Shrike-
I carry the 1911 too. Just carrying it makes EVERYTHING else seem "wimpy". So, you're probably a big feller, wear baggier clothes, or aren't concerned with who sees your gov't model. But just because you carry a heavy pistol doesn't necessarily mean you want or need a heavy folder. I you plan on using a folder to protect your pistol hand, the Endura is perfect, light enough to get out in a hurry, substantial enough to raise a hurtin' on the BG that would try to grab your pistol.
I've been looking loningly lately (say that three times fast!) at the Bob Terzuola Starmate. Oh, it looks sweet, and the perfect match for my Kimber. It is just out of your price range, though. I would also wholeheartedly recommend the Benchmade 710 Axis. Some folks have complained of quality problems from Benchmade. That really gets me. Mine's perfect. The blade sits exactly in the handle in the closed position (not to the left or right, as I'[ve read here). And it flicks open faster than castor oil through a goose, and locks tight as a drum. AND, I bought in new in an online auction, to boot! Oh well, maybe I got lucky.
Anyway, I digress. Those are my recommendations for a companion for your 1911. But there are other considerations that must be considered as well, yes? For example, you may find yourself in a situation where carrying a longer (three inches plus) blade is, shall we say imprudent? And, under those circumstances, a shorter blade would be necessarry. Maybe a Cold Steel Vacquero? I don't have any experience with this particular steel, and will have to defer to our more experienced forumites.
My two cents.
-Bo
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"...the Law of the Jungle had taught him to keep his temper, for in the jungle life and food depend on keeping your temper..."
-Rudyard Kipling, from The Jungle Book
