I have heard very good things about RIA's customer service and warranty. I think for an intro 1911, hard to beat. The RIA I had certainly got me back in the 1911 camp for shooting and for carry. After thinking about it, the RIA is, in my opinion, probably the best gun to 'try out' the 1911. They are inexpensive, decent guns. One you can learn the 1911 platform, and then decide if you want to upgrade or not, and what you are looking for. I know my 1911 opinions have changed a LOT from when I got my RIA.
I don't believe I woul ever use it for cc, although from a previous question I poted on here I found most people to carry full size firearms. But thank you for the statement, I will do some research on slides and issues to get a better understanding of possible issues.