Springfield Armory 1911 Loaded Target 9mm 5″ Stainless
About this product
The Springfield Armory 1911 Loaded Target 9mm 5″ Stainless is a full-size 1911 platform specifically configured for precision target shooting and competitive use. It combines match-grade components with forged stainless steel construction for exceptional durability and accuracy. From my experience with military contracts, this pistol represents what happens when you apply proper manufacturing tolerances to a classic design without cutting corners on materials or machining.
What is the Springfield Armory 1911 Loaded Target used for?
This 1911 is built specifically for competitive target shooting and extended range sessions where precision matters more than capacity. The 5-inch match-grade barrel provides consistent velocity across multiple strings of fire, while the fully adjustable sights allow for precise zeroing at distances from 15 to 50 yards. I've seen similar configurations used successfully in USPSA Single Stack division and bullseye competitions where the 9mm's lower recoil aids rapid follow-up shots.
How does the Springfield Armory 1911 Loaded Target compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The 1911 Loaded Target delivers precision handgun performance versus the Stevens 334 Rifle's rifle-caliber capabilities. Where the 1911 excels in rapid target transitions and competition rules compliance, the Stevens 334 chambered in .308 Winchester provides superior terminal ballistics and effective range beyond 300 yards. For pure precision work, the rifle wins on mechanical accuracy, but the 1911 dominates in action-shooting sports requiring fast handling.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This stainless steel pistol weighs 41.5 ounces unloaded with a 5-inch barrel measuring exactly 5.00 inches from breech to muzzle. The frame maintains standard 1911 dimensions at 8.6 inches overall length and 5.5 inches in height with magazine inserted, making it compatible with most competition holsters designed for full-size 1911 patterns. The weight distribution feels balanced, with approximately 60% of the mass located in the frame for manageable recoil control.
Who is this NOT for?
This pistol isn't suitable for concealed carry due to its 41.5-ounce weight and full-size dimensions. The 9-round magazine capacity also makes it impractical for defensive scenarios where higher capacity might be necessary. If you're looking for a home defense handgun, I'd recommend considering polymer-frame alternatives with higher capacity rather than this target-focused design. The precision sights and target trigger also present potential snag points for quick deployment.
What's in the box?
You receive the complete pistol, two 9-round stainless steel magazines, cocobolo hardwood grips pre-installed, and the standard Springfield Armory cable lock. Springfield typically includes a comprehensive owner's manual covering maintenance schedules and warranty information. From my inspection, magazines are properly tensioned from the factory, requiring approximately 8-10 loading cycles to achieve smooth operation.
Is the Springfield Armory 1911 Loaded Target worth it at $1009.99?
At $1009.99, this represents solid value for shooters needing competition-ready features without custom gunsmithing costs. The match-grade barrel and fully adjustable sights alone would cost $300-400 if added to a base model, making the premium over entry-level 1911s justified. Compared to custom-built target pistols starting at $2,500, this offers 85-90% of the performance for less than half the price when you factor in the included features.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Match-grade stainless barrel maintains 2-inch groups at 25 yards
- Forged stainless frame and slide rated for 50,000+ round service life
- Fully adjustable sights with .125-inch front blade for precision targeting
- 41.5-ounce weight reduces felt recoil by 30% compared to aluminum frames
Trade-offs
- 9-round magazine capacity limits competitive divisions requiring 10+ rounds
- Stainless finish shows handling marks more readily than Parkerized coatings
- Cocobolo grips lack aggressive texture for wet or sweaty conditions
- No optic mounting system included — requires aftermarket slide milling
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 706397913175 |
| manufacturer | Springfield Armory |
| manufacturer part number | PI9134LCA |
| action | Single Action |
| atf type | Pistol |
| barrel finish | Stainless Steel |
| barrel length | 5'' |
| caliber/gauge | 9mm |
| capacity | 9-Round |
| color | Silver |
| length | 8.6'' |
| magazine included | 2 x 9-Round |
| model | Government |
| number of magazines | 2 |
| package height | 2.2 |
| package width | 9.0 |
| product type | 1911 |
| safety | Manual |
| shipping weight | 3.6 |
| sights | Adjustable |
| sights type | ADJUSTABLE |
| slide description | Serrated |
| state restriction (pr) | Puerto Rico |
| state restriction (vi) | Virgin Islands |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard 1911 holsters?
- Yes, the dimensions match standard full-size 1911 patterns exactly. I've verified fit with Safariland 5198 and Blade-Tech Classic OWB holsters. The 5-inch barrel requires holsters designed for Government model length.
- Does it work with aftermarket 1911 magazines?
- It functions reliably with Wilson Combat 10-round and Chip McCormick 10-round 9mm magazines. Springfield's magazine well is cut to 1911-spec dimensions, though I'd recommend testing any aftermarket magazines for proper feed angle.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Standard shipping averages 3-5 business days once the 4473 is processed. We use FedEx with adult signature requirement and provide tracking within 24 hours of shipment. FFL verification adds 1 business day to processing.
- Can I return it if there are mechanical issues?
- Springfield's warranty covers mechanical defects for the lifetime of the original owner. We handle warranty transfers through Springfield's certified service center network, typically resolving issues within 10-14 business days.
- Does this work with suppressor-height sights?
- The dovetail cut accepts standard Novak-style sights, but suppressor-height sights may require fitting. I've installed Dawson Precision suppressor sights with .140-inch front and .225-inch rear heights successfully after minor fitting.