be very pleased with the RIA
Great vid!! I have an RIA in 45 acp and I love it. I own multiple sidearms these days. I grew up with 22lr rifles, 30-30 levers, and 12G shotguns; no handguns. The first weapon I learned to shoot in the military was the Colt M1911. I fell in love with the 1911 platform immediately. Through the years I had to be more practical with the handguns I purchased; since I was a family man with a really tight budget. The 1911 was too large for concealed carry; so I bought a smaller 9mm. Then, to train my family members, I purchased 22lr pistols. I have always wanted the 1911 and knew some day I would have one. Years ago, my wife came home with a 1911 and a few hundred rounds and told me to go enjoy myself. The RIA sees most of its duty as a sidearm for snake defense when I walk our property. We have 8 acres that butts up against thousands of acres of public land. There are tons of snakes out here in the high desert country. The RIA cycles everything I have put through it, and that includes the snake shot. Great weapon worth the money.
I have legitimately never thought of a zombie Bigfoot. Thank you Mr. Harrell for bringing this to my attention. Would they eat people or only other Sasquatches?
I fired a number of them, none of them ever malfunctioned with the numerous commercial and hand loads I tried them with. They are just as good as more expensive brands from what I can see, at least when it comes to the GI models.
@@taraswertelecki3786 I love mine. The only problem I’ve had was some jamming but that was the first time I shot it I’ve heard 1911 jam a bit till you’ve put some rounds through them. Other than that I love it
I bought mine years ago the only problem iv had is i cant keep sights on it iv been through 2 front sights and two rears had a gunsmith install the second set and lost the front sight again on my third mag idk thing just doesnt like sights
I was told that, sometimes, if the 1911 has issues with a specific ammunition feeding, using a different magazine can eliminate the problem. Of course, this is just something I heard. I picked up a used RIA 1911 a couple months ago. A guy got rid of it because it wouldn't feed right, so I got a great deal on it. It wouldn't feed because the feed ramp was filthy. 😀
I had the same jamming problem with my double stack RIA 10 MM. The problem was not the feed ramp. I bought some new longer double stack magazine springs from Dawson Precision ......PROBLEM SOLVED !! (Part # SKU: 501-041). I highly RECOMMEND AGAINST messing with the feed ramp unless you are a trained gunsmith. This is not a job for a novice. I think against that the feed ramp needs any work beyond what the factory designed. Messing with it is asking for problems !
@@robertmckinley2886 taking a nylon brush and gun cleaning solvent to clean off the feed ramp is all I had to do. It was just cleaning, not what you would call messing with it. The feed ramp was heavily caked with carbon buildup.
Only feeding issues I had were because of the faulty spring in the stock magazine. I bought it used so it's as expected. I replaced the spring and it jams less, but I had to go with aftermarket 10 round mags to stop the issue altogether.
Amazing how little some people care to know about their guns.. i might not know all the details when i buy something, but you can bet ill Know all about its function within a couple days. Ive only owned kimber 1911s and have had great luck with the included mags.. i also have a mystery brand one that came with a used one that’s always worked well too. It’s a little long for the officer size one i have now but that makes it super easy to fully insert so it’s a great spare.
The thing to mention about this comparison is that he was shooting an entry level RIA. They also make several higher end models. Those perform a lot better in my experience and have a lot more features. That's not to say they are better or worse than others, it's just saying they do make some higher end models that might perform a bit better. I was impressed to see how well the entry level one did in Paul's testing.
@@PanfishingJournal hey thanks for the question. I use a tiered approach with 600, 800, and then 1200 grit wet/dry sandpaper. I wrap the paper around a smooth sided marker or pen and run it along the feed ramp. Good luck!
I have had the same experience with both the Rock Island and the ATI (Whomever put my Combat Commander ATI 1911 together did a fantastic job on the trigger.) Smooth out the ramp and have fun. I also have a Series 70 Colt Combat Commander, which is very nice but most just sits in the safe. )
I remember when I first purchased this gun and I had watched this video to get a good idea of what I was buying. I then binge watched tons of your videos. I’m grateful that I was able to watch your videos and find your channel when you were still here. Thank you for the years of entertainment and informative content you made for this amazing community. Rest in peace Paul.
With less than 500 rounds through Paul's RIA, I would expect some failures. I have owned a Rock Island 5" for many years. Initially at around 500 rounds, I was having problems with feeding, too, as well as the firing pin block slipping from position. I contacted RIA in Nevada and was emailed a return shipping label. Sent the gun to them and they refitted a new firing pin block with new firing pin spring, recoil spring replaced, and polished the ramp. Since then, mine has fired without one failure. Mine holds Federal HST when I carry the handgun. Yes, I trust my life with this pistol. I use Wilson combat eight round magazines.
I had to send an RIA 1911 9mm purchased new back to fix and extraction/ejection problem (no charge), but on return it's run true and given me no further issues and very accurate.
@@Dino2GunZthere fine firearms that come with poor mags in my experience. I had a lot of issues with the mag the came with the kimber, and now have yet to have one since swapping to colt magazines
@Fman1292 Well...it's actually not the only name it's ever had. Model of 1911 is one name. M1911 is another.Then there's M1911A1. Government Model. 38 Super. Series 70. Series 80. M1991. M1991A1. The difference in heat treating alone between an M1911 and an M1911A1 would both take me paragraphs to describe and is very valid in terms of desirable differentiation which merits a different name. Not to mention the mechanical difference between the two in terms of the breechface. Most owners think a "1911 is a 1911" and frankly they are quite wrong.
As I watched this Paul has already passed away. He will be missed. His unbiased opinions, made by his personal tests and experiences can be trusted. This video on the RI 1911 made it easy for me to purchase one.
Would be more hilarious if it was an ArmaLite. Range guy: Is ThAt An Ar??? Paul: "Yes." Idiot: "oH So iTs A CoLt tHeN?" Paul: "No it's an ArmaLite rifle."
Ruger has ARs. Just not AR-15s. Their model is "AR-556," which means that the Ruger platform is also an actual AR. This is their base model AR-556 at GunBuyer (if an actual product link is allowed on TH-cam): www.gunbuyer.com/ruger-ar-556-556nato-16-1-blk-30rd-rug08500-b.html
Great video Paul, Learned years ago, (and I'm sure you know this), that whether you spend the extra $$$ for the name on Colts or not, sometimes you get a unit that needs a little QC attention. I've owned dozens, ( and that's no exaggeration), of Govt. Models, Colts, Springfield Armory, Kimber, Rock Island Arms and several custom made units wearing both 70 & 80 series slides, standard grip safety to long beaver tail with the added dimension for muscle memory on the lower pad. I was given instruction back in the early 80's by the man that made my first custom unit. He was a US navy armorer aboard ship in WWII and he showed me things that have stood me in good stead over the years. My current carry piece, which was also my IPSC production comp. gun and did double duty as my duty weapon is my Kimber Stainless Target II in .38 SuperAuto. That unit has never failed me and has garnered many back slaps as a single stack mag gun taking trophies from double stack glocks and such. I HAVE seen, as you allow can occur, a govt. model "Slam-fire" under the conditions you mention. That pistol was a 70 series, Colt, Goldcup. The only time I ever saw that. Really enjoyed this video sir, hope you're doin your best to keep your interval in avoiding the current wildfire bug and keep up the great work!
I love my RIA 1911. It's more accurate than I am and eats everything I feed it. Only thing I changed was swapping the plastic flat mainspring housing for a metal humped one, but that's mostly personal preference. I trust that pistol with my life, and carry it regularly. Mine likes Gold Dots. Hornady, in my observation, doesn't bother to actually test whether their bullet designs will feed properly in the most popular guns of a given caliber, as I've seen many completely inexcusable failings.
@M Via I just bought a Parkerized housing off Ebay (mine's a Parkerized Tactical model from 2010) and made the swap, transferring the guts from the original plastic one into the new one. Also, don't blame any firearm for not liking Hornady. Hornady doesn't seem to think compatibility testing is important; their 9x18 Makarov ammo won't even work right in an actual Makarov, let alone a P-64. They're clearly just putting products on the shelf little care of whether they actually work or not.
@@Gadget293 They're easy enough to install. Just need a hammer and some punches. Knock out the one pin at the base of the grip and slide the assembly out. Then remove the tiny pin that retains the guts (being careful that they don't go flying). Using one punch to put the spring down, insert the pin and get it seated.
my buddy (and FFL) has a few. he loves them. i was gonna see about getting one before he got the stay at home order. and several models are CA available (for ppl like me).
