Springfield Prodigy 1911 DS - A new double stack 1911 9mm- Worth Buying?

Published on September 2, 2022
Duration: 18:36

This review of the Springfield Prodigy 1911 DS 9mm pistol, presented by Dave Tim from Guns and Tactics, offers a hands-on first impression and range experience. The video details the firearm's features, including its double-stack magazine capability, grip module design, and comparison to the 2011 platform. It critically assesses reliability issues encountered during testing, trigger performance, ergonomics, and the optic mounting system, providing a mixed but honest assessment for potential buyers.

Quick Summary

The Springfield Prodigy 1911 DS is a 9mm double-stack pistol featuring a grip module design similar to the 2011 platform, allowing for higher capacity magazines. While it offers a competitive price point around $1400-$1500 and good ergonomics, early testing revealed reliability issues including failures to feed and eject, impacting its suitability as a duty-ready firearm out of the box.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Announcement
  2. 00:03Springfield 1911 DS Prodigy Overview
  3. 00:101911 DS vs. 2011 Platform
  4. 00:23Grip Module Design
  5. 00:37Early Leaks & Buzz
  6. 00:47Dave Tim Intro & Disclosure
  7. 01:01Purchasing the Firearm
  8. 01:18Staccato Relationship Disclosure
  9. 01:51Market Competition & Entry-Level Guns
  10. 02:11Price Point & Availability
  11. 02:20HEX Optics Integration
  12. 02:35Prodigy Line & Future Models
  13. 02:43Barrel Length Options
  14. 02:53Included Accessories
  15. 03:11Magazine Details (Duramag)
  16. 03:21Magazine Compatibility (2011)
  17. 03:38Mag Release Differences
  18. 03:542011 Trademark & Magazine Markings
  19. 04:17Magazine Construction (Duramag)
  20. 04:23Magazine Internals
  21. 04:51Base Pad & Locking Piece
  22. 05:02Initial Reliability Issues
  23. 05:15Ammunition Tested
  24. 05:40Specific Malfunctions (Fail to Feed/Eject)
  25. 05:45Slide Reciprocation Observation
  26. 06:09Failures to Go Into Battery
  27. 06:20Accuracy Performance
  28. 06:25Recoil Impulse & Comfort
  29. 06:33Reliability Concerns
  30. 06:48Positive Aspects: Grip Texture
  31. 07:07Mainspring Housing Texture
  32. 07:21Magwell Design
  33. 07:34Mainspring Housing Corners
  34. 08:02Grip Screw Condition
  35. 08:41Trigger Performance Analysis
  36. 09:53Forged Slide and Frame
  37. 10:00Frame vs. Grip Module
  38. 10:21Picatinny Rail & Machining
  39. 10:33Serrations (Front & Rear)
  40. 10:42Optics Ready Plate Design
  41. 10:46Agency Arms Collaboration
  42. 10:55Filler Plate & Rear Sight
  43. 11:05Front Sight
  44. 11:10Optic Plate Locking Mechanism
  45. 11:38Optic Plate Limitations
  46. 11:45Hex Optics Footprint
  47. 11:50Launch Execution Critique
  48. 12:12Testing Optics
  49. 12:42Caliber & Magazine Questions
  50. 12:51Guide Rod Assembly
  51. 13:07Disassembly Components
  52. 13:10Two-Piece Guide Rod
  53. 13:17Recoil Spring
  54. 13:23Toolless Guide Rod Preference
  55. 13:36Plug Removal
  56. 13:37Barrel Inspection
  57. 13:40Lubrication & Wear
  58. 14:15Adding Lube for Testing
  59. 14:32Slide to Frame Fit
  60. 15:03Controls Overview
  61. 15:05Ambi Safety Design
  62. 15:30Mag Release Functionality
  63. 15:46Grip Safety Performance
  64. 16:05Overall Conclusion
  65. 16:13Final Rating: Meh
  66. 16:19Desire for Affordable 2011
  67. 16:42Impact of Reliability Issues
  68. 16:53Not a Definitive 'Don't Buy'
  69. 17:03Desire to Like the Gun
  70. 17:07Continued Testing Plan
  71. 17:11Break-in Period Skepticism
  72. 17:18Duty Gun Expectations
  73. 17:28Launch Execution Feedback
  74. 17:35Final Thoughts on Prodigy
  75. 17:40Call to Action: Like, Share, Subscribe
  76. 17:44Support the Channel (Patreon)
  77. 17:57Q&A and Email Contact
  78. 18:11Live Q&A Episode & Prize Giveaway
  79. 18:13Thank You & Sign Off

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Springfield Prodigy 1911 DS and how does it differ from a traditional 1911?

The Springfield Prodigy 1911 DS is a double-stack 9mm pistol designed with a grip module, distinguishing it from traditional 1911s which have a frame with grip panels. This design allows for wider, double-stack magazines, similar to the 2011 platform.

What are the reported reliability issues with the Springfield Prodigy 1911 DS?

During testing, the Springfield Prodigy 1911 DS experienced reliability issues including failed to feed and failed to eject malfunctions. The reviewer estimated the firearm was running at approximately 90% reliability out of the box, which is a concern for a duty-style pistol.

How is the trigger performance on the Springfield Prodigy 1911 DS?

The trigger on the Springfield Prodigy 1911 DS breaks around five pounds. It features a take-up to a wall, followed by some travel and creep before the break, and a distinct reset. The reviewer noted the reset is a bit longer than typical 2011 triggers.

What are the pros and cons of the Springfield Prodigy 1911 DS optic mounting system?

The optic mounting system, developed with Agency Arms, is robust and prevents optic movement. However, a significant con is that at launch, only a plate for Hex optics is included, requiring users to wait for plates for popular red dots like RMR or Holosun.

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