SA GI vs SA MilSpec - What are the differences?

[TC-TX]

I have done a bit of searching and I can not readily find a complete answer...

I am trying to learn the Major (and minor) differences between the SA GI 1911 and the SA MilSpec 1911.

What are the differences?

All I have been able to find it that the GI is a bit cheaper, has a smaller ejection port and small sights...

What is the real story?

Are there quality differences?

Is one a better value or a better buy over the other?

Your assistance is Greatly Appreciated!

 

[Sunray]

The sights. The GI has small and nearly useless military style rear sights. The Mil-spec has much better 3 dot rear sights. If you buy the GI, you'll be changing the sights anyway. Both will need a trigger job and the feed ramp chamfered.

 

[Gunsnrovers]

Basic differences as posted in the 1911 Forum:

Basic Descriptions:

WW2 (GI) Model: Pistol closely replicates the basic 1911A1 as used by the US military for seven decades. Features:
high wall ("narrow") ejection port
low profile GI sights
lanyard loop on mainspring housing
vertical cocking serrations on slide

Mil-Spec: Pre-dated the G.I. model, adds some popular features/upgrades
stainless barrel and bushing (some models)
loaded chamber indicator (some models)
lowered and flared ejection port
high profile 3-dot sights
beveled magazine well
loss of the lanyard loop on mainspring housing
forward-raked cocking serrations on slide

Loaded: An upgrade from the Mil-Spec with even more of the most popular features/upgrades
beavertail grip safety
Novak sights
ambidextrious thumb safety
long 3 hole trigger
full length guide rod (2-piece)
front cocking serrations
flat mainspring housing

http://forums.1911forum.com/showthread.php?t=97065

 

[scbair]

The differences have been nicely explained in this thread. Now, here's what they mean to me:

If ya want a M1911-A1 that looks as close to Granpa's as possible, get the GI.

If ya want a good, out-of-the-box defensive sidearm, get the Mil Spec (the sights are high-visibility, but rugged & durable).

If ya want a competitive pistol (IDPA, etc.) or a fully "tricked-out" defensive sidearm, go for the loaded package.

I think Springfield has really covered the bases, here. Something for everyone, no modifications needed.

I must also opine that the loaded package is a better option than using either the GI or the Mil Spec as a platform for extensive customization. It'll cost less, and its resale value will likely be better.

Just my own opinion, natch.

 

[TC-TX]

Thank you

Thank you all - there is great info here...

 

[GunAdmirer]

If you want to do any customizing or upgrading in the future start with the Mil-Spec. It already has some important custom features like the beveled mag well and the lowered and flared ejection port. It is cheaper and more convenient to buy the Mil-Spec that way than to have it done on a GI later. The same is true for the "loaded" model.

That being said, I purchased a stainless GI .45 "used" at an incredible price. It has been extremely reliable and quite accurate. It is fun to have a pistol that is close to the original configuration, but I will want to do some upgrades in the future. I will come out okay on the upgrades since I got it for such a good price.

So, if I were paying full price for one and thought I might do some custom work in the future, I would start with the Mil-Spec or go ahead and spring for the "loaded" model.