{"id":1501,"date":"2023-10-02T16:30:17","date_gmt":"2023-10-02T16:30:17","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/?p=1501"},"modified":"2023-10-02T16:30:17","modified_gmt":"2023-10-02T16:30:17","slug":"springfield-sa-35-vs-springfield-1911-operator","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/?p=1501","title":{"rendered":"Springfield SA-35 vs. Springfield 1911 Operator"},"content":{"rendered":"<p> <br \/>\n<\/p>\n<div>\n<div class=\"player-inline-wrapper no-margin-top\">\n<div class=\"video-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<iframe class=\"player-inline\" src=\"https:\/\/player.vimeo.com\/video\/867661539?h=0a4d74950f&amp;api=1\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"autoplay; fullscreen\" allowfullscreen=\"\"><\/iframe><\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<p class=\"byline\">By <a class=\"byline-author ajax-home\" href=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/author\/dan-abraham\/\">Dan Abraham<\/a><\/p>\n<p><span class=\"dropcap\">L<\/span>ooking at the Springfield Armory full-size, steel-frame 9mm handguns, the <span class=\"nowrap\">SA-35<\/span> stands out for me. It\u2019s a historic John Browning design that offers an expansion of the 1911 pistol design, but with a double stack 9mm magazine. Let\u2019s face it, the man was a genius who created a sidearm that shooters still enjoy to this day.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><picture decoding=\"async\" fetchpriority=\"high\" class=\"wp-image-47467\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/springfield-sa-35-vs-springfield-operator.jpg.webp 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/springfield-sa-35-vs-springfield-operator-800x459.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/springfield-sa-35-vs-springfield-operator-400x229.jpg.webp 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/springfield-sa-35-vs-springfield-operator-768x441.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/springfield-sa-35-vs-springfield-operator-600x344.jpg.webp 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/>\n<\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Trying to decide between the Springfield Armory <span class=\"nowrap\">SA-35<\/span> and the 1911 Operator? The author puts them head-to-head.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>The traditional \u201cP-35\u201d was produced to offer, among other things, more rounds in a pistol. By increasing the capacity by creating a double-stack magazine that held 13 rounds, he created a very appealing option.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Enter the <span class=\"nowrap\">SA-35<\/span>\u00a0<\/h2>\n<p>Springfield Armory created their own version of the P-35 design and modernized it, while keeping true to the original and historic design. Enter the Springfield Armory <span class=\"nowrap\">SA-35<\/span>.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><picture decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-47468\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/springfield-sa-35-comparison.jpg.webp 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/springfield-sa-35-comparison-800x509.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/springfield-sa-35-comparison-400x254.jpg.webp 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/springfield-sa-35-comparison-768x488.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/springfield-sa-35-comparison-600x381.jpg.webp 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1400\" height=\"890\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/springfield-sa-35-comparison.jpg\" alt=\"springfield sa-35 comparison\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/springfield-sa-35-comparison.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/springfield-sa-35-comparison-800x509.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/springfield-sa-35-comparison-400x254.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/springfield-sa-35-comparison-768x488.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/springfield-sa-35-comparison-600x381.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/>\n<\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Springfield Armory <span class=\"nowrap\">SA-35<\/span> is the wildly popular pistol based on John M. Browning\u2019s famous 9mm handgun.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>In early 2022, Springfield released the <span class=\"nowrap\">SA-35<\/span> to the gun community and they were ecstatic. As we get into this review, you will note how Springfield took the original design and made it more suitable for today\u2019s shooters with subtle yet significant enhancements.<\/p>\n<p><em>[Be sure to read our <a class=\"ajax-article\" href=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/sa-35-review-dissecting-springfields-new-pistol\/\">in-depth review of the <span class=\"nowrap\">SA-35<\/span> here<\/a>.]<\/em><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is It?<\/h2>\n<p>The <span class=\"nowrap\">SA-35<\/span> is a full-size 9mm pistol with a 4.7\u201d barrel and a forged steel slide, frame and barrel. The slide and frame have a matte blued finish, with a serrated black rear sight and a front dot mounted on the slide.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><picture decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-47469\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/caliber-differences.jpg.webp 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/caliber-differences-800x440.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/caliber-differences-400x220.jpg.webp 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/caliber-differences-768x422.