Firearm: Springfield Armory Ronin 4.25-inch AOS 1911 (MSRP: $967)
It’s not often that we get to stir up multiple hornets’ nests with one firearm, but here we are. Springfield Armory recently added the Agency Arms AOS optics-mounting system to its Ronin line of traditional 1911 handguns – so that’s iron sights versus red dots, controversy number one. Number two? The Ronin we have today is chambered in 9 mm – so we get the 9 mm vs. .45 ACP argument thrown in as well! And, while we’re at it, let’s toss in the single-stack vs. double-stack argument that seems to pop up every time we feature a 1911.
One of the nice things about Springfield Armory’s Ronin line, of course, is that everyone can have the configuration they prefer. It’s available with the AOS optics-mount system, and without. It’s available in 9 mm and in .45 ACP. It’s even available in Government length, with a 5-inch barrel, or in Commander length with the 4.25-inch barrel we have here. Choices are a great thing, and we’ve never had so many excellent choices as we do right now.
The Ronin we have today is a classic Commander-size pistol, with a 4.25-inch barrel, 7.9-inch overall length, 1.3-inch width and 31-ounce weight thanks to its aluminum frame. It has a 9-round magazine, although 10-round, flush-fit versions are available as well. This gives the Ronin up to 11 rounds total on hand, compared to similarly sized double-stacks with capacity between 16 and 18 rounds total. Whether the extra rounds are more important than the superior trigger of the 1911 platform are choices the individual needs to make for themselves.
The AOS optics-mounting system helps add modern electo-optics to the slimmer slide of the 1911 platform. Multiple footprints are available, including RMR, RMSc and DeltaPoint Pro, in addition to the cover plate; all of which contain a rear sight designed to work with the fiber-optic front sight co-witnessing with most optics. It’s a two-stage system, where the plate attaches to the slide, then the optic attaches to the plate. This requires two sets of screws to properly mount and ensure they stay tight, but it does allow easy addition of powered optics to the 1911 platform.
I’ve commented previously on the single biggest attraction to the 9mm 1911, the shootability. The extra heft of the platform compared to a polymer-frame pistol adds about half a pound overall, which really isn’t going to affect how it’s carried, but adds just a little more recoil reduction to the already easy-to-shoot 9 mm. Add in a red-dot sight for more precise shooting, and this is a superlative option for the 1911 fan.
Holster: ANR Design Right Hand Quick Ship Appendix with Claw (MSRP: $69.99)
While we were thinking outside-the-box with a red-dot-ready, 9 mm 1911, we figured we’d keep going and use a kydex, appendix-carry holster to carry the Ronin AOS. For this, we’ve turned to ANR Design for the company’s excellent Quick Ship Appendix With Claw holster. This is a model we’ve used for quite a few “I Carry” kits, and all examples have fit the respective handguns well and been quite easy to use and conceal.
Constructed of a single sheet of kydex in a taco-style design, each Appendix With Claw holster is CNC-cut and vacuum-formed for a precise fit to the specific firearm. All come cut for optics, and include a concealment claw to tuck the rig into the body to minimize printing. Options are available for many different popular concealed-carry firearms with a variety of choices, and the Quick Ship designation means the holster will ship in five to seven business days.
Accessory: Riton Optics 3 Tactix MPRD 3 red-dot sight (MSRP: $329.99)
Since the new Ronin AOS is ready for a powered optic, the last piece of today’s kit is a Riton Optics 3 Tactix MPRD 3 red-dot sight. Designed for handguns and plates with the RMSc footprint, the 3 Tactix MPRD 3 offers three reticle options: a 3-MOA dot, a 30-MOA circle and a circle/dot combination. A side-mounted battery tray holds the CR1632 battery for convenient replacement, and Riton estimates battery life at 50,000 hours.
The 3 Tactix MPRD 3 can achieve this battery life two ways: The sight comes with ten levels of brightness available, two of which are compatible with night vision. Twin buttons on the left side of the optic allow the user to fine-tune the brightness of the reticle. Motion-sensing technology automatically turns the unit off when not in use, but instantly turns it back on when motion is detected. The 3 Tactix MPRD 3 also features multi-coated glass lenses and 6061-T6 aluminum construction for durability and longevity.
