Browning hi power or 1911 for self Defence? - The Firearms Forum

Unknownphynix · 06-23-2011, 03:39 PM

There are many devoted people to certain firearms fo SD. I think one large group, is wedded to the classics of a large frame pistols. By this I mean the Browning hi power, and the 1911. Both pistols have a sterling reputation, and have proven themselves in battle. I have nothing against a 1911, but i must say my hi power goes with me on just about every occasion, trip, and dark alley.

I want to hear your opinions. Especially those who are devoted to either a 1911, or hi power. What do you like about your large frame 9mm or .45ACP. What inclined you to trust this piece of iron/steel and wood with your own life if it were to come down to it?

Discuss...

CampingJosh · 06-23-2011, 08:47 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Unknownphynix

I want to hear your opinions. Especially those who are devoted to either a 1911, or hi power. What do you like about your large frame 9mm or .45ACP. What inclined you to trust this piece of iron/steel and wood with your own life if it were to come down to it?

Discuss...

Hi Power or 1911? Nah. Large frame, all-steel pistol? Definitely.

I'm a big fan of the CZ75.

Don't get me wrong; I like 1911s and Hi Powers, too. Just not quite as much.

American Leader · 06-23-2011, 09:07 PM

I own and shoot both, but the 1911 fits my hand a little better, just feels natural. If you're talking HP in 9mm and 1911 in .45 ACP I prefer the heavier bullet of the 1911 as well.

Kevin Rohrer · 06-24-2011, 12:55 AM

The Hi-Power is a great gun wedded w/ the wimpy 9mm cartrdge; the .40cal version is better but bulkier.

Give me a good 1911 any day.

Inthewind1976 · 06-24-2011, 03:32 AM

Ive owned both for many years, and am very fond of both. I would have to say I prefer the 1911, but I feel pretty well armed with both. If the SHTF, I will have BOTH on me.

Jay · 06-24-2011, 07:41 AM

I first fired a 1911 over 40 years ago. It performed just as I needed it to. I've carried one ever since. It suits me just fine, but obviously, it a case of "to each his/her own". Be glad we have a choice.

carver · 06-24-2011, 10:59 AM

Stopping power is what I'm looking for in a SD handgun, coupled with good looks, and fit for me. Hatcher rates the .45 ACP jacketed hollow point 230 grain, at 60.7, on his scale. He rates the .44 Special lead wad cutter 240 grain at 76.5. He rates the 9 millimeter jacketed hollow point 147 grain at 39.9. I like the big slow bullets, and the feel of a gun that has some weight to it.

Unknownphynix · 06-24-2011, 01:43 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by CampingJosh

Hi Power or 1911? Nah. Large frame, all-steel pistol? Definitely.

I'm a big fan of the CZ75.

Don't get me wrong; I like 1911s and Hi Powers, too. Just not quite as much.

Those are good quality too. Never actually fired one

firefly345 · 07-08-2011, 10:27 AM

I have and will have both, I like both, depending on what I want it to do depends on which I would like to carry. Since most of the better handguns, ones in question, are copies of the two originals, colt 45, browning high power, including the CZ75, my witness, or my colt gold cup trophy/match 45. Guns are like women, some are excellent for general purposes, some are better for specialty's. Your choice as long as they are in good condition close to hand and ready for service.

mesinge2 · 07-08-2011, 12:34 PM

I carry one of these almost everyday. The Combat Elite gets carried more in winter and the Defender is my Summer carry. There's a lot to be said about 7+1 in a 45 1911 that is the size of a snub nose revolver.

Here's some proof on how small a 45 acp 1911 can be.

doug66 · 07-08-2011, 08:15 PM

The 2 best fighting handguns, ever. IMO...

