I have Colts, Rugers, and one S&W E Series. The E Series is my favorite, but only after some work. I stoned the hammer hooks, replaced the sear and disconnector with Wilson Combat parts, and replaced the jiggly trigger with a well-fitted Wilson Combat. My Colts are all stock, but the Rugers WC barrel bushings. The stock bushings were way too loose for my OCD. Honestly, the E Series is a fantastic bargain, even with the stock parts. Thanks for sharing!
Just purchased a beautiful stainless Ruger SR1911 for 740.00 I thought you quoted 650.00 for the Ruger new. You can't find a used one for that price now.i looked for quite awhile.never shot the Smith and i looked at one before i found the Ruger but I absolutely love the Ruger.Shoots fantastic. Great videos, love the comparisons of all the 1911s.thanks
Chris, they seem to have gone up in price recently. They are now knocking on the door of $1,000 MSRP, though there are some on Gunbroker for around $800. I'd say that at $740 you got a great deal.
Inflation my friend. I remember back when I was a kid you could pick up the sr1911 for 550-650 at academy. The days of affordable quality firearms is simply done for in the modern age. I see Asia maybe overtaking us in quality firearms production one day. Unless we make a hard course correction.
Great video. I’ve got the E series SC several years ago, it came stock with ambi safety and trijicon night sights. I will take my SW over my colt any day. Almost bought the ruger instead, I think I made the right choice.
I knew at 5 minutes into the video u were gonna pick the S&W...it was evident from the inflection in your voice, and the way u kept picking up the Smith more than the Ruger. These are 2 very comparable guns. Both are beautiful. If it was my money being spent(and I was choosing from the 2 on that table)I'd go with the Ruger...i think it looks nicer, and they have stellar customer service!
Marked Man, it was pretty evident that I preferred that Smith over that Ruger. I had spent a fair amount of trigger time with both and that particular Smith shot better and handled better than that particular Ruger. I haven’t had to experience customer service from either, so I couldn’t factor that into my selection. Ruger makes fine guns and it’s entirely possible that a different SR1911 would have performed better and a different “E” Series may have performed worse. This evaluation was my subjective observation on just those two guns, not an overall evaluation of the companies or the product lines. Thanks for watching and for commenting.
You have some seriously amazing content. Impressive. Love the way you pair up firearms that's very competitive across the board. Great channel you have going on there sir
Fantastic comparison! I’m actually comparing the E Series with the SA Defender model for my first 1911. I’m starting to think the extra cost would be worth the better quality of the S&W. I really like the M&P series, so I think it would suit me better. Thanks!
Mike, I have had generally very good performance with Ruger 1911s, so this one may have been built on a Monday or a Friday. But out of all my 1911s, the Smiths seem to be just a little higher quality than the Rugers, but not by much.
Rider's-Range I’d like to get the E Series and have found them for around $815. I’ve also found a Springfield Armory Defender for $450, I’m a little torn between the two. I’ve never owned a 1911 and I’m not sure if the Smith and Wesson is worth the extra money. I haven’t made a decision yet. I’ve been watching your videos and I feel like they’re a great help. Thanks!
The S&W "fish scale" cocking serrations are a turn-off for the 1911 purists, but I think they make a rather attractive unique touch. Thanks for watching.
JSG II, thanks for watching and for you comment. At 1:29 I showed the external extractor on the S&W and mentioned it, and at about 1:44 I mentioned that they were both Series 70-style guns. Your attention may have been drawn to the two beautiful examples of the 1911 craft that you missed my narrative.
Funny, the folks talking about how the Ruger is better just happen to have spent their money on it. Go figure. E-series is certainly the superior 1911 in this case and it's nice to see someone ending comparisons definitively, not signing off with "whatever you like more". It's an opinion, and it's good to get an honest one.
Sometimes a comparison will result in a tie that is only broken by one's preference. But in this case, the Smith is the better gun - at least in my opinion. Thanks for watching and for commenting.
The Smith and Wesson E series 1911 are amazing shooter and very reliable! I've use a lot of mid tier 1911 and the Smith and Wesson E series is definitely on the upper end in terms of quality and reliability. Beautiful pistol and after 2k rnds through mine, I'm glad I purchased it. I highly recommend this S&W pistol!!!
I've fired so many 45 and 1911 at shooting ranges, 10 years later I finally just said okay, S&W, I bought this gun. Great price, insanely accurate firearm.
I agree not a fan of 3 dot sights either. So what sights do you prefer on 1911 for carry, what sights for home defense, and what sights for target shooting? Excluding 3 dot style of course.
josh48315, it depends on the purpose of the gun. For regular carry (quick, defensive combat use), I prefer a black serrated wide U-notch rear with a high-def or fiber optic front (like on my Wilson Pro .45), or a Heinie Straight-Eight (like on my Dan Wesson ECO), but again, with a wide notch rear, preferably a U-notch. For precision, black serrated rear with narrow notch and black serrated “patridge”-style front.
