The plethora of 1911 manufacturers currently in the marketplace would boggle the mind of John Browning himself. The shapes and sizes the 1911 has morphed into would surely impress Mr. Browning. One specific style I would be curious of old John’s opinion of is the polymer/steel hybrid frame double-stack 9mm variants. The arrival of this form can be marked in the late 1980s; and really taking off in the 1990s. Over time, these competition-based weapons morphed into more serious tactical and personal defense offerings.

Mention of 1911 chambered in 9mm will cause many purists a side-eye. However, the quest for the 1911-style 9mm handgun is not a new phenomenon. After World War II it was recognized that a smaller frame 1911 versus the issued “Government Model” would aid in ease of carry for officers. A U.S. procurement solicitation issued requirements for a handgun chambered in 9mm (yes—9mm) not to exceed a 7-inch length or weigh more than 25 ounces. Candidates for this trial included Browning Hi-Power variants by Canada’s Inglis, Belgium’s Fabrique Nationale, Smith & Wesson’s S&W Model 39 and Colt. Colt developed a modified version of its M1911 pistol that was chambered for 9mm with an aluminum alloy frame, a 4.25-inch barrel, and a 9-round magazine. The Colt offering eventually spawned into the company’s “Commander” and “Officer” model 1911s.

Springfield Armory Joins the Double-Stack Club

Springfield Armory enjoys a solid reputation in the all-metal single-stack 1911 world. Their entry into the double-stack hybrid frame arena with 9mm 1911 DS Prodigy AOS surprised many. It shouldn’t. The last several years have shown Springfield Armory expanding into ARs, bolt actions, bullpups, classic Hi-Power variant etc. Each category has Springfield Armory providing a feature packed model. The saying “a lot of gun for the money” rings true here.

The 1911 DS Prodigy AOS serves notice with its features, price point, and performance. Certain entities in Texas and Arkansas immediately took note when the DS Prodigy was announced. Two Springfield models are available in the Prodigy line up—5-inch and 4.25-inch barrels with a factory mounted Hex Dragonfly red dot sight as an option.

One definition of prodigy is, “An amazing or unusual thing, especially one out of the ordinary course of nature.” Not only is the DS Prodigy AOS a good representation of the hybrid frame genre, but the pistol’s price is hundreds of dollars less than competitors.

Springfield stays away from any reference to a “2011 frame,” likely due to trademark or patent reasons. Since 1994 “2011” has been associated with another well-known manufacturer. With that said, the 1911 DS Prodigy’s frame is a modular two-piece design consisting of a forged steel sub-frame and polymer grip. The steel frame contains the rails that the slide runs on, fire control group, ambidextrous thumb safeties, grip safety, slide stop, and railed dust cover.

The DS Prodigy polymer grip is contoured to maintain 1911 characteristics while accommodating high-capacity double-stack magazines. The same grip texture used on the Springfield Hellcat Pro is found on the DS Prodigy. Use of polymer in the grip construction minimizes the material thickness required. The DS Prodigy grip circumference is not that much bigger than a single-stack, steel-framed 1911.

It is the high-capacity nature of the Prodigy that attracts so many. Springfield uses U.S.-made DuraMags with steel bodies and polymer followers and base pads. The standard magazine holds 17 rounds with 20- and 26-round mags available. For many, even for 1911 lovers, the consideration of handguns chambered in 9mm becomes more feasible as capacity increases. The Prodigy ships with one 17 and one 20-rounder. The 17-round mag sits flush, with only the small base pad extending below the frame. With the 20-round mag in place, the extended base pad extends almost an inch below the bottom of the frame. The 26-round magazine extends a little over 2-inches inches below the grip. Nothing like carrying most of a box of 9mm ammunition in one magazine.

A match grade 4.25-inch stainless bull barrel is fitted inside Prodigy’s carbon steel slide. The Prodigy uses a full-length two-piece guide rod system The steel slide features angled front and rear slide serrations. All external metal components have a black Cerakote finish. The full-length dust cover provides a resting place for lights/lasers. It also serves to reduce muzzle flip, especially if sending multiple rounds downrange quickly. Overall weight of the DS Prodigy 4.25-inch is 32.5 ounces.