Haven't had very many problems with their semi Autos but there revolvers I've had two and both of them were out of time from the factory other than that they worked fine
4 ปีที่แล้ว +7
If we didn't regulate, tax, and punish manufacturing here we'd probably still have favorites turning them out here for about the same price.
The Phillippines can pump out some pretty nice 1911's at this point. Two anecdotes spring to mind. Anecdote the first: When the Iver Johnson brand was brought back for a Filipino company manufacturing 1911's, I and a guy who worked at the gun store decided to just table top compare their offering with the other 1911's of various US manufacture in the shop. The biggest difference we noted is when gripped with a fist wrapped round the slide and dustcover at the front of the pistol, you can rotate back and forth to feel how much slop you get between the slide and frame. As an initial smell check, it's a good way to get a general feel for machining tolerances before you get into the meat and potatoes of taking the thing down, looking for wear marks, doing a real thorough check. Perhaps the least sloppy was Iver Johnson's gun. Anecdote the second: There has been a real issue with the underground gun market in the Philippines. There is also an issue with corrupt police supervisors. This goes hand in hand in that many of these underground guns are actually the police department firearms sold off by supervisors who then tell their officers there's no budget and they'll be patrolling unarmed while the street gangs shoot at them with the guns they're supposed to have. Also in the underground gun market exist certain firearms made in dusty shops by hand in a town in Cebu called Danao. Similar to the Khyber Pass or the old Chinese Mystery Pistol. Not so similar, is this is a country with access to quality 1911's, and while you get your standard Far East misspellings and cool sounding words hand chiseled into the slide, you can obtain a certain measure of quality from many of these back ally pistol smiths. Now here's where this lead up comes into play. One of my mercenary buddies met his wife on assignment to one of the Yugo conflicts. Some NATO or UN apparatus was employing a lot of basic upkeep type contractors from the Philippines, they hit it off, an American Chaplain pronounces them hitched after some time, they go to America, pop out some kids etc. They're visiting her family in the old country one year and he goes to do a ride along with the Brother-in-Law who's a local cop. He shows up to meet him at the station and sees nothing but a busted Maglight and a nightstick on his belt and asks him why he's patrolling a shady area without a gun. Back to our leadup, he showed up to work to find out the Inspector over that substation did the old "Budget cut" and sold his gun to the local street thugs. Mercenary buddy reaches under his shirt immediately and passes him one of these Danao specials. Turns out he'd made some phonecalls before they landed to make sure he wasn't in the thirdworld as a white guy without a gun, and one of his old contacts hooked him up. BIL's been patrolling with that back ally blaster for the last 5 years and has shot 3 guys who wanted to shoot him with zero malfunctions.
What an awesome review! I actually just bought a RIA 1911 in 9mm, and I can't be happier with it. Also, I can't believe I just found your channel. RIP, sir. Wherever you are, I love your work, and wish your family and loved ones all the best.
hold up "He looked as though I told him I dated his mother." "Now maybe Paul will be proud of you like your daddy never was" "I don't know if you had a father and if so I don't know if he's extent, but *if* so, I hope he didn't see what you did, because I'm confident he'd be embarrassed by you, I know *I'm* embarrassed for you." conspiracy theory
I bought a Ria 1911 in 9mm was on sale so, anyways it failed to eject every rd. fired would not pull them from barrel. Sent it back to Ria and had it fix and back in two weeks, New barrel and ejector spring. Works great now, very flat shooter 300rds.
I have owned a Rock Island 1911 now for going on 9 years now. I have something like 3-4000 rounds through it. I bought some stag grips for it as I do not care for the smooth grips it came with. I paid something like 275 dollars in 2015 for mine. Paul is 100 percent correct. You have to find out by trial and error to find out which kinds of hollow points it will digest. I had my feed ramp polished and I also had the chamber “throated.” Since I had that done my 1911 will digest anything I have fed it. I totally agree with him when he says it would be on his top 10 list of best bang for the buck list. I no longer carry it as my EDC gun however. I now own a Springfield hi power clone. Which I highly recommend as a carry weapon. I have about 3000 rounds through it without an issue. For all of you polymer frame weapons fans I am in no way saying that your weapon is in anyway bad. In fact one of my favorite carry weapons is a Glock 19. I just prefer an all steel weapon over a polymer weapon. Thank you Paul for your unbiased opinion of this excellent budget friendly 1911.
By far the best review/ comparison video I've seen on the RIA 1911. You covered pretty much everything I could think of. Didn't expect the magazine comparison. Awesome! Now I want one. I have a springfield armory 1911-a1 stainless steel one. Kinda wanted another one. 👌
Lord do I miss Paul's seriousness surrounding certain things. He was so aware that the things he talked about could be misunderstood. The "Shatner-esque" pause fits this level of awareness well. Rest easy Paul..we're in good hands too you know! Miss ya
I'm new to gun ownership. I own a shotgun and am interested in getting a handgun. I stumbled upon your videos and have enjoyed the information and your direct language. Thanks
Welcome to the club. Find a range that has rentals and try different types of handguns, to get a feel of which one you are comfortable with, and take a gun safety class since you are new to guns, and maybe an advanced course. Once again welcome to the club but most of all have fun and stay safe with your guns.
Remington Golden Sabres 9 mm, 124 gr, +P H.P.'s is my go to round. Check Lucky Gunner ballistics gel test. It covers a number of calibers and test all major H.P.'s. These round's expansion is the third best out of all 9mm rounds tested. Impressive.
I have had two of those, the Tactical model. When I got my first one, I sold my Kimber. Great pistols. Looking forward to trying the Tisas version. Thanks for another great video.
I got the Tisas. Bad trigger creep. Looked at the search and saw an interesting way they machined the 90degree cut. Replaced the hammer assembly with a $15 hammer. Works like a charm.
nice review. I have many 1911 and one of my favorite is a single stack RIA. I used it in competition and am very pleased with how it perform. In competition, you don't really need the grip safety, because every second counts. Just turned it off, but not advisable to newbies though. RIA is so accurate, we used to play (not in competition, but for plain fun) what we call pistol sniping. The target is 30 meters away, 4" x 4" plate, guess what, with two to three shots (some shooters of our gun club-with just one), some of my friends could hit the target with their RIA pistol. No sight attachments, just plain fixed iron sights.
I have a Colt 45 auto, that I bought for $450.00 in 1980, it is now worth twice what I paid for it (10's of thousands of rounds later). If I had bought a Rock Island instead, it would be worth half what I paid for it (unfired).
Yes! A “Top 10 list of inexpensive yet reliable handguns” video would be awesome. Thanks for all you do for us wannabe shooters. I have learned a lot from you. Thank you.
Best day of my life was when I caused my friend to have a 5 minute cursing fit when he discovered the stock trigger on my RIA 1911 was better than the stock trigger on his Springfield Range Officer.
I was a bit miffed the first time I compared the trigger on my Springfield Loaded side by side to my Rock because of exactly that. On the bright side, it's an easy fix if you know what to do and you're willing to strip the gun down & do some trial and error adjustments.
@@CarBENbased wasn't my first one, but that was a huge factor. Even better after a few hundred rounds . of all of the mainstream ones I'd buy another RI. Have 6? I think of their 1911s now and been pleased with all of them.
@@CarBENbased ria 1911 fs gi was my first handgun purchase. I looked over the guns on display but I couldn't stay away from the 1911s and decided I didn't want to pay the extra 130 for a 10mm that was better quality all around and checked the shelves to see only one box of 10mm left so I opted for the cheaper one. I tried the glock first and it felt like a gun, I tried the 1911s and it just felt right, sights on both the 1911s I was looking at went right where they needed to be.
Personally my RIA tac ultra double stack in 9mm trigger is not nearly as nice as my springfield armory "loaded" .. however, the RIA is brand new and the SA is well worn.
First thing that came to mind is that you'll never have an empty gun at any point. During the mag change, you'll still have one round ready to fire off at the enemy should you need it mid-change. Not sure if trying to count rounds while getting shot at is a good idea though.
Yes. The idea being that you don’t have to operate the slide release or rack it to chamber a round. It also gives the ability of having a round in the chamber if you need to fire while in the midst of a reload should your target still present a threat. It’s similar to the idea of “topping off” a revolver when a lull in a gunfight presents itself. TLDR; train as you fight
@@brian94954 with a 1911 counting rounds isnt too hard without making it a distraction. Higher capacity pistols however, I treat it like an AR, have a rough estimate of what you shot, and do a tactical reload when the moment is right.
