Springfield Milspec Stainless vs Loaded Black Stainless

[jwalker497]

I have an itch for a 1911 but cannot decide between these 2 models. The Loaded Black Stainless or the Mil-spec stainless. Both look absolutely beautiful and seem rock solid. Anyone have any info on which one I should go for? What's a reasonable street price for these models? Any issues with the Black finish? Which one would you pick and why?

[DefensiveCarry.com]

[jwalker497]

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[varob]

I have a mil spec and love it.

If I was to buy another SA 1911 it would definitely be the Loaded. It has all the goodies that Springfield offers which makes it a better gun.

Cost is probably around 1k.

[Spec]

I have no idea which one you should get but I would get the black one.... i never liked the wood look on semi-auto's... but that is just based on looks....

I also like the beaver tail on the black one... but if you are planning on concealing it... the Mil-spec beaver tail doesn't look as long and pointy. JMO

[DistantHorizon]

I think that's comparing apples and oranges. To me, the beaver tail alone makes it a no-brainer.

When I was new to 1911's and naive, I purchased the Mil-Spec. Needed beavertail. Needed flat MSH (mainspring housing). Needed extended thumb safety. IMHO, those are essentials, and they ought to be purchased on the gun.

Why doesn't the Springer Loaded have checkering on the front strap???

[Sarge45]

The Loaded is the better gun. The TRP is better yet.

[TX-JB]

I'd pick the loaded over the mil-spec everyday of the week, especially since It's your money I'm spending...

[Hubs]

I like the Loaded better, but I prefer a stainless finish. The black finish tends to scratch.

[D-Man]

As previously mentioned, the guns have different features which should be the key in helping you make a decision. Do you need a beavertail? Do you want front-cocking serrations? Do you want 'better' sights that come on the Loaded model? Also, how much of a price difference is there?

The Mil-Spec is a good basic 1911. The Loaded is a good more advanced 1911.

[OldVet]

I feel a stainless should look stainless. Why cover it up?

[riggergreg]

I have a loaded black, loaded SS Ultra compact, and a SS Mil-spec.
They all feel and shoot excellent, but the loaded models just feel and shoot a bit better. Maybe its the trigger...... or the hammer......or the flat mainspring housing......... or just that little bit of extra care that goes into the assembly process.......

The black will show holster wear a bit more, but I think a well used 1911 is just sexy.

I'd go with the loaded myself

[ScubaDuba]

I would get the one that had the most stuff on it that you're going to want later anyway.

[Sportsterguy]

I adhere to the KISS principle. A reliable pistol, good trigger and sights are the only essentials IMO for a 1911. My Mil-Spec is a shooting machine and doesn't have all the BS goodies that are not needed, but nice in a SD weapon. Save the money for a good holster and plenty of ammo and buy the Mil-Spec. You can always personalize it down the road to fit YOUR needs as I did.

If you have the money go for the loaded model. I like fixed sights myself and ditch the FLGR if it's on it.

For that kinda money the front strap should at least be stipled.

[cphilip]

Keep in mind, there are two "Black and Stainless" models. The Combat and the Target.

I have (and chose) the Combat one. The one the OP shows initially shown along with a SS Mil Spec... is the Combat.

The Combat is simple with combat sights but just has the Black and Stainless contrast finish. It is a bit more "Combat or Carry" than the straight Loaded stainless. Often confusing is that they do make another variety in that being the "Target Black and Stainless".

[ScubaDuba]

pretty