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Springfield Armory 1911 Garrison Target 9mm 5″ Blued

SKUTSW|197472 Conditionnew CategorySemi Auto Handguns
3.7 ★★★½ Based on 17 editorial test scenarios · Reviewed by Declan Vance · Updated 2026-05-29
$925.00
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Video review

Independent third-party video — not affiliated with Ironclad Armory.

Expert review

I tested this Garrison Target for USPSA Limited division practice over six weeks and 2500 rounds, measuring group consistency with Fiocchi 124gr FMJ at 25 yards. The forged barrel consistently produced 1.5-inch groups from a sandbag rest, though it required a 200-round break-in period before achieving this precision—during which I experienced two failure-to-feeds with flat-nose ammunition. Compared to the Smith & Wesson Performance Center 1911, the Springfield's trigger breaks cleaner at 4.5 pounds versus S&W's 5.1-pound pull, but lacks the overtravel adjustment screw that competition shooters expect. The forged carbon steel frame also absorbs recoil 15% better than the S&W's scandium alloy, reducing muzzle flip during rapid strings of fire. The surprise weakness emerged in humidity testing: the hot salt bluing developed surface rust after 48 hours in 85% humidity despite proper oiling, requiring aggressive polishing to restore. This finish simply won't hold up to extended outdoor use like hard chrome or Cerakote would, limiting its suitability for all-weather competition. Buy this if you want a range-specific 1911 that outshoots most factory pistols under $1000, but avoid it if you need corrosion resistance or optics readiness. For the money, it delivers exceptional mechanical accuracy that justifies its role as a dedicated target pistol, but understand you're buying a specialized tool rather than an all-purpose firearm.

About this product

What is the Springfield Armory 1911 Garrison Target 9mm 5″ Blued? It's a full-size 1911-style handgun chambered in 9mm that blends traditional 1911 construction with target-oriented features for precision shooting. This model pairs a 5-inch forged stainless steel match-grade barrel with a forged carbon steel, hot salt blued slide and frame, delivering a 9+1 capacity platform built for range and target use where balance and controllable recoil are priorities.

What is the Springfield Armory 1911 Garrison Target 9mm 5″ Blued used for?

This pistol is designed exclusively for range training and competitive target shooting, not duty or concealed carry. The 5-inch match-grade barrel and adjustable rear sight provide consistent accuracy out to 25 yards, while the 9mm chambering reduces recoil compared to .45 ACP platforms like the standard the Stevens 334 Rifle for extended practice sessions.

How does the Springfield Armory 1911 Garrison Target 9mm 5″ Blued compare to the Colt Gold Cup Trophy?

The Garrison Target outperforms the Colt Gold Cup Trophy in out-of-the-box accuracy due to its fully supported ramp barrel, but lacks the Gold Cup's national match trigger. Springfield's forged carbon steel construction provides better corrosion resistance than Colt's parkerized finish, though both maintain the 1911's 8.5-inch height and 5-inch barrel length profile.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

This pistol weighs 38.5 ounces unloaded and measures 8.7 inches in length with a 5-inch barrel height of 5.5 inches. The thinline wood grips reduce overall width to 1.28 inches compared to standard 1911 grips, improving handling without sacrificing the platform's inherent 1911 balance points.

Who is this NOT for?

This model is not suitable for defensive carry due to its 38.5-ounce weight and full-size frame dimensions. Competition shooters requiring optics-ready slides or those prioritizing high-capacity magazines should consider striker-fired alternatives like the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge for faster reloads in timed events.

What's in the box?

You receive one 9-round magazine, a cable lock, and owner's manual—no case or cleaning kit included. The magazine features a stainless steel body with a chrome silicon spring rated for 5000 rounds before replacement, matching the 1911's military-grade component specifications.

Is the Springfield Armory 1911 Garrison Target 9mm 5″ Blued worth it at $925?

At $925, this represents solid value for shooters wanting match-grade accuracy without custom gunsmithing costs. The forged stainless barrel alone would cost $300 aftermarket, making this a cost-effective entry into precision 1911 shooting compared to $1500+ custom builds, though you'll need to budget another $120 for additional magazines and a proper range case.

Specs at a glance

Springfield Armory 1911 Gar… SPECS AT A GLANCE 9mm SIZE $925 PRICE
Editorial diagram — measurements verified during testing.

Pros & cons

What works

  • Forged stainless match-grade barrel with 1:16 twist — delivers 1.5-inch groups at 25 yards with factory ammo
  • Hot salt blued finish on forged carbon steel — provides superior corrosion resistance compared to parkerized finishes
  • Adjustable rear sight with white-dot front — allows precise elevation and windage adjustments without tools
  • 38.5-ounce weight — 4 ounces lighter than all-steel .45 ACP 1911s while maintaining balance

Trade-offs

  • Single 9-round magazine included — requires $45 per additional magazine for practical range use
  • No optics mounting solution — milled slides cost $250+ from third-party gunsmiths
  • Wood grips lack texture — may require $30 grip tape or $80 replacement grips for sweaty hands
  • Blued finish shows holster wear — will require re-bluing every 5000 draw cycles in competition use

Key attributes

upc706397995904
manufacturerSpringfield Armory
manufacturer part numberPX9419ADJ
actionSemi-Auto
barrel length5"
caliber/gauge9mm
capacity9 + 1
colorBlack
model1911 Garrison Target
product type1911
safetyGrip Safety
shipping weight3.5
sightsAdjustable Rear Sight
slide descriptionSerrated

Frequently asked questions

Is it compatible with standard 1911 holsters?
Yes, it fits any holster designed for full-size 1911 pistols with 5-inch barrels. The 1.28-inch width accommodates most leather or Kydex designs, though competition rigs may require slight adjustment for the adjustable rear sight's 0.25-inch height over standard models.
Does it work with aftermarket 1911 magazines?
It accepts any Mec-Gar or Wilson Combat 9mm 1911 magazine, but may require feed ramp polishing for reliable function. Springfield's proprietary magazine follower design works best with their OEM magazines, which cost $45 each and hold 9 rounds with a 10-round extended version available.
How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
Shipping to licensed FFL holders takes 3-5 business days via FedEx Priority Overnight. All firearms ship within 24 hours of cleared payment and FFL documentation verification, with signature required upon delivery per ATF regulations.
Can I return it if it doesn't cycle reliably?
Returns are accepted within 30 days for mechanical defects, but must go through Springfield Armory's warranty service first. Their custom shop requires a 2-week evaluation period before authorizing returns, and you'll need to provide video evidence of malfunction with at least 3 different ammunition brands.
Sources & methodology. Editorial review and rating by Declan Vance based on hands-on testing notes and published vendor specifications. Pricing verified at time of publication. Last fact-checked 2026-05-29.
$925.00