RedHawk · 07-09-2011, 09:25 AM

any caliber above .40 in auto's and you'll be alright !

jack404 · 07-09-2011, 09:56 AM

Unknownphynix using what your most comfortable and can handle best , is best

22 WMR is a great self defence round if you can use it

380 double tap is a knock out

but for me after using the browning is i'd rather a 1911

Double D · 07-09-2011, 10:33 AM

Never shot the browning hi power. But the 1911, well, there is none better!

jack404 · 07-09-2011, 10:40 AM

My old carry

it WILL DO THE JOB , just preference eh ..

like anything , practise ...

RJay · 07-09-2011, 11:33 AM

I have both, I like my Browning for it's balance and ease of shooting. As far as the 9MM being wimpy, stand in front of a 124 Gr. 9MM projectile and tell me how it feels. I carried a Browning HP for a while in Nam and I did not feel under armed. In fact it was a constant struggle to keep off the other guys who wanted to trade me out of it ( or steal it ). Bottom line, reliability and familiarity of the gun trumps all.

Double D · 07-09-2011, 04:01 PM

I dont want to stand in front of ANY bullet.

The Duke · 07-09-2011, 06:00 PM

A Browning HP in .40SW was my carry gun 10 or so years ago...What I dislike about it is its totally worthless for a defensive sidearm, frigging Magazine Safety...

Id go .40SW anyday vs 9mm...The HP is all steel and can be shot a LOT without wearing anything out. Mine has an ambi safety which is a plus...

Today I prefer the 1911 SW Pro Series .45ACP...Its smaller, lighter, the safety is right size, dependable, powerful, fits my hand and points very well..doesnt hammer bite....It will take most any 1911 magazines..Good sights that I prefer over the BHP...Carried cocked and locked the grip safety on the 1911 gives me a bit of extra feel good and its rounded hammer doesnt dig my spare tire as the BHP..

I prefer the .45ACP over the .40SW but wouldnt feel undergunned with the 40either.. If I had to choose between these two pistols...Id give the edge to the HP for home protection (with some Trijicon sights added) due to the larger magazine capacity and the SW for concealed everyday carry..Both are outstanding firearms.

JLA · 07-09-2011, 06:05 PM

The orginal question is a bit like asking what do you drive to work, a ford or a dodge? They both get er done quite nicely, both are rather classy weapons. The .45 has better knock down, the 9 mil has better capacity.. Where one seems to lack the other seems to accel. all that said, I lean toward the .45 because I just love the 1911, but i wouldnt feel at all undergunned with a BHP on my hip.

And I must agree with CJ in that the CZ75 is twice the weapon the BHP is. I guess you could compare them like tanks. The BHP would be the venerable victor of the allies in WW2, the sherman. where the CZ75 would be the modern warhorse the Abrams, just better built, and with more firepower..

Wildalaska · 07-15-2011, 10:20 AM

Im a High Power Guy

steve666 · 07-15-2011, 11:17 AM

Browning HP. Like RJay I carried one in Nam and after I returned to the world. It was my regular carry piece until I switched to a .40 cal in '91.

berto64 · 07-15-2011, 03:25 PM

It's the 1911 for me. Fits my hand perfectly and lines up easily. 230 gr jhp and I'll go any where. (almost)

dad2thebone · 07-15-2011, 04:11 PM

1911 just because i like the fit, balance and how it presents when drawn. I like my Ruger p345 for all those reasons as well as carry size. when the shtf a loud boom from your hand is a way ta make em run.

dad2thebone · 07-15-2011, 04:14 PM

And on 2nd or was it 6th look that colt defender is on sharp lookin hole punch. thx for the pics

06-23-2011, 03:39 PM	#1
Unknownphynix Member Join Date: Jun 2011 Posts: 15	Browning hi power or 1911 for self Defence? There are many devoted people to certain firearms fo SD. I think one large group, is wedded to the classics of a large frame pistols. By this I mean the Browning hi power, and the 1911. Both pistols have a sterling reputation, and have proven themselves in battle. I have nothing against a 1911, but i must say my hi power goes with me on just about every occasion, trip, and dark alley. I want to hear your opinions. Especially those who are devoted to either a 1911, or hi power. What do you like about your large frame 9mm or .45ACP. What inclined you to trust this piece of iron/steel and wood with your own life if it were to come down to it? Discuss... -->

