Alright, I need some opinions to help make up my mind. I want a Springer Champion in stainless with all the goodies on it. I work for the city and can get firearms and parts at a reduced price through my local PD. I don't have the cash on hand to buy a loaded model right now, but can maybe swing a GI. So, do I save up for a loaded model, or buy a GI pretty quick, and buy parts as the money becomes available? One of the local detectives has the fixture to cut the frame for a beavertail, and the rest should be no problem. My only concern would be replacing the sights on the GI. That will require a gunsmith's touch to swap to Novaks or something similar, correct? Thanks in advance for the help.
Upgrade Springer GI or buy loaded model?
- Thread starter poopile
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If you bought the GI, would the parts you plan to add be the same as on the Loaded model? If you just plan to replicate a Loaded model by starting with the GI, you'd be better off saving and going with the Loaded. But if you plan to go with different sights, beavertail, etc., then the GI is the best one to start with. Or maybe split the difference with the Mil-Spec model as that may have some of what you want.
One plus with the GI (at least to me) is the lack of forward slide serrations.
One plus with the GI (at least to me) is the lack of forward slide serrations.
DirksterG30
Member
Welcome to the forum, poopile (interesting name.)
Personally, I'd save up for the Champion. That way you get everything you want, backed by the Springfield warranty.
Personally, I'd save up for the Champion. That way you get everything you want, backed by the Springfield warranty.
DirksterG30
Member
Also, you do realize that the Champion is a 4" barrel, and the GI is a 5"?
If you bought the GI, would the parts you plan to add be the same as on the Loaded model? If you just plan to replicate a Loaded model by starting with the GI, you'd be better off saving and going with the Loaded. But if you plan to go with different sights, beavertail, etc., then the GI is the best one to start with. Or maybe split the difference with the Mil-Spec model as that may have some of what you want.
One plus with the GI (at least to me) is the lack of forward slide serrations.
By purchasing the GI model, I could gradually add bits and pieces till' I'm satisfied with the final result. It really comes down to a money issue (lack of) and I really want a 1911 in my hands right now.
One plus with the GI (at least to me) is the lack of forward slide serrations.
By purchasing the GI model, I could gradually add bits and pieces till' I'm satisfied with the final result. It really comes down to a money issue (lack of) and I really want a 1911 in my hands right now.
The Springfields move up in features this way:
GI .45
Mil-Spec
Loaded
The Champion is the 4" barrel version in both the GI .45 and the Loaded series. I used a Mil-Spec for the basis of a project gun as the factory sights are much bigger.
GI .45
Mil-Spec
Loaded
The Champion is the 4" barrel version in both the GI .45 and the Loaded series. I used a Mil-Spec for the basis of a project gun as the factory sights are much bigger.
DirksterG30
Member
You are correct. My bad! Looking at Springfield's website, under the GI series, they do have 4" 1911's (I guess Springfield calls any 4" 1911 a Champion).
BlindJustice
Member
Her's an example of an upgrade package for
a G.I from Jarvis Inc, Missoula MT. It includes a
Jarvis Custom Carry
---------------------------
Jarvis Match SS Barrel with
CUstom fitted bushing
Videcki Trigger s/adj. trigger stop
& McCormick Hammer & Trigger job.
with a 4 to 4/5 lbs crisp pull.
Beavertail Grip Safety &
Ambidextrious Safety
SIghts, choose between Novak or Heinie
rear sight
http://www.jarvis-custom.com/Products/tabid/53/ctl/ProductDetail/productId/18/mid/388/Default.aspx
Bill Jarvis has been a barrel maker for
20+ years, I have no financial interest in
this, but I will be sending him my S&W 1911
for the trigger job mentioned above.
You would not have just another off the shelf
"loaded" with the above package.
just a thought
a G.I from Jarvis Inc, Missoula MT. It includes a
Jarvis Custom Carry
---------------------------
Jarvis Match SS Barrel with
CUstom fitted bushing
Videcki Trigger s/adj. trigger stop
& McCormick Hammer & Trigger job.
with a 4 to 4/5 lbs crisp pull.
Beavertail Grip Safety &
Ambidextrious Safety
SIghts, choose between Novak or Heinie
rear sight
http://www.jarvis-custom.com/Products/tabid/53/ctl/ProductDetail/productId/18/mid/388/Default.aspx
Bill Jarvis has been a barrel maker for
20+ years, I have no financial interest in
this, but I will be sending him my S&W 1911
for the trigger job mentioned above.
