I just joined the forum, I hope to gain alot of knowledge from the folks here. I have my first question. I'm going to buy a R1, but haven't decided on black or stainless. How does the black finish hold up after a year or two? A fellow I talked to at a sports show said it doesn't do so well. If thats the case, I will be leaning toward the stainless. Thanks

Stainless is always easier to keep looking good. Any scratches and you can rub them out with a scotch brite pad. I have had the black R1 for about 1 year. It doesn't get a lot of use, but gets some. That might change now that I think I'll make it my carry gun.
I have small rub spots from holstering, and a couple little scrapes here and there. They don't bother me. Gives the gun character, in my opinion.
If wear bothers you definitely go for the stainless R1.

Welcome to the Remington Owners Forum John...from a fellow Pennsylvanian !!

Stainless or blued...I tend to go stainless with most of my 1911's.