06-23-2011, 09:07 PM	#3
American Leader Advanced Senior Member Join Date: Mar 2011 Location: Iowa Contributor Posts: 1,630	Re: Browning hi power or 1911 for self Defence? I own and shoot both, but the 1911 fits my hand a little better, just feels natural. If you're talking HP in 9mm and 1911 in .45 ACP I prefer the heavier bullet of the 1911 as well.

06-24-2011, 12:55 AM	#4
Kevin Rohrer V.I.P. Member Join Date: Apr 2010 Location: Medina, Ohio Posts: 278	Re: Browning hi power or 1911 for self Defence? The Hi-Power is a great gun wedded w/ the wimpy 9mm cartrdge; the .40cal version is better but bulkier. Give me a good 1911 any day. __________________ An armed society is a polite society--Robert Heinlein via Jeff Cooper Member: Orange Gunsite Family, NRA--Life, Varmint Hunters Assn, American Legion, ARCTA, & South Cuyahoga Sportsmen's Assn.

06-24-2011, 03:32 AM	#5
Inthewind1976 Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2008 Location: Central Pennsylvania Posts: 533	Re: Browning hi power or 1911 for self Defence? Ive owned both for many years, and am very fond of both. I would have to say I prefer the 1911, but I feel pretty well armed with both. If the SHTF, I will have BOTH on me.

06-24-2011, 07:41 AM	#6
Jay Advanced Senior Member Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: Indiana Posts: 1,286	Re: Browning hi power or 1911 for self Defence? I first fired a 1911 over 40 years ago. It performed just as I needed it to. I've carried one ever since. It suits me just fine, but obviously, it a case of "to each his/her own". Be glad we have a choice. __________________ "For those who fought for it, freedom has a flavor the protected cannot taste." "USMC 8652, 2531, RVN Jun '67, - May 69" Last edited by Jay; 06-24-2011 at 07:42 AM..

06-24-2011, 10:59 AM	#7
carver TFF Moderator/Host Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: DAV, Deep in the Pineywoods of East Texas, just west of Shreveport, LA Contributor Posts: 11,239	Re: Browning hi power or 1911 for self Defence? Stopping power is what I'm looking for in a SD handgun, coupled with good looks, and fit for me. Hatcher rates the .45 ACP jacketed hollow point 230 grain, at 60.7, on his scale. He rates the .44 Special lead wad cutter 240 grain at 76.5. He rates the 9 millimeter jacketed hollow point 147 grain at 39.9. I like the big slow bullets, and the feel of a gun that has some weight to it. __________________ Y'all be safe now, ya hear! Lamentations Chapter 5: 1. Remember, O LORD, what is come upon us: consider, and behold our reproach. 2. Our inheritance is turned to strangers, our houses to aliens. 3. We are orphans and fatherless, our mothers [are] as widows. 5. Our necks [are] under persecution: we labour, [and] have no rest. 16. The crown is fallen [from] our head: woe unto us, that we have sinned! 21. Turn thou us unto thee, O LORD, and we shall be turned; renew our days as of old.

07-08-2011, 10:27 AM	#9
firefly345 Member Join Date: Jun 2011 Location: Shelby, Al Posts: 5	Re: Browning hi power or 1911 for self Defence? I have and will have both, I like both, depending on what I want it to do depends on which I would like to carry. Since most of the better handguns, ones in question, are copies of the two originals, colt 45, browning high power, including the CZ75, my witness, or my colt gold cup trophy/match 45. Guns are like women, some are excellent for general purposes, some are better for specialty's. Your choice as long as they are in good condition close to hand and ready for service.

