Originally Posted by
WDH
My father generously gifted me a Springfield Champion Operator Lightweight for reasons known only to him. And, while I'm thrilled to have both a new pistol and a father that spoils the crap out of me, I've come to a place of sobriety regarding this new acquisition.
This is my first 1911-style pistol, and after reading through DocGKR and Bill Riehl's posts, as well as Hilton Yam's articles on the 1911, I am left feeling like a sixteen-year-old with his first car (to paraphrase another member here on the same subject). I want to avoid putting a spoiler on my gold '92 Volvo, thinking that I'll be able to drive it like a tuned sports car.
This is not yet a gun I will consider using for self-defense. To that end, I use a gen 4 Glock 19 for training, carry, and home-defense.
After firing approximately 600 rounds through the pistol, I am left with these concerns:
1) I've heard good things on this forum about select Springfield frames (ie, NM frames). I can't find too much discussion on their LW frames. Is this because their LW frames are considered a no-go for serious use?
2) I'm not entirely sold on the stock two piece guide rod. At approximately 150 rounds, the original began to unscrew during recoil. It was around this time that I started getting reliable stoppages. Springfield sent a replacement guide rod, which seems to be holding up, but still... I'm considering replacing this part with a Wilson Combat spring/guide rod set. What do I need to consider when swapping out recoil springs?
3) Serious 1911 users have their pistols worked over by a reputable gunsmith, and spend quite a bit of money on this process. I'm okay with investing the time and money, but with this particular pistol, where would I begin? I believe it already has some features the Springfield Custom Shop would add with their reliability package.
4) I've read Commanders aren't 1911s, and bring along unique baggage.
5) Regardless of where this pistol takes me, 1911s are a just fun. I want more 1911 in my life.
Thanks for reading,
WDH