My hands are average size yet have no issue working the trigger or other DS Prodigy controls. Trigger break measured 4.5 to 4.75 pounds. The grip size/angle combined with single action trigger help make 1911s the most accurate handgun in most arsenals. It is accurate and conducive to precise shot placement. No one can argue that there is a more instinctive handling weapon than the 1911-pattern handgun.

Raison D’Etre

The Springfield Armory DS Prodigy 4.25 9mm represents portability, capacity, reliability, controllability, and lethality. These are poster child traits for a duty, tactical, personal defense handgun. The commander-length slide with 4.25-inch barrel provides the optimum mix of sight radius, concealment, weapon balance, and reliability in a 1911 pattern handgun. With that said, sight radius for our purposes is not that important. The DS Prodigy arrived with a Hex Dragonfly red dot factory mounted. Typical of Springfield Armory, their path to red dot usage was well studied and meticulously applied.

Developed in collaboration with Agency Arms, the AOS (Agency Optic System) are red dot mounting plates designed exclusively for the 1911 DS Prodigy line up. Machined from billet steel, each plate is designed specifically to deliver proper optic height for intuitive sight picture and instant target acquisition and features an integral rear sight. For a tactical/personal defense weapon the ability to co-witness iron sights with red dot is a must.

Users of the DS Prodigy equipped with the Hex Dragonfly find that they no longer have to switch focus from target to sights, invariably eliminating the “front sight focus” so difficult maintain when using iron sights, especially under stress. Handgunners with a red dot-equipped weapon can now do as nature intends for them to do—focus on the threat/target. The red dot will be there for aiming purposes. Moreover, because the indexing of a red dot is far easier than aligning two separate protruding pieces of steel, shooters can make accurate shots beyond what was considered possible with iron sights.

Supporting Staff

One of the unspoken benefits of choosing a 1911/2011 for use is the plethora of available holsters. Versacarry Compound and Decree OWB holsters with a Versacarry Double Stitch gun belt were used with the Springfield DS Prodigy.

Versacarry continues to innovate beyond its initial ZeroBulk offering from ten years ago. Versacarry’s new hybrid Compound series takes their known use of premium water buffalo leather and combines it with Kydex by infusing it between leather layers. This offers better support and retention for your handgun. The holster is built with a recessed area in the Kydex to keep the front sight from snagging when the firearm is drawn. The draw tension is adjustable to give owners the flexibility to adjust the holster to their firearm for customized retention.

Versacarry’s line up is admirable in how many handgun models their holsters accommodate. This is because Versacarry holster sizing is based off of trigger guard and frame size, rather than specific features of one given pistol model. Since most handguns share a lot of the same design similarities, Versacarry can fit hundreds of different handguns into three main holster sizes using this method.

The Compound and Decree holsters were mated to a Versacarry Double Stich gun belt. The importance of a quality gun belt is overlooked at the user’s peril. You do not want gear hanging loosely or flopping around on your waist. Versacarry uses double ply water buffalo leather that has been vegetable tanned. Heavy duty, industrial-grade, bonded nylon thread is used for double stitching. The nickel belt buckle is removable.

The Versacarry Decree and Compound holsters kept the DS Prodigy tight to the body and at the proper cant, facilitating a proper draw stroke. Weight was distributed well between the Versacarry holster and belt.

5.11 Tactical is a company not only helping equip our military, law enforcement, and private security contractors, but has not forgotten civilians either. The LV6 Waist Pack 2.0—do not call it a “fanny pack”—has been updated with quick release buckle waist strap that facilitates being worn around the waist or slung across the body like the cool people do. Interior pockets accommodate various items you see fit to carry along with a hidden slip compartment for a compact handgun such as the Springfield Armory DS Prodigy. The LV6 can also be attached to the larger 511 Tactical LV18 Backpack 2.0, if desired.

The LV18 Backpack has an ambidextrous side entry CCW compartment with increased hook/loop area for holster retention strap for keeping a handgun discretely close by. The padded laptop sleeve has been expanded in size, as well. A second set of webbing loops offer an attachment point for the LV6 Waist Pack 2.0 when extra cargo space is needed, as mentioned previously. Additional features include side compression straps, a padded back panel with a flex cuff channel, and quick-release shoulder straps with a removable sternum strap. Let’s face it, the world is only becoming a more dangerous place, not only overseas but also here in the US. 5.11 Tactical is here to assist in keeping you safe.

