{"id":2496,"date":"2024-08-27T09:06:11","date_gmt":"2024-08-27T09:06:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/?p=2496"},"modified":"2024-08-27T09:06:11","modified_gmt":"2024-08-27T09:06:11","slug":"first-look-springfield-armory-optics-ready-1911-aos-pistols","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/?p=2496","title":{"rendered":"First Look: Springfield Armory Optics-Ready 1911 AOS Pistols"},"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\/1002045697?h=7b23c0fd48&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\/jeremy-tremp\/\">Jeremy Tremp<\/a><\/p>\n<p><span class=\"dropcap\">T<\/span>here are those who say the 1911 is from a bygone era and is outpaced by the \u201cplastic\/fantastic\u201d 9mm pistols that have proliferated on the market. To that I say, the 1911 pistol is as relevant as ever and continues to improve with time. But are there any areas where there\u2019s room for improvement?<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><picture fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-56302\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-handguns-edited.jpg.webp 994w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-handguns-edited-800x534.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-handguns-edited-400x267.jpg.webp 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-handguns-edited-768x512.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-handguns-edited-600x400.jpg.webp 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 994px) 100vw, 994px\"\/>\n<\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Springfield Armory is now offering a multitude of optics-ready 1911 pistols. These classic handguns use the Agency Optic System (AOS).<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>In the past few years, we\u2019ve come to expect our pistols to come from the factory with native optics capability. The advent and adoption of micro red dot sights for pistol shooting has revolutionized the market and improved the experience for shooters worldwide. While this feature is common on polymer-framed pistols, the 1911 has been one of those holdout pistols that has taken some time to adopt the ability to add a red dot optic.<\/p>\n<p>That is no longer the case with the launch of the new 1911 AOS (Agency Optic System) pistols from Springfield Armory. Currently made up of 1911 Ronin, Operator and Emissary offerings in 9mm and .45 as well as 5\u201d and 4.25\u201d models, these pistols feature the same optics-mounting system you may have seen on the <a class=\"ajax-article\" href=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/springfield-prodigy-torture-test-review\/\">1911 DS Prodigy<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Red Dot Sights and 1911 Pistols \u2014 All the Details<\/h2>\n<p>Developed in collaboration with Agency Arms, AOS allows modern optics integration direct from the factory. AOS is a plate-based system that allows for the mounting of today\u2019s most popular optics. The pistols will ship with the iron sight configuration, which is a cover plate that features an integral rear sight and a contour that preserves the classic lines of the 1911\u2019s slide.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><picture decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-56303\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-optics-mount.jpg.webp 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-optics-mount-800x431.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-optics-mount-400x215.jpg.webp 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-optics-mount-768x414.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-optics-mount-600x323.jpg.webp 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1400\" height=\"754\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-optics-mount.jpg\" alt=\"Springfield Armory optics ready 1911 AOS optics mount\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-optics-mount.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-optics-mount-800x431.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-optics-mount-400x215.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-optics-mount-768x414.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-optics-mount-600x323.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/>\n<\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Developed in collaboration with Agency Arms, the AOS is a plate-based system that allows you to attach many of the most popular red dot sights available on the market. Image:\u00a0Carson McDaniel<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>If you remove this plate, you\u2019ll notice a flat surface with mounting holes machined into the slide. This is where the AOS plates come into play. Based on the optic you will be using, you simply purchase the proper plate from the Springfield Armory Webstore and attach that plate to the pistol. Then, you mount your optic to the plate. (You can find all the plates <a href=\"https:\/\/store.springfield-armory.com\/agency-optic-system-aos-mounting-plate-prodigy\/#:~:text=A12B%20Plate-,OPTIC,-IRONS%20VISIBLE\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">here<\/a> as well as a handy compatibility chart.) The only thing left to do is to hit the range and enjoy the new ease of target acquisition and accuracy.<\/p>\n<p>I think one of my favorite aspects of AOS is the rear back-up sight that is integrated into each plate to ensure a proper co-witness with your front sight with most optics. When adding optics to modern pistols, it can be a guessing game if you will still retain the ability to co-witness through the red dot. For me this is a mandatory ability as a back-up sighting system is a must in case the optic breaks, runs out of batteries or simply loses its zero. It\u2019s also a great way to always ensure your pistol is properly zeroed by lining up the dot with your iron sights.