The Springfield Armory SA-35 is a pistol that sparks considerable interest among firearms enthusiasts. It's a modern interpretation of the iconic 1911 platform, boasting a blend of classic aesthetics and contemporary upgrades. This review dives deep into its performance, features, and overall value, helping you determine if the SA-35 is the right pistol for you.
Design and Features: A Nod to the Past, Built for the Present
The SA-35 immediately catches the eye with its sleek, refined design. Springfield Armory has clearly paid homage to the 1911's heritage, while incorporating several modern improvements. The forged steel frame provides a robust foundation, ensuring durability and longevity. The high-polish finish contributes to its elegant appearance, but also offers protection against corrosion.
Here's a closer look at some key features:
- Forged Steel Frame: This enhances the pistol's overall strength and rigidity, contributing to improved accuracy and reliability.
- Match-Grade Barrel: The SA-35 boasts a match-grade barrel, which plays a crucial role in delivering enhanced accuracy. This barrel is meticulously crafted to tight tolerances, resulting in superior performance on the range.
- Enhanced Trigger: The trigger is a highlight, boasting a crisp, clean break and minimal overtravel. This is a significant upgrade over many standard 1911s, making it more suitable for both target shooting and self-defense scenarios.
- Ambidextrous Safety: Both left- and right-handed shooters will appreciate the ambidextrous thumb safety, making the pistol versatile and user-friendly.
- G10 Grips: The G10 grips provide excellent grip texture, improving handling and control, especially in wet or adverse conditions. They are also visually appealing and add to the overall premium feel of the firearm.
- Sights: The sights are typically three-dot style, offering a clear and easy-to-acquire sight picture, which is crucial for quick target acquisition.
Performance on the Range: Accuracy and Reliability
The SA-35's performance on the range is impressive. The match-grade barrel, combined with the enhanced trigger, contributes to a high level of accuracy. During testing, consistent groupings were observed, even at longer distances. The pistol's reliability was also noteworthy, exhibiting flawless function throughout numerous rounds fired. The recoil, while noticeable due to the .45 ACP caliber, is manageable even for shooters with less experience.
Pros and Cons: Weighing the Advantages and Disadvantages
Pros:
- Excellent Accuracy: The match-grade barrel and enhanced trigger contribute to exceptional accuracy.
- Durable Construction: The forged steel frame ensures longevity and reliability.
- Ergonomic Design: The pistol's design promotes comfortable handling and control.
- Modern Upgrades: The SA-35 incorporates many contemporary features that enhance its performance and usability.
- Premium Feel: The overall quality and craftsmanship result in a premium feel that justifies the price point.
Cons:
- Price Point: The SA-35 sits at a higher price point compared to some other 1911s.
- Weight: The all-steel construction results in a heavier pistol compared to polymer-framed alternatives. This can affect carry comfort for some users.
Conclusion: Is the Springfield Armory SA-35 Worth It?
The Springfield Armory SA-35 is a well-executed modern take on a classic design. It offers excellent accuracy, reliability, and a premium feel. While the price point might be higher than some competitors, the enhanced features, durable construction, and impressive performance justify the investment for those seeking a high-quality 1911. Ultimately, whether it's "worth it" depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you're looking for a reliable, accurate, and beautifully crafted 1911, the SA-35 is certainly worth considering. However, if budget is a significant constraint or you prioritize a lighter carry pistol, you might want to explore other options.
