But it takes no small amount of dedication to manage it, and I do admire their tenacity.
I am someone who has carried guns for well over 50 years, including my career as a cop.
If youre like me, youve found the luster of the idea of carrying soon loses its shine.
The SI Magwell from Stan Chen is designed specifically for the downsized EMP pistol. Note the custom VZ Grips included in the package. Image: Carson McDaniels/Springfield Armory
For most, its more of a chore than a delight.
However, if you commit to it, there are options.
Finding something that can achieve all those disparate goals is no easy task, though.
TheStan Chen SI Magwellfor the EMP gives the micro-sized 9mm 1911 a high-speed reload capability. Image: Carson McDaniels/Springfield Armory
Factor in the feathery 24-oz.
weight and amazing accuracy, and the Ronin EMP platform nails it all.
The EMP isnt just a cut-down, full-sized 1911, which can often compromise reliability when taken too far.
The Stan Chen customized Ronin EMP 3″ makes for a very compact and capable EDC 9mm 1911.
When you wrap your hand around the grip, I promise youll smile.
Stans sheer knowledge of what makes a 1911 run is legendary.
His custom builds hold up even when scrutinized with a 20X magnifier.
The “Shooter Installed” SI Magwell can be fitted to the EMP easily with basic tools. Image: Carson McDaniels/Springfield Armory
My own tests with his guns have revealed a level of accuracy almost defying belief.
I once shot 60 rounds at 25 yards into just under 1 from one of his custom guns.
Now, Stan brings that skillset and background to the excellent little EMP.
The Stan Chen Custom safety for the EMP builds on the foundation of a standard G.I.-style safety, but makes the surface platform just a tad bigger and curved slightly. It’s comfy and accessible without being intrusive.
I asked Stan if I could try them on my personal gun, and the game was afoot.
If you might detail strip your 1911, you might install this innovative magwell.
Stan said he made some specific changes to accommodate the EMP.
Shown here is the Stan Chen Angled Mag Catch with angled serrations to improve engagement of your thumb. Image: Carson McDaniels/Springfield Armory
The magwell shows the expected Chen attention to detail, too.
The stock Ronin sights have a classic white dot rear with fiber optic front.
They are bold, easy to pick-up and easily adjustable for windage with a set screw.
If you can change a hammer spring housing, you can fit the Chen magwell. The matching grip set from VZ fits perfectly.
The Chen Full Custom Rear Sight is similar, but with a few changes I want to note.
Priced at $54.99, Stans Full Custom rear offers a simple, black serrated rear face.
The blade is angled slightly to help avoid glare in bright sun and is crafted for one-handed slide manipulation.
While not significantly different from the stock sight, it does offer a few custom touches I appreciated.
The latter was one we fitted the EMP out with, and I like it.
The slight curve follows the thumbs natural bend, and its fully dehorned.
If you have to flip the grip a bit to reach the release, its especially effective.
I also would never have thought of one design element of it.
Installation
Im blessed because I have the skills and tools to install these parts.
If youre careful, the rear sight goes on easily, too.
Just use care so you dont bugger up the screw head!
I like to start by using the original part to measure the engagement surfaces for a starting point.
until you get that satisfying snick we all enjoy.
But unless you know how to do this, do take your favorite EMP to a gunsmith you trust.
Its money well invested.
All of the Chen parts are meticulously manufactured in-house on high-end CNC machinery capable of mold-making precision.
Multi-axis machining techniques allow for amazing dimensional consistency, leading to more precise fitting to the pistol.
When I was editor ofAmerican Handgunner,I often fielded questions from readers.
When asked, Which factory made 1911 should I buy?
I always pointed them at a Springfield.
