COTEP.org - My First 1911

I finally purchased my first 1911! Initially I was thinking of a commander sized gun, but was open to a full sized 1911 as well. I wanted this as an HD gun, so I decided on full sized. There were models that I really liked in the Colt, Dan Wesson and Springfield models. My budget made Les Bear, Wilson and Nighthawk out of the question. I wanted NIB so I went searching local gun stores, online and a gun show. I scored a really good deal on a new Springfield TRP, which I found too difficult to let pass, so it came home with me. It just felt really good in my hands and the size & weight felt perfect. The fit & finish were more than acceptable for a first timer like myself.

Before taking it to the range, I stripped it down and cleaned/lubed it. Now, I may piss-off some purists, but I'm a fan of Froglube, so I treated the Springer per the FL instructions. I also changed-out the full length 2 piece guide rod and replaced it with a standard length GR from Wilson Combat, and installed a recoil spring plug from 10-8 Performance. I went to the range and fed it the following:

250 rounds of WWB 230 grain FMJ
100 rounds of Sellier & Bellot 230 grain FMJ
20 rounds of Hornady Critical Defense 220 grain +P Flexlock

The TRP ran absolutely flawlessly and I had zero issues with functionality of the gun or the mags. The weight and steel made the recoil manageable and pleasant to shoot. In fact, my wife came along and shot the TRP better than any other gun she's ever shot. Her preference had always previously been 9MM.

The only things I should also mention are:

- I found the stock night sights a bit difficult to pick-up due to my eyesight. I'm thinking fiber optic sights might be better for me, but I'd appreciate the opinion of others.
- Speaking of sights, The TRP shoots well when holding at the 6 o'clock position. I prefer a truer POA, so I guess I'll need a different height for the front sight.
- One of the grips (left side) came a little loose. I noticed this when I cleaned it after the range session. I don't know if it was loose before shooting it or not, so I'll keep an eye on it.
- Any other mods/upgrades I should consider?

I've definitely caught the bug and will add at least one more in the future. It may not be anywhere near the quality of the customs, but it's mine and I really like it. I also shot a Glock 19 and a S&W M&P afterwards. I must admit that after shooting the TRP, these other guns literally felt like toy guns in my hands. I better get a second job, cause I think this is going to get expensive. Lots to learn for sure :eek:

Below are a couple pictures of the first 2 mags I shot through it. The distance was 7 yards, aimed, slow-fire.

First Mag 7 Rounds/7 Yards

http://s1246.photobucket.com/user/jf...tml?sort=3&o=4

2nd Mag 14 Rounds/7 Yards

http://s1246.photobucket.com/user/jf...tml?sort=3&o=3

Here are some pics of the TRP itself:

http://s1246.photobucket.com/user/jf.../TRP1.jpg.html

http://s1246.photobucket.com/user/jf.../TRP2.jpg.html

http://s1246.photobucket.com/user/jf.../TRP3.jpg.html