1911 Operator
Everyone needs at least one 1911 in their collection that they can take out often and enjoy. I’m not talking about those $4,000 safe queens who only see two magazines once a year.
With their smooth actions, superior triggers, and fine accuracy, 1911s are meant to be enjoyed. And since they make great defensive pistols, the more training you have with them, the better.
Related Review: Smooth Samurai – Springfield Armory Ronin Operator 1911
The Operator line from Springfield was designed for exactly that. It’s a no-nonsense, defensive-grade 1911 that offers tactical upgrades without a semi-custom price. Springfield continues to add models with upgraded features, the optics-ready AOS being the latest version.
Springfield has released the Operator AOS in both Government and Commander length.
Besides the Operator AOS, Springfield is also introducing Emissary ($1,378) and Ronin ($967) models as well, likewise in both 5- and 4.25-inch formats.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
Although Springfield still sends most of its pistols out in a cardboard box, you’ll find a soft zippered pouch inside to keep your new gun and magazines together. It’s a small touch but an appreciated one.
Upon opening the box and case, I immediately noticed the beautiful but subtle finish. The black Cerakote finish had no blemishes, and the VZ Grips have an almost FDE/OD green combination color that looks phenomenal with the black.
At 2.6 pounds, this is not a light pistol, but it’s well-balanced. In addition, the scalloped texturing on the grips provides a ton of purchase, giving you a confident and secure feeling while holding it. Overall, the fit and finish were on point, and I couldn’t wait to get to the range to test it out.
Features
The Operator AOS shows impressive accuracy potential, thanks to two main features: the match-grade barrel and the Agency Optic System addition. Under the hood is a forged stainless-steel match-grade barrel with a 1:16 twist. Paired with the Operator's new ability to host your favorite optic, it’s a recipe for success.
The Agency Optic System was developed in collaboration with Agency Arms, so you know between the two manufacturers, some serious design work was put into it. Using a variety of mounting plates, your Operator AOS can host everything from your Trijicon RMRs to your Swampfox Sentinels.
Each plate is designed to place the optic at an intuitive sight picture height and includes an integral rear sight. While the plates are impressive, they are each sold separately and are not cheap. That’s my biggest “con,” if you will. You better be sure which optic you want to run so you can purchase the correct plate.
On the slide, you’ll find a tritium sight up front and forward and rear serrations. I love the addition of forward serrations as it allows you to press check much more easily.
Below the slide are a few other features worth mentioning: ambidextrous safety (great for left-handers), a full-length accessory rail that can accommodate your larger lights, and of course, the nine-round magazines.
SPECS
- Caliber: 9mm (as tested) or .45 ACP
- Capacity: 9+1
- Barrel Length: 5 inches (as tested) or 4.25 inches
- Overall Length: 8.6 inches
- Height: 5.25 inches
- Weight: 2.6 pounds
RANGE REPORT
On paper, the Operator AOS features should yield solid reliability and good accuracy, but you never really know until you shoot it.
I hit the range with two full magazines, a 50-round box of 124-grain Blazer Brass FMJs, and a 50-round box of 115-grain Fiocchi Range Dynamics FMJs. The 118 rounds successfully fed, shot, and extracted with no malfunctions. While it’s a small sample size (so far), since I’ve only had the gun for about a week, I don’t foresee my near-future rounds going any differently.
It didn’t take long for me to acclimate to the crisp trigger and low recoil. Together, the two can lead to better accuracy than I’m capable of. The trigger isn’t super fancy, but it’s consistent. The pull is short and smooth, followed by a clean break.
I started my shooting at 7 yards and, after a few magazines, pushed it back to 10 yards. Although I was still becoming familiar with my new EOTech EFLX, I could maintain roughly 2-inch groupings at that 10-yard mark. I’m no competition shooter, so I was happy with those results, especially given how quickly they were obtained.
PROS & CONS
Pros:
- Optics-ready slide with forward and rear serrations
- Scalloped G10 VZ Grips
- Forged match-grade barrel
- Accurate and reliable
- Accessory rail can accommodate full-sized lights
Cons:
-
Optic plates are pricey and sold separately
FINAL THOUGHTS
If you’re looking for a versatile 1911 that can be used in a defensive role but still hang at the range from an accuracy perspective and not break the bank, the 1911 Operator AOS is one to consider.
Sure, it’s not the fanciest out there, but it’s not designed to be. The price reflects that. If you want something a bit more on the custom side, Springfield also just released the 1911 Emissary AOS. On the other end of the budget, you can check out the new 1911 Ronin AOS, which is still extremely capable but will save you a few bucks.
I don’t think you’d regret going with any of those 1911s, but I’d suggest the Operator AOS for a great all-around shooter at a decent price.