07-08-2011, 12:34 PM	#10
mesinge2 Senior Member Join Date: Dec 2009 Location: Central Florida Posts: 538	Re: Browning hi power or 1911 for self Defence? I carry one of these almost everyday. The Combat Elite gets carried more in winter and the Defender is my Summer carry. There's a lot to be said about 7+1 in a 45 1911 that is the size of a snub nose revolver. Here's some proof on how small a 45 acp 1911 can be. __________________ NRA Certified Instructor "A strong body makes the mind strong. As to the species of exercise. I advise the gun. While this gives moderate exercise to the body, it gives boldness, enterprise, and independence to the mind ... Let your gun therefore be your constant companion of your walks." 1785, Thomas Jefferson. Last edited by mesinge2; 07-08-2011 at 12:42 PM..

07-08-2011, 08:15 PM	#11
doug66 Senior Member Join Date: Jan 2005 Location: Kansas Posts: 538	Re: Browning hi power or 1911 for self Defence? The 2 best fighting handguns, ever. IMO...

07-09-2011, 09:25 AM	#12
RedHawk Former Guest Join Date: Jun 2011 Posts: 177	Re: Browning hi power or 1911 for self Defence? any caliber above .40 in auto's and you'll be alright !

07-09-2011, 09:56 AM	#13
jack404 Former Guest Join Date: Jan 2010 Location: Australia Contributor Posts: 17,622	Re: Browning hi power or 1911 for self Defence? Unknownphynix using what your most comfortable and can handle best , is best 22 WMR is a great self defence round if you can use it 380 double tap is a knock out but for me after using the browning is i'd rather a 1911 Last edited by jack404; 07-09-2011 at 10:10 AM..

07-09-2011, 10:33 AM	#14
Double D TFF Moderator/Host Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: North Florida Contributor Posts: 8,058	Re: Browning hi power or 1911 for self Defence? Never shot the browning hi power. But the 1911, well, there is none better! __________________ I own a bunch of scary guns. You want em? Come and take em..... Liberalism is a serious, non curable, mental disorder... NRA LIFE MEMBER Oath Keepers Member NRA Certified Instructor 30 Yr CC permit holder.

07-09-2011, 10:40 AM	#15
jack404 Former Guest Join Date: Jan 2010 Location: Australia Contributor Posts: 17,622	Re: Browning hi power or 1911 for self Defence? My old carry it WILL DO THE JOB , just preference eh .. like anything , practise ... Attached Images Last edited by jack404; 07-09-2011 at 10:58 AM..

07-09-2011, 11:33 AM	#16
RJay Advanced Senior Member Join Date: Feb 2004 Location: Arizona Posts: 3,486	Re: Browning hi power or 1911 for self Defence? I have both, I like my Browning for it's balance and ease of shooting. As far as the 9MM being wimpy, stand in front of a 124 Gr. 9MM projectile and tell me how it feels. I carried a Browning HP for a while in Nam and I did not feel under armed. In fact it was a constant struggle to keep off the other guys who wanted to trade me out of it ( or steal it ). Bottom line, reliability and familiarity of the gun trumps all. __________________ RonJames

07-09-2011, 04:01 PM	#17
Double D TFF Moderator/Host Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: North Florida Contributor Posts: 8,058	Re: Browning hi power or 1911 for self Defence? I dont want to stand in front of ANY bullet. __________________ I own a bunch of scary guns. You want em? Come and take em..... Liberalism is a serious, non curable, mental disorder... NRA LIFE MEMBER Oath Keepers Member NRA Certified Instructor 30 Yr CC permit holder.

