Flat mainspring housing is "trendy" and "nostalgic" . . . it's derived from the 1911 before it was modified to the 1911-A1. No particular benefit beyond "style."
I have a MilSpec 1911-A1. The ejector port seems to nail the brass at exit. I get a small point/dent in the side of the case. I have yet to see any problem with this dent. The brass reloads, feeds and shoots just fine. Second firing removes the first dent -- and provides a second dent. Learn to live with it. *G* I don't worry about dented brass, it's perfectly functional and safe.
Accuracy out of the box seems fine. I don't do "target" shooting with it, but it shoots where I point it, and damn tight shooting too. Never had any problems with feeding any kind of ammo -- even some really really short 200 gr. LRN reloads. Oh yeah, mine won't feed CCI Blazer 200 gr. JHP . . . but its the sharp edged bullet hangin up on the feed ramp. It's NOT the gun. CCI Blazer 200 gr. JHP doesn't seem to feed for any gun.
Checkered front strap . . . Hmmmmm . . . it's fixed to the frame. I've not seen Wilson's strap system. Is this part of the wrapped grip? I have a Springfield UltrCompact with Hogue wraparounds. They're fine. My MilSpec has smooth surfaced Cocobolo panels. They're nice too, but I don't carry this smooth grip for "combat" applications. It's a "target/plinker" for the field.
I like the Wilson stainless recoil rod. some disagree, but I think the one piece rod takes some kink out of the recoil spring.
I polished the feed ramp. Dremel tool with a FELT tip and tripoli. DON'T take abrasive papers to the ramp! There's a fine little spec to this area, a light polish is all that is necessary -- if it's necessary at all.
Not sure what People's Socialist Republik of Kalifornia is up to on the MilSpec. Springfield should be able to tell you precisely.
I'd be inclined to head to Oregon and buy the gun. Or Nevada . . . I don't trust the "good fairy" state with my firearm design. Look what they did with the AK and the SKS!
MilSpec is a neat gun. No plastic parts like the Colt. Not sure the Kimber is not using plastic triggers these days.
The MilSpec trigger is just fine, about 4.5 lbs and smooth.
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What part of "shall not be infringed" needs 'splainin' ???
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PowderBurns Black Powder / Muzzle Loader Forum
[This message has been edited by Genghis (edited 11-22-2001).]