A "Top 10 list of best handguns for the buck" video from you Paul sounds like a great idea. I can see it now, both being informative and insightful on how you came to your opinion/conclusion. I would also look forward to the "Wut bout *insert my favorite firearm*" people coming out of the woodwork to shout their opinion over yours as though it is fact to justify their decisions, and saying how your decision is poorly made or not. Thanks for the great content Paul, I really hope to own a few more pistols some day and the RIA 1911 will remain on the list as I have enjoyed shooting one in the past.
About 14 years ago I was visiting with a Harris County, Texas Sheriff Deputy that was having his Colt 1911A1 .45 worked on by a local gunsmith (the .45 1911 has always been very popular with Law Enforcement in Texas all the way up to the Texas Rangers...or rather trickling down from the Texas Rangers.). I had just gotten for Christmas a Springfield Armory 1911A1 that had cost around $450. I was new to guns, and was asking why he chose a much more expensive Colt when Springfield Armory was so much less expensive. His answer was simple: “You get what you pay for.” The Springfield or other less expensive may serve fine but certain parts were made better and would last longer and be more durable on the more expensive Colt. He compared it to whatever kind of watch you buy. All would most likely tell you the time of day accurately but the more money you out into it, the longer it will last and more durable it can be. It makes sense. I will say, however, that my Springfield Armory GI has been a shooter and carry gun for 14 years now and, after probably several thousand rounds, it still shoots good and handles great. The gun has only had to go back to factory once for a minor warranty repair about three years ago when the lock spring housing started separating from the frame. Other than that, the gun holds up great with standard and +P ammo.
I've handled several Rock Island 1911's but never shot one. The ones I've handled felt really super good, smooth slides, and tight tolerances. I should add one to the collection
Great review. I bought that exact model of RIA a couple of years ago. I've been very pleased with it. Been very reliable for me and really got me thinking about another 1911. It's a handgun that is a lot of fun to shoot, but you know all that! I've had some issues with my eyes the last year and really struggle with the blacked out sights. I think the next one will have a 3-dot.
Any guns you can switch to a BIG front night Sight, like an XS Big Dot, or have a Big Orange front dot like XS F8 or CAP or Ameriglo or Trijicon XDs would probably be a big help. Blacked out rears are fine, you need focus on the front sight easier.
@@DanTheWolfman Yes I know it doesn't take much. I put a bit of red nail varnish on the front sight and It made a big difference. I handled one of the tactical models with the fibre-optic insert front sight and they were really nice.
We all miss Paul. "If I had a top 10 guns best bang for you buck, this would be on it." Wow! Quite the compliment! I just got my first Rock Island 1911 (GI Entry) for sub $300. I'm super excited to try it out!
![[LIVE] : ONE ลุมพินี 87 วันนี้!! คู่เอก "ก้องชัย vs โชคปรีชา"](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/YN6e7HVnekw/mqdefault.jpg)
Hey everyone, there's a lot of questions about running the pistol empty. Part of my training with the 1911 was to reload before you're empty so you're not standing there with an empty gun.
Thanks Paul. I was wondering myself and was just about to formulate my question about it. Bersa's also seem to get crapped on because of their low prices but I've never had an issue with my tpr9c and a buddy has had a Thunder as long as I can remember and has zero issues with it.
Ditto. Not only is reading fundamental, so is counting! Thanks again for your efforts.
Paul Harrell another great video thank you Paul
Paul Harrell hey could you do a rock island revolver vs colt revolver comparison that could be interesting...well to me anyway
Paul Harrell thank you Paul for every video you make.
Imagine being riddled with bullets, laying helplessly on the ground, and the last words you hear are "...and for demonstration purposes only..." BANG
And your last words are, "I get that reference."
So much more intimidating than "Are you feeling lucky, punk?, from Dirty Harry
Because Harry was out, and he knew it. Paul on the other hand has one in the chamber, and he knows it, and you know it, and you're dead.
"But was it effective? You be the judge."
This gave me a good chuckle. It reminds me of another set of words no man in such a position wants to hear...
"Heeere we gooo"
-Jerry Miculek
I laughed wayyy to hard at this
"And just for demonstration purposes" He says as he dates that guy's mother.
Hilarious! XD
Freaking win
You're 50% right, but 100% wrong. Just so, so wrong. Lol
For demonstration purposes I wonder why he is not wearing eye protection.
chad haire he would look cooler with an eye patch. He also doesn’t wear them when shooting paper targets or shooting into the wind.
Back in 2008 I went searching the local gun stores in my area for a 1911. I was prepard to spend $600 to $800. I am a former MP in the US Army and carried the 1911 from 1979-1982. I was shown many different brands of 1911's. Kimber's, Springfield's, etc. None of them felt good in my hand. Finally the salesman pulled the Rock Island off the bottom shelf. As soon as I held it, it felt like being reunited with an old friend. It was just a well built copy of a US Government issued 1911 to me and when he told me it was $410, I was sold. Had it now for almost 14 years and have run 1000's of rounds through it and its never falled me.
@Centurion 0mega Defund the police, all cops are evil. You a dam fool
I was in the navy from 1985 to 1995 as an Operations Specialist ( Radarman ) . I carried Colt 1911a1 pistols on a Destroyer and a Cruiser in the surface fleet , and for two years on shore duty as an MP . Today I put on layaway an RIA 1911a1 pattern pistol chambered in 10mm .
@@victorwaddell6530 Good Choice
I have a RIA 9mm 1911 and it is a good pistol. However it's been having some troubles running hallow points and as Paul said different brands of ammo will act differently. Have you run hallow points with yours? and if so, what brands have you noticed work the best? Thank you!
@@jarongreen5480 Nothing but ball Ammo. Mine is in 45 ACP.
At some point in the last 24 hours, the CEO of Rock Island Armory called every member of their board saying "He likes us! He really likes us!".
In Sally Fields' voice, of course.
I mean they already had Gun Jesus' blessings.
@Wayne Smith hahahahahahahahahahaNO!
The price of the RIA 1911 just went up $200.
@Wayne Smith I'm not a gun enthusiast, nor a 'gun nut' nor any other descriptive form of avid gun person. In fact, I'm a libby-lib-lib. True story! But I'd put my money on Gun Jesus being Ian from Forgotten Weapons.
Anyone else interested in hearing Paul's top ten list of "best handguns for the buck"?
I would actually really like that, even though I understand why hes apprehensive to do so. It would offer some good balance to other videos recommending various makes and models.
@@TheUnchosenOne of course. The only person who can decide what's best for you is you.
I would love to see Paul release a top ten list for every platform, not just pistols.
Would love to watch that video, but the whining and posturing by the internet trolls would be epic.
@@bf945 That's half the fun.
A man who has "spare no expense", really fine firearms, yet is not coping an attitude about testing a budget model. That's refreshing.
That's why we respect Paul more than most of the tacticool guys who will utterly fail to find fault with a budget gun, yet refuse to endorse it because it says anderson or RIA or hipoint on the side.
He knows quality does not necessarily mean overpriced.
Him and Hickok45 will give every gun a fair demonstration and review.
Granted, in a very different manner
Stay humble. True man.
Great review. Can't wait to have mine RIA 1911 in my hands!!
About 3 years ago, I bought a Rock Island FS Standard in 45ACP because of this video. I have used it in competition, probably several thousand rounds of FMJ (mostly Fiocchi, Armscor, Blazer Brass and some of lots of brands, whatever is reasonably priced), have had maybe 2 jams that were probably my fault(and yes that is really annoying...) Based on this video, I don't use Federal HST, but I have shot a few hundred Hornady CD, Speer GD and some old reloaded JHPs (bullet manufacturer long forgotten) from the 1990s with great success. I share this video with anyone looking to buy a 45. Rest in Peace Sir, your legacy lives on. Thank you.
Paul posting 2 videos in as many days- is Paul just bored, or is he being considerate because we have absolutely nothing to do?
You be the judge.😏
One was reupped, the return of the thanksgiving special was unexpected.
What a treat.
@@onpsxmember
👍👍👍...and I will definitely be trying Paul's take on the ham & yams...😋
speak for yourself I still have to work! but its great having something to look forward to besides the old ball and chain nagging me to death cause shes bored as hell!
