Wilson Combat or Nighthawk?

SVTdreamin04

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I am debating spending some cash on a high end 1911. I’m torn between the two. Anyone on here own the mentioned 1911’s in the topic of discussion?

Thanks!


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Junior00

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I’d throw Dan Wesson in there as well. I’ve shot quite a few from Nighthawk, Wilson and DW and to be honest the DW was probably the most accurate for me. At that price point you really can’t go wrong and you can get any of them customized to fit all your needs and wants. As with any weapons purchase YMMV.

EDIT* Forgot about Ed Brown though I’ve never shot one, but I know they make nice kit too. One thing I did forget to mention with the Dan Wesson, and it is a good thing, is though they have a slightly lower price they use all tool steel parts to my knowledge. Makes for an excellent starting point for smithing.
 
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El_Joker

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I've owned several from both over the years. I feel the recent Wilson's have not been up to par to older ones's I've owned. Barrel fit feels like drop in, trigger isn't as crisp, and overall finishing wasn't as nice.

I think NH has stepped up their work from the early days.

Ultimately, both have solid CS and will make issues right. I'd add Alchemy Custom or Guncrafter to your options.
 

SVTdreamin04

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If you could only own one, which would you pick?


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El_Joker

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I would pick NH over WC due to recent WC experiences.

If you consider Alchemy, they are more comparable to NH whereas they are not a mass production shop like how WC has become. Between these, Alchemy is more a classic style build where NH can get more wild. So is your preference there.

If you get serious, I would suggest George for any order - Gunslingers - Your Source for Quality Firearms
 

Blown 89

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I've read that Nighthawks have a better fit and finish but at that level it's a matter of options and aesthetics more than anything.

I don't get the appeal of that segment myself but to each their own.....at least you're shopping for 1911's :)
 

Klaus

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I own several of each as well as from all the other semi custom makers

The build quality of all of the big five (EB, WC, NHC, GCI, LB) is comparable. There are some differences in build philosophy but they are all very very good.

WC is much more understated than NHC. The latter has many more models, some of which are fairly flashy. WC is much more conservative in their design.

Also keep in mind that WC will only allow you to customize within reason. For instance, IIRC they will only do 25 LPI or fiber on the front strap. Wand 15 LPI? Too bad. Also the whole "bulletproof" upgrade really chaps my ass. The base model CQB do not have this and you need to pay another $500 to get rid of all the MIM parts. Pure bullshit.

If you are into plain design w/ no FCS and do not want the side of your slide to look like a billboard keep GCI in mind. I have a couple No Names and the build quality is on par with a master grade WC for $1500 less.

I like Dan Wesson (but not STI) but would say anyone that thinks either are in same category as WC probably does not have experience with WC. For the price they may be a good value but the quality simply is not comparable. Not even close in case of STI IMO.
 
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SVTdreamin04

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I own several of each as well as from all the other semi custom makers

The build quality of all of the big five (EB, WC, NHC, GCI, LB) is comparable. There are some differences in build philosophy but they are all very very good.

WC is much more understated than NHC. The latter has many more models, some of which are fairly flashy. WC is much more conservative in their design.

Also keep in mind that WC will only allow you to customize within reason. For instance, IIRC they will only do 25

I’ve been patiently awaiting for your input @Klaus. Thanks.


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Klaus

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I’ve been patiently awaiting for your input @Klaus. Thanks.


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!@#$ thing crashed while I was typing, added more. Feel free to PM me if I can be of help. MI Gunslinger is the guy to buy from when you are ready.
 

John Ryder

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Baer are good for their prices. But their work is crude. Uneven checking, poor small parts quality (slide stops/thumb safety), and lousy carry bevels. Some more frequent issues I've seen are slide notch peening and barrel lug failures in low round count (under 5,000).

And if you want good customer service, best of luck. There are stories of Les calling people assholes and sending them on their way.
 

SVTdreamin04

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Baer are good for their prices. But their work is crude. Uneven checking, poor small parts quality (slide stops/thumb safety), and lousy carry bevels. Some more frequent issues I've seen are slide notch peening and barrel lug failures in low round count (under 5,000).

And if you want good customer service, best of luck. There are stories of Les calling people assholes and sending them on their way.

I’ve heard they like to blame the customer now that you say that.


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John Ryder

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I’ve heard they like to blame the customer now that you say that.

Les has earned that rep. He was a prick to me when dealing with an issue. As someone mentioned, Alchemy is a good shop. Rob from them used to work for Baer. On some forums, he's posted some of the dirty secrets of LB.
 

SVTdreamin04

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I sent my Series 70 Colt out to Nighthawk last week. So now the 14 week wait begins.


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