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Here is a quick recap of my Colt MK IV 1911 shoot.

On the first picture, I shot at the right target at 3 yards and the left target at 7 yards, both with 16 rounds of ammo. (Ignore the little .22LR holes as my GF was shooting on the same paper.) The second picture, which wasn't that great, was at 15 yards with 13 rounds fired. What didn't help was the black silhouette of the target against virtually non-existent iron sights! The stainless steel had long faded and was just a stripped-metal color without any dots or real points of reference. Overall though, it was a fun experience.

Well, I just shot a .45ACP Colt MK IV at an indoor range and it was pretty nice. I actually felt like my Shield 9mm has more recoil and the .45 was easier. They had a scale that was a little off and said it weighed just under 2.5lbs, so I am guessing around 38oz or 39oz. I think after shooting, I will go ahead and get the Springfield .45 from Buds since I can get it cheaper than anywhere else I have looked; only $688!!
http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/prod ... 4%22+Black

On a side note, how much difference does 8oz make? I know the Springfield weighs In at 30oz with empty mags.

casp625 wrote:So, I am looking at the Spring fields and noticed the Range Officer Champion and was comparing it against the Champion Lightweight Operator. Are there any major differences between the two, besides what I found, that should be considered? This would be primarily for carry. I am not too concerned with the rail or the ambidextrous safety.

RO Champion:
Fiber Optic Front & Low-Profile Combat Rear
30 ozs.
Forged Lightweight Alloy
One-Sided External Safety

Champion LW Operator:
Low Profile Combat, 3 - Dot Tritium
31 ozs.
Forged Aluminum Alloy w/ Integral Accessory Rail, Black Hardcoat Anodized
Ambidextrous Safety

My other consideration is now dealing with caliber choice. I'm starting to think I should go with the 9mm 1911 instead of the 45ACP considering I have a bunch of 9mm ammo at home. Or is this taboo for a 1911

Taypo wrote:Depending on where it comes in price wise, they just released the RO Operator this week. Might be worth a look as well...

I'm thinking the 40oz is a little heavier than I was wanting to go but thanks for the heads up!

So, I am looking at the Spring fields and noticed the Range Officer Champion and was comparing it against the Champion Lightweight Operator. Are there any major differences between the two, besides what I found, that should be considered? This would be primarily for carry. I am not too concerned with the rail or the ambidextrous safety.

RO Champion:
Fiber Optic Front & Low-Profile Combat Rear
30 ozs.
Forged Lightweight Alloy
One-Sided External Safety

Champion LW Operator:
Low Profile Combat, 3 - Dot Tritium
31 ozs.
Forged Aluminum Alloy w/ Integral Accessory Rail, Black Hardcoat Anodized
Ambidextrous Safety

flechero wrote:

casp625 wrote: What holster(s) do you use?

For the 1911's I have a handful, but my 2 favorite CC holsters at the moment are-
Milt Sparks Nexus
JW Custom Kydex - version 3 IWB (25degrees and "extra tuck" which holds the grip tighter to the body

I don't own any Bullard leather but I've only hear great things over the years from those who do.


DevilDawg - I'm not a bad influence, I'm just helping you be more decisive with your discretionary dollars!

Sent you a PM.

flechero wrote:

DevilDawg wrote:On another forum I read of the Gaurdian with a bob being referred tongue in cheek as a G-bob. But it might have been a custom made or discontinued version. Crazy enough the STI have a Gaurdian so AO was doubting my own sanity for a minute.

And the STI Guardian is a true gem, if you ever had a chance to shoot it! (It's an officer's frame, if that matters.) I love mine- and wouldn't trade it for the 2X the cost I have in it!

I'm leaning towards an STI Guardian out of the STI line up. What holster(s) do you use?

Thanks for all the input. Trying to find a shop that carries the STI to take a look at. BTW, that Black V-Bob is gorgeous.

b4aftr wrote:I'd find a buddy that has some or a range that rents them and try some out before buying.

They do become addicting though...

Maybe I'll have to get with Distinguished Rick... He isn't too far from where I am located

TexasJohnBoy wrote:Buy both. Pick one. Give me the other.

While I have no first hand experience with either manufacturer, I think I can be confident in the statement that you wont be UNhappy with either.

Hmm, wouldn't this be considered a straw purchase

LTUME1978 wrote:Go with the Springfield. I have the TRP and the Trophy Match. Both are excellent pistols and a great value. I have been considering the pistol you mentioned.

I bought a Kimber Super Carry Pro a few years ago and had major issues with it. They ended up buying it back from me. I went to the Springfield's and have not look back.

Which one were you considering? The Springfield Champion lightweight?


As a side thought, will the weight prove to be an issue for the .45? Kimber was listed at 28oz while the Springfield is 31oz, empty.

So I am throwing around the idea of purchasing up a .45 1911. I've never owned one so I am looking for opinions. I am looking at something that can be used for EDC, so I am thinking a 4" barrel, since they tend to be lighter. I was at a store earlier and handled the Kimber Pro Carry II and it felt better in my hand that the larger Kimber Custom, even though I haven't shot it, just dry fired. I'm also considering the Springfield Champion Operator Lightweight as a good alternative.

Looking for input on Kimber or Springfield as a manufacturer in general (customer service with issues, etc.) as well as any reliability issues that should be considered. Or should I be looking at others such as Ruger, Colt, etc.?

On a side note, does anyone have any experience with the Master Carry Pro?

As a side thought, will the weight prove to be an issue for the .45? Kimber was listed at 28oz while the Springfield is 31oz, empty.