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/caliber-differences-600x330.jpg.webp 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1400\" height=\"770\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/caliber-differences.jpg\" alt=\"caliber differences\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/caliber-differences.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/caliber-differences-800x440.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/caliber-differences-400x220.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/caliber-differences-768x422.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/caliber-differences-600x330.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/>\n<\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The 1911 Operator 9mm uses the original barrel bushing design of the 1911, while the <span class=\"nowrap\">SA-35<\/span>\u2019s design moved away from this concept.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Springfield increased the capacity from the original design to 15 rounds. The wood checkered grips have nice texturing along with vertical black lines through them that look super cool.<\/p>\n<p>A common complaint with the original design was \u201chammer bite\u201d. Some shooters would state the spurred hammer would reach past the beavertail and strike the web of the hand. Springfield uses a ring hammer in place of a spurred hammer which will prevent the dreaded hammer bite.<\/p>\n<p>The greatest improvement for me is the lighter single-action trigger. I own an original pistol and the single-action trigger is very heavy. My scale measures it at 9 lbs. The <span class=\"nowrap\">SA-35<\/span> has a 5.5-lb. trigger that makes shooting the pistol a more pleasurable experience.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><picture decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-47470\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/size-comparison-sa-35-and-1911-operator.jpg.webp 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/size-comparison-sa-35-and-1911-operator-800x514.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/size-comparison-sa-35-and-1911-operator-400x257.jpg.webp 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/size-comparison-sa-35-and-1911-operator-768x494.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/size-comparison-sa-35-and-1911-operator-600x386.jpg.webp 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1400\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/size-comparison-sa-35-and-1911-operator.jpg\" alt=\"size comparison sa-35 and 1911 operator\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/size-comparison-sa-35-and-1911-operator.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/size-comparison-sa-35-and-1911-operator-800x514.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/size-comparison-sa-35-and-1911-operator-400x257.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/size-comparison-sa-35-and-1911-operator-768x494.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/size-comparison-sa-35-and-1911-operator-600x386.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/>\n<\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The sizes of the 1911 Operator and <span class=\"nowrap\">SA-35<\/span> are similar. If the size of one works for your needs, the other is likely to also be a good fit.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Additional improvements include the removal of the magazine disconnect and a wider thumb safety, making the latter easier to engage and disengage.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why This Review?<\/h2>\n<p>I thought it would be cool to compare two of Browning\u2019s historic pistols. To do that, a 1911 must be in the comparison. I decided to compare the <span class=\"nowrap\">SA-35<\/span> with the Springfield 1911 Operator in 9mm. I have a fondness for both of these pistols. While they share a few common features, they are very different in several ways. Let\u2019s take a look at the 1911 Operator in 9mm.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tell me about the 1911 Operator<\/h2>\n<p>Springfield Armory has a 1911 Operator in .45 ACP that is loaded with modern features while keeping the traditional elements of the original 1911 pistol design.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><picture decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-47471\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/springfield-1911-operator-comparison.jpg.webp 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/springfield-1911-operator-comparison-800x451.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/springfield-1911-operator-comparison-400x226.jpg.webp 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/springfield-1911-operator-comparison-768x433.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/springfield-1911-operator-comparison-600x339.jpg.webp 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1400\" height=\"790\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/springfield-1911-operator-comparison.jpg\" alt=\"springfield 1911 operator comparison\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/springfield-1911-operator-comparison.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/springfield-1911-operator-comparison-800x451.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/springfield-1911-operator-comparison-400x226.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/springfield-1911-operator-comparison-768x433.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/springfield-1911-operator-comparison-600x339.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/>\n<\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Springfield Armory 1911 Operator is a well-refined update to Browning\u2019s iconic fighting handgun.