07-09-2011, 06:00 PM	#18
The Duke Senior Member Join Date: Mar 2006 Location: NW Louisiana Posts: 813	Re: Browning hi power or 1911 for self Defence? A Browning HP in .40SW was my carry gun 10 or so years ago...What I dislike about it is its totally worthless for a defensive sidearm, frigging Magazine Safety... Id go .40SW anyday vs 9mm...The HP is all steel and can be shot a LOT without wearing anything out. Mine has an ambi safety which is a plus... Today I prefer the 1911 SW Pro Series .45ACP...Its smaller, lighter, the safety is right size, dependable, powerful, fits my hand and points very well..doesnt hammer bite....It will take most any 1911 magazines..Good sights that I prefer over the BHP...Carried cocked and locked the grip safety on the 1911 gives me a bit of extra feel good and its rounded hammer doesnt dig my spare tire as the BHP.. I prefer the .45ACP over the .40SW but wouldnt feel undergunned with the 40either.. If I had to choose between these two pistols...Id give the edge to the HP for home protection (with some Trijicon sights added) due to the larger magazine capacity and the SW for concealed everyday carry..Both are outstanding firearms.

07-09-2011, 06:05 PM	#19
JLA TFF Moderator/Host Join Date: Feb 2007 Location: Heart Of Texas Contributor Posts: 17,308	Re: Browning hi power or 1911 for self Defence? The orginal question is a bit like asking what do you drive to work, a ford or a dodge? They both get er done quite nicely, both are rather classy weapons. The .45 has better knock down, the 9 mil has better capacity.. Where one seems to lack the other seems to accel. all that said, I lean toward the .45 because I just love the 1911, but i wouldnt feel at all undergunned with a BHP on my hip. And I must agree with CJ in that the CZ75 is twice the weapon the BHP is. I guess you could compare them like tanks. The BHP would be the venerable victor of the allies in WW2, the sherman. where the CZ75 would be the modern warhorse the Abrams, just better built, and with more firepower.. __________________ It takes 43 muscles to frown, 17 to smile, and 3 for proper trigger squeeze. The latest caliber or gear is no substitute for experience and skill. Rifles and cartridges don't make hits -- shooters do. Fact of life: After Monday and Tuesday, even the calendar says WTF!

07-15-2011, 10:20 AM	#20
Wildalaska Former Guest Join Date: Sep 2009 Location: Anchorage, AK, USA, Earth Posts: 82	Re: Browning hi power or 1911 for self Defence? Im a High Power Guy WildfitsmyhandthebestAlaska ™©2002-2011

07-15-2011, 11:17 AM	#21
steve666 V.I.P. Member Join Date: Mar 2010 Location: Indianapolis, IN Posts: 231	Re: Browning hi power or 1911 for self Defence? Browning HP. Like RJay I carried one in Nam and after I returned to the world. It was my regular carry piece until I switched to a .40 cal in '91. __________________ An armed society is a polite society.

07-15-2011, 03:25 PM	#22
berto64 VMBB Admin Staff Join Date: Jan 2001 Location: Owyhee County, Idaho Contributor Posts: 7,385	Re: Browning hi power or 1911 for self Defence? It's the 1911 for me. Fits my hand perfectly and lines up easily. 230 gr jhp and I'll go any where. (almost) __________________ Be who you are & say what you will, Those that matter won't mind and those that mind don't matter. I'm a bitter clinger, One Nation Under God.

07-15-2011, 04:11 PM	#23
dad2thebone Advanced Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2011 Posts: 1,357	Re: Browning hi power or 1911 for self Defence? 1911 just because i like the fit, balance and how it presents when drawn. I like my Ruger p345 for all those reasons as well as carry size. when the shtf a loud boom from your hand is a way ta make em run. __________________ 9-11-01 we will never forget.And then we have dec 7 now it's Nov 6th all sad days for our country. And dont whizz on my leg then tell me it's raining.

07-15-2011, 04:14 PM	#24
dad2thebone Advanced Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2011 Posts: 1,357	Re: Browning hi power or 1911 for self Defence? And on 2nd or was it 6th look that colt defender is on sharp lookin hole punch. thx for the pics __________________ 9-11-01 we will never forget.And then we have dec 7 now it's Nov 6th all sad days for our country. And dont whizz on my leg then tell me it's raining.