Springfield TRP 1911 Pros & Cons
Pros
- Tight tolerances and fitment
- Great triggers
- Aggressive grip surfaces
- Good accuracy
Cons
- Expensive
- May have a break-in period
Springfield TRP 1911 Specs & Features
Specs
- Caliber: 45 ACP
- Length: 7.9″ / 8.6″
- Barrel Length: 4.25″ / 5″
- Height: 5.5″
- Magazine Capacity: 7 rnds / 8 rnds
Features
- 3-Dot Tritium Sights
- Forged carbon steel slide
- VZ Grips
It’s no secret that I love my 1911s, but I am not the only one.
Great triggers, a slim hand feel, great shootability, and a storied history have helped the 1911 stick around longer than just about any other gun.
But in today’s market, 1911s can range in price anywhere from $300 to well over $5,000. With hundreds of options out there, figuring out how much to spend on one can be tough.
So when Springfield sent us a case with four of their new TRP 1911s, I hit the range to try them out and see if the juice was worth the squeeze on their high-end offerings.
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Prices accurate at time of writing
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How We Tested the Springfield TRP 1911s
With four guns in tow, I took 1,250 rounds of Federal American Eagle 230gr FMJ ammo and hit the range. Each pistol was subjected to standing slow-fire accuracy tests at 7 yards. I also shot extended strings of fire, 25-yard accuracy tests, and Mozambique drills.
OEM magazines, Wilson Combat 47D, and Kimber KimPro magazines were used during testing to check magazine compatibility. Defensive ammo was tested for reliability using Sig V-Crown 200 gr JHP rounds.
Testing these guns was Wyatt Sloan, an avid shooter and firearm collector. He has over 230 firearms (many 1911s included), and his experience includes over 20 years of hunting, 10 years of competition, certified instructing, and plenty of time concealed carrying.
Background
Springfield Armory was founded in 1974 and has long been known for producing a wide variety 1911s. It is worth mentioning they bear no relation to the original US Military Springfield Armory.
In 1998, the FBI’s Hostage Rescue Team selected the custom shop Springfield Armory Professional as their trusted sidearm. Drawing inspiration from the Professional, Springfield later developed the Tactical Response Pistol (TRP). Their goal was to deliver similar features and performance in the semi-custom category.
Earlier this year, Springfield announced six new TRP models, expanding their lineup to a total of nine models. We received four of those models: the 5″ TRP in FDE, the 5″ no-rail TRP Classic, the 4.25″ TRP Classic, and the 4.25″ TRP Carry Contour.
Who Is It For?
For some people, the 1911 is a fashion piece or a fun range toy; for others, it can serve as their everyday carry or home defense gun.
The new, expanded TRP lineup offers different models that cover all those use cases while offering top-notch fit and finish. Those looking for a high-end (but not quite custom) 1911 with sensible features will want to check out the TRP line.
Ergonomics: Fit & Feel
Springfield sent us their 5-inch Standard TRP in FDE, the 5-inch TRP Classic, the 4.25-inch TRP Classic, and the 4.25-inch CC TRP, so we have quite a bit to cover here.
Frame
We have a tale of two frames here. The standard FDE model and both classic models I tested utilize forged carbon steel frames that are equipped with a two-piece magwell. However, the Concealed Carry (CC) model uses a much lighter aluminum alloy frame with a bobbed grip.
The full-size steel frame guns weigh 39.2 ounces, and the commander-length 4.25-inch steel frame Classic model weighs 35.5 ounces. The alloy-framed CC model weighs in at 27.3 ounces.
The Standard models and CC models make use of a Picatinny accessory rail, while the “Classic” models have no rail.
All models feature an extended beavertail, an ambidextrous safety, a standard-sized textured button mag release, front strap and back strap checkering, and G-10 grips with a thumb relief.
Holy [expletive] is the combo of the G-10 grips and the checkering aggressive. This is by far the sharpest, most biting grip I’ve ever handled on a stock firearm. Look at how sharp the pyramid checkering is.
The grips really help the guns stay put in your hands but become somewhat uncomfortable after shooting for any extended period of time. These are definitely built for duty, so I see why they went this route. It isn’t the wrong approach, but it is worth considering if you have sensitive hands.
On the CC model, the gun feels so much lighter due to the frame. The bobbed grip and lack of a flared magwell at the bottom help the gun print less than something with a sharp corner.