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>The 1911 Operator in 9mm looks and feels the exact same, except the chambering and magazine capacity. The 1911 Operator in 9mm has a nine-round magazine as opposed to the .45 ACP model that has an eight-rounder. It has beautiful desert tan VZ G-10 grips that look great with the black Cerakote slide and frame.<\/p>\n<p><em>[Don\u2019t miss the <a class=\"ajax-article\" href=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/review-the-new-springfield-operator-1911-45-acp\/\">Springfield Operator 1911 .45 Review<\/a> by Mike Mills.]<\/em><\/p>\n<p>It uses an ambidextrous thumb safety, forward slide serrations and three-dot sights with a tritium front night sight. It has a Picatinny rail for a light along with a trigger that is truly amazing.<\/p>\n<div class=\"newsletter inline\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" style=\"display: none;\" class=\"logo-tal-icon\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/themes\/thearmorylife\/img\/logo-tal-tm-icon.svg\" alt=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p><strong>Live The Armory Life.<\/strong> The latest content straight to your inbox plus an automatic entry to each of our <a class=\"ajax-giveaways\" href=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/giveaways\/\"><strong>monthly gun\u00a0giveaways!<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<p>The single-action trigger on the 1911 Operator breaks at 4 lbs. with a very short reset. It is consistent with Springfield Armory 1911\u2019s which keeps people coming back when shopping for a 1911. The build quality, premier components and shooting accuracy is all there with the 1911 Operator.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">You Said This Was a Comparison\u2026<\/h2>\n<p>Let\u2019s get to the premise of this review and compare the <span class=\"nowrap\">SA-35<\/span> with the 9mm 1911 Operator. The similarities are that both are Springfield Armory full-size, steel frame, single-action 9mm handguns. They both hold incredible historic significance. Now, let\u2019s get to the differences. And let\u2019s bear in mind that the <span class=\"nowrap\">SA-35<\/span> costs $799, while the 1911 Operator is priced at $1,184.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Magazine Capacity<\/h3>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><picture decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-47472\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/sa-35-vs-1911-operator-capacity.jpg.webp 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/sa-35-vs-1911-operator-capacity-800x480.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/sa-35-vs-1911-operator-capacity-400x240.jpg.webp 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/sa-35-vs-1911-operator-capacity-768x461.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/sa-35-vs-1911-operator-capacity-600x360.jpg.webp 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1400\" height=\"840\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/sa-35-vs-1911-operator-capacity.jpg\" alt=\"sa-35 vs 1911 operator capacity\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/sa-35-vs-1911-operator-capacity.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/sa-35-vs-1911-operator-capacity-800x480.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/sa-35-vs-1911-operator-capacity-400x240.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/sa-35-vs-1911-operator-capacity-768x461.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/sa-35-vs-1911-operator-capacity-600x360.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/>\n<\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The capacity difference balances the caliber difference. The <span class=\"nowrap\">SA-35<\/span> fits significantly more cartridges in its double-column magazine.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>The <span class=\"nowrap\">SA-35<\/span> has a double-stack 9mm magazine that carries 15 rounds. The 1911 Operator has a single stack 9mm magazine that carries nine rounds. It is not hard to make a choice in this category. <span class=\"nowrap\">SA-35<\/span> for the win.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Grips<\/h3>\n<p>The <span class=\"nowrap\">SA-35<\/span> has wood checkered grips versus the G-10 grips on the 1911 Operator. Many 1911\u2019s have wood grips and they are fine; however, in this comparison, the more aggressive texturing on the VZ G-10 grips won me over. The 1911 Operator took this one.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Finish<\/h3>\n<p>I am a huge fan of Cerakote. A Cerakoted firearm is less likely to scratch or show wear. Considering that pistols are often in and out of holsters, I feel that Cerakote is the most durable and strongest finish that can be applied. The matte black finish on the <span class=\"nowrap\">SA-35<\/span> is suited for its traditional look. However, I feel Cerakote is the best. Victory to the 1911 Operator for the beautiful Cerakote finish.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Beavertail &amp; Grip Safety<\/h3>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><picture decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-47473\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/grip-safety-on-1911-vs-sa-35.jpg.webp 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/grip-safety-on-1911-vs-sa-35-800x474.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/grip-safety-on-1911-vs-sa-35-400x237.jpg.webp 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/grip-safety-on-1911-vs-sa-35-768x455.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/grip-safety-on-1911-vs-sa-35-600x356.jpg.webp 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1400\" height=\"830\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/grip-safety-on-1911-vs-sa-35.jpg\" alt=\"grip safety on 1911 vs sa-35\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/grip-safety-on-1911-vs-sa-35.