You would not have just another off the shelf
"loaded" with the above package.
just a thought
littlelefty
Member
I had the same quandry, except for me it was with a full size. I went with the Loaded model.
Now, I did not and still do not really care for front slide serrations - just prefer the smooth slide.
I also am only a minor tinkerer, like replacing the 2 piece guide rod and grips. I did not want to get involved with the "bigger deal" parts like the ones you mention. The Loaded got me what I wanted right out of the box. Yes, I had to save for a little longer, but I don't regret it now.
Dad told me that sometimes you can save a little longer, spend a little more, and go first class. That may apply here.
Now, I did not and still do not really care for front slide serrations - just prefer the smooth slide.
I also am only a minor tinkerer, like replacing the 2 piece guide rod and grips. I did not want to get involved with the "bigger deal" parts like the ones you mention. The Loaded got me what I wanted right out of the box. Yes, I had to save for a little longer, but I don't regret it now.
Dad told me that sometimes you can save a little longer, spend a little more, and go first class. That may apply here.
DougDubya
Member
Basically, the GI model would be fine as is. I'd swap out the safety and grips for ambis with grips that had a cut for the ambi-leg. That's it.
High profile sights, I can live with a 6 pound trigger quite easily.
Most 1911's don't need all those gewgaws.
No FLGR. No extended slide stop or mag release. I used to be really opposed to mag wells, but the Loaded I tried had a mag well and it really was no difference.
I personally like arched mainspring housings. I DON'T need holes in my trigger or titanium whatsits or commanderized hammers.
And until I swap out the regular GI safety for an ambi, 100% focus and two-handed decocking for it in C-2 for this southpaw. (Or just stick with one of my revolvers.)
High profile sights, I can live with a 6 pound trigger quite easily.
Most 1911's don't need all those gewgaws.
No FLGR. No extended slide stop or mag release. I used to be really opposed to mag wells, but the Loaded I tried had a mag well and it really was no difference.
I personally like arched mainspring housings. I DON'T need holes in my trigger or titanium whatsits or commanderized hammers.
And until I swap out the regular GI safety for an ambi, 100% focus and two-handed decocking for it in C-2 for this southpaw. (Or just stick with one of my revolvers.)
XavierBreath
Member
Simple.
Buy a Springer Champion in stainless with all the goodies on it. That's what you want.
PX9142LP. You may have to order it. No forward slide serrations.
If you have to save your pennies a while longer, so be it. Buy what you want.
There is a reason the Loaded sells. It's the easiest, less expensive route to that type of pistol.
DougDubya
Member
No unnecessary gewgaws on that beauty! +1 Xavier!
loop
Member
I have two .45s I'm working on right now. In the end they will be exactly what I want from each. It will take time and money to make them into the end result guns I desire.
But, when they are done they will be worth around $3,000 each and that is what I will have in them. Neither one will have a single feature I don't want, but will also have every feature I want.
One is about a year away from completion and the other about two years. The thing is that I start at the top. Get the sights, recoil spring, guide rod, barrel, bushing, firing pin, spring, plunger and extractor and tune after each upgrade.
The gun is always 100 percent and only needs minor fixes in between. Then I get the package refinished.
Then we start on the receiver.
Many of these projects could have bought a new gun - or two, but the issue is do I have the perfect gun for me or not?
Bear in mind it all starts with a frame and a slide. Everything else is optional. If you start out with the right frame and slide you can end up with what you want.
Also, bear in mind I usually sell my guns once I'm done building them for less than I have in them...
But, when they are done they will be worth around $3,000 each and that is what I will have in them. Neither one will have a single feature I don't want, but will also have every feature I want.
One is about a year away from completion and the other about two years. The thing is that I start at the top. Get the sights, recoil spring, guide rod, barrel, bushing, firing pin, spring, plunger and extractor and tune after each upgrade.
The gun is always 100 percent and only needs minor fixes in between. Then I get the package refinished.
Then we start on the receiver.
Many of these projects could have bought a new gun - or two, but the issue is do I have the perfect gun for me or not?
Bear in mind it all starts with a frame and a slide. Everything else is optional. If you start out with the right frame and slide you can end up with what you want.
Also, bear in mind I usually sell my guns once I'm done building them for less than I have in them...
Sorry. I'm running under the radar with mine right now, and want to keep it that way. Yours might call mine and then we'll both be in the doghouse.Now, will you please speak to my wife for me.
XavierBreath has the right answer. Buy the one you really want.
gunjunky
Member
Both are fantastic guns.
But Xavier nailed it - great advice.
But Xavier nailed it - great advice.
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