Dan Wesson Heritage 45 ACP: $1000

[churchmouse]

I wonder how long doddg has to stay on this forum until he is looking at a Cabot? I am pretty sure his self imposed budget limit has increased three fold in less than a year. I fully support encouraging his (our) addiction.

Doddg - not sure why I am talking about like you are not in the room err...thread. Your threads are definitely fun to follow and we all (rather we admit it not) often go through the same mental exercises in deciding the next purchase unless it is that spur of the moment purchase. You know - the one you forget to tell your wife about!

When it comes to 1911's, it seems that you've gotten a pretty good consensus from some people that still celebrate the birthday of John Moses Browning. So, the choice is down to dollars. Ruger, SW or DW. They go in that order of price and (most likely) ease of resale and reverse that order for "quality".

Again, every time you add a couple hundred to your 1911 budget you will find something else to consider. For example , that $1000 Heritage is nice but sitting next to, say Commander Classic, you will see the extra money.

How have we allowed Springfield to be excluded in this conversation. They are my go to Marque.

 

[DocIndy]

Lately I have been buying/having built quality pieces rather than just to fill a hole in the safe. Quality holds value. I don’t buy to “try it out”. Don’t have time to buy, try, and hope to break even on a resale. You will pay for quality, but won’t regret it after the first range trip.

 

[churchmouse]

Lately I have been buying/having built quality pieces rather than just to fill a hole in the safe. Quality holds value. I don’t buy to “try it out”. Don’t have time to buy, try, and hope to break even on a resale. You will pay for quality, but won’t regret it after the first range trip.

My new one should be chucked up on the mill. We will have that range day.

 

[doddg]

I wonder how long doddg has to stay on this forum until he is looking at a Cabot? I am pretty sure his self imposed budget limit has increased three fold in less than a year. I fully support encouraging his (our) addiction.

Doddg - not sure why I am talking about like you are not in the room err...thread. Your threads are definitely fun to follow and we all (rather we admit it not) often go through the same mental exercises in deciding the next purchase unless it is that spur of the moment purchase. You know - the one you forget to tell your wife about!

When it comes to 1911's, it seems that you've gotten a pretty good consensus from some people that still celebrate the birthday of John Moses Browning. So, the choice is down to dollars. Ruger, SW or DW. They go in that order of price and (most likely) ease of resale and reverse that order for "quality".

Again, every time you add a couple hundred to your 1911 budget you will find something else to consider. For example , that $1000 Heritage is nice but sitting next to, say Commander Classic, you will see the extra money.

1. I do know about Ed Brown: saw one for $2500 the other day at Point Blank.
2. I enjoy and chuckle over reading when: "talking about like you are not in the room."
3. So funny about "forget to tell the wife" comment. Yesterday, I bought 2 guns, but only admitted to the "cheaper" one since I had my pile of cash and she can't trace it back to me, until she asks for some cash and I don't have any left.
4. The "but all my guns fit into 1 bag, is perhaps not the case anymore (haven't tried since I bought the last 4 guns ), which means, even by my standards: I'm out of control.
5. I really hear you on your Commander Classic vs. Heritage comment, but I'm just not there yet since a 45 ACP is not on my "list" but the 1911 design does ring my bell (really enjoyed my Sig Sauer 1911-22 until I bought the SW Compact 22.

 

[seedubs1]

1. You just need a bigger bag
2. You're a wild man

4. The "but all my guns fit into 1 bag, is perhaps not the case anymore (haven't tried since I bought the last 4 guns ), which means, even by my standards: I'm out of control.

 

[two70]

I wonder how long doddg has to stay on this forum until he is looking at a Cabot? I am pretty sure his self imposed budget limit has increased three fold in less than a year. I fully support encouraging his (our) addiction.

What level of Cabot were you thinking?

This or this?

or

This one?

or are we going for the gold with this?

 

[doddg]

When you are considering resale, keep in mind that some brands that people on the INGO praise aren't widely known and that can affect your options.

1. Good point, and I have observed that possibility.

I personally would get the Dan Wesson, that Heritage is set up almost the same as my Dan Wesson VBOB that is solidly in the $1800 range. For $1000 that Heritage is hands down the best 1911 you can buy full stop end of story with 100% tool steel parts internally and their front strap checkering and Bob Tail is very nice in hand.

2. Quite an endorsement, but I know I'm not man enough to step up to $1000 per gun, unless I only have a very very few, which I am not to the point where I have enough experience to go that route.

