What is the lightest 1911 currently available, that is reliable. I think the 1911 is 100 years old and wanted to get one that can be a ccw, anyonwe have suggestions or concerns with going too light.
You want the weight, helps recoil absorption and shooting from positions of distress (e.g. on your back left handed at the Wal-mart parking lot as you are being kicked).
You want to focus on a proper holster AND belt from the same maker. Look for something that sucks the platform up against you.
Seek training, allow software to select your hardware.
I have a Kimber Ultra CDP II that weighs in at 23.5 oz empty. It is a very accurate and easy to carry gun. Not what you want for an all day range gun but it is very manageable.
The best gun is one that you will learn to shoot well and carry with you. I have some 1911's pushing 40 oz empty that I like really well but I wouldn't want to conceal carry them all day everyday.
Not 100% certain, but I am pretty sure the Smith and Wesson Scandium frame 1911PD is the lightest at 33.4 ounces. Thats the 5" full size with rail I'm quoting.
The lightest 1911 is the one you don't have on you when you need it because you left it at home thinking that a full-size steel frame 1911 is just too heavy.
I EDC my SW1911 steel frame 5" bbl, I don't see what the problem is with the weight. It's not even noticable to me unless I'm running or jumping, all you need is a good belt to support a good holster for a good gun
Aluminum frames and parts are utilized to reduce weight, but as Kirk mentioned when considering the 1911 platform weight is a good thing (to an extent). Why exactly are you looking at the 1911 for ccw? Not to imply that folks don't utilize them for concealed carry (some won't leave home without a 1911). Its just that you could select a gun that better fits the criteria of lighter weight and concealability than the 1911 platform. Joshua
i carry a colt defender and its as accurate to 25yards as my 5in 1911 i love it super light aswell for a carry gun get a aluminum frame if you plan to shoot it alot then look at steel framed guns
My favorite for CC is the Kimber Ultra Carry. With a set of thin grips, it is very easy to CC and can be carried IWB all day without a problem. I don't find the lack of weight to be a problem when shooting it at all. It's accurate and the recoil is very manageble even when shooting +P ammo.
Kirk is spot on with the holster suggestion. No matter what type of gun you end up with, you will like carrying it more in a good holster designed to fit it. What fits me nicely are the Kramer Scabbards. Expensive, but worth it, especially in horsehide.
Thanks. Good feedback, will look for Kimber Ultra Carry and the S&W 1911 in Scandium. Both good brands. These seem hard to find. Maybe because they are so good they fly off the shelf or they cost their weight in gold, so they are scarce. Well dollar is getting lighter as inflation starts. Currently have a S&W Airweight pocket revolver so I am spoiled with light weight but feel the .45 1911 is better if (hope never) I need it.
Ive carried many 1911s over the years, and with a good belt and holster a fullsize is doable. But the lightweights and aluminum framed models are the way to go.
Personally I dont care for 1911s shorter than the 4" barreled 1911s.... my Kimber Pro CDP (pre series I) is just 28oz, 4" barrel and uses full sized mags (47Ds) and it feels as light as my G19 on my side.