Trigger
I took three trigger pull measurements for each gun using a Lyman digital trigger gauge. The average trigger pull weight across all models was 4.1 pounds. Takeup on these triggers is minimal, the break is clean, and the reset is both short and crisp.
Slide
Up top, we have forged carbon steel slides, with every model sporting front and rear cocking serrations.
Springfield employs 3-dot tritium sights that have a shelf to be able to rack the gun with one hand. Both the front and rear sights are serrated and easy to pick up. A solid setup here.
The forged stainless steel match-grade barrels come in either a black or stainless finish depending on the model. A standard 1911 barrel bushing setup is in use here, and the slide-to-barrel and slide-to-frame fitment is absolutely impeccable.
Two-piece National Match full-length guide rods are used on the 5-inch models, with the commander-length guns using a standard GI-style recoil system.
Fitment on all four guns was very, very tight from the factory with zero rattling. However, I do believe this was a factor when it came to breaking the guns in; more on that later.
How Does the Springfield 1911 TRP Shoot
Ah, the million-dollar question — how does it shoot?
In a nutshell, pretty darn good. But I do have some caveats and excuses here, so bear with me.
I used American Eagle 230gr FMJ ammo for the majority of testing. Accuracy was excellent across the board, but in my mediocre hands, it wasn’t any better than the Springfield Garrison 1911 ($750) that I reviewed.
All four models required a 6 o’clock hold, but I have found this to be common with 1911s, especially Springfield guns. The point of impact was slightly different for each gun, but that isn’t abnormal and is taken care of easily with windage adjustments.
Lockup was consistent, and even with some noodly arms and caffeine-fueled heart palpations on my part, I was still able to keep everything where I wanted it to be, even during extended strings of fire.
As expected, the full-size 5-inch versions were the easiest to shoot. I felt like the railed FDE standard model shot the best out of the gate, but the 5-inch Classic model started to “shoot in” during testing and gave me some great groups too.
The 4.25-inch Classic model still gives you that beefy steel frame and larger magwell but offers a little more speed when transitioning between targets. This would be the model to go with if you don’t have trouble concealing and carrying heavier guns but don’t want something overly large.
.45 ACP Ammo In Stock
Shaking things up is the alloy-framed CC model. This gun will absolutely rock to carry around since it is so much lighter, and the grip is contoured for concealability.
Even with standard 230gr ammo, the increased muzzle flip and snappier recoil impulse were evident. However, the aggressive grips help you stay on target if you do your part. I shot some Mozambique (double-tap to the body, one to the head) drills from the low-ready to simulate a carry situation.
Reliability
I am going to be as upfront as possible here; there were a few hiccups. While I don’t want to sound like I am making excuses, there are a few reasons that I suspect may have caused the issues, so bear with me.
During testing, I ran around 300 rounds through each gun. I had 4 failures to feed (FTF) on the Standard FDE 5-inch, 2 FTFs on the Classic 5-inch, and 1 FTF on the 4.25-inch CC model.
First and foremost, I mentioned that these guns are toleranced very tight. It is not uncommon for 1911s with this level of fitment to require a short break-in period. Also, the 5-inch models do not have ramped barrels, whereas the commander-length guns do.
Secondly, the initial case of Federal American Eagle I used had multiple boxes with multiple rounds set back into the casings. Before I received the replacement ammo, I handpicked out all the smushed cases I could find and shot proper-length ammo.
However, there may have been a few rounds that weren’t dangerously set back and had a slightly different overall length that could have contributed to the failures in the guns without ramped barrels. The ammo also felt a little inconsistent, but I can’t definitively point any fingers.
The limited amount of 200gr Sig V-Crown I shot ran perfectly, as did another box of S&B 230gr FMJ. As far as magazines go, the Kimber KimPro mags felt the smoothest, but the Wilson and OEM mags ran well.
Why Is the Springfield TRP 1911 Unique?
Those of you who have shopped for 1911s may have noticed how once you get past the $800-1200 mark, many of the nicer 1911s skyrocket in price.
Say you want something nicer than the Springfield Garrison but don’t want to spend over $3,000 on custom Les Baer. Well, that is where the TRP lineup shines.
You get semi-custom features and performance, along with FBI lineage, at a much easier-to-stomach street price of around $1,500-1,700. The lineup also has a little something for everyone, with classic style models, modern duty setups, and carry-oriented versions.
Springfield TRP 1911 By The Numbers
Accuracy
4.5/5
With good ammo, these guns are capable of holding very tight groups at 25 yards with the right shooter.
