First off I see alot of customs and Wilson fans here, but seems that cost is the factor for me right now and the forseeable future. I have been looking for a 45 to go along with my LE6920 MP-R.
Been looking at the Colt Talo concealled and the Kimber Custom TLE ll. They both are within a hundred bucks of each other. Any suggestions would be great.
NOT kimber. They’re the bushmaster/oly/RRA/DPMS of the 1911 world. Made poorly and priced high.
When I was shopping for a 1911, I spoke with 3 reputable gunsmiths. Two of the three said they refused to work on Kimbers. While I have friends that have used Kimbers with success for duty guns, competition, etc., they overall quality control from that company is spotty at best. You may get a good one, you may get a lemon. On the other hand, those same gunsmiths highly recommended Colt and Springfield. In addition, I have read quotes that Mr. Hackethorn states Colt is making the best production 1911s, period. Hope that helps.
First tell us your purpose, your budget, etc…do you want a light rail, upgraded sights, beavertail grip safety. Is This for home defense, carry, duty use, etc…
You say you want a 1911 to go with your LE6920, for what glamour shots?
Not trying be a jerk but the above info helps us point you in the right direction.
A basic Colt s70 repro is a nice base gun, a Springfield operator is the gun to have if you want a rail and then send to Springfield for a reliability package. A Wilson cqb is ready to rock right from the factory but plan to spend 2800 plUs depending on options…
Colt Talo for sure. I owned a Kimber TLE years ago that was great but things have slipped quality wise so the Colt or a Wesson is a much better buy.
rushca01, I second the Springfield Operator suggestion. It is what I ran for a duty pistol and what I will continue to run once I get back home and to my regular job. I myself sent mine to Nighthawk Custom for a reliability package…excellent customer service from those guys!
Kimber TLE would get my vote. I have yet to be impressed with any Colt 1911 I’ve owned.
I would also jump Springfield band wagon.
Did somebody say Operator?
No glamour just dependable when SHTF. A little history about me. I am familiar with the platforms and Colt in particular. My first 11 yrs of service was spent as a unit and battalion armorer, then 7 yrs in a cav line unit and now for the last 6 yrs I am performing duties in a recruiting battalion. So glamour is not a factor. Thanks for your honesty though.
To the rest, thanks for your actual input. Wish the funds would allow a nice custom, but I would cringe beating around a
3k weapon.
I own a Kimber TLE II and carried it for almost 8 years as a deputy. It has since been relegated to the backup status since I got a Colt RG. There is no comparison. I am not selling the Kimber but will not buy another either.
Dan
Did you search some Kimber threads here? I think you’d know the answer quickly. 
I didnt Will, but thanks. I see what your saying. Not very high on the food chain. A question that could have been avoided if I would have done a search before hand.
You will not find Kimber on the list of recommended 1911s from the BTDT 1911 crew, Yam, LAV, etc.
Like ARs, there’s a solid list of known quality 1911s and no particular reason to stray outside of it per se., but always worth keeping an eye out for what’s happening out there as things can change, like Kimber making a 1911 worth owning… 
For example, if you don’t mind the external extractor, the S&W E series is getting some high praise for the $$$.
Another vote for Colt. I have known some folks that are happy with Kimber(even folks that shoot them alot), but I have read much more about issue with them.
Go with Colt. I have two XSE models that I shoot a lot. Both are solid guns that I trust in any situation.
Colt fanboy here, 'nuff said.
Thanks for all’s input. I am checking the gun show next wk end in Richmond and see if anyone there has the Colt Talo that I want. Just have to convence the wife its my Christmas present…
Kimber can make a very nice gun but their QC is too spotty IMO. If you know what you are looking for and can inspect the gun before you buy it thats one thing, but buying a Kimber sight-unseen is not something I’m comfortable with. Never been a huge Colt fan but out of these two choices it would be the better one. Might I suggest saving up a few more dollars for a Dan Wesson Heritage. Awesome gun for the money and they can be found slightly used in almost new condition for under $1k.
colt or springfield
I went to the local cop shop here in So. Cal to check out some of the 1911 they sell. It was great timing. ProForce in Brea had the Springfield LB Operator, the Colt Rail Gun in both two tone and black, and the Kimber TLE/RL. I was able to examine the 1911s. The LB Operator had the extended magwell, G-10 grips, and nightsights. I was told by the sales person that the inerds may have been polished and honed. The quality of the fit and finish was excellent. The slide was smooth and tight. The colt rail looked very nice in appearance. The sharp edges didn’t bother me at all. The Colt was just down right sexy! What could I say about the Kimber that’s not already said. You won’t go wrong with the Mc Operator or the Colt RG. I’m just waiting for my department to approve the 1911 and those would be my 2 choices without having to spend over 2k.
Buy once, cry once…I have 3 Colts and they have been flawless with Wilson 47D, McCormick power mags, and Tripp. Plus Colt CS is very good.