Para Ordnance 1911

[swsd40]

I'm needing some input on a Para Ordnance 1911 .45, good, bad, or otherwise. I am considering putting one on layaway, it is in the $750 range, I'm told new(?) but don't know much about them. This would be my first 1911 purchase. I dont remember the model, (the sometimers is kicking in) other than it being all black, full size.

[Bozz]

I'm needing some input on a Para Ordnance 1911 .45, good, bad, or otherwise. I am considering putting one on layaway, it is in the $750 range, I'm told new(?) but don't know much about them. This would be my first 1911 purchase. I dont remember the model, (the sometimers is kicking in) other than it being all black, full size.

From what I have seen/read online the Para's are hit or miss. Some are great, some are problems. From what I have seen of their parts, they are of average quality. I've never owned one, but saw lots of their parts waiting to be refinished at a plating place once and wasn't overly impressed.

Personally, for that price range I'd be looking at the Remington R1's and the Ruger SR1911.

[GaPatriot]

I have a Para-Ord P-14 Limited in SS. It has the 14 rd mag,and adjustible sights. The one I have has never had any problems so far. It has functioned perfectly with any ammo I have run through it,be it FMJ,or HP. It is also very accurate. It is now my daily ccw for warmer weather. During cooler weather,I still carry my Glock 20,10mm. This is largely due to the power of the 10mm rd.,and because I have both night sights,and a Crimson Trace laser on the Glock. So far,I have been unable to find a maker of adjustible night sights for the Para. This is the only criticisim I have for it,the sight cut is different from others. With the one you are looking at being in the $750 range,it is probably one with fixed sights, if so,you don't have to worry about the sight problem. The sight cut in the slide is the same as other brands,so it is easy to find replacement sights,if you want replacements. I have been very satisfied with mine,so satisfied that I bet my life on it every time I carry it for defense. The Para is not the only choice I have for carry,I have a pretty good choice between others I have purchased over the years,but it is the one I choose to carry. I just wish Para would put the 10mm back into their line-up. Good luck with whatever you decide to purchase.

PS.
I have heard rumers that Springfield Armorys adjustible night sights will fit the Para. If anyone has any confirmation on this,I would appreciate it. Thanks.

[TlWheatley]

I had a PO slim hawg and loved it. Wish I Not let it go.

[swsd40]

I have considered the Remington R1 at that price range, but no shops in the area have one i can look at. Anyone have thoughts on the R1?? (yes, right now cost is an issue. Unless I wait.)

[NCIC105]

I have a Stainless Para Warthog and love it....900 rounds and counting with no FTF.

[CDR_Glock]

I had a Para P14. Accurate. When it was new, the cases were going straight back, hitting me on the forehead. Not fun. I had some work on it and it cured it. Mine was one of the first ones from Canada. For the money, it was a good gun. Magazines are expensive. $50 each.

Mine was reliable. I traded mine off for a Kimber Ultra Raptor II. Big mistake. The Kimber sucked.

[Bighouse Doc]

My Big-Hawg was an expensive single shot. It took gunsmithing, trips to the factory and still never worked.

Eventually I had a friend who was a 1911 smith do a bout $400 of work until it shot reliably. Multiple issues leading to tolerance stackup.

He said that you either get a good gun or a lousy one from Para.

Now, I heard rumors a new man runs the QC at the stateside factory. I hope this bodes well!

-Doc

[swsd40]

Thanks to all for the input, now I'm kinda thinking I might wait and save some more.

[Austin]

I was looking at the para gi model. My research has found that the rock island armory 1911 is cheaper and better quality. Just my findings...