@@cem19771
I am also lucky enough to still be working, I just happen to be on the 2nd day of my 'weekend.' But I'm bored stiff because it's cold, there's still snow on the ground & I'm keeping up with the social distancing. A week ago it was in the 50's, and I was out at the rifle range where the tables are more than 6 feet apart!😁
He could be out of work right now tbh. He's mentioned he's a dental assistant in his videos before. Granted, I don't know if he still works his day job.
Really spoiling us stuck at home with these videos, Paul. Much appreciated.
VERY much appreciated.
*Safe at home
Top 10 List of Best Handguns for the Buck - would love to see that presentation!
I’ve owned several 1911s from kimber, Springfield, auto ordnance and rock island. All are good guns worth every penny. don’t let people trash talk what you buy, it is none of their business
Poor people coping
Kimber's reputation for their quality control have been continuously going down over the past decade while Rock Island Armory's reputation has gone up.
@@HandsFreeProductions there's a difference in being poor and being frugal. My dad is a millionaire, but drives around in a 2000 model Pontiac and wears dollar general shoes and goodwill clothes. He thinks that spending $10.00 on a hamburger meal is idiotic. You cannot judge a book by its cover, only the contents.
@@JohnChoidotOrg bought a kimber last year, it would literally jam every other shot, kimber customer service isnt so great. Never buying one again. Got an ria 1911 no issues at all, awesome gun
Kimber’s quality is not that good, they were probably okay 10 years ago but now not so much.
the Bob Ross of shooting, the coolest dude in Oregon. I still miss your old disco music intro
Except Mr. Harrell doesn't have the hair for it. ;)
Paul Harrell: today we are painting a beautiful scene of a forest. Our brush will be my 32 caliber 1903 Browning, m16 a1...
Dude the disco intro was classic
Imagine being a home invader, and you hear "Bear with me, we're at the house today with a home intruder so my speech may be impeded on by some --gunfire--."
😝🤣👏
The last thing the home invader hears is "And, for demonstration purposes only..." and a single shot.
@@SpiderDevice hahaha
Okay that was pretty funny VPagon lolol
“Let go take a look at the target” 😃
You can hear Paul’s military background when he pulls out the “for demonstration purposes only”
The only thing missing is the knife hand!
Is bayonet training still done? We had lots of "demonstrations" for that.
@Will Kelly. Gun nuts is a disgrace to the uniform, or so I heard.
You mean explanation, demonstration and practical application....
Kingman101 for me it was “the next subject we will name, explain, and conduct practical work on...” and then “for demonstration purposes you will bring the trail foot alongside...”
Just bought a RIA 1911 for 517 two days ago for my first gun. Put 50 rounds through it and it shot beautiful. Glad to see another Harrell approving the purchase haha great video
Same thing here 2 weeks ago. Runs great.
I’m considering getting one for carry instead of using my nicer guns. Did you have any issues with HP rounds like he did in the video.
@@Lucky-bg1di haven’t put more than 20 hollow points but didn’t have any problems. I’ve run over 1500 rounds of steel wolf ammo and have probably had 3 malfunctions that were caused by a misfeed
Can't go wrong with a 1911.
Unless you end up on the business end of it 😵
@@Lucky-bg1di how u gonna hide a full size 1911 lol. The ria loaded is easily a over 2 and maybe upwards to 3lbs.
I'd at least get a tac model ria and forget the government model.
Whenever Paul's wearing that jacket, you can bet he's got pistols in his pockets.
Eric S and ammo, and water, and a snack. Maybe a cleaning kit, some binoculars, a toothbrush and floss, small camping stove etc
Beardoggin89 he could very well have a fully stocked general store hiding in them pockets haha
Is that a firearm in your pocket? Nope, Chuck Testa.
honestly wouldn't be that shocked of he pulled a B61 nuclear bomb out of that jacket
I'm fairly certain that is the case even when he isn't wearing that jacket.
You do know, now, that everyone will be asking your for your "Top 10 quality handguns for a good price" list, right?
Andrew Gonos I hope Paul is foreshadowing an upcoming video.
Yup
Agreed. Please, and Thank You.
Probably not we come for facts not opinion.
@@dontneedtoknow5836 I've found Paul's opinions, when he's expressed them, to be based in fact.
Paul Harrell during pandemic = essential service.
Have you seen the 'Top 10 Tips for Pandemic Gun Buyers'? Its a really interesting video to watch, good stuff!
Excellent review, many thanks for that.
I have an ancient 1911 I bought at a private sale. He told me it was new in 1942, it had been used hard in combat by an uncle and was given a new barrel and new slide several years prior. It had 4-500 rounds through it after the refit and before he bought it. It worked flawlessly for about 300 rounds until I tried to use hollow points. It did not like to load them, especially if they were on top of the magazine. I could put them in the #3 slot and they worked most of the time. I took it to a local gunsmith. He used a dremel like tool to polish the loading ramp and installed a new barrel bushing to tighten that up. He was impressed with the accuracy at 50 feet and after that, it loaded hollow points with no problem. That could be what is up with the Rock Island 45.
I’ve carried a RIA 1911 as my daily piece for almost 10 years now and I can attest that your video is pretty much spot on: I’ve only had issues with select hollow point brands but most work fine (and that appeared to lessen as I broke the pistol in over time), shoots accurately and quickly, and only cost me $500. Only thing different is that I’ve never had a problem engaging my grip safety that I can recall, and I’d describe my trigger as light, crisp, and smooth compared to your observation (though again, this may be due to ~10 years of use).
Great video as always, and great to finally meet you for pizza in Salem last month!
I too have had a RIA 1911 for a little over 10 years. 1st gun I ever bought. And after a little breaking in, it hasn't jammed on me in over 9 years. It's accurate as hell. I've replaced the trigger, barrel bushing since then, but never any problems; I just wanted better parts.
To save you all by removing an example from general circulation, years ago I bought as my first 1911 pattern pistol an Auto Ordnance M1911A1 made in Worcester MA. I wanted a West Hurley NY example, to really do my duty re: self sacrifice, but they are so rare in the wild that I had to settle for the MA pistol. Probably that is due to their being so poor in reliability and accuracy that their owners have buried them deep and placed cesspits over their graves. My goal with my AO is to have a gunsmith turn it into a firearm. At the moment I would rely on it as a doorstop or a paperweight.
Deng I paid $38 more. LOL. Great guns RIA.
@Michael Wolff never tried anything but hardball. Tried various mags, McCromick, Checkmate...the one that sort of works is the odd mag that came with it. I tried my original 1918 Colt mag with the dimple on the follower. No joy.
Hey friend,
looking to CCW a Citadel(RIA) 1911that I've purchased, my CCW instructor indicated that the safties on these guns aren't very durable and become very loose over time. With your years of owning one, how would you describe the condition of yours?
That last comment of yours, regarding the "Top ten..." list sounds like an intriguing video idea. I'd be interested in that! Thanks for your content; when it comes to making decisions about quality and reliability, you're my first go-to channel.
""Top ten..." [affordable but high quality] list sounds like an intriguing video idea." -- Yes, please.
I want to see it as well.
The Philippine 1911s are absolutely solid. They're probably the closest you'll get in terms of tolerances to the originals. I'd never knock a rock island or an a.t.i.
I've had my RIA GI model since 2004. It has never let me down as long as I do my part.
I want 3
@@farmdreamer342 I was thinking the same thing. Philipinos know 1911s.
IT MUST BE EMBARRASSING FOR COLT TO HAVE SUCH A close competitor that sells for 1/3 the price.I would rate my Fillipino made High standard as actually being of better quality than the several colts ive owned over the years....just my opinion
@@farmdreamer342 the 45 didn't put them down either Goober
I had two 1911s; one was a RIA, the other a Springfield. It took awhile to break in the RIA while the Springfield was good out of the box. But once the RIA was broken in, it worked like a champ. You can't go wrong with a RIA 1911 for the money.
I didn't have to break my 1911 rock island gi in. Mine worked fine. 200 rounds 4 different shooters. No jams no problems 230 grain fmjs 230 bonded hollow points even the 180 grains worked fine.
@@michaelsherfield3749wish I had that luck mine keeps nose diving and jamming seems to run ok now with Wilson mags
Paul Harrell posing with dual-wielded 1911's might be the most action-hero thing I've seen since the 80's.
Agree 100 %
Its like that scene in Deadpool when he goes "Superhero landing! Superhero landing!!!!"