Rider's-Range 100% agree, thank you! I really like the Ameriglo Pro i-dot U notch, or the Ameriglo CAP, both are excellent for carry. Not sure if they make these for 1911 but I have them on polymer strike fired and like them.
"Not so good" - Caution notice! Amen brother. Funny thing is I usually say that about every Ruger I see! Haven't bought a Smith since the Bangor Punta days or a Ruger since before the old Man died. I don't see myself ever buying either brand ever again. Great video series, very enjoyable.
Henry, stay tuned. We have four more Rutgers and three Smiths coming up in The Great Affordable 1911 Series - along with a couple more from Colt, several from Dan Wesson, some Kimbers and STIs, along with a Les Baer and a Nighthawk (yes, the Les Baer AND the Nighthawk fit within our “affordable” criteria), and others. Thanks for watching, and for your comments.
I really enjoyed this comparison and your presentation style. I have been considering the S&W in a Scandium Commander sized pistol. The only hesitation I have is the extractor. One of the good things about real 1911's is the lack of proprietary parts. If something happens to the extractor, say on my Colt, I can find one anywhere and adjustment is simple. I'm sure the extractor on the Smith is fine, just not sure of the ability to get a replacement or how to adjust tension some years down the road. maybe I'm making too much of that.
Tom, thanks for watching. Did you check out Part 12 of my Great Affordable 1911 Series? In that video I looked at two S&W Scandium Commander-class 1911 pistols. I haven't had any problems with external extractors and Wilson Combat is even using external extractors on their EDC and SFX lines of pistols.
@@RidersRange I found it. It was Part 10 I think. I think I like the looks of the non-Performance Center version a bit better. I'll probably look for a clean one used. Thanks!
My wife the S&W E-Series and standard Ruger SR1911 stainless. She has lusted over the Navy Seal Ruger since she first laid eyes upon one. The E-Series is just gorgeous as is the Ruger Navy Seal. Considering the features, the S&W is a real bargain, although, I'm not a fan of external extractors on a 1911. It just looks out of place to me. The recoil spring on the E-Series is the stiffest of any 1911 that we own, even compared to some of our 10mm models. While it's too stiff for her to rack the slide, it doesn't hurt shooting performance at all. In the end, she prefers to shoot her Ruger stainless.
Jay Dee, thanks for watching and adding your comments. I agree on the stiffness of the recoil spring on the S&W "E" series. I can work mine okay, but my wife can't rack it, even with the hammer back. Also, I put that Ruger Navy Seal Foundation pistol on consignment at my local gun shop. I like it, but I had to thin the collection to make room for others.
+Rider’s-Range I watched again your video on the S&W 1911 E Series. I Purchased one a while ago and although I love holding it, looking at it and the overall fit and finish. However, shooting it has been I’ve mixed bag for me. I’m not a bull’s-eye shooter, but I consider myself a decent shot and with this 1911 the best that I’ve been able to do 10 yards out on paper has been 4 inch groups. Please know that I’m not very experienced with 1911s like you are so am I asking too much of it? I almost traded it today after another trip to the range. But I chickened out.
MDpolo, the S&W E-Series 1911 should be able to group better than that, but the gun may not have worked well with that particular ammo, or it's always possible that your gun wasn't fitted properly. Maybe if/when we can get together you can bring it along and I'll bring mine and we can try them out.
+Rider’s-Range Just subbed to your channel. I purchased a S&W 1911 E series yesterday. What do you suggest can be done to the trigger to enhance it? Thanks!
MDpolo, thanks for watching and for subscribing. The best advice I can give on your Smith trigger is to shoot it. All 3 of my Smith 1911s (Part 2 and Part 10) are very nice, but all have been shot - a lot. If it’s clean and crisp, and no more than pounds, it’s fine for all but the most precise bullseye shooting. If it doesn’t improve to your liking after a couple thousand rounds, a trip to a reputable 1911 gunsmith may be in order. BTW, it’s too bad you didn’t do a range review on the S&W Model 52. THAT’S a great shooting pistol.
The 200 grain .45 rounds I have fired seem to have about the same recoil as standard 230 grain. I haven’t tried any 185 grain target loads, but they might not cycle the Smith. I hand load my .45s just a little lighter than factory loads and they are reliable in most of my 1911s, but not all. So no, I don’t have any recommendations, but maybe another viewer may have a suggestion.
