Opinions wanted on Auto Ordnance 1911's

[ArmySarge]

I really want a reliable 1911, but, money is an issue. I have seen new Auto Ordnance 1911's for just over $500. I'd appreciate hearing about any past experiences. Thanks in advance.

 

[Number 6]

From what I've heard, they are more of an entry level 1911 (not at the level of a Norinco or Rock Island - but more compared to a S&W or Sig). Even the gun shops that sell them are somewhat lukewarm on them.

That being said, I'm sure you'll get dozens of posts from people who actually own one and love them. Have you surfed around any of the 1911 forums?

Number 6

 

[Knob Creek]

I got one and the trigger pull was real bad. I had a smith do a trigger job and its one of my best shooting 1911's now.

 

[chevyguyss350]

My father has one. Like it was mentioned above, the trigger was horrible when he got it. The lever for the firing pin safety wasn't drilled properly. The hole that the hammer pin slides through was too small, it was so tight I had to use a hammer and punch to remove the pin. After about 5 minutes with a small file to clearance the hole it turned into a perfectly fine shooter. The fit and finish isn't as good as my Para or my fiance's S&W, and it shows a definite preference for 230 grain FMJ, but it's a perfectly fine range gun for the money.

 

[Knob Creek]

Don't forget that the Kahr AO made 1911's are the better ones. The West Hurley's ones made by Numrich when they owned AO used a mishmash of different parts pulled out of their parts bins.

 

[Eye5600]

The Para Ordinance GI Expert is meant for the same market segment.

 

[jadek]

I had the lower grade, crap sights,the gun did not look or feel finished.. Spend the extra $$ for a better grade or brand. Shot lousey. as well. Beyond 20 FEET couldn't hit a FIVE gal pail ( side not bottom).. Not just me shooting either. I was lucky to find buyer and get most of my $$ back.. My two cents..............

 

[mac1911]

there have been plenty of S&W 1911s on nes for just a bit more. Nice one out there for 750.00

 

[Pilgrim]

My AO was fine, beautiful fit and finish, ran perfectly. It was as good as any gun I've had. I only sold it to buy a real GI model.

 

[pdm]

Don't forget that the Kahr AO made 1911's are the better ones. The West Hurley's ones made by Numrich in later years used a mishmash of different parts pulled out of their parts bins.

How do you tell the difference?

 

[ArmySarge]

Kahr bought Auto Ordnance back in Feb 1999, the reviews say the quality is definitely improved since then

 

[Knob Creek]

Should say "Auto Ordnance Worcester Mass." for the Kahr ones

 

[AKman]

From what I've heard, they are more of an entry level 1911 (not at the level of a Norinco or Rock Island - but more compared to a S&W or Sig). Even the gun shops that sell them are somewhat lukewarm on them.

That being said, I'm sure you'll get dozens of posts from people who actually own one and love them. Have you surfed around any of the 1911 forums?

Number 6

I would definately not place an AO 1911 at the same level as S&W or SIG! Check posts on 1911forum.com for AO http://forums.1911forum.com/showthread.php?t=217763

 

[pdm]

Should say "Auto Ordnance Worcester Mass." for the Kahr ones

Sweet, thanks. I've been looking to get a GI style 5" 1911 for a while now, but haven't been able to settle on a manufacturer.