I know it's very much out of your "usual" price range but that's a decent deal on a great gun you most likely won't loose money on (though I doubt you would be able to sell it in 11 minutes)

3. That was funny!

I tend to always buy the gun that I want, not the one that has the best resale value. I buy a gun based on what I want out of a gun first and foremost.

4. I slippery slope for me: I want them all. I control my wants so I can settle for "less" and be happy. Cars are the best example of this in my life, or even houses. I should have bought better the last time but I try to not put all my "eggs" ($$$) in one basket so I have more "eggs" for other pursuits (guns are only my most recent obsession, I have other things in my life).
5. If I did that, in a small way, as an example: I would buy the Beretta Tomcat .32 stainless steel for sale for $400, but I want to pay $300, and even offered $325 (I have received no respons and have contacted twice, so I think they are offended). Now, to be clear, you know I have the extra $75, but it is the principle to me, and resale is utmost, so I don't want to buy a "niche" gun with a small resale market for what I consider "top dollar."

I have a Dan Wesson Silverback and it is an amazing gun in every way. I would buy the Dan Wesson.

6. I love opinions!!!!!!!

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^This^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
No Kimbers. Just do not take the chance with your 1st 1911. You might get a good one. Then again you might get a turd. To much money for what you get. JMHO of course.If you have Kimbers and you like them good deal.

7. I wondered if you would reiterate your point about the Kimbers, and I am so glad you did, b/c I need to be told more than once usually, for me to "get it."

And this^^^^.....screw resale. Get what you want and enjoy it.

8. NEVER: I am too timorous to take a risk with money with much medical expense, new house to "get up to speed,' 1 or even 2 cars to buy in the near future, and retirement looming (1.5 - 5.5 yrs.)

The quality of the DW is going to be much higher than the other guns you posted. Not that the others aren't good guns (with the possible exception of the Kimber), but it's like comparing a Ferrari to a Ford Focus. Yeah, the Focus will do the same things (mostly), but the Ferrari is still a better car in many regards. The Ruger is a fantastic entry level 1911 for the price. I had one and loved it, but sold it after I realized it wasn't quite the quality I preferred. Again, not that it's bad, because it's not, but the DW Heritage is the best 1911 you can buy at that price point.

9. The Ruger is probably more my "Toyota Corolla" level of investment, I suspect. I might not buy anything. I wish the range had some 45 1911s to rent out. Last night at Tim's Shooting I almost rented out a 45 1911 (can't remember which one, but I said no to the Rock Island and Remington, and it was a smaller one). I didn't rent it b/c I was willing to pay the $10 rental, and then $5 per gun after that (but they didn't have any others I wanted to try), but when I had to pay $15 for there ammo (I had the same thing with me, actually: 3 different brands of 9mm) I got was mildly irritated and passed. If it was a gun that I really wanted to try out: I would have, but this gun was not on my list. The did have a Sig, but I shot that last weekend, but it wasn't a 1911.

How have we allowed Springfield to be excluded in this conversation. They are my go to Marque.

10. I did wonder about the Springfield brand and where it was in the "pecking" order: below Sig?, above Ruger? I also wonder about the Remington brand and the Zenith: heard negative things about both, and where does Rock Island fit into all this? I thought the were a 3rd-tier gun, but many recommend it (and they start at $400ish)??

Lately I have been buying/having built quality pieces rather than just to fill a hole in the safe. Quality holds value. I don’t buy to “try it out”. Don’t have time to buy, try, and hope to break even on a resale. You will pay for quality, but won’t regret it after the first range trip.

11. Don't care about "filling a hole in the safe."
12. I have the time and enjoy the distraction and enjoy the entertainment: I lead a boring life (ever since I had to give up motorcycles 9 yrs. ago : lucky to be alive or not paralyzed.
13. I have bought moderately priced Smith and Wessons ($280, $330, $300, $250) and been totally happy with them, which, I know, reflects on me and where I am in this journey.
Just like, I drove convertibles for 20 yrs. (and still do), and I started out with a $1000 1979 MG (restored), had a 94 Wrangler for $7500 (I knew I could sell nearly what I paid for it and did), two Honda del sols ($7500, and $4500).
I was totally happy with them. I finally stepped up to the plate and bought a 6 yr. old Honda S2000 with only 9k miles on it for $18.5k (hardtop another $3500), and have had it 8 yrs.
I could have bought the more expensive S2000 earlier, but I didn't need to do so for my level of enjoyment.
In fact, I almost bought a Wrangler during Xmas break since my arthritis is making it difficult in the roadster, but my wife informed me she gets the next car (quoting me )
14. I do hear you on the quality comment. I started out buying all cheap small 9mm and didn't keep them long at all (but I love the tip-up barrel small guns: go figure!
15. I only had to spend and extra $100 ish to get the "good stuff:" Smiths. Felt good, shot well, and good resale (but not my beloved stainless steel). I don't need both my Shield 9mm and 45 ACP, but I can't make the decision until I have to of which one to part with.
16. I definitely don't need my Smith Bodyguard 380 since I have my Colt Mustang I didn't sell in 1990, but I bought it for $200 and will sell it for a little more since I "stole" it. Maybe by the time I get around to selling it will be worth only $200: I can live with that. I'm having sooooo much fun!!!!
17. Remember: with me it is all about THE HUNT.