Reliability
3.5/5
I had a few hiccups on three of the models, but after some slight break in and better ammo was used, the issues disappeared. This could have very well been ammo-related.
Customization
4/5
There are plenty of places that will spiff-up your 1911 and even do custom work. However, the TRPs don't need much out of the box.
Ergonomics
4/5
If you love the 1911 grip angle and feel, this obviously has that. However, the grip surfaces are exceedingly aggressive.
Value
3.5/5
This one is tough. The TRPs offer great semi-custom features at a price lower than most competitors. However, I feel like Springfield's cheaper Garrison and Ronin have close to the same raw performance for even less money - just with less features.
Overall
4/5
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Springfield TRP 1911 Upgrades & Accessories
While the TRP 1911 series is pretty great out of the box, there are still a few things you can add to make it a better experience.
First off…magazines. You can never have enough mags, especially if you’re a range fiend like me. For the TRP 1911, I suggest some Wilson Combat Match, 8 round mags. Yes, they are pricier but they are phenomenal mags that you can rely on.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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Second thing I would suggest adding is a light — especially if you’re looking to add this to your home defense setup. The Streamlight TLR-1 HL is a great option that pack 1,000 lumens and 20,000 candela.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
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Finally, I always recommend a good pair of eyes and ears if you frequent the range. After years of wearing and testing other brands, Pew Pew Tactical came up with our very own — ShellShock Protection. The Premium Electronic Eye & Ear combo brings a comfortable gel cup to the ears, ultimate protection for your eyes, and a convenient carrying case.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
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25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
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Final Thoughts
The 4.25-inch bobbed CC model was the most appealing to me since there are far fewer 1911s available in that configuration. I seriously considered purchasing the CC model after testing, but I had to be responsible and spend my meager funds on more ammo instead.
I almost always enjoy shooting 1911s, and my time with the TRPs was no different. If you want a gun that feels extremely well put together while staying under $2000, the TRP might be worth a gander.
What are your thoughts on the TRP 1911s? Check out our review of the 10mm TRP Operator. Do you have any 1911 wisdom to share? Let us know in the comments below! Be sure to also check out our article on the Best 1911 Pistols for the Money!
15 Leave a Reply
The new "private business" has zero association with the government armory that closed it's doors.
“Springfield Armory was founded in 1974.” This is not true. It was founded in 1794.
No, you’re mistaken. The Original Springfield Armory was founded back in 1794. The New Springfield Armory was founded in 1974 and has nothing to do with the old, government-owned armory other than name.
Well then I guess Springfield
Armory is mistaken too because the box of the Hellcat Pro I just bought from them states the founding date as 1794. This date is also shown in the About section of their web site.
Always enjoy these reviews. We/I could not review as many guns or side by side.
As far as grip texture, it is easy to reduce. In fact you can choose to reduce only certain areas.
Thinking like sandpaper. It gets finer as you wear down the sharp points. On a grip all you need do is dull the points. The polymer grips, the color goes all the way through. It does not show. Easy to do using a course sharpening slip-small sharpening stone.
Just bght the classic trp. Yes, it needs to be broken. At about the 50th round, it settled in. Was shooting low, shot higher.
Yes. That grip can bite.
Thanks Wyatt. Nice review. Always been partial to Springfield
I think I’ll stay with Tisas. Excellent quality and value.
See,,,a guy who knows what a good gun at a certain price point is. If Springfield, Sig Sauer etc delivered a solid pice at, let’s say $800 it would fly off the floor,,,,P series comes to mind. Tell me a better high volume pistol than that for $800-$1k,,,,I’ll wait
Thanks Wyatt. Nice review. I’d not put too much worry on the malfunctions. After a few more trips to the range they become more reliable. Keep your powder dry.
Nice $800 gun! Do they make one without the rail and $100 grip panels? Because they did in 2005, at least that’s when I bought mine. $500 and you got a plastic case and a couple of magazines.
What we paid. We tend to forget inflation. The dollar was worth far more in 2005
I didn’t mention inflation, because “duh”,,, my point is it’s an overpriced same gun as it’s always been, without the rail, grips etc,,,,all these comments about “breaking it in” I’ve never heard anything like that except with custom built guns. You buy a $1500 operator/boner/poser gun,,,,you get what you deserve. And yeah $500 20 years ago is around $800 now. So again “duh” inflation!
It wasn’t broke!…Should have left it alone..Looks cheaper made to me..
And that Emmisary is absolutely crappy looking..stick to the classics design..and bring back the master class!!