I purchased a Rock Island Tactical about two months ago. To say I'm satisfied would be an understatement. This gun has to be the best kept secret in the world of 1911's! These fine guns are made in the Phillipines on old Colt machinery. Not only are these guns of high quality and very accurate but they have the best possible customer service ever available for any gun. The president and CEO of North American sales is on www.m1911.org each day taking care of any rare problems and providing answers to any questions owners may have.
The RIA started out as a straight military 1911 and proceeded from there to a combat commander model, officer model and finally, at this time, the Tactical model which has all the modern enhancements people look for these days. 38 super caliber is available as well. All of this for $389. Now most people may say that at that price it has to be junk. This comes from regular users and of course those who would never buy a 1911 unless it cost at least $1000. They are missing out on a fine gun. The gun comes with a very well done parkerized finish and is supplied with a Novak magazine. Mine has about 500 rounds through it of many brands and bullet configurations. I have not had one malfunction of any type. After firing 50 rounds at 10 yards you have one hole about 2 /12 inches by 2 1/2 inches. Very good accuracy.
I wanted mine to have a two tone finish in Snow Grey and Matte Black. I used Lauer spray on and bake finish. It looks great! Durability is suppossed to be very good. Time will tell.
If you get a chance to buy one of these guns you will not regret it!
Grips are by www.mil-tec.com and are called G-10. These have the "1*" logo made popular by former SWAT officer and now gunwriter Gary Paul Johnston.
As of 04/07 I have 1000 rounds through it and no malfunctions. The finish is holding up very well. The prices have increased to $425 to $459 depending where you purchase it. It's still a bargain.