Range Time

Range testing purposely included Versacarry holsters and 511 Tactical packs to determine if DS Prodigy was worthy of being considered for daily carry duties. The Versacarry holsters featured a generous open cut top to use with the co-witness sights and Hex Dragonfly red dot topped slide.

Drills consisted of drawing from concealment to see if the red dot was easy to obtain when operating in haste. Various scenarios engaging targets from behind cover or on the move were also utilized. Magazine change drills were done for the dual purpose of getting a feel of manipulating DS Prodigy with Hex Dragonfly installed and making sure the red dot was seamlessly picked up after reloading and the pistol is brought back on target.

The Springfield DS Prodigy has great potential in terms of accuracy, speed, and extending effective engagement distances. The sight radius of the DS Prodigy 4.25 is not an issue with the Hex Dragonfly mounted—in fact it is irrelevant, thanks to the red dot.

In terms of ammunition, the DS Prodigy handled all brands, bullet types, and weights with equal aplomb. Black Hills Ammunition, Remington, Federal, and Hornady were used. Loads fired spanned 115-grain to 147-grain with hollow points and FMJ bullet types utilized. The DS Prodigy 4.25 generated 1.5- to 2-inch groups at 25 yards. No malfunctions were experienced while test firing over 350 rounds during multiple range visits. The overall balance of the 32-ounce DS Prodigy made recoil negligible.

PERFORMANCE

Springfield Armory DS Prodigy 4.25

Accuracy test consisted of three five-shot groups with each ammunition type; group sizes were averaged. Velocity figures obtained by averaging five rounds fired over Caldwell Precision Shooting chronograph.

Final Thoughts

What sets the DS Prodigy apart is the amount of product development and field trials it received from Springfield Armory. For example, a key element of the DS Prodigy is the Agency Arms’ AOS method of mounting red dots allowing for co-witnessing with the handgun’s iron sights. Anything electronic can fail, no matter how rugged; it’s important to have back up sights ready. Another advantage of retaining elevated irons around the red dot is that it provides instant verification of zero. If the red dot has been knocked off, the iron sights are there for instant back up.

The key point with the Springfield DS Prodigy is that it is eminently adaptable. Everyone from homeowners, law enforcement officers, to elite tactical team members will find the DS Prodigy a handgun worthy of consideration. The DS Prodigy arrives ready to go right out of the box. The DS Prodigy is a potent package due to its accuracy, reliability, and capacity.

SPECIFICATIONS

Make: Springfield Armory
Model: 1911 DS Prodigy 4.25″ AOS w/Hex Dragonfly
Caliber: 9mm
Magazine Capacity: 17-round and 20-round magazines arrive with pistol
Barrel Length: 4.25in
Overall Length: 7.8in
Height: 5.5in
Width: 1.15in
Weight Empty: 32.5oz
MSRP: $1699
URL: www.springfield-armory.com

TACTICA DEFENSE FASHION 

Always Ready Camo 

Tactical Defense Fashion introduces the Always Ready Camo Jacket, featuring revolutionary trigger guard pockets. This unique innovation can’t be found anywhere else, and you’ll be amazed by the security, convenience and durability of this stylish jacket. Each trigger guard pocket is lined with a strong layer of TPE and features a hook-and-loop enclosure to ensure safety. Always be ready. tacticafashion.com 

TACTICA DEFENSE FASHION 

Women’s Tactical Pants 

With Tactica Defense Fashion’s Women’s Tactical Pants, you’ll feel equipped for any challenge that comes your way. Not only will you make a sharp appearance, but you’ll benefit from smart features like adjustable waist tabs, water-resistant material and seven handy storage pockets. Select from three cool colors and enjoy a roomy, comfortable fit. tacticafashion.com

