I don't think you can really go wrong on a Springer. If it has what you want in features - snag it.
That said - Joe Chambers built a pretty Ruger 1911 for a friend of his and I asked him what his opinion was of the Ruger as a base pistol to build off of. He liked it just below a Colt because guys will pay for the Colt name and he said he was impressed with it and would select it over a Springfield for something to build off.
Realize everyone's looking for something different and all but Joe builds one hell of a 1911 (they win a lot at Perry) and I value his opinion.
Loaded vs Ruger - no wrong answer but if the Ruger is easily available and cheaper, I know what I'd buy.