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><picture decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-56304\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/optics-ready-Springfield-Armory-1911-Emissary.jpg.webp 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/optics-ready-Springfield-Armory-1911-Emissary-800x559.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/optics-ready-Springfield-Armory-1911-Emissary-400x279.jpg.webp 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/optics-ready-Springfield-Armory-1911-Emissary-768x537.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/optics-ready-Springfield-Armory-1911-Emissary-600x419.jpg.webp 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1400\" height=\"978\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/optics-ready-Springfield-Armory-1911-Emissary.jpg\" alt=\"optics ready Springfield Armory 1911 Emissary\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/optics-ready-Springfield-Armory-1911-Emissary.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/optics-ready-Springfield-Armory-1911-Emissary-800x559.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/optics-ready-Springfield-Armory-1911-Emissary-400x279.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/optics-ready-Springfield-Armory-1911-Emissary-768x537.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/optics-ready-Springfield-Armory-1911-Emissary-600x419.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/>\n<\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Shown here is the new Springfield Armory 1911 Emissary AOS in the 5\u2033 configuration. On top of the gun is a <a class=\"ajax-article\" href=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/trijicon-rmr-type-2-review\/\">Trijicon RMR Type 2<\/a> red dot sight.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>There are six total plates offered as part of the AOS system, allowing for a wide range of optics to be mounted to the pistol. Each plates retails for $129 and, as noted, includes a rear iron sight set specifically to co-witness with most modern red dot optics available. The built-in rear sight is all black and serrated to reduce glare, which is a nice touch. Each optic plate is machined from billet steel for a durable and perfect lockup with your pistol ensuring a proper zero is maintained. Also of note is the fact that every purchaser of a 1911 AOS pistol will receive access to one discounted AOS optic plate of their choice for just $49.<\/p>\n<p>Now that we have discussed AOS, let\u2019s dive into each pistol that is currently in the 1911 AOS family and consider what you can expect from each variant.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Your Options<\/h2>\n<p>First up is the Ronin. To my eye, the Springfield Ronin AOS is a beautiful, classic yet elegant 1911 with variants in 9mm and .45 ACP, 5\u201d and 4.25\u201d barrel lengths. The Ronin features crossed cannon wooden grips and a two-tone finish with a forged carbon steel slide that is hot salt blued  \u2014  which contrasts beautifully with the forged stainless-steel frame. The Ronin is outfitted with a Gen2 Speed Trigger, which is streamlined and skeletonized for performance.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><picture loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-56305\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-pistols-mounting-options.jpg.webp 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-pistols-mounting-options-800x533.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-pistols-mounting-options-400x267.jpg.webp 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-pistols-mounting-options-768x512.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-pistols-mounting-options-600x400.jpg.webp 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1400\" height=\"933\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-pistols-mounting-options.jpg\" alt=\"Springfield Armory optics ready 1911 AOS pistols mounting options\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-pistols-mounting-options.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-pistols-mounting-options-800x533.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-pistols-mounting-options-400x267.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-pistols-mounting-options-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-pistols-mounting-options-600x400.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/>\n<\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The popular Vortex Defender series of red dot sights are now easily mountable to the Springfield Armory 1911 AOS models.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Moving to the Springfield Operator, we\u2019ve got a sleek-looking defensive grade pistol. The Operator is meant for hard use and features duty-grade features such as Tactical Rack rear\/tritium front sights, forward cocking serrations, G10 grips and an ambi safety. The Operator is also equipped with an accessory rail for the mounting of a pistol light or laser. The Operator is made from high quality forged frame and slide for incredible durability and strength. The Operator is offered in 9mm and .45ACP with 5\u201d and 4.25\u201d options. The 4.25\u201d model, newly offered as part of the 1911 AOS launch, features a lightweight aluminum frame.<\/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>Finally, we come to the Emissary. The Emissary was designed to bridge the gap between defensive and custom-level pistols. Built on a foundation of a forged steel barrel, slide and frame, the Emissary is durable and formidable. The Emissary AOS is an all-black design with squared-off triggerguard and a Tri-Top cut to the slide. The Emissary is equipped with a bull barrel and \u201cgrenade\u201d-pattern textured grips and frame checkering. This, combined with the all-black coating, makes this one of the coolest-looking 1911s offered by Springfield in my opinion.