 

[doddg]

1. You just need a bigger bag
2. You're a wild man

A. I have gone from a bag to a small suitcase on roller: the wife didn't notice.
B. Actually, the bag was bigger, I just needed the wheels and rigidity.

 

[halfmileharry]

A. I have gone from a bag to a small suitcase on roller: the wife didn't notice.
B. Actually, the bag was bigger, I just needed the wheels and rigidity.

The better the gun the more "rigid" you become.

I'd Go Springfield as well.
Not really bashing here but the last TWO DWs I got to play with had feed issues NOT related to magazines. Great looking and well built guns. ANY company can put out a turd.
Kimber gives me diarrhea. The last 3 of them I owned shot awful. Nice triggers out of the box though. Terrible finishes. Even worse than Springfield.
I've turned into a S&W fan. They seem to be solid pistolas. EXCEPT for that fish scale crap and graffiti.

 

[Fordtough25]

I love my Colt but the Springfields are hard to beat, I still say get the Ruger and shoot the snot out of it. If you end up enjoying the 1911 platform keep it or sell and move up on quality. If not sell it and move on.

 

[mcapo]

How have we allowed Springfield to be excluded in this conversation. They are my go to Marque.

Because once you buy a Springer you tend to not sell it - limited used inventory for the bargain hunter among us.

1911 Loaded .45ACP Handgun | Top Custom Pistols for Sale

I see a Poll coming on which 1911 to spend $1000 of your money...

 

[doddg]

When you are considering resale, keep in mind that some brands that people on the INGO praise aren't widely known and that can affect your options.

I personally would get the Dan Wesson, that Heritage is set up almost the same as my Dan Wesson VBOB that is solidly in the $1800 range. For $1000 that Heritage is hands down the best 1911 you can buy full stop end of story with 100% tool steel parts internally and their front strap checkering and Bob Tail is very nice in hand.

I know it's very much out of your "usual" price range but that's a decent deal on a great gun you most likely won't loose money on (though I doubt you would be able to sell it in 11 minutes)

I tend to always buy the gun that I want, not the one that has the best resale value. I buy a gun based on what I want out of a gun first and foremost.

I have a Dan Wesson Silverback and it is an amazing gun in every way. I would buy the Dan Wesson.

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^This^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

No Kimbers. Just do not take the chance with your 1st 1911. You might get a good one. Then again you might get a turd. To much money for what you get. JMHO of course.If you have Kimbers and you like them good deal.

And this^^^^.....screw resale. Get what you want and enjoy it.

The quality of the DW is going to be much higher than the other guns you posted. Not that the others aren't good guns (with the possible exception of the Kimber), but it's like comparing a Ferrari to a Ford Focus. Yeah, the Focus will do the same things (mostly), but the Ferrari is still a better car in many regards. The Ruger is a fantastic entry level 1911 for the price. I had one and loved it, but sold it after I realized it wasn't quite the quality I preferred. Again, not that it's bad, because it's not, but the DW Heritage is the best 1911 you can buy at that price point.

How have we allowed Springfield to be excluded in this conversation. They are my go to Marque.

I love my Colt but the Springfields are hard to beat, I still say get the Ruger and shoot the snot out of it. If you end up enjoying the 1911 platform keep it or sell and move up on quality. If not sell it and move on.

1. That's where I'm at.
2. getting ready to call Hoosier Armory about a $600 Ruger 1911 that I copied and pasted last evening, but last I looked later it was gone and there was another for $700 (not going to do it).
3. Perhaps it is the same gun and they just took a different pic of it since they possibly raised the price?

