NRA Gun of the Week: Springfield Armory EMP4 Concealed Carry Contour

Published on March 11, 2017
Duration: 4:28

The Springfield Armory EMP4 Concealed Carry Contour (C3) is a 9mm Luger 1911-style pistol optimized for concealed carry. Key features include a narrower grip frame designed for 9mm cartridges, a bobtail cut to reduce printing, enhanced Posi-Lock texturing on the grip, and G10 grip panels. It boasts a 4-inch match-grade barrel and a lightweight forged aluminum alloy frame.

Quick Summary

The Springfield Armory EMP4 C3 is a 9mm 1911-style pistol optimized for concealed carry. It features a narrower grip frame for 9mm cartridges, a bobtail cut to reduce printing, and enhanced Posi-Lock texturing. With a 4-inch match-grade barrel and lightweight aluminum frame, it offers concealability without sacrificing 1911 ergonomics.

Chapters

  1. 00:18Introduction to Springfield EMP4 C3
  2. 00:40EMP Series Design Philosophy
  3. 00:53Grip Frame Narrowing for 9mm
  4. 01:06Proprietary EMP Magazines
  5. 01:48Concealed Carry Contour (C3) Features
  6. 02:00Bobtail Cut for Concealment
  7. 02:36Enhanced Grip Texturing
  8. 02:51EMP4 C3 Specifications
  9. 03:00Sights and Barrel Details
  10. 03:08Slide and Frame Materials
  11. 03:19Disassembly Process
  12. 03:40Included Accessories
  13. 03:51Conclusion and Market Appeal

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Springfield Armory EMP4 C3 suitable for concealed carry?

The EMP4 C3 is designed for concealed carry with a narrower grip frame optimized for 9mm, a bobtail cut to reduce printing, and enhanced grip texturing for secure handling. Its overall dimensions are also considered for comfortable concealment.

How does the Springfield EMP4 C3 differ from a traditional 1911?

The EMP4 C3 is a 1911-style pistol but is specifically engineered around the 9mm Luger cartridge, featuring a narrower grip frame and proprietary magazines. This design optimizes it for the 9mm round, unlike many traditional 1911s chambered in .45 ACP.

What are the key physical specifications of the Springfield EMP4 C3?

The EMP4 C3 measures 7.5 inches in length and 5.5 inches in height, weighing just over 30 ounces. It features a 4-inch stainless steel match-grade barrel and a forged aluminum alloy grip frame.

Are the magazines for the Springfield EMP4 C3 interchangeable with other 1911s?

No, the EMP4 C3 uses proprietary magazines specifically designed for its narrower grip frame and the 9mm Luger cartridge. They are not interchangeable with standard .45 ACP 1911 magazines.

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