So after extensive reading in multiple forums, googling like a mad man, and deciding on what my needs are and what really turns me on, I stumbled across a super deal at Cabellas of all places. I will soon be the owner of a brand spankin new 5" Springfield Armory Range Officer Elite Target chambered in 45ACP! The deal was only there for a couple of days and inventory was limited. $1048 MSRP. Snagged it for $699. Comes with 4 mags, a range bag, a cheap holster, and a mag holder. Not only that, I had some gift cards I never used and no FFL transfer fees at Cabellas. Net, net $680.17.
"Every detail of the full-sized RO® Elite Target is engineered for accuracy. Forged steel match grade frame and slide are precision-fit for fluid-smooth function, armored with a self-lubricating Black-T® finish that shrugs off corrosion and extremes. The 5-inch stainless steel, match grade barrel, fully adjustable rear target sight, fiber optic front sight, and smooth Gen 2 trigger ensure target-drilling performance. GI recoil system, custom thin-line G-10 grips and ambidextrous safety complete a form with the fit, feel and balance to dominate the range." Can't wait.