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/grip-safety-on-1911-vs-sa-35-800x474.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/grip-safety-on-1911-vs-sa-35-400x237.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/grip-safety-on-1911-vs-sa-35-768x455.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/grip-safety-on-1911-vs-sa-35-600x356.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/>\n<\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Both pistols are single-action, but only the 1911 on the right has a grip safety.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>The <span class=\"nowrap\">SA-35<\/span> has a shorter, less pronounced beavertail and no thumb safety. The 1911 Operator has a longer beavertail along with a 1911 grip safety. I appreciate that Springfield Armory kept with common traditional features when they created both of these pistols. It is because of that, I cannot make a choice. Therefore, I am calling it a draw.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Thumb Safety &amp; Hammer<\/h3>\n<p>These are two areas where Springfield improved the original P-35 design. They made the left-side-only thumb safety wider so more of the thumb rests on the lever when used to engage and disengage. They also made a ring hammer to prevent hammer bite.<\/p>\n<p>The 1911 Operator has an ambidextrous thumb safety and a skeletonized hammer. One may expect me to choose the 1911 Operator because the thumb safety is left-hander friendly. However, I am choosing the <span class=\"nowrap\">SA-35<\/span> because I believe the wider thumb safety and the ring hammer is a significant improvement over the original P-35 design.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Sights<\/h3>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><picture decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-47474\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/comparing-the-sights-on-the-sa-35-and-1911-operator.jpg.webp 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/comparing-the-sights-on-the-sa-35-and-1911-operator-800x526.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/comparing-the-sights-on-the-sa-35-and-1911-operator-400x263.jpg.webp 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/comparing-the-sights-on-the-sa-35-and-1911-operator-768x505.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/comparing-the-sights-on-the-sa-35-and-1911-operator-600x394.jpg.webp 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1400\" height=\"920\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/comparing-the-sights-on-the-sa-35-and-1911-operator.jpg\" alt=\"comparing the sights on the sa-35 and 1911 operator\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/comparing-the-sights-on-the-sa-35-and-1911-operator.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/comparing-the-sights-on-the-sa-35-and-1911-operator-800x526.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/comparing-the-sights-on-the-sa-35-and-1911-operator-400x263.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/comparing-the-sights-on-the-sa-35-and-1911-operator-768x505.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/comparing-the-sights-on-the-sa-35-and-1911-operator-600x394.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/>\n<\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The sights on both pistols are good but clearly different. The <span class=\"nowrap\">SA-35<\/span> uses a wide and deep U-notch while the 1911 Operator uses a more traditional squared rear notch with a pair of dots.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>The serrated black rear sight on the <span class=\"nowrap\">SA-35<\/span> compared to the two-dot rear sight on the 1911 Operator is a draw. However, the 1911 Operator has a tritium day\/night front sight. If you ask me, anyone with a beating heart has to go with the 1911 Operator sight system. But, bear in mind the price difference as well.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Trigger<\/h3>\n<p>I am a 1911 guy through and through. I cannot think of a firearm that I enjoy shooting more than a 1911. The primary reason is the short and light single-action trigger pull. The 1911 triggers aid in accuracy and follow-up shots. Springfield did great work, making the heavy P-35 trigger much lighter. The trigger difference with the <span class=\"nowrap\">SA-35<\/span> and P-35 is night and day. However, the 1911 Operator trigger won.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Disassembly<\/h3>\n<p>Both pistols have a combined takedown\/slide stop lever. Both need to be removed to disassemble the pistols. The <span class=\"nowrap\">SA-35<\/span> does not have a removable barrel bushing, which means it takes fewer steps to disassemble the pistol. Therefore, I am going with the <span class=\"nowrap\">SA-35<\/span> for the simplicity of disassembly.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Pricing<\/h3>\n<p>As noted the MSRP for the <span class=\"nowrap\">SA-35<\/span> is $799. The MSRP for the 1911 Operator is $1,184. The difference between the two is $385. I am not a financial advisor, but I do understand basic math. A shooter could take the $385 and purchase 1,500 rounds of 9mm. All other qualities aside, the <span class=\"nowrap\">SA-35<\/span> is less expensive therefore, it wins if you are on a tighter budget. On the other hand, you get a lot great features on the Operator for its price.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Shooting Impressions<\/h2>\n<p>Let me just say, I have enjoyed both of these pistols very much. Range time with either of these is a \u201cwin\u201d for the shooter. Both handguns have performed reliably and both were very accurate right out of the case. I love what Springfield Armory did with the <span class=\"nowrap\">SA-35<\/span>. They took a proven platform and made it better. The same could be said with the 1911 Operator considering the modern features.