Sgt. Harrell, it's been 28 years since you last taught me something. Today I learned something new. What I thought was a trigger safety in my Kimber is in fact not. I carry it daily and chamber a round in the house every Sunday night. I'd love to know your thoughts on a slow-rack or riding the slide. Thanks for what you do. You are truly a service to the firearms community.
would still like to see this answered
Don't ever slow rack or ride the slide on any auto loader. Creates more room for a malfunction.
Like Paul said get a 5 gallon bucket with sand and load/unload your firearm there.
“He looked as though I told him I dated his mother.” LOL And that is why I watch Paul.
caleb's mother lol
Elvis Winterbottom paul’s got this unique ultra-dry deadpan style that you can’t get anywhere else
If you've ever talked to someone with autism, that's what you get. Nothing wrong with autism, and not saying that Paul has it.
Daddy!!!
Sportsman’s Warehouse currently has these on sale for $299 and I plan on picking one up before the sale ends. Thank you Paul for your informative video and wishing you the best.
$449.99 and out of stock for GI 5 inch as of today. In fact, almost everywhere is out of stock.
I’m going to go today and see if I can get one. They’re on sale but not that cheap. IF they have one it’s on sale for $490.
Another video? This quarantine is shaping up to be not too shabby!
I've had my RIA for 11 years. Always worked fine for me. Had a Springfield that jammed every 3 rounds.. its gone.. still got the RIA
Similar story here with my Springfield ultracompact 1911, what a steaming pos that pistol was. I had many other variants, all of which were fine.
@Woodsquatch I had a Springfield TLE II that I carried as an off duty for years. Never had any reliability issues with it, though I made a point on ammo selection to look for JHPs that matched the profile of ball as close as possible. 230gr Gold Dots tended to work well, and I had a bit stiffer recoil spring dropped in and Wilson Combat mags which might have helped shove the JHPs in fast enough that they hit the ramp instead of biting the ramp. I quit carrying it, mostly because of the bulk for the round count, and because a 1911 really is 'an elegant weapon, for a more civilized age'. Went to carrying one of my '16oz Framing Hammer Pistols' aka a Glock.
@Woodsquatch Yeah, we all get guns that do like that. My Glock 42 that I used on patrol as a vest gun had some feeding issues until I went to using the homemade combo the rangemaster uses....80W gear oil and Lucas Oil Treatment mixed. Now that stuff is amazing, even after a 600rd range day even my AR15 will still have lube on the bolt. I'm not a 'glock guy' whatsoever, but I appreciate them for what they are, the '16oz Framing Hammer' of pistols....they're reliable, do the job, and hold up well even if you are moderately abusive to them.
Byron Hamilton I had exactly the opposite experience even sent it back to RIA for repair still didn’t function properly.
Eventually sold it.
Guess I just got a lemon.
I’m willing to try again though.
Probably with a 10 mm tactical model.
@@jeremychildress8701 yeah maybe so, one of my buddies bought a GI model like mine and never had an issue with it. Hes had it about the same time. Mine has been a truck gun and EDC for a long time. First thing I did on it was replace the grip safety with a beaver tail. I have powerlifter hands so that regular safety gouged into the meat in between my thumb and index finger. Added that and a hogue grip. Might have jammed on me a handful of times due to crappy magazines. Never had issues with the Novak magazine it came with
RIA also have stellar customer service and lifetime warranties on their guns.
Are they made in the Philippines? To bad it's citizens can't own guns. Great Country, other than that.
@@Milkman3572000 yes they are made in the Philippines and they can own guns
@@Milkman3572000 Yes and also they can. (mostly for self defense purpose only, conceal carry permit and only to susceptible occupations)
@@Milkman3572000 Not true, we can own firearms in the Philippines.
@@divider13 that is good to hear.
Straight talk with no frills and honest assessments with no shills , Paul Harrell is a reviewer you can trust.
May he RIP. I just discovered this guy after I heard about his passing.
Caleb strikes again with a thumbs down and didn't even watch.
Not this caleb
Michael G the day I don’t like on of Paul’s videos, I need to check my ego, because I am pretty sure he wasn’t talking about me.
His buddies will be by in an hour and run up the dislikes.
@@chuckmiller5763 does Caleb have buddies?
@@lightweight1974 At least 19 according to the "thumbs down" clicks.
I love my RIA 1911. It's accurate, barely any recoil and feeds my RIA and Winchester ammo flawlessly. I also found it on sale, for $299. You can't beat that!!
What the heck! That should be like a crime or something lol. That should be called giving an arm and a leg. It’s like 600 plus in Cali… so you could basically buy two RIA with that money
Exactly my point, a used colt doesn't lose it's value, but a Rock Island does.
@diane Taylor - throw in some ammo and we can call it even ^)^ lol. Planning on getting the RIA 1911 45 or a Springfield xd 45. I'm used to Springfield since i have the 9mm verison, but i'm trying to branch out into other guns that are in the budget of 550.
And where did you get that for 299? Hell I’ll come to what ever town that is and buy another.
That's a steal right there! Congrats on your purchase!👍
Two Paul Harrell videos this week?! *Monty Python voice* "A blessing from the Lord!"
"And there was much rejoicing."
I've had a 9mm RIA 1911 for a couple years now, got it for about $400. I try to hit an indoor range at least once a month and put at least 50 rounds through each time. So in those 1200 rounds, all FMJ, I've had no failures and I've had a fun and accurate shooting experience every time. I do want to get myself a Springfield 1911 in .45, but for the price, my RIA 1911 has been absolutely amazing.
Any problems or still running fine? Im thinking of grabbing one
Buying a 9mm 1911 is like buying a v6 mustang
@@PhilMacrackin-wj7bg100% agreed lol, ria makes a 2011 in 10mm so the 9mil guys have no excuse anymore, haha.
I remember being on the shooting range FT McClellan AL in the Army with a 1911 and I'm SURE the one I was shooting was made in 1911. It shot flawlessly but man you could tell it had been around longer than I was at the time.
Same type of situation but I was at the US Navy range in Charleston, SC in the early eighties. The 1911 worked great but you could tell that it had been around for awhile.
I remember those happy days when the captain said we could shoot as much as we cared to load...
The 1911 and m9s often get a bad wrap but that’s because it military property, you have a bunch of guys beating up old worn out guns constantly that have thousand upon thousand of rounds thru them so yea there gonna be pretty shit but if you replace them when you have to, replace the parts as well they will work just fine.
I love how thorough you are. You are the guy I go to when I want no show, no filler material on guns. Thank you Paul.
I bought a RIA 1911 about 10 years ago and had the same issue with the grip safety.
Pulled it out, measured it, and the height of the arm in the safety where it contacts the trigger bar was way out of spec - it was too tall meaning you had to overengage the grip safety for the trigger to move.
A little bit of file time got it in spec and resolved the issue
I bought one of them RIAs years ago and I absolutely love it. I’ve always wanted a 1911 but I didn’t want to break the bank at the time. The first time I saw the RIA I thought it was some cheap piece of junk. After I looked up some reviews on the internet I was amazed to find that everyone praised these things. I then caved in and bought it. I’ve ran over 1000 rounds through mine and have had very little issues. Years later I bought a Kimber Custom 2 from a friend just to see if it was any better than the RIA. I’ve found them to be incredibly similar. In fact, I seemed to have more problems with the Kimber due to the fact it was basically brand new and didn’t have its break in yet. I’ve been looking at getting a Colt M45A1 recently but I’ve been having trouble finding one. If you want a good quality 1911 for an affordable price, you’ll be very pleased with the RIA
Great vid!! I have an RIA in 45 acp and I love it. I own multiple sidearms these days. I grew up with 22lr rifles, 30-30 levers, and 12G shotguns; no handguns. The first weapon I learned to shoot in the military was the Colt M1911. I fell in love with the 1911 platform immediately. Through the years I had to be more practical with the handguns I purchased; since I was a family man with a really tight budget. The 1911 was too large for concealed carry; so I bought a smaller 9mm. Then, to train my family members, I purchased 22lr pistols. I have always wanted the 1911 and knew some day I would have one. Years ago, my wife came home with a 1911 and a few hundred rounds and told me to go enjoy myself. The RIA sees most of its duty as a sidearm for snake defense when I walk our property. We have 8 acres that butts up against thousands of acres of public land. There are tons of snakes out here in the high desert country. The RIA cycles everything I have put through it, and that includes the snake shot. Great weapon worth the money.
I have legitimately never thought of a zombie Bigfoot. Thank you Mr. Harrell for bringing this to my attention. Would they eat people or only other Sasquatches?