All my Smith 1911s are in .45, but I'm sure the 9mm 1911s are just as nice. Have you looked at Dan Wesson? About the same price as the Smith Performance Center models, but in my not-always-so-humble opinion, Dan Wesson makes the finest "production" 1911s and they can often be found at competitive prices.
@@RidersRange my competition shooter is the DW PM-9 , eventually I will add another to my modest collection. But, in my opinion, Dan Wesson is certainly the best I own!
David 8719, the Smith "E" was my first full-size 1911 and it's still a great gun. But for a couple hundred more I've found the Dan Wesson products to be the best "production" 1911s around - and without that safety notice permanently engraved. Thanks for commenting.
Rider's-Range yes I agree I mean don’t get me wrong the Smith is a good looking gun An Dan Wesson are great guns I would love to own one one day specially the dan Wesson specialist commander
David, Dan Wessons may be priced at the top of our “affordable” scale, but bargains can be found, particularly for pre-owned guns. I purchased one ECO for just north of $800.
Sometimes I'm not as careful with my tools as I should be. But they are working guns. I'm sure I'd be much more careful if they were high-dollar show guns. Thanks for watching and for commenting.
I handled the smith along with a colt competition. I was surprised of the fit and finish and how nice it was. The slide to frame fit, trigger and overall was superior to the colt imo. I ended up with the colt lol but I will adding the smith.
I have a lot of experience shooting pistols but don’t own one quite yet. I’m thinking I want to get the E Series- a little pricey for a first pistol but it seems to be worth it for those awesome features. Would you recommend to a first time pistol buyer?
The S&W "E" Series was my first full-size 1911. I'm finding them listed for less than $1,000. However, if a 1911 is your first pistol, I would recommend getting some 1911-specific training with it. They aren't like shooting a polymer striker-fired pistol.
I don't know what this guy's talking my Sr 1911 Ruger got mine for 8:50 with the rails there's some gun shops getting 950 for the ones that I have there's always been a race between Smith and Ruger Ruger is a much stronger gun in my opinion everybody has their own opinion
I haven't tried to replace a FLGR with a GI rod, but other than also replacing the recoil spring plug, I would imagine it would work. If not, I would hope someone would give more info in the comments.
I own the exact same 1911 E-series and love it. Have been considering upgrading the grip and thumb safeties to ed brown components. The factory grip safety seems to rattle and have a sloppy feel to it. The factory thumb safety has a lever type feel to it rather than a nice crisp switch type feel that i prefer. Also, the warning sign on the slide definitely is horrible and i'd love to get rid of it. Great gun, great video!
I acquired the impression the external extractor on the S&W was better done than the Sig's external extractor. Something about where it is on the frame. It's in the right place on the S&W but not quite on the Sig. Maybe someone more familiar with this will chime in.
Filippo, I haven't had any problems with either the Smith or Sig 1911s. The extractors on both my Sig and Smith are about the same length and pivot at about the same point, so other than claw size and shape and spring tension, they are pretty much the same.
Good choice! S&W usually, makes a over-all better Gun than Ruger, in my opinion.Ruger does make some very interesting Revolvers but I've never chosen Ruger over Smith in any platform. Very interesting video.
nonya biz, I agree. With 4 S&W 1911s and 5 Ruger 1911s, I believe the Smiths are the higher quality product. Thanks for watching and thanks for your comments.
@@alperaygun1533 Eh... I used to think that too but now with the great amount of high quality 1911 parts available I dont think the external extractor is better now. I actually find the 1911 internal extractors easier to tune and change out but thats because Ive done it so many times.
A toss-up at best. The S&W would win this match due to being SS but for all the other comparisons it's subjective until you get to the trigger, and the 4lb consistency wins hands down. Creep is creep and there wasn't enough to hinder the shooting and the take up was pretty much the same. So for the money a working man should probably go Ruger and a man with a few extra bucks and already having plenty of ammo would do well with the S&W. But that's just my opinion. Thanks for the comparisons. By the way does the E-series have a titanium firing pin, that is a biggy to me?
freddy, thanks for weighing in on the S&W vs Ruger. My SR1911 may not be representative of the SR1911 series in general. The trigger on my SR1911 CMD 9mm (NSW) in Part 13 of the series had a great trigger and the triggers on both the SR1911 CMD .45s in part 9 were better than the one in Part 2. As to the E-Series, it is my understanding that the "E" means "enhanced", which includes a titanium firing pin and heavier firing pin spring.
@@RidersRange I only use a commander size 1911 so that is what I go by but I have owned and shot several brands of the government style. And so far right out of the box except changing to the pachmyr molded grips the SR 1911 cm is the best I have ever owned. But I know thee are other good and cheaper 1911's out there. The rock islands are one such.
freddy, Rock Island 1911s are great values. I have 3 and all run just fine. Bought 2 of them gently used for $400 each and have never had a failure with either.
flexjay87, 1911s aren't flying off the shelves as fast as wonder-nines and less expensive guns. Actually, that Ruger is still sitting in the consignment case at a LGS, though I can't provide any more details here.
