SA Mil-Spec & G.I. .45 5"

[eagle24]

The only thing I feel is missing from my hangun collection is a model 1911 .45. I won't be adding one for several months, but have been looking for quite a while. Could someone tell me what is different between the SA Mil-Spec and the SA G.I. 45 5"? The only thing I can discern from the SA website is the sights are different and the grips are different. I know there must be more because that wouldn't justify $100 difference in MSRP. I was looking at both in the parkerized finish.

Also, there is not a lot of talk here about the Para-Ordinance 1911's. What are the opinions on Para-Oridinance vs. SA?

 

[dsk]

Over on 1911forum.com there's a very good thread on the specific differences:

http://www.1911forum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=97065



WW2 (GI) Model: Pistol closely replicates the basic 1911A1 as used by the US military for seven decades. Features:

• high wall ("narrow") ejection port
• low profile GI sights
• lanyard loop on mainspring housing
• vertical cocking serrations on slide

Mil-Spec: Pre-dated the G.I. model, adds some popular features/upgrades

• stainless barrel and bushing (some models)
• loaded chamber indicator (some models)
• lowered and flared ejection port
• high profile 3-dot sights
• beveled magazine well
• loss of the lanyard loop on mainspring housing
• forward-raked cocking serrations on slide

Loaded: An upgrade from the Mil-Spec with even more of the most popular features/upgrades

• beavertail grip safety
• Novak sights
• ambidextrious thumb safety
• long 3 hole trigger
• full length guide rod (2-piece)
• front cocking serrations
• flat mainspring housing

 

[Pilot]

I've had a Springfield Milspec before I think they were called Milspecs. I bought it in 1994 or 1995 and its been flawless for me. The only differences between the G.I. and Milspec are the Milspec's.

1. Lowered and flared ejection port
2. Sights are bigger and better
3. Grips
4. Slight flare in magwell

If you want the nostalgia, get the G.I. If you want better sites and less dented brass, get the Milspec.

 

[XDKingslayer]

The only thing I can add, seeing as I don't know squat about 1911's is that a buddy has the high capacity Mil-spec and it's a PITA to find parts for. Specific parts for a wide body that is, such as magazines and beavertails. I just ordered an extra mag for him from Springfield and it was a $40 magazine as it's double stack.

I would stick to the regular Mil-specs if it was my decision.

 

[Ala Dan]

Get the WW-II G.I. replica Springfield, as its 'bout as good as it get's for
out of the box reliability; without spending a ton of $$$$ on it~!

BTW, I have two of 'em; a parkerized model, and a stainless model
that I love too shoot.

 

[wally]

Before you buy, take a look at the new RIA models that used to be the Armscor 1911-A1 Enhanced. Springfield "Loaded" features at a tad under GI prices.

The Armscor labled guns are being closed out, and will be re-introduced under the RIA name in May.

I've been extreamly satisified with my Armscor made guns. Here is a thread I started when I got my first: http://www.thehighroad.org/showthread.php?t=113465&highlight=Armscor

--wally.