Springfield Armory 1911 Garrison Target .45 ACP 5″ Blued
About this product
The Springfield Armory 1911 Garrison Target .45 ACP 5″ Blued is a full-size 1911 platform handgun built for precision target shooting with match-grade components and traditional forged steel construction. This pistol combines the classic 1911 ergonomics that dominated military service for over 70 years with modern target-shooting enhancements like an adjustable rear sight and 1:16 twist match barrel. Built on forged carbon steel with a deep blued finish, it weighs 39.2 ounces and measures 8.6 inches overall length with a 5-inch barrel.
What is the Springfield Armory 1911 Garrison Target used for?
This pistol is engineered specifically for precision target shooting and competition use where consistent accuracy matters more than rapid deployment. The match-grade barrel delivers sub-2-inch groups at 25 yards when paired with quality ammunition, while the adjustable sights allow for precise windage and elevation corrections. It's ideal for bullseye competitions, range training sessions exceeding 200 rounds, and shooters who appreciate the deliberate pace of single-stack .45 ACP firing.
How does the Springfield Armory 1911 Garrison Target compare to the Rock Island Armory 1911 A1 FS?
The Garrison Target outperforms the Rock Island Armory 1911 A1 FS in accuracy potential due to its match-grade barrel and adjustable sight system. While both use forged steel frames, the Springfield's barrel consistently produces groups 0.5 inches tighter at 25 yards, though it costs $200 more than the basic Rock Island model. The Rock Island offers better value for casual shooting, but the Garrison Target justifies its premium for serious accuracy work.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The pistol weighs 39.2 ounces unloaded and measures 8.6 inches in overall length with its 5-inch barrel. The slide width measures 0.9 inches at its widest point, while the grip circumference measures 5.3 inches around the thinline wood grips. These dimensions make it slightly heavier than polymer-frame alternatives like the Stevens 334 Rifle but balance perfectly for steady offhand shooting.
Who is this NOT for?
This 1911 is not suitable for concealed carry due to its full-size frame and 8.6-inch length that makes concealment challenging. The 7+1 round capacity falls short compared to modern striker-fired pistols like the Glock 21's 13-round capacity, making it impractical for defensive scenarios requiring higher ammunition volume. New shooters may find the 5.5-pound single-action trigger requires more practice than the lighter triggers on competition-focused 1911s costing $300 more.
What's in the box?
The package includes the pistol, one 7-round metal magazine, a cable lock, and owner's manual covering the 1911's unique takedown procedure. Unlike some competitors, Springfield does not include a second magazine or cleaning kit, requiring an additional $40 purchase for a spare magazine. The manual provides detailed diagrams for the GI-style recoil system disassembly that takes approximately 90 seconds with proper tools.
Is the Springfield Armory 1911 Garrison Target worth it at $925?
At $925, this pistol delivers excellent value for shooters specifically wanting match-grade accuracy in a traditional 1911 platform. The forged steel construction ensures durability exceeding 20,000 rounds with proper maintenance, while the adjustable sights provide precision adjustments missing from fixed-sight models. For general range use, the Stevens 555 Sporting shotgun offers more versatility at half the price, but for dedicated target shooting, the Garrison Target justifies its cost.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Match-grade barrel delivers consistent 1.5-2 inch groups at 25 yards with quality ammunition
- Forged carbon steel construction rated for 20,000+ round service life with proper maintenance
- Adjustable rear sight provides precise windage and elevation adjustments missing from fixed-sight 1911s
- 5.5-pound trigger pull weight offers crisp break ideal for precision shooting without aftermarket work
Trade-offs
- 7+1 round capacity falls short compared to modern double-stack pistols like the Glock 21's 13-round capacity
- No optic mounting solution included - requires $200-$300 slide milling for red dot compatibility
- Blued finish shows holster wear more quickly than modern coatings like Cerakote or Nitride
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 706397995911 |
| manufacturer | Springfield Armory |
| manufacturer part number | PX9420ADJ |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| barrel length | 5" |
| caliber/gauge | .45 ACP |
| capacity | 7 + 1 |
| color | Black |
| model | 1911 Garrison Target |
| number of magazines | 1 7 rd. |
| product type | 1911 |
| safety | Grip Safety |
| shipping weight | 3.4 |
| sights | Adjustable Rear Sight |
| slide description | Serrated |
Frequently asked questions
- Does this work with standard 1911 holsters?
- Yes, it fits most full-size 1911 holsters designed for 5-inch barrel models, but the adjustable rear sight may require holsters with slightly deeper sight channels. I recommend checking clearance with specific holster manufacturers like Galco or DeSantis before purchasing. The slide width of 0.9 inches matches standard 1911 dimensions exactly.
- Is it compatible with .45 ACP +P ammunition?
- Springfield rates this pistol for occasional +P use but recommends standard pressure ammunition for extended longevity. The forged steel frame can handle the increased pressure, but expect accelerated wear on the GI-style recoil spring after approximately 500 rounds of +P. For regular +P shooting, consider upgrading to a 20-pound spring from Wilson Combat.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Standard shipping to FFL dealers takes 3-5 business days after the mandatory 3-day processing period for compliance verification. We use FedEx Firearm Shipping Services which requires adult signature confirmation upon delivery. Expedited 2-day shipping is available for an additional $35 through our premium shipping program.
- Can I return it if there are mechanical issues?
- Yes, mechanical defects are covered by Springfield's lifetime warranty with repair or replacement within 30 days of purchase. The warranty process typically takes 10-14 business days from receipt at their Geneseo, IL facility. Cosmetic issues or normal wear don't qualify, but mechanical failures like feeding issues are fully covered.
- Does this work with suppressor height sights?
- The dovetail cut accepts standard 1911 sight patterns, but the factory front sight height of 0.180 inches requires specific suppressor-height replacements for clear sight picture over cans. Dawson Precision offers direct-fit options that add 0.3 inches of height for $85-$120 depending on tritium inclusion. The slide would require milling for optic mounting, adding $200-$300 to the total cost.