I've heard American Classic is a great brand for the price.
And he heard that from me. I have a full size American Classic and an officers (compact) Citadel. They are both made in the Philippines with the American Classic being made by Metro Arms and the Citadel being made by Armscor. Armscor also makes all the Rock Island Armory 1911s, the Citadel is the same gun just with a different name on the side.
They are both fine starter 1911s but IMO the American Classic is the better of the two. The fit and finish is tighter and the bluing is great. The stock grips are a bit janky but grips are the first thing most 1911 owners change
Mine has been completely flawless with whatever ammo I've run through it. They have a lifetime warranty for the original owner and one of the main warranty centers, Colorado Gun Works has a really good reputation (as do the Armscor warranty smiths in Pahrump NV).
Hit up the different 1911 forums and look at all the good reviews for this "value" pistol. The word is getting out and they are sometimes difficult to find because the factory can't keep up with demand. I am currently waiting for the new commander sized to hit the shelves but I expect to have to look for a while since the pre-orders are stacking up.
Bronson