First Look: Springfield Armory 1911 Operator In 9mm

The new 1911 Operator 9mm has been released by Springfield Armory, a reliable and practical 1911 pistol that Springfield says is ideal for duty use. This version of the pistol includes all the features that made the original popular, such as a Tactical Rack rear/tritium front sight set, ambidextrous safety, and G10 VZ Grips. 

It also comes with two magazines with bumper pads that can hold up to nine rounds due to the 9mm chambering of the pistol. Additionally, the pistol has a low-key black Cerakote finish on its forged steel slide and frame, which protects against the elements and ensures a lifetime of service. 

The frame also includes an integrated Picatinny accessory rail on the dustcover that allows users to attach a light, laser, or combo unit of their choice. The fully supported ramped match-grade barrel is made from forged stainless steel for maximum durability and downrange performance. 

Finally, the Operator features a traditional barrel bushing for easy and simple tool-free takedown in the field.

“Springfield Armory 1911 pistols are renowned for their performance, strength and capabilities,” says Steve Kramer, Vice President of Marketing. “And with the popular Operator pistol now available in 9mm, shooters have a new option with this duty-grade premiere defensive pistol.”

Some might question the wisdom of using a 9+1 9mm 1911 in the year 2023, but for those who are interested in doing so – the Operator represents a good entry-level price point for a platform that has proven to be reliable in past iterations.

MSRP is $1,184.

SPECS:

• CALIBER: 9mm
• COLOR: Black
• BARREL: 5″ Forged Stainless Steel, Match Grade, Fully Supported Ramp, 1:16
• SLIDE: Forged Carbon Steel, Black Cerakote®
• FRAME: Forged Carbon Steel, Black Cerakote®
• SIGHTS: Tritium Front, Tactical Rack White Dot Rear
• RECOIL SYSTEM: GI Style
• GRIPS: VZ Grips® G10
• MAGAZINES: (2) 9-Round
• WEIGHT: 42 oz
• LENGTH: 8.6″
• HEIGHT: 5.25″

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