@@RidersRange , yeah, 1911 models can be found at local shops, much easier than online. Ammo, not so much. Buying guns right now, at inflated prices, with no real ammo, is like marring a supermodel, and for the next 1-2 years, you can only Kiss her on the forehead :)
Are You Going to Add a Fusion Firearms 1911 Into This Series There Made In Venice Florida a Great Value and Built To Order and In My Opinion Better Than Les Baer
Chris, I have studies Fusion and almost bought a Fusion Freedom CCO to go up against the Les Baer Stinger (Part 15), but got a great deal on the Dan Wesson PM-C instead. I subscribe to the Fusion TH-cam channel and like their products. I would still like to own one some day, but it's not in the cards (or wallet) right now. Thanks for watching and for commenting.
~I do not like Warning Labels on my Pistols. It's a firearm, it's deadly so get over it. ~I install a checkered metal band to the front of the grip for my 1911 Pistols that do not have factory checkering.
Das Piper, the warnings are what happens when there are too many lawyers on retainer. And I have found that clear skateboard tape on the front of the grip frame works well. Again, thanks for your comments.
edwin, from what I've read, the design of what became known as the 1911 goes back to 1906, or 1904, depending on which account one reads, though it could actually be traced back to the Colt Model 1900. There were several iterations and changes along the way to the Army adopting it in 1911. I believe the .45acp cartridge was designed in 1904. I'm certainly not a historian, or even a 1911 expert, so I could be way off.
70 Series refers to Colt 1911s. It is a meaningless term to use with any other manufacturers 1911 products. I give up, I’m tired of hearing the pistols “clunk” on the table top. Use a blanket or other sound absorbing material.
I have Colts, Rugers, and one S&W E Series. The E Series is my favorite, but only after some work. I stoned the hammer hooks, replaced the sear and disconnector with Wilson Combat parts, and replaced the jiggly trigger with a well-fitted Wilson Combat. My Colts are all stock, but the Rugers WC barrel bushings. The stock bushings were way too loose for my OCD. Honestly, the E Series is a fantastic bargain, even with the stock parts. Thanks for sharing!
Frank, I really like my "E" Series. It's been a great gun out of the box with no modifications. Thanks for sharing your experience.
Great video! I just picked up a SW1911 E this last week. Love it!!!
Moparvelous Or Bust, excellent choice. That was the first full-size 1911 I purchased and it's a keeper.
Thanks for watching and for commenting.
That S&W is a beautiful gun!
Kevin Breese, I agree, though there are some folks who don't like the "fish scale" slide serrations.
Thanks for watching and for commenting.
Just purchased a beautiful stainless Ruger SR1911 for 740.00 I thought you quoted 650.00 for the Ruger new. You can't find a used one for that price now.i looked for quite awhile.never shot the Smith and i looked at one before i found the Ruger but I absolutely love the Ruger.Shoots fantastic. Great videos, love the comparisons of all the 1911s.thanks
Chris, they seem to have gone up in price recently. They are now knocking on the door of $1,000 MSRP, though there are some on Gunbroker for around $800. I'd say that at $740 you got a great deal.
Inflation my friend. I remember back when I was a kid you could pick up the sr1911 for 550-650 at academy. The days of affordable quality firearms is simply done for in the modern age. I see Asia maybe overtaking us in quality firearms production one day. Unless we make a hard course correction.
Great video. I’ve got the E series SC several years ago, it came stock with ambi safety and trijicon night sights. I will take my SW over my colt any day. Almost bought the ruger instead, I think I made the right choice.
Nathan, I agree. Colt has made some good guns, but at the price-point, I believe S&W is the better gun.
Thanks for watching and for commenting.
I’d Take The Ruger I Like Consistency in My Trigger and That High Gloss Blued Slide is Awesome
Chris, that high gloss finish almost reminds me of the Colt Python Royal Blue, but it's a fingerprint magnet.
I knew at 5 minutes into the video u were gonna pick the S&W...it was evident from the inflection in your voice, and the way u kept picking up the Smith more than the Ruger. These are 2 very comparable guns. Both are beautiful. If it was my money being spent(and I was choosing from the 2 on that table)I'd go with the Ruger...i think it looks nicer, and they have stellar customer service!
Marked Man, it was pretty evident that I preferred that Smith over that Ruger. I had spent a fair amount of trigger time with both and that particular Smith shot better and handled better than that particular Ruger. I haven’t had to experience customer service from either, so I couldn’t factor that into my selection. Ruger makes fine guns and it’s entirely possible that a different SR1911 would have performed better and a different “E” Series may have performed worse. This evaluation was my subjective observation on just those two guns, not an overall evaluation of the companies or the product lines.