Damn zombie bigfoots are a scary thought...it's right up there with Ghost Cobras. 😳
They only eat people who don't believe in them.
Jeramy Whitwell not half as bad as a vampire werewolf!!!
@@john-paulsilke893 Now I gotta watch Underworld.
@Thystaff Thywill Damn Chinese discovered a yeti... and ate him. Lol
I've had my RIA 1911-A1 for almost a decade now. Have always been pleased with it's accuracy and performance.
Mine has been extremely reliable. (Mind you I've only shot around 500 rds through it) no malfunctions as of yet. Oh, and it's the 10mm model.
I bought a Rock Island years ago and so far I've had no problems with it. It's an excellant fire arm.
I fired a number of them, none of them ever malfunctioned with the numerous commercial and hand loads I tried them with. They are just as good as more expensive brands from what I can see, at least when it comes to the GI models.
@@taraswertelecki3786 I love mine. The only problem I’ve had was some jamming but that was the first time I shot it I’ve heard 1911 jam a bit till you’ve put some rounds through them. Other than that I love it
I bought mine years ago the only problem iv had is i cant keep sights on it iv been through 2 front sights and two rears had a gunsmith install the second set and lost the front sight again on my third mag idk thing just doesnt like sights
I was told that, sometimes, if the 1911 has issues with a specific ammunition feeding, using a different magazine can eliminate the problem. Of course, this is just something I heard.
I picked up a used RIA 1911 a couple months ago. A guy got rid of it because it wouldn't feed right, so I got a great deal on it. It wouldn't feed because the feed ramp was filthy. 😀
I had the same jamming problem with my double stack RIA 10 MM. The problem was not the feed ramp. I bought some new longer double stack magazine springs from Dawson Precision ......PROBLEM SOLVED !! (Part # SKU: 501-041). I highly RECOMMEND AGAINST messing with the feed ramp unless you are a trained gunsmith. This is not a job for a novice. I think against that the feed ramp needs any work beyond what the factory designed. Messing with it is asking for problems !
@@robertmckinley2886 taking a nylon brush and gun cleaning solvent to clean off the feed ramp is all I had to do. It was just cleaning, not what you would call messing with it. The feed ramp was heavily caked with carbon buildup.
yes that is correct. High quality magazines can often correct feeding issues in the 1911.
Only feeding issues I had were because of the faulty spring in the stock magazine. I bought it used so it's as expected. I replaced the spring and it jams less, but I had to go with aftermarket 10 round mags to stop the issue altogether.
Amazing how little some people care to know about their guns.. i might not know all the details when i buy something, but you can bet ill Know all about its function within a couple days. Ive only owned kimber 1911s and have had great luck with the included mags.. i also have a mystery brand one that came with a used one that’s always worked well too. It’s a little long for the officer size one i have now but that makes it super easy to fully insert so it’s a great spare.
The thing to mention about this comparison is that he was shooting an entry level RIA. They also make several higher end models. Those perform a lot better in my experience and have a lot more features. That's not to say they are better or worse than others, it's just saying they do make some higher end models that might perform a bit better. I was impressed to see how well the entry level one did in Paul's testing.
Howdy from Sacramento! I've had an RIA tactical for 7 years or so and I love it. Polished up the ramp and she runs like a champ. Great value.
KPutubing same here from Sacramento! I’ve had mine for 4 years now.
What did you polish it with?
@@PanfishingJournal hey thanks for the question. I use a tiered approach with 600, 800, and then 1200 grit wet/dry sandpaper. I wrap the paper around a smooth sided marker or pen and run it along the feed ramp. Good luck!
I have had the same experience with both the Rock Island and the ATI (Whomever put my Combat Commander ATI 1911 together did a fantastic job on the trigger.) Smooth out the ramp and have fun. I also have a Series 70 Colt Combat Commander, which is very nice but most just sits in the safe. )
I remember when I first purchased this gun and I had watched this video to get a good idea of what I was buying. I then binge watched tons of your videos. I’m grateful that I was able to watch your videos and find your channel when you were still here. Thank you for the years of entertainment and informative content you made for this amazing community. Rest in peace Paul.
RIA Tactical two-tone was my first 1911. We loved it!
Great presentation as always Paul!
With less than 500 rounds through Paul's RIA, I would expect some failures. I have owned a Rock Island 5" for many years. Initially at around 500 rounds, I was having problems with feeding, too, as well as the firing pin block slipping from position. I contacted RIA in Nevada and was emailed a return shipping label. Sent the gun to them and they refitted a new firing pin block with new firing pin spring, recoil spring replaced, and polished the ramp. Since then, mine has fired without one failure.
Mine holds Federal HST when I carry the handgun. Yes, I trust my life with this pistol. I use Wilson combat eight round magazines.
I had to send an RIA 1911 9mm purchased new back to fix and extraction/ejection problem (no charge), but on return it's run true and given me no further issues and very accurate.
@@douglaswambaugh5668 It's sad how poor Remington quality has gotten. I hope they bounce back.
@@douglaswambaugh5668 I believe they have declared bankruptcy about 3 times over the last few years. or something like that
did you even bother to try cleaning the feed ramp.
Mine has been picky about hollow points, too. Don't think I have 500 rounds through it yet.
But it runs those CCI/SPEER gold dot 185gr just fine.
If you look closely, around the 5:21 mark, Paul banishes Winter.
He's just that good.
He shot it all away lol
Thank you for another great video... R.I.P. Paul, we miss you brother.
I just found your content today and I have to say I am impressed. You’re very thorough, very fair, and very informative. Thanks for great gun content.
The 2 ultimate “dad” flexes are owning a Colt or Kimber 1911 and 2 alternators on your truck
You forgot also wearing Oakley's 24/7
Yeah I would not brag about a Kimber anymore at one time they were top-tier they still have a top-tier price but the quality is not
My father pride and joy is his collection of colt 1911's and old 7.3 powerstroke. Id say you're spot on with your assessment.
@@Dino2GunZthere fine firearms that come with poor mags in my experience. I had a lot of issues with the mag the came with the kimber, and now have yet to have one since swapping to colt magazines
When I was a kid in the late 50's I never heard the term 1911. They where referred to as Colt 45's
in my house a Colt 45 was a single action revolver (.45 Colt) and a 1911 was just that.
When that malt liquor came out, steps needed taken to avoid confusion about what will be happening on the range on any given day.
gary mccausland same one is he 70’s and even 80’s for me.
@@1273312 thank you sir. My Father was a Army drill instructor, him and all his Army buddies always used the term Colt 45 not 1911
@Fman1292 Well...it's actually not the only name it's ever had. Model of 1911 is one name. M1911 is another.Then there's M1911A1. Government Model. 38 Super. Series 70. Series 80. M1991. M1991A1. The difference in heat treating alone between an M1911 and an M1911A1 would both take me paragraphs to describe and is very valid in terms of desirable differentiation which merits a different name. Not to mention the mechanical difference between the two in terms of the breechface. Most owners think a "1911 is a 1911" and frankly they are quite wrong.
As I watched this Paul has already passed away. He will be missed. His unbiased opinions, made by his personal tests and experiences can be trusted. This video on the RI 1911 made it easy for me to purchase one.
Same. Same. and Same. He will be missed. he can be trusted. and this video reinforced my decision to go RIA M1911.
I would be interested in watching the “best 1911s for the buck” if you ever make that video.
Rick Grimes RIA will definitely be in there
@@MNchees Need to get a pretty penny on the Patreon so Paul can have a Springfield TRP.
Save your money and get something else
Range guy: Is ThAt An Ar???
Paul: I'm about to ruin this man's whole career
Would be more hilarious if it was an ArmaLite.
Range guy: Is ThAt An Ar???
Paul: "Yes."
Idiot: "oH So iTs A CoLt tHeN?"
Paul: "No it's an ArmaLite rifle."
Range guy: So It'S a CoLt ThEn?! 😤
Paul: *shows Colt emblem and pony on lower reciever
Paul: You be the judge 😎
Ruger has ARs. Just not AR-15s. Their model is "AR-556," which means that the Ruger platform is also an actual AR.