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Hands-On with the Springfield 1911 AOS Pistols<\/h2>\n<p>I was able to test a 9mm 5\u201d Ronin, 9mm 5\u201d Operator and a .45 ACP 5\u201d Emissary, each equipped with a Vortex Defender-CCW compact red dot optic. It was refreshing to shoot such a solid platform like the 1911 with the benefit of a modern sighting system.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><picture loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-56306\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/shooting-Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-pistols-edited.jpg.webp 1129w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/shooting-Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-pistols-edited-800x533.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/shooting-Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-pistols-edited-400x266.jpg.webp 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/shooting-Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-pistols-edited-768x512.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/shooting-Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-pistols-edited-600x400.jpg.webp 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1129px) 100vw, 1129px\"\/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1129\" height=\"752\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/shooting-Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-pistols-edited.jpg\" alt=\"shooting Springfield Armory optics ready 1911 AOS pistols\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/shooting-Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-pistols-edited.jpg 1129w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/shooting-Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-pistols-edited-800x533.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/shooting-Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-pistols-edited-400x266.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/shooting-Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-pistols-edited-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/shooting-Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-pistols-edited-600x400.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1129px) 100vw, 1129px\"\/>\n<\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">With the Vortex Defender-CCW red dot sight, the author tested three Springfield 1911 AOS models: the Ronin, Operator (shown here) and the Emissary.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>The process to attach the plate is very simple and nearly foolproof. You simply remove the existing cover plate by loosening the two attaching screws. Once removed, you attach your selected AOS plate to the pistol, fitting it snuggly to the slide and tightening down the screws that come with the cover plate. Just as an FYI, I use a bit of Loctite to ensure a secure lock-up.<\/p>\n<p>Once the AOS plate is installed, you can now install your chosen optic by placing it atop the plate and securing the screws that come with your optic. Again, I personally use some Loctite for a solid fit. You are now ready to hit the range.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><picture loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-56307\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-Ronin.jpg.webp 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-Ronin-800x533.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-Ronin-400x267.jpg.webp 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-Ronin-768x512.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-Ronin-600x400.jpg.webp 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1400\" height=\"933\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-Ronin.jpg\" alt=\"Springfield Armory optics ready 1911 AOS Ronin\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-Ronin.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-Ronin-800x533.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-Ronin-400x267.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-Ronin-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-Ronin-600x400.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1400px) 100vw, 1400px\"\/>\n<\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Springfield Armory 1911 Ronin AOS is a beautiful and functional gun. With the option of adding a red dot sight like this Vortex Defender-CCW, the package will appeal to even more people.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>I am thrilled that Springfield is offering this. I\u2019ve come to expect optics capability on all my pistols as it is a much more natural way of target shooting. Simply place the red dot on the target and manipulate the trigger without interrupting your sight picture. Don\u2019t get me wrong, iron sights are great and it\u2019s important to understand them and train using them, but having a red dot just feels like cheating sometimes. If you\u2019ve shot irons enough you\u2019ve heard many ways of \u201cfocusing your eyes\u201d past the sight and somewhere in between your target and your front sight. With a red dot, you are always target-focused, making shooting much easier and intuitive.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><picture loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-56308\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-Emissary-pistol-edited.jpg.webp 1042w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-Emissary-pistol-edited-800x533.