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><picture decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-47475\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/extractors-on-sa-35-vs-1911-operator.jpg.webp 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/extractors-on-sa-35-vs-1911-operator-800x509.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/extractors-on-sa-35-vs-1911-operator-400x254.jpg.webp 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/extractors-on-sa-35-vs-1911-operator-768x488.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/extractors-on-sa-35-vs-1911-operator-600x381.jpg.webp 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"1400\" height=\"890\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/extractors-on-sa-35-vs-1911-operator.jpg\" alt=\"extractors on sa-35 vs 1911 operator\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/extractors-on-sa-35-vs-1911-operator.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/extractors-on-sa-35-vs-1911-operator-800x509.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/extractors-on-sa-35-vs-1911-operator-400x254.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/extractors-on-sa-35-vs-1911-operator-768x488.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/extractors-on-sa-35-vs-1911-operator-600x381.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/>\n<\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Springfield 1911 Operator has an internal extractor design, while the <span class=\"nowrap\">SA-35<\/span> uses an external extractor. Both are reliable systems.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>If you watch the attached video, you may notice that I did very well with both pistols. Having said that, I am going with the 1911 Operator. As I mentioned, I am a 1911 guy and it will be a cold day in hell before I choose another handgun over a 1911 in terms of accuracy.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Conclusion<\/h2>\n<p>I truly enjoyed this review and I hope you enjoyed reading it. Both the <span class=\"nowrap\">SA-35<\/span> and the 1911 Operator are amazing pistols. You cannot go wrong with either one. For those who enjoy shooting 9mm pistols, either the Springfield <span class=\"nowrap\">SA-35<\/span> or the Springfield 1911 Operator in 9mm would be a great choice.<\/p>\n<p><em>Editor\u2019s Note: Please be sure to check out The Armory Life Forum, where you can comment about our daily articles, as well as just talk guns and gear. Click the \u201cGo To Forum Thread\u201d link below to jump in and discuss this article and much more!<\/em><\/p>\n<h5 class=\"heading heading-forum-thread hide-share\"><span>Join the Discussion<\/span><\/h5>\n<p class=\"forum-thread-button-wrapper hide-share\"><a class=\"button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/forum\/threads\/16443\/\">Go to forum thread<\/a><\/p>\n<h5 class=\"heading heading-featured hide-share\"><span>Featured in this video<\/span><\/h5>\n<section class=\"featured hide-share grid-two\">&#13;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t<a class=\"product series-sa35 \" href=\"https:\/\/www.springfield-armory.com\/sa-35-series-handguns\/sa-35-handguns\/sa-35-9mm-handgun\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">&#13;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"caliber\"><span class=\"cal-9mm\">9<sup>mm<\/sup><\/span><\/span>&#13;\n\t\t\t\t\t<picture loading=\"lazy\" style=\"\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/HP9201.png.webp\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/HP9201.png\" alt=\"SA-35\u2122\"\/>\n<\/picture>\n&#13;<\/p>\n<h3>SA-35\u2122 <\/h3>\n<p>&#13;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>&#13;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t<a class=\"product series-1911 \" href=\"https:\/\/www.springfield-armory.com\/1911-series-handguns\/1911-operator-handguns\/1911-operator-9mm-handgun\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">&#13;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"caliber\"><span class=\"cal-9mm\">9<sup>mm<\/sup><\/span><\/span>&#13;\n\t\t\t\t\t<picture loading=\"lazy\" style=\"max-width: 92%; margin-bottom: .7rem;\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PO9229.png.webp\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/PO9229.png\" alt=\"1911 Operator\u00ae\"\/>\n<\/picture>\n&#13;<\/p>\n<h3>1911 <span>Operator\u00ae<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>&#13;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t<\/a><\/section>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<p><br \/>\n<br \/><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/springfield-sa-35-vs-springfield-1911-operator\/\">Source link <\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>By Dan Abraham Looking at the Springfield Armory full-size, steel-frame 9mm handguns, the SA-35 stands out for me. It\u2019s a historic John Browning design that offers an expansion of the 1911 pistol design, but with a double stack 9mm magazine. Let\u2019s face it, the man was a genius who created a sidearm that shooters still [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":1502,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1501","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-uncategorized"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1501","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=1501"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1501\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/1502"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1501"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1501"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1501"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}