I’m thinking that I might finally do this and dip the toe back into a 1911.   Instead of going for fence, I’d like to keep the price of entry south of $1000 so I’m looking an either a Loaded (PX9109LCA) or a Garrison (PX9420).  Aside from the finish, safety, and grips, are there any other differences that justify the upcharge of the Loaded?

Loaded had a flgr but it's easy to change.

Garrison doesn't have night sights which is good if you have particular tastes for sights.

I've owned a couple different SA Loaded models and I'd say the Tisas Duty model @ $400 is a nicer pistol.

I got back into single stack 1911's last year with a Blued GARRISON.

Very happy with it.

I think either would be a great choice.

I'm slowly upgrading parts on mine.

I didn't like the slim grips.

Cylinder & slide hammer/sear/disco.

CHEN magwell

EGW slide stop

Wilson firing pin stop

DAWSON fiber

MUCH FUN

iphone pics fail to show how dammed pretty it's blue is

Others has pointed out the obvious difference. Both guns are production models made by the same assembly line workers. So the options are mostly the reason for price difference. Night sights probably account for a huge chunk of that. And additional machining of front cocking serrations also cost money. One element not as obvious is that PX9109CA is a legacy model that Springfield keeps for California market due to hand gun roster rule. Loaded PX9109LCA also have the proprietary ILS (internal lock system) MSH.

Garrison and other newer SAI 1911s are not legal to sale in California. Legacy Loaded, Milspec, MC Operator, original version of TRP, and a couple of SACS Custom models are all they can legally sale in California now. So the price difference might also include compliance aspect of the cost Springfield incurred.

Thats a nice build

Ive been wondering about using a Garrison to scratch the itch I have for a blued 1911 (been looking at Colts)

I have a blued Garrison. It's been a very good pistol.  No regrets.  WarDawg

That is a fine looking gun - you did a good job.

I like it better than the loaded - no front serrations.

Wow, that’s a really nice pistol with quality upgrades. I just bought a blued Garrison but waiting to take it home (WA). Your project has got me thinking and researching.

@Colt653  Deets on the grips?  I'll be needing a set for a Garrison Commander I just ordered.  

@Dangus


Old set of HOGUES, I robbed off another 1911

you’ll need to replace the skinny grip bushings with standard

I used a bic lighter to soften the locktite on the factory bushings

Thanks!  I'm glad you didn't say Ahrends (as nice as they are/were).  Yeah, I've got some standard bushings in my parts box.  Thin grips don't do it for me, so that's an automatic change-out.