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-Emissary-pistol-edited-400x266.jpg.webp 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-Emissary-pistol-edited-768x512.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-Emissary-pistol-edited-600x400.jpg.webp 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1042px) 100vw, 1042px\"\/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1042\" height=\"694\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-Emissary-pistol-edited.jpg\" alt=\"Springfield Armory optics ready 1911 AOS Emissary pistol\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-Emissary-pistol-edited.jpg 1042w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-Emissary-pistol-edited-800x533.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-Emissary-pistol-edited-400x266.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-Emissary-pistol-edited-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Springfield-Armory-optics-ready-1911-AOS-Emissary-pistol-edited-600x400.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1042px) 100vw, 1042px\"\/>\n<\/picture><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Vortex red dot sight looks perfectly at home on the Springfield Armory 1911 AOS Emissary pistol. Also shown is the <a class=\"ajax-article\" href=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/surefire-x300-turbo-review\/\">SureFire X300 Turbo<\/a>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>On the range, the Vortex Defender mounted easily atop each pistol and made the session very enjoyable. The Vortex Defender-CCW is a rugged, incredibly well-built optic with a crystal-clear lens and a very intuitive design. The battery is top-loaded, making replacement easy. There is no distortion in the lens and no off-color coating adding a blue or pink tint to the image. The Defender has simple \u201cup\u201d and \u201cdown\u201d buttons for changing brightness. The Defender is also motion-activated, which for me is a must with a red dot. No need to turn the optic on or off, it\u2019s simply ready when you need it. Lastly, the Defender-CCW is aptly named as the rugged construction includes \u201cFast-Rack\u201d texturing on the front of the optic. This allows you to rack the pistol against a hard surface with little fear of damage.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Springfield\u2019s Optics Ready 1911 Pistols \u2014 A Beautiful Thing<\/h2>\n<p>The beautiful thing about the new AOS-equipped pistols is that you don\u2019t even have to use a red dot if you don\u2019t want to, but if one day you want to try it out you will have the capability. Equipping a modern red dot optic to your 1911 will surely breathe new life into your experience and greatly improve your ability to quickly acquire your target and place accurate rounds with ease.<\/p>\n<p>I also cannot overstate the value of a good plate-based system as you aren\u2019t locked into just one optic footprint. You get the freedom to choose the optic of your choice and even change your mind down the road to utilize a completely different optic. The AOS system makes your 1911 future-proof and ready to perform. Welcome to the 21<sup>st<\/sup>\u00a0century.<\/p>\n<p>Check out the Ronin, Emissary and Operator pistols with the AOS system. Be careful though. Once you experience the red dot future with the 1911, you might not look at your iron sight pistols the same again.<\/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\/20185\/\">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-other \" href=\"https:\/\/www.springfield-armory.com\/aos\/\" 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-\"\/><\/span>&#13;\n\t\t\t\t\t<picture decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/product-aos.png.webp\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/product-aos.png\" alt=\"Springfield Armory AOS Models\"\/>\n<\/picture>\n&#13;<\/p>\n<h3>Springfield Armory <span>AOS Models<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>&#13;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>&#13;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t<a class=\"product series-other \" href=\"https:\/\/vortexoptics.com\/optics\/red-dots\/defender.html\" 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-\"\/><\/span>&#13;\n\t\t\t\t\t<picture decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"max-width: 60%;\"><source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/product-vortex-defender-st.jpg.webp\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thearmorylife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/product-vortex-defender-st.jpg\" alt=\"Vortex Defender Series\"\/>\n<\/picture>\n&#13;<\/p>\n<h3>Vortex <span>Defender Series<\/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-armory-optics-ready-1911-aos-pistols\/\">Source link <\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>By Jeremy Tremp There are those who say the 1911 is from a bygone era and is outpaced by the \u201cplastic\/fantastic\u201d 9mm pistols that have proliferated on the market. To that I say, the 1911 pistol is as relevant as ever and continues to improve with time. But are there any areas where there\u2019s room [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":2497,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2496","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\/2496","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=2496"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2496\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/2497"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=2496"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=2496"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gunowner-news.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=2496"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}