This is their base model AR-556 at GunBuyer (if an actual product link is allowed on TH-cam):
www.gunbuyer.com/ruger-ar-556-556nato-16-1-blk-30rd-rug08500-b.html
Great video Paul, Learned years ago, (and I'm sure you know this), that whether you spend the extra $$$ for the name on Colts or not, sometimes you get a unit that needs a little QC attention. I've owned dozens, ( and that's no exaggeration), of Govt. Models, Colts, Springfield Armory, Kimber, Rock Island Arms and several custom made units wearing both 70 & 80 series slides, standard grip safety to long beaver tail with the added dimension for muscle memory on the lower pad. I was given instruction back in the early 80's by the man that made my first custom unit. He was a US navy armorer aboard ship in WWII and he showed me things that have stood me in good stead over the years. My current carry piece, which was also my IPSC production comp. gun and did double duty as my duty weapon is my Kimber Stainless Target II in .38 SuperAuto. That unit has never failed me and has garnered many back slaps as a single stack mag gun taking trophies from double stack glocks and such. I HAVE seen, as you allow can occur, a govt. model "Slam-fire" under the conditions you mention. That pistol was a 70 series, Colt, Goldcup. The only time I ever saw that. Really enjoyed this video sir, hope you're doin your best to keep your interval in avoiding the current wildfire bug and keep up the great work!
I trust this guy more than anyone else when it comes to fire arms
Him and Hickock 45...
I love my RIA 1911. It's more accurate than I am and eats everything I feed it. Only thing I changed was swapping the plastic flat mainspring housing for a metal humped one, but that's mostly personal preference. I trust that pistol with my life, and carry it regularly. Mine likes Gold Dots. Hornady, in my observation, doesn't bother to actually test whether their bullet designs will feed properly in the most popular guns of a given caliber, as I've seen many completely inexcusable failings.
@M Via I just bought a Parkerized housing off Ebay (mine's a Parkerized Tactical model from 2010) and made the swap, transferring the guts from the original plastic one into the new one.
Also, don't blame any firearm for not liking Hornady. Hornady doesn't seem to think compatibility testing is important; their 9x18 Makarov ammo won't even work right in an actual Makarov, let alone a P-64. They're clearly just putting products on the shelf little care of whether they actually work or not.
I've shot mine so much that the plastic housing is starting to show stress marks. Haven't gotten around to installing the metal one I got.
@@Gadget293 They're easy enough to install. Just need a hammer and some punches. Knock out the one pin at the base of the grip and slide the assembly out. Then remove the tiny pin that retains the guts (being careful that they don't go flying). Using one punch to put the spring down, insert the pin and get it seated.
Well damn...maybe I should look into getting one of these. How many of you have one? Like yours? Hate it?
I'll pin your question and we'll see what RIA owners have to say.
my buddy (and FFL) has a few. he loves them. i was gonna see about getting one before he got the stay at home order. and several models are CA available (for ppl like me).
Thanks.
I have one with a hogue grip love it
Have one in 10mm ,like it. It's the tactical model
Everything I've seen indicates that RIA makes some pretty good stuff. They really can pass on the savings from manufacturing in the Philippines.
Haven't had very many problems with their semi Autos but there revolvers I've had two and both of them were out of time from the factory other than that they worked fine
If we didn't regulate, tax, and punish manufacturing here we'd probably still have favorites turning them out here for about the same price.
The Phillippines can pump out some pretty nice 1911's at this point. Two anecdotes spring to mind. Anecdote the first: When the Iver Johnson brand was brought back for a Filipino company manufacturing 1911's, I and a guy who worked at the gun store decided to just table top compare their offering with the other 1911's of various US manufacture in the shop. The biggest difference we noted is when gripped with a fist wrapped round the slide and dustcover at the front of the pistol, you can rotate back and forth to feel how much slop you get between the slide and frame. As an initial smell check, it's a good way to get a general feel for machining tolerances before you get into the meat and potatoes of taking the thing down, looking for wear marks, doing a real thorough check. Perhaps the least sloppy was Iver Johnson's gun.
Anecdote the second: There has been a real issue with the underground gun market in the Philippines. There is also an issue with corrupt police supervisors. This goes hand in hand in that many of these underground guns are actually the police department firearms sold off by supervisors who then tell their officers there's no budget and they'll be patrolling unarmed while the street gangs shoot at them with the guns they're supposed to have. Also in the underground gun market exist certain firearms made in dusty shops by hand in a town in Cebu called Danao. Similar to the Khyber Pass or the old Chinese Mystery Pistol. Not so similar, is this is a country with access to quality 1911's, and while you get your standard Far East misspellings and cool sounding words hand chiseled into the slide, you can obtain a certain measure of quality from many of these back ally pistol smiths.
Now here's where this lead up comes into play. One of my mercenary buddies met his wife on assignment to one of the Yugo conflicts. Some NATO or UN apparatus was employing a lot of basic upkeep type contractors from the Philippines, they hit it off, an American Chaplain pronounces them hitched after some time, they go to America, pop out some kids etc. They're visiting her family in the old country one year and he goes to do a ride along with the Brother-in-Law who's a local cop. He shows up to meet him at the station and sees nothing but a busted Maglight and a nightstick on his belt and asks him why he's patrolling a shady area without a gun. Back to our leadup, he showed up to work to find out the Inspector over that substation did the old "Budget cut" and sold his gun to the local street thugs. Mercenary buddy reaches under his shirt immediately and passes him one of these Danao specials. Turns out he'd made some phonecalls before they landed to make sure he wasn't in the thirdworld as a white guy without a gun, and one of his old contacts hooked him up.
BIL's been patrolling with that back ally blaster for the last 5 years and has shot 3 guys who wanted to shoot him with zero malfunctions.
When I went to the Philippines a couple months ago to visit my gf a lot of guards were carrying 1911s. They're pretty popular there
@@enjoyingthecrisis5931 The Mountain-Made copies look almost as good as my Colts, but I hope they are more accurate than my Auto Ordnance! ;-)
We miss you Paul Harrell
RIP legend
Me he 🪦 RIP. I’m binging all the videos I have not seen yet
There is a level of professionalism this man brings to his presentations that is unparalleled.
Paul Harrell is a legend and a gift to this community.
What an awesome review! I actually just bought a RIA 1911 in 9mm, and I can't be happier with it.
Also, I can't believe I just found your channel. RIP, sir. Wherever you are, I love your work, and wish your family and loved ones all the best.
"Is that an AR???"
Paul subtly slips in the origin story of Caleb's butthurt.
hold up
"He looked as though I told him I dated his mother."
"Now maybe Paul will be proud of you like your daddy never was"
"I don't know if you had a father and if so I don't know if he's extent, but *if* so, I hope he didn't see what you did, because I'm confident he'd be embarrassed by you, I know *I'm* embarrassed for you."
conspiracy theory
😂
@@vaclavjebavy5118 Paul Harrell lore
"He looked at me like ai had dated his mother".
We all know what happens when someone tries to mog Paul.
Daddy?
😁
The other guy probably Wilberforce's son
I bought a Ria 1911 in 9mm was on sale so, anyways it failed to eject every rd. fired would not pull them from barrel. Sent it back to Ria and had it fix and back in two weeks, New barrel and ejector spring. Works great now, very flat shooter 300rds.
pawljk I had the same issue, I used a higher grain 9mm and noticed it extracted fine.
I have owned a Rock Island 1911 now for going on 9 years now. I have something like 3-4000 rounds through it. I bought some stag grips for it as I do not care for the smooth grips it came with. I paid something like 275 dollars in 2015 for mine. Paul is 100 percent correct. You have to find out by trial and error to find out which kinds of hollow points it will digest. I had my feed ramp polished and I also had the chamber “throated.” Since I had that done my 1911 will digest anything I have fed it. I totally agree with him when he says it would be on his top 10 list of best bang for the buck list. I no longer carry it as my EDC gun however. I now own a Springfield hi power clone. Which I highly recommend as a carry weapon. I have about 3000 rounds through it without an issue. For all of you polymer frame weapons fans I am in no way saying that your weapon is in anyway bad. In fact one of my favorite carry weapons is a Glock 19. I just prefer an all steel weapon over a polymer weapon. Thank you Paul for your unbiased opinion of this excellent budget friendly 1911.
By far the best review/ comparison video I've seen on the RIA 1911. You covered pretty much everything I could think of. Didn't expect the magazine comparison. Awesome! Now I want one. I have a springfield armory 1911-a1 stainless steel one. Kinda wanted another one. 👌
"If I had a TOP 10 list....This would be on it." Nuff said.
I'd like to see Paul's "Top 10 guns for the buck" list.