Thanks for watching and for commenting.
You have some seriously amazing content. Impressive. Love the way you pair up firearms that's very competitive across the board. Great channel you have going on there sir
Buddy, thanks for watching and for your kind compliment.
Love all three of my Ruger 1911’s
Ruger 1911s are decent guns at a fair price.
How’s the accuracy on the sr1911? So far that’s the only bad thing I’ve read about it
Fantastic comparison! I’m actually comparing the E Series with the SA Defender model for my first 1911. I’m starting to think the extra cost would be worth the better quality of the S&W. I really like the M&P series, so I think it would suit me better. Thanks!
Mike, I have had generally very good performance with Ruger 1911s, so this one may have been built on a Monday or a Friday. But out of all my 1911s, the Smiths seem to be just a little higher quality than the Rugers, but not by much.
Rider's-Range I’d like to get the E Series and have found them for around $815. I’ve also found a Springfield Armory Defender for $450, I’m a little torn between the two. I’ve never owned a 1911 and I’m not sure if the Smith and Wesson is worth the extra money. I haven’t made a decision yet. I’ve been watching your videos and I feel like they’re a great help. Thanks!
Mike, thanks for check get in. Right now the Springfield Defender is probably the best value 1911 out there.
Good comparison. Don't hear much about S&W 1911 in my area. S&W cocking serrations are interesting but old style grooves work well, too.
The S&W "fish scale" cocking serrations are a turn-off for the 1911 purists, but I think they make a rather attractive unique touch. Thanks for watching.
Great video Sir! 👌🏻 👍🏻 I have the S&as E series TA and it’s my favorite 1911 of all, Gray gun and a beautiful masterpiece!
Legion, thanks for watching and for commenting.
not even close
Great video a year later, wish you would have mentioned the internal/external extractor or series type just for those who my want to know...
JSG II, thanks for watching and for you comment. At 1:29 I showed the external extractor on the S&W and mentioned it, and at about 1:44 I mentioned that they were both Series 70-style guns. Your attention may have been drawn to the two beautiful examples of the 1911 craft that you missed my narrative.
I actually like the full guide rod on my 1911’s. Except my A1 is pure, can’t do that to that one lol. Nice video!
Thank you for watching.
Funny, the folks talking about how the Ruger is better just happen to have spent their money on it. Go figure. E-series is certainly the superior 1911 in this case and it's nice to see someone ending comparisons definitively, not signing off with "whatever you like more". It's an opinion, and it's good to get an honest one.
Sometimes a comparison will result in a tie that is only broken by one's preference. But in this case, the Smith is the better gun - at least in my opinion.
Thanks for watching and for commenting.
The Smith and Wesson E series 1911 are amazing shooter and very reliable! I've use a lot of mid tier 1911 and the Smith and Wesson E series is definitely on the upper end in terms of quality and reliability. Beautiful pistol and after 2k rnds through mine, I'm glad I purchased it. I highly recommend this S&W pistol!!!
Thank you for watching and commenting.
I've fired so many 45 and 1911 at shooting ranges, 10 years later I finally just said okay, S&W, I bought this gun. Great price, insanely accurate firearm.
I agree not a fan of 3 dot sights either. So what sights do you prefer on 1911 for carry, what sights for home defense, and what sights for target shooting? Excluding 3 dot style of course.
josh48315, it depends on the purpose of the gun. For regular carry (quick, defensive combat use), I prefer a black serrated wide U-notch rear with a high-def or fiber optic front (like on my Wilson Pro .45), or a Heinie Straight-Eight (like on my Dan Wesson ECO), but again, with a wide notch rear, preferably a U-notch. For precision, black serrated rear with narrow notch and black serrated “patridge”-style front.
Rider's-Range 100% agree, thank you! I really like the Ameriglo Pro i-dot U notch, or the Ameriglo CAP, both are excellent for carry. Not sure if they make these for 1911 but I have them on polymer strike fired and like them.
"Not so good" - Caution notice! Amen brother. Funny thing is I usually say that about every Ruger I see! Haven't bought a Smith since the Bangor Punta days or a Ruger since before the old Man died. I don't see myself ever buying either brand ever again. Great video series, very enjoyable.
Henry, stay tuned. We have four more Rutgers and three Smiths coming up in The Great Affordable 1911 Series - along with a couple more from Colt, several from Dan Wesson, some Kimbers and STIs, along with a Les Baer and a Nighthawk (yes, the Les Baer AND the Nighthawk fit within our “affordable” criteria), and others. Thanks for watching, and for your comments.
