SPRINGFIELD ARMORY GI 4" CHAMPION 1911 PISTOL

The Springfield Armory GI Champion 4" barrel 1911 is a Commander size pistol, which weren't brought to market until the 1970's. Thus, it's not really a replica of the G.I. pistols, but it does make for a good carry gun that has a nostalgic feel.

It comes with a 4" parkerized bull barrel with a fully supported ramp. The frame and slide are both forged steel, and are parkerized as well. Parkerized finishes are extremely durable, much more so than anodized. The wood grips with "U.S." engraved into the wood make for an attractive finishing touch.

The trigger on the Champion G.I. is flat, with a pull weight of 5-7 pounds. The pistol utilizes a full length guide rod with dual recoil springs.

The sights are G.I., with a notched blade in the rear and a low rounded sight blade up front.

The grip safety is flat, as were those on the G.I. pistols. The hammer is a spur style, again just like the G.I. models.

If you're interested in a Commander size 1911 for carry, defense or other purposes, and would like a retro look, the G.I. Champion should be on your short list.

Specifications

GI .45 4", Champion PW9142LP
Caliber: . .45 ACP
Capacity: 7+1
Barrel: 4" Fully supported barrel
Sights: Low-profile military
Sight Radius: 5.5"  
Size: 34 ozs., 7.5" overall length
Trigger Pull: 5 to 6 lbs.
Magazines: 2

Every Springfield Armory 1911 pistol is equipped with a trigger locking device. A key inserted into a hole in the rear grip strap positively locks the trigger, making it impossible for a child to accidentally discharge the gun. This system gives you a choice as to whether or not you need to lock your gun. Unlike trigger locks on other brands of guns, the keyhole is small, so that it doesn't ruin the looks of the gun.

Click here to visit Gunshopfinder's Springfield Armory page. Or, to find a Springfield Armory dealer near you, select a state and then click "Submit."

Reviews of the G.I.Champion 1911

Overall Rating: 4 out of 5
By muddobber2010, Eugene, OR
March 21, 2011

Primary use: Target shooting

"This gun is too much fun. I have many hand guns and this and the 40 XDM are high on my carry list when hunting. The only things I don't like is several times hunting I found the safety off while holstered. The other is it's harder to break down than XDM. I would like XDM more if it could go in a left handed holster."

Overall Rating: 4 out of 5
By Rocko, Largo, FL
May 2, 2011

Primary use: Defense/Law Enforcement

"This is a great 1911. It is extremely dependable. I've put over a thousand rounds through it and not the first hiccup. It groups fairly well, feels great, looks great, and if it were a little more accurate it would be the perfect defense, carry, and target gun. It does not have an ammo preference. Shoots all equally well. I really like this gun a lot."

Overall Rating: 5 out of 5
By Dave, Richmond, VA
June 21, 2011

Primary use: Defense/Law Enforcement

Once I became acquainted with this beauty, the true joy of ownership of one of these pistols became evident. I couldn't stay off the range. The groupings are satisfyingly tight, and this weapon readily accepts all but reloaded ammo (I wouldn't advise it's use). Ease of maintenance is another positive. Now I want the five inch!!! Overall, a quality, and fun pistol."

Overall Rating: 5 out of 5
By sharpshooter, Brooksville, FL
June 21, 2011

Primary use: Defense/Law Enforcement

"I've had mine for about 8 months now. I replaced the main spring housing with a flat one (personal preference). I got rid of the goofy little safety lock. It shoots very good. A good heavy duty gun for carry and use."

Overall Rating: 5 out of 5
By Barry, Lake Geneva, WI
August 3, 2011

Primary use: Defense/Law Enforcement

"The model Champion I have is the stainless steel V10 Ultra Compact , the ported 3 inch barrel equipped. I purchased it used from the original owner who purchased it in 2001 . We went to an outdoor range and at 25 yards this gun amazed me! It has been 10 years since I shot a handgun (a Smith&Wesson all steel nickle plated 559 9mm). The first shot nicked the bulls eye and the next 2 mags full ringed around it . The short barrel makes it a loud gun and at night two rows of flames rise up in front of you ,but contrary to popular belief it does not blind you . I will never need to buy another hand gun again. Since our state passed a concealed carry law, this was my reason for this purchase."

Overall Rating: 5 out of 5
By Iron Horse, Cedar City, UT
August 3, 2011

Primary use: Defense/Law Enforcement

"I have the Champion Model GI 4". It is the most dependible pistol I've ever used. Rock solid, and extremely accurate. 2" grouping at 30'. I am a lefty, so I put an ambidexterous on it. Works fine. It eats all types of 45 ACP, except for reloads. Had some problem here with the ejector when I used some friend's reloads. Stopped using them, and never had a problem since. It's a great conceal carry gun. Since I teach Bail Enforcement, Conceal Carry and NRA Pistol Courses, I always use the Champion as the example of what a 1911 should do, and how it functions as a defensive tool. I like the balance and simplicity. This is an everyday work gun, and it takes a lot of punishment. It can be in mountain snow and freezing conditions one day, and slamming out rounds in the desert heat the next. Not to mention, it works well in the rain and the wind! I would recomend the Champion to anyone who is thinking about a 1911 style pistol for professional and private use. Did I mention the nostalgia part of the GI Model? In Vietnam, the 1911 was my best friend!"

Overall Rating: 5 out of 5
By Jim, Catskill, NY
November 21, 2011

Primary use: Target Shooting

"Great 1911. I have owned several 1911's over the years, but this one beats them all. I had some work done (feed ramp, sights, trigger work) and now it shoots better then before. Looking forward to getting another. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a dependable .45 1911 model."

Overall Rating: 5 out of 5
By Dave, Apple Valley, CA
November 21, 2011

Primary use: Defense/Law Enforcement

"My Champion will shoot 1" groups at 25 yards from a bench, with 230 gr. PMC ball ammo. Pretty damn good for a commander-size pistol. I love mine. It's my favorite 1911-type pistol!"

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