To that I say, the 1911 pistol is as relevant as ever and continues to improve with time.

But are there any areas where theres room for improvement?

AOS is a plate-based system that allows for the mounting of todays most popular optics.

Springfield Armory optics ready 1911 AOS handguns

Springfield Armory is now offering a multitude of optics-ready 1911 pistols. These classic handguns use the Agency Optic System (AOS).

If you remove this plate, youll notice a flat surface with mounting holes machined into the slide.

This is where the AOS plates come into play.

Then, you mount your optic to the plate.

Springfield Armory optics ready 1911 AOS optics mount

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: Carson McDaniel

(you’ve got the option to find all the plateshereas well as a handy compatibility chart.)

The built-in rear sight is all black and serrated to reduce glare, which is a nice touch.

Your Options

First up is the Ronin.

optics ready Springfield Armory 1911 Emissary

Shown here is the new Springfield Armory 1911 Emissary AOS in the 5″ configuration. On top of the gun is aTrijicon RMR Type 2red dot sight.

The Ronin is outfitted with a Gen2 Speed Trigger, which is streamlined and skeletonized for performance.

Moving on to the Springfield 1911 Operator, weve got a sleek-looking defensive-grade pistol.

The Operator is also equipped with an accessory rail for the mounting of a pistol light or laser.

Springfield Armory optics ready 1911 AOS pistols mounting options

The popular Vortex Defender series of red dot sights are now easily mountable to the Springfield Armory 1911 AOS models.

The Operator is made with a high-quality forged frame and slide for incredible durability and strength.

The Operator is offered in 9mm and .45 ACP with 5 and 4.25 options.

The 4.25 model, newly offered as part of the 1911 AOS launch, features a lightweight aluminum frame.

shooting Springfield Armory optics ready 1911 AOS pistols

With the Vortex Defender-CCW red dot sight, the author tested three Springfield 1911 AOS models: the Ronin, Operator (shown here) and the Emissary.

Finally, we come to the Emissary.

The Emissary was designed to bridge the gap between defensive and custom-level pistols.

The Emissary AOS is an all-black design with squared-off triggerguard and a Tri-Top cut to the slide.

Springfield Armory optics ready 1911 AOS Ronin

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.

The Emissary is equipped with a bull barrel and grenade-pattern textured grips and frame checkering.

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.

Springfield Armory optics ready 1911 AOS Emissary pistol

The Vortex red dot sight looks perfectly at home on the Springfield Armory 1911 AOS Emissary pistol. Also shown is theSureFire X300 Turbo.

Just as an FYI, I use a bit of Loctite to ensure a secure lock-up.

Again, I personally use some Loctite for a solid fit.

You are now ready to hit the range.

Springfield Armory AOS Models

I am thrilled that Springfield is offering this.

Simply place the red dot on the target and manipulate the trigger without interrupting your sight picture.

With a red dot, you are always target-focused, making shooting much easier and intuitive.

Vortex Defender Series

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.

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The Defender has simple up and down 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, its simply ready when you need it.

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This allows you to rack the pistol against a hard surface with little fear of damage.

The AOS system makes your 1911 future-proof and ready to perform.

Welcome to the 21stcentury.

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Check out the Ronin, Emissary and Operator pistols with the AOS system.

Go to forum thread

Springfield ArmoryAOS Models

VortexDefender Series

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