I really enjoyed this comparison and your presentation style. I have been considering the S&W in a Scandium Commander sized pistol. The only hesitation I have is the extractor. One of the good things about real 1911's is the lack of proprietary parts. If something happens to the extractor, say on my Colt, I can find one anywhere and adjustment is simple. I'm sure the extractor on the Smith is fine, just not sure of the ability to get a replacement or how to adjust tension some years down the road. maybe I'm making too much of that.
Tom, thanks for watching. Did you check out Part 12 of my Great Affordable 1911 Series? In that video I looked at two S&W Scandium Commander-class 1911 pistols. I haven't had any problems with external extractors and Wilson Combat is even using external extractors on their EDC and SFX lines of pistols.
@@RidersRange Thanks, I'll look at that video
@@RidersRange I found it. It was Part 10 I think. I think I like the looks of the non-Performance Center version a bit better. I'll probably look for a clean one used. Thanks!
My wife the S&W E-Series and standard Ruger SR1911 stainless. She has lusted over the Navy Seal Ruger since she first laid eyes upon one. The E-Series is just gorgeous as is the Ruger Navy Seal. Considering the features, the S&W is a real bargain, although, I'm not a fan of external extractors on a 1911. It just looks out of place to me. The recoil spring on the E-Series is the stiffest of any 1911 that we own, even compared to some of our 10mm models. While it's too stiff for her to rack the slide, it doesn't hurt shooting performance at all. In the end, she prefers to shoot her Ruger stainless.
Jay Dee, thanks for watching and adding your comments. I agree on the stiffness of the recoil spring on the S&W "E" series. I can work mine okay, but my wife can't rack it, even with the hammer back.
Also, I put that Ruger Navy Seal Foundation pistol on consignment at my local gun shop. I like it, but I had to thin the collection to make room for others.
@@RidersRange I've just discovered your channel and enjoying what I'm seeing.
@@jaydee5156 thanks for finding my channel and for the kind compliment.
Love the look of S&W even more than my more expensive 1911s. Great pistol!
Thanks for watching and commenting.
That S&W is a fine gun! Definitely going look for one this weekend.
BigTexFyre, I'm a little late responding to comments. Did you ever find the Smith?
+Rider’s-Range I watched again your video on the S&W 1911 E Series. I Purchased one a while ago and although I love holding it, looking at it and the overall fit and finish. However, shooting it has been I’ve mixed bag for me. I’m not a bull’s-eye shooter, but I consider myself a decent shot and with this 1911 the best that I’ve been able to do 10 yards out on paper has been 4 inch groups. Please know that I’m not very experienced with 1911s like you are so am I asking too much of it? I almost traded it today after another trip to the range. But I chickened out.
MDpolo, the S&W E-Series 1911 should be able to group better than that, but the gun may not have worked well with that particular ammo, or it's always possible that your gun wasn't fitted properly. Maybe if/when we can get together you can bring it along and I'll bring mine and we can try them out.
+Rider’s-Range Just subbed to your channel. I purchased a S&W 1911 E series yesterday. What do you suggest can be done to the trigger to enhance it? Thanks!
MDpolo, thanks for watching and for subscribing. The best advice I can give on your Smith trigger is to shoot it. All 3 of my Smith 1911s (Part 2 and Part 10) are very nice, but all have been shot - a lot. If it’s clean and crisp, and no more than pounds, it’s fine for all but the most precise bullseye shooting. If it doesn’t improve to your liking after a couple thousand rounds, a trip to a reputable 1911 gunsmith may be in order.
BTW, it’s too bad you didn’t do a range review on the S&W Model 52. THAT’S a great shooting pistol.
Rider's-Range Thank you. I shot it today and really liked it. Now I’m on the hunt for a “light” .45 acp ammo for range fun. Know of any?
The 200 grain .45 rounds I have fired seem to have about the same recoil as standard 230 grain. I haven’t tried any 185 grain target loads, but they might not cycle the Smith. I hand load my .45s just a little lighter than factory loads and they are reliable in most of my 1911s, but not all. So no, I don’t have any recommendations, but maybe another viewer may have a suggestion.
Rider's-Range Thank you very much. I appreciate your time and insight.
Now you have me thinking about working up more .45 loads and maybe doing a chrono and accuracy comparison this spring.
In my collection of 1911s, I have the SR1911 in 10mm. However you have just decided the next purchase question, it will be the Smith but maybe in 9mm.
All my Smith 1911s are in .45, but I'm sure the 9mm 1911s are just as nice. Have you looked at Dan Wesson? About the same price as the Smith Performance Center models, but in my not-always-so-humble opinion, Dan Wesson makes the finest "production" 1911s and they can often be found at competitive prices.