Lord do I miss Paul's seriousness surrounding certain things. He was so aware that the things he talked about could be misunderstood. The "Shatner-esque" pause fits this level of awareness well. Rest easy Paul..we're in good hands too you know! Miss ya
Rest in Peace my friend ! ✝️
Series 80 firing pin block vs Series 70
Don't know why I've never come across Paul Harrell youtube till today. Subscribed!
Great review!
Thanks. We put out new content almost every week.
@@PaulHarrell No worries! And looking forward to it :) Cheers!
I'm new to gun ownership. I own a shotgun and am interested in getting a handgun. I stumbled upon your videos and have enjoyed the information and your direct language. Thanks
Paul is the best resource you can find on guns.
Welcome to the club.
Find a range that has rentals and try different types of handguns, to get a feel of which one you are comfortable with, and take a gun safety class since you are new to guns, and maybe an advanced course.
Once again welcome to the club but most of all have fun and stay safe with your guns.
@PaulHarrell this has to be one of the best Reviews I've watched in a long time. Thank you sir.
Carried a RIA full size for years with Remington Golden Sabers.
Hah! That's the same setup I used. These days it's a Springfield with Remington Gold Sabers.
Remington Golden Sabres 9 mm, 124 gr, +P H.P.'s is my go to round. Check Lucky Gunner ballistics gel test. It covers a number of calibers and test all major H.P.'s. These round's expansion is the third best out of all 9mm rounds tested. Impressive.
"He looked as though i told him i'd dated his mother" man you probably did
I have had two of those, the Tactical model. When I got my first one, I sold my Kimber. Great pistols. Looking forward to trying the Tisas version. Thanks for another great video.
I got the Tisas. Bad trigger creep. Looked at the search and saw an interesting way they machined the 90degree cut. Replaced the hammer assembly with a $15 hammer. Works like a charm.
nice review. I have many 1911 and one of my favorite is a single stack RIA. I used it in competition and am very pleased with how it perform. In competition, you don't really need the grip safety, because every second counts. Just turned it off, but not advisable to newbies though. RIA is so accurate, we used to play (not in competition, but for plain fun) what we call pistol sniping. The target is 30 meters away, 4" x 4" plate, guess what, with two to three shots (some shooters of our gun club-with just one), some of my friends could hit the target with their RIA pistol. No sight attachments, just plain fixed iron sights.
I don’t always shoot .45s, but when I do it’s a Colt. Not really, though, I’m broke.
I prefer to shoot the HK45, the best .45 ever made.
@@zackzander425 the bottom line is we're all using a .45...I'd love a new one,but I can make do with the old one...
I have a Colt 45 auto, that I bought for $450.00 in 1980, it is now worth twice what I paid for it (10's of thousands of rounds later).
If I had bought a Rock Island instead, it would be worth half what I paid for it (unfired).
Uh oh, Roberts butt hurt cause everybody's loving on RIA.
Yes! A “Top 10 list of inexpensive yet reliable handguns” video would be awesome. Thanks for all you do for us wannabe shooters. I have learned a lot from you. Thank you.
I have an RIA 1911. It's the low priced GI version, I bought it used with a hard case and 8 mags for 400 dollars and I like it a lot.
Paul, your videos are not just informative but entertaining as all get out. Thanks for what you do.
Paul is so powerful that he is even keeping us safe due to coronavirus knowing we are a subscriber
Best day of my life was when I caused my friend to have a 5 minute cursing fit when he discovered the stock trigger on my RIA 1911 was better than the stock trigger on his Springfield Range Officer.
I was a bit miffed the first time I compared the trigger on my Springfield Loaded side by side to my Rock because of exactly that. On the bright side, it's an easy fix if you know what to do and you're willing to strip the gun down & do some trial and error adjustments.
The feel of the trigger was the main reason the RIA 1911 was my first firearm purchase a couple months ago.
@@CarBENbased wasn't my first one, but that was a huge factor. Even better after a few hundred rounds . of all of the mainstream ones I'd buy another RI. Have 6? I think of their 1911s now and been pleased with all of them.
@@CarBENbased ria 1911 fs gi was my first handgun purchase. I looked over the guns on display but I couldn't stay away from the 1911s and decided I didn't want to pay the extra 130 for a 10mm that was better quality all around and checked the shelves to see only one box of 10mm left so I opted for the cheaper one. I tried the glock first and it felt like a gun, I tried the 1911s and it just felt right, sights on both the 1911s I was looking at went right where they needed to be.
Personally my RIA tac ultra double stack in 9mm trigger is not nearly as nice as my springfield armory "loaded" .. however, the RIA is brand new and the SA is well worn.
RIP Paul
why not run the pistol empty? That a "train how you fight" thing?
Could be. One less action of having to release the slide after a mag change...seconds matter in a gun fight.
Also interested in this answer
First thing that came to mind is that you'll never have an empty gun at any point. During the mag change, you'll still have one round ready to fire off at the enemy should you need it mid-change. Not sure if trying to count rounds while getting shot at is a good idea though.
Yes. The idea being that you don’t have to operate the slide release or rack it to chamber a round. It also gives the ability of having a round in the chamber if you need to fire while in the midst of a reload should your target still present a threat. It’s similar to the idea of “topping off” a revolver when a lull in a gunfight presents itself.
TLDR; train as you fight
@@brian94954 with a 1911 counting rounds isnt too hard without making it a distraction. Higher capacity pistols however, I treat it like an AR, have a rough estimate of what you shot, and do a tactical reload when the moment is right.
A "Top 10 list of best handguns for the buck" video from you Paul sounds like a great idea. I can see it now, both being informative and insightful on how you came to your opinion/conclusion. I would also look forward to the "Wut bout *insert my favorite firearm*" people coming out of the woodwork to shout their opinion over yours as though it is fact to justify their decisions, and saying how your decision is poorly made or not. Thanks for the great content Paul, I really hope to own a few more pistols some day and the RIA 1911 will remain on the list as I have enjoyed shooting one in the past.
About 14 years ago I was visiting with a Harris County, Texas Sheriff Deputy that was having his Colt 1911A1 .45 worked on by a local gunsmith (the .45 1911 has always been very popular with Law Enforcement in Texas all the way up to the Texas Rangers...or rather trickling down from the Texas Rangers.). I had just gotten for Christmas a Springfield Armory 1911A1 that had cost around $450. I was new to guns, and was asking why he chose a much more expensive Colt when Springfield Armory was so much less expensive. His answer was simple: “You get what you pay for.” The Springfield or other less expensive may serve fine but certain parts were made better and would last longer and be more durable on the more expensive Colt. He compared it to whatever kind of watch you buy. All would most likely tell you the time of day accurately but the more money you out into it, the longer it will last and more durable it can be.
It makes sense. I will say, however, that my Springfield Armory GI has been a shooter and carry gun for 14 years now and, after probably several thousand rounds, it still shoots good and handles great. The gun has only had to go back to factory once for a minor warranty repair about three years ago when the lock spring housing started separating from the frame. Other than that, the gun holds up great with standard and +P ammo.
More expensive watches just cost more to maintain.
Clint Smith and Paul Harrell, you’ll learn so much with these experts
He's the OTHER real one. I pray for Clint's safety - I just can't take anymore bad news.
Paul, I don’t believe you had a “Dawn of Time” explanation for anything in this vid. What gives?
There was no time for it in the video...
I'll see myself out...
'cause even the dinosaurs were afraid of gunfire ....
Bahaha
lol
@@avocares If you don't, I'll assist you out! :)
I've handled several Rock Island 1911's but never shot one. The ones I've handled felt really super good, smooth slides, and tight tolerances. I should add one to the collection
Great review. I bought that exact model of RIA a couple of years ago. I've been very pleased with it. Been very reliable for me and really got me thinking about another 1911. It's a handgun that is a lot of fun to shoot, but you know all that!
I've had some issues with my eyes the last year and really struggle with the blacked out sights. I think the next one will have a 3-dot.
Any guns you can switch to a BIG front night Sight, like an XS Big Dot, or have a Big Orange front dot like XS F8 or CAP or Ameriglo or Trijicon XDs would probably be a big help. Blacked out rears are fine, you need focus on the front sight easier.
@@DanTheWolfman Yes I know it doesn't take much. I put a bit of red nail varnish on the front sight and It made a big difference.
I handled one of the tactical models with the fibre-optic insert front sight and they were really nice.
We all miss Paul. "If I had a top 10 guns best bang for you buck, this would be on it." Wow! Quite the compliment! I just got my first Rock Island 1911 (GI Entry) for sub $300. I'm super excited to try it out!
Rest in peace, thank you for making great videos