PULSAR 

Core FXQ BW Thermal Front Attachments 

Core FXQ Black and White thermal front attachments are perfect for hog, varmint and predator hunting. The Core FXQ BW is available in two different models, FXQ38 BW and FXQ50 BW. Easily go from a day hunt into the night by adding the clip-on Core FXQ BW front attachment to your day time riflescope. The front attachment is a thermal device that attaches to the front of your riflescope, transforming it into a thermal riflescope. Core FXQs are powered by two CR123A batteries for up to 4 hours of battery life and can also be powered with an external power. The front attachment is crafted of glass-nylon composite material for rugged durability, is IP67 waterproof in up to 1 meter of water for up to an hour and is 100% dustproof. Included with the optic is an eyepiece attachment, carrying case, torque screwdriver, wireless remote control, hand strap, cleaning cloth and two CR123A batteries.  pulsarnv.com

VUDOO GUN WORKS 

Apparition Rifles 

Vudoo Gun Works, leader in rimfire precision rifles, is proud to announce the addition of the JP Enterprises’ APAC Chassis to the Apparition line of rifles. The Vudoo Gun Works Apparition is a purpose-built competition/target rifle with sub-MOA accuracy and an impressive list of options that come standard. The Apparition is created around the patented V-22 Rimfire repeater action, ensuring customers get a no compromise, maximum performance rifle. The addition of the JP APAC is a perfect marriage of the high standards in the Apparition line with the long standing quality and reputation of JP Enterprises. 

JP Enterprises APAC is a natural fit with its seamless compatibility with the Vudoo V-22 action and brings refined adjustments and modularity to a bolt gun platform. Its fully adjustable buttstock accommodates the physical needs of any shooter and offers additional customization with various pistol grip options. The APAC is fully ambidextrous, accommodating both right- and left-handed actions. Its collapsible stock is also reversible to fold over bolt handles on either side of the chassis block. The JP MK III handguard design provides complete modularity of accessories and rails. vudoogunworks.com 

SAVAGE 

Scoped-Rifle Package Rifles Chambered in .450 Bushmaster 

Savage is now chambering .450 Bushmaster in the popular 110 Apex Hunter XP and 110 Engage Hunter XP Package Rifles. The cartridge is legal in many previously shotgun slug-only areas and offers improved range, accuracy and power over other straight-walled rifle cartridges and sabots. Both of the new package rifles offer a tough, synthetic stock with enhanced ergonomics and adjustable length-of-pull, as well as the user-adjustable AccuTrigger and a 22-inch carbon steel barrel with a ported muzzle brake. The Apex Hunter XP comes with a Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40mm scope and a one-piece rail, while the Engage Hunter XP features a Bushnell Engage 3-9x40mm. Both scopes are mounted, bore-sighted and ready to shoot.  savagearms.com 

APEX TACTICAL SPECIALTIES 

Heavy Duty Striker 

The Apex Heavy Duty Striker for the FN 509, FNS and FNS Compact is a direct drop-in replacement option for customers with FN 509 and FNS series pistols. The striker is machined from a billet of stainless steel and is heat-treated for enhanced durability. The new Apex Heavy Duty Striker is easy to install, utilizing the following components of the factory striker assembly: striker spring stop, striker spring stop pin, striker return spring and striker spring guide.  apextactical.com

VERSACARRY 

Ammo Caddy 

The Ammo Caddy by Versacarry is a revolutionary cartridge carrying device that easily attaches to the butt of your rifle, belt, car or any surface in seconds keeping extra ammo handy and making reload quick and easy. It utilizes an aerospace-grade Velcro® and a non-destructive industrial strength adhesive that provides you with a strong secure mount as well as the peace of mind that your rifle will be unharmed if you choose to remove the system.  versacarry.com 

MEPROLIGHT USA

Mepro Foresight 

The Mepro Foresight is a weapon sight that provides users with real-time data increasing the user’s performance and accuracy. The data includes battery level, sensor data, Bluetooth connectivity and a shot counter (future software upgrade). With five reticles for a variety of possible tactical scenarios and a built-in compass and inside leveler, the Mepro Foresight becomes an invaluable asset in maximizing hit capability. A built-in sensor allows for automatic brightness adjustment. A digital zeroing mechanism allows the user to load a present zeroing profile from Meprolight’s mobile APP (Android and iOS) through a Bluetooth interface. The Mepro Foresight APP allows up to 10 zeroing weapon profiles or user profiles. It features up-to-date and the latest Mepro Foresight firmware, a rich reticle database and allows previously stored profiles from the mobile APP to the sight.  meprolight.com