They may look similar, but dont be fooled these two 1911s are quite different.
This review will focus on the similarities and differences between the Springfield Armory 1911 TRP and the 1911 Operator.
I consider the TRP one of the finest 1911s ever produced.
When picking out your next 1911, you might wonder which is better: the TRP (right) or the Operator (left). The author highlights the features of each to help you decide.
It has both traditional and modern characteristics that most shooters prefer.
The flat mainspring housing and frontstrap are textured with 20 line-per-inch checkering.
Both the rear and front sights are three-dot tritium night sights, and theblack Cerakote finishlooks incredible.
Inspired by the Professional Model 1911 developed for the FBI, the TRP offers a high degree of precision and solid reliability.
Shooting the 1911 TRP is truly enjoyable.
The smooth accuracy gives the shooter precise confidence as shots ring steel one after the other.
1911 Operator
Springfield Armory released the 1911 Operator in December 2021.
Loaded with features, the Springfield Armory 1911 Operator offers incredible value. This is a modern gun, from its premium sights to its accessory rail.
The 1911 Operator ships with flat dark earth VZ G-10 grips and two 8-round MecGar magazines.
The flat mainspring housing is uniquely textured with Springfields Octo-Grip checkering, and the frontstrap is smooth.
The 1911 Operator has three-dot sights with a large tritium front night sight.
Both the Operator (top) and TRP offer some features in common, including an ambidextrous thumb safety and 5″ match-grade barrels.
Much like the 1911 TRP, the 1911 Operator has a black Cerakote finish on the frame and slide.
No learning curve needed with this 1911.
Just align the sights, with a center hold on the target, and shoot that pistol with boldness.
Understandably, the two pistols also have a number of differences, including the magazines, guide rods, grips, sights and more.
How Are They Similar?
Both the 1911 TRP and the 1911 Operator share similar characteristics.
Both 1911s have a 4.25 lb trigger and each shoots incredibly well.
The Springfield 1911 Operator’s blued magazine (left) features an eight-round capacity and an extended basepad.
I feel that both of these fine 1911s would make their owners proud.
You Said They Are Different?
The TRP ships with two 7-round magazines, while the 1911 Operator ships with two 8-round MecGar magazines.
At the end of the day, both guns are exceptional 1911 pistols. Which is best for you is largely dependent on your personal wants and needs.
The magazines will work perfectly with each other.
The 1911 TRP has a flared and extended magwell for quick reloads.
Once the magazine is seated, it blends nicely with the grip.
The mainspring housing and the front strap checkering on the TRP has 20 line-per-inch texturing.
The Operator uses Springfields Octo-Grip on the flat mainspring housing with a smooth, non-textured, front strap.
The 1911 TRP has a full-length two-piece guide rod.
Once removed, a standard 1911 disassembly process is used.
The 1911 Operator uses a traditional GI-style guide rod, therefore it disassembles like most other 1911 pistols.
The build quality on each are extremely strong, while using the finest materials and parts.
Regarding price, there is another difference.
That more includes a pedigree that ties back to the highly respected Professional Model employed by the FBI.
So, it can be a hard decision.
Luckily for me, I have both.
You will certainly be happy you did.
Go to forum thread
1911TRPTM Series
1911Operator