@@RidersRange my competition shooter is the DW PM-9 , eventually I will add another to my modest collection. But, in my opinion, Dan Wesson is certainly the best I own!
Looks like you and I are thinking very much alike. What type of competition do you shoot?
@@RidersRange Just started IDPA.
The PM-C should be a nice gun for IDPA.
I like the smith for my first 1911 style gun but just don’t like that safety advertisement on the side
David 8719, the Smith "E" was my first full-size 1911 and it's still a great gun. But for a couple hundred more I've found the Dan Wesson products to be the best "production" 1911s around - and without that safety notice permanently engraved.
Thanks for commenting.
Rider's-Range yes I agree I mean don’t get me wrong the Smith is a good looking gun
An Dan Wesson are great guns I would love to own one one day specially the dan Wesson specialist commander
David, Dan Wessons may be priced at the top of our “affordable” scale, but bargains can be found, particularly for pre-owned guns. I purchased one ECO for just north of $800.
Please stop banging those pistols together , it's making me cringe .
Sometimes I'm not as careful with my tools as I should be. But they are working guns. I'm sure I'd be much more careful if they were high-dollar show guns.
Thanks for watching and for commenting.
Me too! I can't stand that banging.
I handled the smith along with a colt competition. I was surprised of the fit and finish and how nice it was. The slide to frame fit, trigger and overall was superior to the colt imo. I ended up with the colt lol but I will adding the smith.
I have a lot of experience shooting pistols but don’t own one quite yet. I’m thinking I want to get the E Series- a little pricey for a first pistol but it seems to be worth it for those awesome features. Would you recommend to a first time pistol buyer?
The S&W "E" Series was my first full-size 1911. I'm finding them listed for less than $1,000. However, if a 1911 is your first pistol, I would recommend getting some 1911-specific training with it. They aren't like shooting a polymer striker-fired pistol.
I don't know what this guy's talking my Sr 1911 Ruger got mine for 8:50 with the rails there's some gun shops getting 950 for the ones that I have there's always been a race between Smith and Ruger Ruger is a much stronger gun in my opinion everybody has their own opinion
Louis, from what I have seen, Smith 1911s generally go for more than Ruger 1911s, though one can almost always find exceptions.
Hey why dont you rub those pistols together some more and scratch that nice blued finish. Absolutely amazing!
Can The full length guide rod be replaced by a GI guide rod without any other?
I haven't tried to replace a FLGR with a GI rod, but other than also replacing the recoil spring plug, I would imagine it would work. If not, I would hope someone would give more info in the comments.
I own the exact same 1911 E-series and love it. Have been considering upgrading the grip and thumb safeties to ed brown components. The factory grip safety seems to rattle and have a sloppy feel to it. The factory thumb safety has a lever type feel to it rather than a nice crisp switch type feel that i prefer. Also, the warning sign on the slide definitely is horrible and i'd love to get rid of it. Great gun, great video!
Tim, thanks for watching and sharing your observations.
I acquired the impression the external extractor on the S&W was better done than the Sig's external extractor. Something about where it is on the frame. It's in the right place on the S&W but not quite on the Sig. Maybe someone more familiar with this will chime in.
Filippo, I haven't had any problems with either the Smith or Sig 1911s. The extractors on both my Sig and Smith are about the same length and pivot at about the same point, so other than claw size and shape and spring tension, they are pretty much the same.
Good choice! S&W usually, makes a over-all better Gun than Ruger, in my opinion.Ruger does make some very interesting Revolvers but I've never chosen Ruger over Smith in any platform. Very interesting video.
Don, Ruger makes some very nice, innovative products on many platforms, but I’m with you - I’m a Smith guy at heart.
I prefer the Smith and Wesson 1911s. From what I see they seem to be better quality than the Rugers.
nonya biz, I agree. With 4 S&W 1911s and 5 Ruger 1911s, I believe the Smiths are the higher quality product.
Thanks for watching and thanks for your comments.
External extractor is more reliable and easy to replace
@@alperaygun1533 Eh... I used to think that too but now with the great amount of high quality 1911 parts available I dont think the external extractor is better now. I actually find the 1911 internal extractors easier to tune and change out but thats because Ive done it so many times.
I own the sr1911 and I have not had any slips in my hand due to non checkering, also as this shows smith like colt are over priced production firearms
walter, the Ruger SR1911 pistols are great values.
