Posted: 7/29/2007 11:49:05 AM EDT
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Folks, I see on the SA Web site that they offer Champion models in both G.I. and Loaded lines. I can't find anything that tells what Champion designates. Is it a package of features or just a name? How do Champions differ from non-Champions? Thanks for your help. Mike |
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Champion refers to the size of the gun. It is springfeild's version of a colt commander only better made. Grip is full sized and slide is a 4 incher. I have their full sized, champion, compact and ultra compact v10. I bought them before they started putting the extras on them, so i had to install wilson's bever tail and extended thumb safety. To the full frames I added wilsons faux checkering to the grip. My champion shoots great till my mother decided it would make a good birthday gift for her  . It's now her carry gun.The only other thing I had done was a reliability package and dehorn done to it for her. Like any 1911 you have to reliablility test it and I found meggar mags work best for my 1911's. It's concealable and my mother can do 248 out of 250 score on tx chl quals with it. The sights are standard 1911 sights. I had the front changed to a nightsight for her so her score reflects how that works. Over all a good buy if you like 1911's. I carry a springfield compact or my v10 when I carry single action but for liability reasons if I have to pull the gun I carry a da/sa pistol most often such as a sig,hk,glock or xd(I see guns like golf clubs, one for every situation or season). |
The champion like the commander has a compact 4 inch barrel/slide but with a full length grip like a regular 1911. It was the colt commander that made the attempt at concealability and every manufacturer has made their own version(sometimes better than colt can we say springfield for one). The frame was shortened in the grip(you lose a round) and was called the compact/offficer's model but still with the 4 inch barrel. Very good concealability. Then came the compacts. 2 inch barreled lighting. great concealability with knock down power at close range of 15 yards or less. Shorter sight radious makes longer shots harder but can be done with practice. In fact I have taken a coyote at 32 yards with my v10(ported compact). For what it is worth I have put down a 1000lb hefer(no not rosie) with my compact on the family ranch. 45 to the side of the head does it every time. If I had to choose between all the 1911's I own from full to compact I would choose the champion. If I could own only one and I could get it back from my mother. 
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I too own a Champion. I love it. I was in the market for a 1911 for a long time and was constantly debating everything from size, manufaturer and barrel length. That was until the man at the gun store pulled out the Springfield Champion. It is a great 1911 model and great weapon overall. I was a little concerned about the accuracy with the shortened barrel, but it has proved not to effect it. I like the gun a lot and the looks are great. Which is what sold me in the end. Highly reccomended by me as an addition to a collection, carry gun, or just a great looking and accurate gun! |