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AR15.COM
1/15/2008 5:41:48 PM EDT
I'm trying to decide on my next purchase, and I've liked what I've seen when I held a Lightweight Operator recently.

The GS wasn't all that knowledgeable, and I recall their being some issues regarding the materials used.

SO...without further BS, tell me what you know, tell me what you think.  I'm not going to ask "whats the best/cheapest" as that's too subjective.

What I want to know is the good, the bad and the ugly on this particular model from the hive mind.  I own 3 other 1911's; I'm interested in filling the itch for another.

Thanks!
1/15/2008 9:22:37 PM EDT
[#1]
if you are looking for a 1911 for under $1k, the SA LW Operator will serve you well

1/16/2008 5:28:35 AM EDT
[#2]
I want one also.  I think they are good 1911s.  The one thing that bothers me is the lack of a barrel bushing.  I don't think there is a problem with the bull barrel and no bushing set up but I do like the original set up with the bushing better.  There is also a lock on the MSH that would have to go after I get it home but that is also not a big deal.  I'm waiting until my local dealer gets one in so I can look it over.  I would also like to here from people who own one.  I know some one out there has one that they could share a little info about.

1) do you need tools to take it apart?
2)does this one for sure have a MSA lock?
3)did it work 100% out of the box?

1/16/2008 10:06:16 AM EDT
[#3]
So there are no issues, as far as anyone knows about the materials used?  I swore  I read somewhere that the lightweight model was not as durable, prone to wear and that some ammo was no/go.  If this is wrong, then I think I've made up my mind...
1/16/2008 2:35:30 PM EDT
[#4]

Quoted:
So there are no issues, as far as anyone knows about the materials used?  I swore  I read somewhere that the lightweight model was not as durable, prone to wear and that some ammo was no/go.  If this is wrong, then I think I've made up my mind...


I have had my SA LW Operator for a few months now. I have put over 3.5k downrange with it. Federal and Winchester FMJ ammo, and Federal Hydra Shock. I haven't had a single stoppage, and one range session was over 600 rounds. I carry it in a C.T.A.C and notice no major wear. Just avoid using +P ammo, it's not recommended by the manufacturer.

1/16/2008 2:46:32 PM EDT
[#5]

Quoted:
I want one also.  I think they are good 1911s.  The one thing that bothers me is the lack of a barrel bushing.  I don't think there is a problem with the bull barrel and no bushing set up but I do like the original set up with the bushing better.  There is also a lock on the MSH that would have to go after I get it home but that is also not a big deal.  I'm waiting until my local dealer gets one in so I can look it over.  I would also like to here from people who own one.  I know some one out there has one that they could share a little info about.

1) do you need tools to take it apart?
2)does this one for sure have a MSA lock?
3)did it work 100% out of the box?



1. Yes you need an allen wrench.
2. Yes
3. Yes it has and I am extremely impressed by the performance of this gun. I trust my life to it.
1/17/2008 4:45:31 AM EDT
[#6]

Quoted:
So there are no issues, as far as anyone knows about the materials used?  I swore  I read somewhere that the lightweight model was not as durable, prone to wear and that some ammo was no/go.  If this is wrong, then I think I've made up my mind...


The frame will probably not last as long as a steel frame.  Shoot it 20-50K and if it develops a crack send it back for a replacement frame.  No big deal, if in fact you manage to crack it, which I find highly unlikely.

There have been some reports of hollow points gouging the alumiminum feedramp, along with split level Chip McCormick followers.  However, I have not had any problems with the aluminum frame on my Kimber CDP Pro.  Shoot ball ammo most of the time and you won't have any issues.
1/17/2008 5:54:38 AM EDT
[#7]
height=8
Quoted:
height=8
Quoted:
I want one also.  I think they are good 1911s.  The one thing that bothers me is the lack of a barrel bushing.  I don't think there is a problem with the bull barrel and no bushing set up but I do like the original set up with the bushing better.  There is also a lock on the MSH that would have to go after I get it home but that is also not a big deal.  I'm waiting until my local dealer gets one in so I can look it over.  I would also like to here from people who own one.  I know some one out there has one that they could share a little info about.

