Double stack 1911 question **Edited**

[cubbyjg]

So i have been looking to get a fullsize 45 pistol for range and hd use. I have been wanting a 1911 but i also wanted something that had at least a 12 rd capacity (i like hi cap pistols). Can anyone share some comments (positive and negative), experiences, issues, etc with me regarding a double stack 1911? Also, how does the double stack 1911 grip size compare to a standard glock 21 or HK USP 45?

[jason237m]

Which double stacks are you looking at? I would suggest looking at Infinity or STI 2011s.

The only real issues with a double stack .45 are grip diameter and concealability. If you have large hands then the grip diameter is a minor concern. Also, Infinity and STI have started offering reduced size grips to help solve the problem.

The double stack will always be somewhat less concealable than a single stack, but that is more of a preference thing. There are always ways to make it work.

I don't have experience with a Glock 21 but I can say the HK is a fine pistol for what it was intended to be (a tool for combat). If you are looking for a daily carry the HK is a fine choice, but if you are looking for something to use for competition then the 2011 is very hard to beat. The HK is poorly suited for competition (compared to a 2011) and there are limited options for upgrading it.

[Texas Dan Mosby]

The 1911 double stack platform is solid, and a proven performer, as long as you get the right gun (cough...STI....cough...cough). The platform absolutely DOMINATES both the open and limited divisions in USPSA, which says a lot. While .45 acp would be uncommon, the platform excels in the .38super and .40cal range, however, I would expect no difference with .45 acp.

As mentioned before, grip size starts to become an issue for some when you start double-stacking .45 acp.

Also, how does the double stack 1911 compare to a standard glock 21 or HK USP 45?

I prefer the ergonomics and control features of the 1911 platform, regardless of the round it's chambered in, but that's just me. THE one aspect of the 1911 platform that can NOT be touched by any other defensive pistol, however, is the trigger. You would be hard pressed to find another defensive arm that can be as finely tuned as the 1911 platform, and the ONLY other triggers that can compete are tuned single action revolvers IMO. I've shot stock, and tuned, glocks and M&P's, and none come close to even a quasi-decently tuned 1911 trigger.

As for the H&K's? Not my cup of tea. The ergo's don't fit me, the triggers are heinous, and they offer nothing that you can't already get out of a glock, XD, or M&P, except for a bigger hole in your wallet.

[cubbyjg]

thanks for the information! I edited my first post to address the 1911 vs glock question. I was looking for information regarding the grip sizes.

The 1911 double stack platform is solid, and a proven performer, as long as you get the right gun (cough...STI....cough...cough).

I will have to check out the STI 1911. So far i have been looking at trying to find a Para or even a springfield. I will also check out Infinity as Jason237 mentioned.

The only real issues with a double stack .45 are grip diameter and concealability. If you have large hands then the grip diameter is a minor concern. Also, Infinity and STI have started offering reduced size grips to help solve the problem.

Concealability is not a concern for me as i will not be carrying this weapon. It will purely be used for the range, home defense and in a "get out of dodge" situation. I guess i have normal size hands. I have a glock 30 and im able to get a grip on it. Its just not as comfortable or solid of a grip i get on my glock 19.

[RECIT]

I would say the grip size is very close to an HK45 or a Glock 21. Larger than an XD45 for sure. The STI 2011's are really expensive in my opinion, not taking away from how successful they are in the competition ring, but I would not try to compare them to a Para or even a double stack Springfield. That is like comparing a Wilson Combat or Nighthawk with out of the box production gun...there is no comparison.

There are a bunch of Para dealers that will have a double stack in stock as well as a few STI dealers that might have one to fondle but would probably have to be ordered.

[Jumping Frog]

If you buy a Para because you want to keep it long term, I'd suggest buying it new instead of used. Para has a lifetime warranty to the original purchaser, but used guns are not under warranty. I have a friend of mine that got bitten when his used Para cracked the slide.

Personally, I have no problems concealed my Para double-stack 14-45, but I usually carry a normal Springfield Armory 1911.

[sugar land dave]

I have a Rock Island 1911 double-stack and don't pretend that it would compare with a costly high-end 1911, but that was not my purpose in buying it. I do carry it concealed, and I do enjoy shooting it at the range. I have normal sized hands and find the gun quite comfortable while shooting. The heaviness of the double-stack negates much of the recoil, keeping the muzzle from lifting much off target.

You don't say where you are. If you were nearby, we could perhaps arrange a joint visit to a range where you could personally experience the 45. I enjoy the range!

[uthornsfan]

I would HIGHLY recommend Para Ordnance.

I love my Tac-Four and has been a proven performer over the years and close to 1000 rds by now. It is considered a Concealed Carry model and I love the LDA trigger.

Edit:

You can't beat the 4.25" barrel with 13+1 in .45 ACP !!!

[gigag04]

The G21, even the SF model will be fatter than a double stack 1911

[gigag04]

The grip on the G21, even the SF model will be fatter than a double stack 1911

[cubbyjg]

The grip on the G21, even the SF model will be fatter than a double stack 1911

Im going to make a trip this weekend to The Arms Room and hopefully they have a g21 i can handle.

[rm9792]

I have had doublestacks in kimber Springer and Para and all were solid performers. The Kimber was polymer but the others were all steel. The Kimber was lighter though if you want to carry it. 12rd+1 cap as well.