A toss-up at best. The S&W would win this match due to being SS but for all the other comparisons it's subjective until you get to the trigger, and the 4lb consistency wins hands down. Creep is creep and there wasn't enough to hinder the shooting and the take up was pretty much the same. So for the money a working man should probably go Ruger and a man with a few extra bucks and already having plenty of ammo would do well with the S&W. But that's just my opinion. Thanks for the comparisons. By the way does the E-series have a titanium firing pin, that is a biggy to me?
freddy, thanks for weighing in on the S&W vs Ruger. My SR1911 may not be representative of the SR1911 series in general. The trigger on my SR1911 CMD 9mm (NSW) in Part 13 of the series had a great trigger and the triggers on both the SR1911 CMD .45s in part 9 were better than the one in Part 2. As to the E-Series, it is my understanding that the "E" means "enhanced", which includes a titanium firing pin and heavier firing pin spring.
@@RidersRange I only use a commander size 1911 so that is what I go by but I have owned and shot several brands of the government style. And so far right out of the box except changing to the pachmyr molded grips the SR 1911 cm is the best I have ever owned. But I know thee are other good and cheaper 1911's out there. The rock islands are one such.
freddy, Rock Island 1911s are great values. I have 3 and all run just fine. Bought 2 of them gently used for $400 each and have never had a failure with either.
Can that billboard be removed?
It doesn't feel engraved, but I would be concerned about messing up the finish if I tried buffing it off.
I love My Sr1911 govt model 45acp . Wilson 47-D mags cant be tapped in , must depress the mag release to insert .
I had the same issue with the Wilson mags on my new Kimber Camp Guard 10mm.
Yes Wilson Combat mags will get stuck trying to put in Ruger 1911 or Springfield Armory 1911 pistols
👍👍👍👍
Thanks for watching.
The SR1911 can stack cloverleaf groups all day.
Anymore than $850 for a pistol and you're just buying artwork
True only to a point. But thanks for watching and commenting.
Fast forward 1 year, and the prices and availability, is out the Window !
flexjay87, 1911s aren't flying off the shelves as fast as wonder-nines and less expensive guns. Actually, that Ruger is still sitting in the consignment case at a LGS, though I can't provide any more details here.
@@RidersRange , yeah, 1911 models can be found at local shops, much easier than online. Ammo, not so much. Buying guns right now, at inflated prices, with no real ammo, is like marring a supermodel, and for the next 1-2 years, you can only Kiss her on the forehead :)
@@flexjay87 that’s pretty close analogy.
Are You Going to Add a Fusion Firearms 1911 Into This Series There Made In Venice Florida a Great Value and Built To Order and In My Opinion Better Than Les Baer
Chris, I have studies Fusion and almost bought a Fusion Freedom CCO to go up against the Les Baer Stinger (Part 15), but got a great deal on the Dan Wesson PM-C instead. I subscribe to the Fusion TH-cam channel and like their products. I would still like to own one some day, but it's not in the cards (or wallet) right now.
Thanks for watching and for commenting.
I prefer Smith that the best 1911
As do I. That's why I still have the Smith and sold the Ruger. Thanks for watching.
I have 2 Ruger SR1911'S one in 10MM one in 45ACP love them both would put them up against any 1911 no matter what the cost I have had 0 malfunctions.
Curt, no doubt Ruger makes good guns at a very nice price point. Thanks for watching and for commenting.
And who notices “creep” when shooting?
A little trigger creep generally isn’t an issue when shooting fast, but it can be a significant impediment when shooting for precision.
I may buy the smith today
Good choice. Thank for watching.
~I do not like Warning Labels on my Pistols. It's a firearm, it's deadly so get over it.
~I install a checkered metal band to the front of the grip for my 1911 Pistols that do not have factory checkering.
Das Piper, the warnings are what happens when there are too many lawyers on retainer. And I have found that clear skateboard tape on the front of the grip frame works well. Again, thanks for your comments.
Great review. Sub’d
Thank you for watching, subscribing and commenting.
Enjoyed it.
Smith Serie E,,,,, better!
Where I am the S&W is 25% more than the Ruger 🤔
I'm seeing about the same - 20% to 25% more for the Smith.
hmm, pretty sure the 1911 started development in 1901...
edwin, from what I've read, the design of what became known as the 1911 goes back to 1906, or 1904, depending on which account one reads, though it could actually be traced back to the Colt Model 1900. There were several iterations and changes along the way to the Army adopting it in 1911. I believe the .45acp cartridge was designed in 1904. I'm certainly not a historian, or even a 1911 expert, so I could be way off.
Capable of firing with magazine removed. Well Duh, it's a 1911. Haha. Take that S&W.
That's what happens when the lawyers get involved.
70 Series refers to Colt 1911s. It is a meaningless term to use with any other manufacturers 1911 products.
I give up, I’m tired of hearing the pistols “clunk” on the table top. Use a blanket or other sound absorbing material.
CrazyPetez, thanks for the comment. That was an early video and I didn't like the "clunk" either. So, I've since gone to some cushioning on the bench.
Ruger 1911s are turds. Not even a comparison against an E-series Smith.