R.E.Lee

Are you saying that someone shopping for a 1911 wouldnt be happy with the 5"??

The only reason I would buy the 4" is due to the concealability of it, however, if they are about the same, then I might well go with the 5" and allow myself more options in picking from all 1911s available.

Zach S

My 4" springs get changed every ~500 rounds. My 5" guns get a fresh recoil spring every 2k or so.

devo6684

I carry a Kimber 4.25" commander model with full size grips. A buddy of mine has a fullsize S&W 5" and the accuracy of that pistol is awesome! It is a tack driver! The 5" accuracy, at farther targets, IMO is much better than the 4.25, however, my 4.25 is way more accurate than I am! If you are looking to carry, you can't beat a commander or ultra model fro practicality and comfort. It all depends on what you are looking for.

Good luck on you decision!

tex45acp

Just about every manufacturer, custom and non custom, has a variation of the 4" 1911. I have heard very little complaining about the 4" in it's inability to perform as good as a 5" 1911. I personally have had five 4" guns and all were great. My favorite and current carry is my Wilson Professional.

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oilman

+1

After breakin my para LTC 4.25" barel has been very reliable.
http://www.paraord.com/product/product.html?id=3

Patmarc45

Several factors that I have experienced: longer barrels generally provide greater accuracy. Short barrels (<4in) have to compensate slide/mass design forces with complicated spring systems. Longer barrels can handle any bullet weight. Short barrels/less bullets can weigh almost a pound LESS than Govt size pistols. Big guns are easier to shoot. With a proper holster a full size 1911 is no harder to conceal than a 4-3 inch. Although, 30 oz on the hip is easier to lug around than 42 oz. That being said, I'll stick with my Combat Commander

Bags

thanks for all the feedback

I have decided to get a 5inch model 1911. I am heading there tomorrow to do a deal.

I have yet to shoot a 4inch model and I will be looking at that and a 9mm for my next handgun.

I'll post the end result with pics in a new thread

Bud White

which one you looking at?

frankmako

It depends on what you are going to do with the gun. Short barrel is good for carry, longer good for matches. Reliability issues are worked out by shooting many rounds (500 plus) down range.
frankmako

maclean3

Well, the differences between a 5" and 4.25" as far as I'm concerned come down to a bit of weight difference (even less if the 4" has a conical bull barrel) and a slight loss in muzzle velocity - how much might not even be significant. Accuracy with either are close enough not to matter unless you're shooting for bullseye accuracy.

Personally, I prefer the original bushing configuration but that's just me. The fullsize 5" may give you a slight edge when you go looking for aftermarket parts. For my taste, I prefer 5" Gov't. models or the Colt 4.25" with the 4" in third place (SA, Kimber, etc).

Make sure you've got a REAL gun belt or you're gonna be miserable carrying that chunk of steel all day. With a good belt and holster it's a breeze.
Jack

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