1) do you need tools to take it apart?
2)does this one for sure have a MSA lock?
3)did it work 100% out of the box?



1. Yes you need an allen wrench.
2. Yes
3. Yes it has and I am extremely impressed by the performance of this gun. I trust my life to it.



I'm looking at buying one of these as well.  Do you need the allen wrench for take down on the government size, or just the champion?  Or is the allen wrench just for the grip screws?  It looks like the government has a bushing and the Champion is a Bull barrel.  Then again, I don't know how to break down a 1911 with a Bull Barrel.

Thanks
1/17/2008 12:24:49 PM EDT
[#8]
Here is a review of the LW Operator.

MC LW Operator Review
1/17/2008 12:38:50 PM EDT
[#9]

Quoted:

Quoted:

Quoted:
I want one also.  I think they are good 1911s.  The one thing that bothers me is the lack of a barrel bushing.  I don't think there is a problem with the bull barrel and no bushing set up but I do like the original set up with the bushing better.  There is also a lock on the MSH that would have to go after I get it home but that is also not a big deal.  I'm waiting until my local dealer gets one in so I can look it over.  I would also like to here from people who own one.  I know some one out there has one that they could share a little info about.

1) do you need tools to take it apart?
2)does this one for sure have a MSA lock?
3)did it work 100% out of the box?



1. Yes you need an allen wrench.
2. Yes
3. Yes it has and I am extremely impressed by the performance of this gun. I trust my life to it.



I'm looking at buying one of these as well.  Do you need the allen wrench for take down on the government size, or just the champion?  Or is the allen wrench just for the grip screws?  It looks like the government has a bushing and the Champion is a Bull barrel.  Then again, I don't know how to break down a 1911 with a Bull Barrel.

Thanks


It's not a bull barrel on the full size. It has a two-piece guide rod, so yes you need an allen wrench. Unless you want to swap it, I never bothered.
1/17/2008 5:26:23 PM EDT
[#10]
Thanks for all your input, especially the review.  

I still find myself on the fence, as I'm concerned about the rounds digging into the receiver.  The weapon would be used from time to time as an off-duty carry or plain clothes weapon, and I'd want hp's.

The irregularities in the rail, well I'd check the weapon prior to purchase so I'd be make sure it was in-spec.

I guess I'll have to stew over it a little longer.

Again, thanks for the feedback.  Its what makes this board great!
1/17/2008 6:23:46 PM EDT
[#11]

Quoted:
Thanks for all your input, especially the review.  

I still find myself on the fence, as I'm concerned about the rounds digging into the receiver.  The weapon would be used from time to time as an off-duty carry or plain clothes weapon, and I'd want hp's.

The irregularities in the rail, well I'd check the weapon prior to purchase so I'd be make sure it was in-spec.

I guess I'll have to stew over it a little longer.

Again, thanks for the feedback.  Its what makes this board great!


Good luck in your decision. I will say this my LW Operator is the best 1k I ever spent on a 1911 so far. Handling, accuracy, fit and finish are all top notch. Springers lifetime warranty, and customer service are excellent. Everyone I have let use this gun have had nothing but positive things to say. I use HP's with mine and have had no issues. Getting close to 4k through this gun and using a kydex holster, the gun still looks great inside and out.
1/18/2008 12:20:34 PM EDT
[#12]
Thanks Darkside for your input.  I'm still leaning towards it, but its a significant amount of cash for me, and I need to be sure before I plop down the cash.  I don't have a large volume of "disposible cash" so I need to be comfortable with the purchase.  

But your input is definetly helping clear the picture for me.

Thanks again!
1/18/2008 8:16:54 PM EDT
[#13]
The full size LW operator has a steel ramped barrel, and will not allow the magazine follower to damage the frame.  That is why Springfield did this to the aluminum framed pistol.