I'm considering a new hand gun... HELP!
It really boils down to what you want to spend. For me the Springfield fit the bill, had I been able to just toss out a grand for a 1911 I would have gone a different route.
The Springfield isn't a bad piece, but would I rather have a Colt for instance, yes!
I used to agree with you on Colt. Not so much now. For the under a grand range, all you can get is a Series 80, not a deal breaker, but just more to go wrong. I never noticed the difference in the trigger all that much. The big problem is that the quality control has gone way down. I don't know why, but I can imagine that the constant in and out of bankruptcy has a lot to do with it. On the other hand, a good used Series 70, if you can find them inexpensively, is always on my radar. I just want a Colt in my safe.
I really like the Kimbers, I think they're just a tad over priced and they don't have a great warranty. (Although, I hear they're customer service has jumped up by leaps and bounds).
Raptors are just drop dead cool.
Rock Island Armory makes a damn fine gun. We have had no problems with ours since new. I have fired other Rocks that lead me to believe the brand and the company are good to go. They also have a lifetime warranty that is handled out of Nevada and even though I haven't had to use it, I have seen where others have and the reports were, on the whole, very encouraging. A great shooter for a great price. I would say if you get one, pick up a 1911A1 Tactical. For not much more than a G.I. Model, you get the stuff most folks change anyhow. I would not hesitate to buy one again. (and probably will).
Springfield Armory. I can't keep from liking mine more every time I hit the range. Springfield has an outstanding lifetime warranty and the customer service is top notch. They also have a custom shop, should you feel the need to change some stuff around.
For me, this is my high end gun. I didn't like the full length guide rod, so I picked up a Wilson Combat G.I. guide rod and plug. That's the only change I've made. It even eats hollow points with out a complaint. The stainless is a bit flashy for me, but, like I said, I couldn't resist the price.
All that being said, it's all just BS if you don't like firing the weapon. Try out several different ones if you can. Find what's comfortable for you and what you can shoot well. There is no point in buying something you don't or won't shoot.