 

[doddg]

I was confused.
It was not Hoosier Armory but an individual in Monrovia who had the $600 SR 2011.
Have to find out if it is the 4.25 barrel or the 5" Gov't. model.

 

[gmcttr]

We need to meet up at a range so you can shoot my Dan Wessons and Ruger SR1911. How early on a weekday (after work) can you make it to a range in Greenwood?

I usually shoot at an outdoor range near Gnawbone.

 

[doddg]

I usually shoot at an outdoor range near Gnawbone.[/QUOTE]


1. WoW! I looked up Gnawbone, and it is down by Nashville, IN
2. That is a great offer and how I would love to do it!
3. I normally get off work at 2:30 and can be in Greenwood by 3pm (ish).
4. Tonight isn't good b/c my wife has expectations
5. Any other is good unless they have a surprise teacher's meeting.
6 If you live done toward Nashville, I would drive down that way to a range, but perhaps you work up toward Greenwood or live around there.
7. I would pay half your range fee (I get mine free b/c of membership) for the hour if we go to Point Blank, but perhaps you know of one closer to you.
8. I'll pm you my cell and email.

 

[STFU]

The only turd that one can actually polish.

Actually, that is not true...Jamie and Adam did it!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yiJ9fy1qSFI

 

[churchmouse]

Sigs.....where do I start.....
Kimbers.....well, we already know and on both if you like them great. Buy them. Shoot them. Shoot them a lot. Get good with them.

Springers rock. Period. Yes I have seen a few (2 or 3 maybe and 1 was a finish issue not a shooting issue) turds but out of the numbers I have played with this aint to bad. I prefer to start any non-full on custom with a Springer base. They accept mods very well.

 

[doddg]

What level of Cabot were you thinking?

This or this?

or

This one?

or are we going for the gold with this?

1. I looked at the $10k, the $50k and the $4.5 million pistols, and being a cheap-arse I ordered the $10k one, which I liked best anyway.
2. Do I need to say I'm kidding?
3. I did like it and was prepared to pay over my regular budget for a gun, but I think I'll take the $10k and put it toward my next car.

 

[doddg]

I met with up with gmcttr this evening and had a blast!
Great guy, and I had a great time shooting his Ruger SR1911 and his Dan Wesson.
He also brought a brand-spanking new-release Glock 19x 9mm, which I shot low.

I also shot his Mark 3, but I actually like my new Beretta Neos better, showing I have no taste, I'm sure.
gmcttr shot all my S/W (Compact 22, Shield 9 and 45).

I have the comparisons written down for the 1911s.
I limited my shots to 6 per magazine for consistency (I won't explain why: too boring).
At 10 yrds. 1st round of 2 mags. each on "bullseye:"
Ruger: 4 + 1 = 5 total
Dan Wesson: 6 + 5 = 11 total
My Shield .45: 7 + 4 = 11 total


2nd round of 2 mags. twice:
Ruger: 4 + 1 = 5 total
Dan Wesson: 6 + 5 = 11 total (again)
Shield: 2 + 4 = 6 total

3rd round of 2 mags at 7 yards (left my Shield out of the mix):
Ruger: 8 + 3 = 11 total
Dan Wesson: 7 + 4 = 11 total (again)

I'll do my .22 comparison in another thread since you 45 guys could probably care less.

 

[churchmouse]

I met with up with gmcttr this evening and had a blast!
Great guy, and I had a great time shooting his Ruger SR1911 and his Dan Wesson.
He also brought a brand-spanking new-release Glock 19x 9mm, which I shot low.

I also shot his Mark 3, but I actually like my new Beretta Neos better, showing I have no taste, I'm sure.
gmcttr shot all my S/W (Compact 22, Shield 9 and 45).

I have the comparisons written down for the 1911s.
I limited my shots to 6 per magazine for consistency (I won't explain why: too boring).
At 10 yrds. 1st round of 2 mags. each on "bullseye:"
Ruger: 4 - 1 -= 5 total
Dan Wesson: 6 - 5 = 11 total
My Shield .45: 7-4 = 11 total


2nd round of 2 mags. twice:
Ruger: 4 -1 = 5 total
Dan Wesson: 6 -5 = 11 total (again)
Shield: 2 - 4 = 6 total

3rd round of 2 mags at 7 yards (left my Shield out of the mix):
Ruger: 8 - 3 = 11 total
Dan Wesson: 7 - 4 = 11 total (again)

I'll do my .22 comparison in another thread since you 45 guys could probably care less.

So which 1911 would you buy if possible....??