What is the best full-size Springfield?

Written by Mark Buff , GunZee founder and CEO.

Full-size Springfields are bulky, but they provide superior firepower and shootability. Despite their size, some people still like them for concealed carry.

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Benefits of full-size guns

We highlight some of the best Springfield full-size guns for concealed carry so you can find the right fit for your needs.

For the IWB carriers, get GunZee’s large holster pad and carry your full-size pistol with comfort and confidence.

1911 Garrison

Springfield Armory 1911 Garrison

Image source: https://www.springfield-armory.com/1911-series-handguns/1911-garrison-handguns/

Features	Details
Caliber	9mm
Capacity	9+1
Barrel length	5”
Overall length	8.6”
MSRP	$868.00

The Springfield 1911 Garrison is a modern take on the classic 1911 design that combines traditional craftsmanship with contemporary features. Crafted from hot salt-blued carbon steel with wood grips, it exudes an heirloom quality aesthetic. The forged steel construction ensures durability and a lifetime of service.

Despite its classic looks, the Garrison incorporates modern upgrades demanded by today's shooters. It is chambered in the easy-shooting 9mm caliber and feeds from a rust-resistant stainless steel 9-round magazine for reliable performance. The checkered thinline wood grips feature a double-diamond pattern with the iconic Crossed Cannon logo.

The lowered and flared ejection port ensures reliable ejection, even with hot +P ammunition loads. The front and rear cocking serrations provide an excellent grip for operation, complementing the comfortable checkered wood grips.

The Garrison comes with a fixed, low-profile combat sight. The sights are made of durable steel and feature a three-dot configuration, with a white dot on the front sight and two white dots on the rear sight. This arrangement allows for easy alignment and rapid sight picture acquisition, even in low-light conditions.

“If I had to pick one truly superlative attribute out of the many that define Browning’s 1911 masterpiece, it would be the trigger. The beautifully crisp single-action trigger found on the Garrison 1911 pistol is simply delightful. The Garrison trigger performs as though it were nurtured by some nameless artisan wielding a needle file and a lifetime’s worth of experience.” —Will Dabbs, The Armorly Life

Echelon

ECHELON™ 9MM HANDGUN.

Image source: https://www.springfield-armory.com/echelon-series-handguns/echelon-handguns/echelon-45-9mm-handgun/

Features	Details
Caliber	9mm
Capacity	17+1
Barrel length	4.5”
Overall length	8”
MSRP	$679.00

The Springfield Echelon 4.5" 9mm handgun is a striker-fired duty pistol. Built around a durable stainless steel chassis, the Echelon features a modular design that allows for unparalleled customization to suit the needs of any shooter.

One of the standout features of the Echelon is its revolutionary optics mounting system, the Variable Interface System (VIS). Utilizing a set of movable pins, the VIS enables a low, direct mount for a wide range of optics, providing an improved sight picture and intuitive alignment. This innovative system sets the Echelon apart from other striker-fired pistols on the market and offers shooters a new level of adaptability.

For fast target acquisition, the Echelon features a tritium-powered U-Dot sight system. The intuitive sight picture is accurate and allows shooters to get on target with ease. The inclusion of tritium in the sights ensures visibility in low-light situations, making the Echelon suitable for different environments.

The Echelon offers a comfortable and secure grip. This makes it easy to handle for both new and experienced shooters. The fully ambidextrous controls cater to both left and right-handed shooters which further enhances the pistol's versatility.

The Echelon 4.5" 9mm handgun comes with two magazines—it provides ample capacity for both duty and recreational use.

SA-35

Springfield SA-35.

Image source: https://www.springfield-armory.com/sa-35-series-handguns/sa-35-handguns/sa-35-9mm-handgun/#sku-gallery-2

Features	Details
Caliber	9mm
Capacity	15+1
Barrel length	4.7”
Overall length	7.8”
MSRP	$799.00

The Springfield SA-35 handgun is a modern take on the legendary P-35 design, created by John Moses Browning. This U.S.A.-made pistol combines the classic appeal of the "wood and steel" era with the enhanced features and performance of contemporary defensive handguns.

Crafted with rugged forged steel parts, the SA-35 offers exceptional strength and durability. The pistol's carbon steel components are adorned with an attractive matte blue finish, which beautifully complements the finely checkered walnut grips. The grips provide a visually appealing contrast and offer a comfortable and secure hold.

The enhanced controls and a factory-tuned trigger provide a smoother, more consistent shooting experience. The trigger offers a crisp, clean break and a positive reset, and allows for accurate and precise shot placement.

The SA-35 holds 15 rounds in the magazine. This increased capacity gives shooters an advantage in both competitive and defensive situations, allowing for more rounds on tap without the need for frequent reloading.

“Springfield has a history of producing high-quality, timeless firearms. I own several and I’ve always held them in high regard for their quality, but none has ever impressed me as much as the SA-35 has. It’s a vintage design with inconspicuous modern improvements that truly make it better. That Springfield Armory named its new version the SA-35 is an obvious tribute to the history of the firearm, while also claiming it under our flag.” —Jason Vincent, Field Ethos

Prodigy

Features	Details
Caliber	9mm
Capacity	17+1
Barrel length	8”
Overall length	8.5”
MSRP	$1,699.00

The Springfield Prodigy's double-stack magazine design significantly increases the firepower of the 1911 platform. The pistol comes standard with both a flush-fitting 17-round magazine and an extended 20-round magazine, ensuring ample ammunition when it matters most. The polymer grip module seamlessly integrates with the forged steel frame and provides a comfortable and secure hold while accommodating the increased capacity.

The Prodigy features a 5" bull barrel, which offers several advantages over traditional barrel designs. The bull barrel's increased mass and rigidity reduce muzzle flip and allow for quicker follow-up shots and improved accuracy. This match-grade barrel, combined with other performance-enhancing features, makes it a top choice for competitive shooters and those who demand the utmost precision from their handguns.

The Prodigy includes the HEX Dragonfly red dot sight. This advanced optic boasts a scratch-resistant, anti-glare glass lens that ensures a clear sight picture in any lighting condition. The HEX Dragonfly enables lightning-fast target acquisition and faster follow-up shots, giving shooters a distinct advantage in both competitive and defensive situations. The Prodigy's optics-ready design allows for easy installation of the HEX Dragonfly, as well as other popular red dot sights on the market.

The Prodigy features a Picatinny rail which allows for the easy addition of lights, lasers, or other tactical accessories. This feature further expands the Prodigy's adaptability to different shooting scenarios.

XD-M Elite OSP

Features	Details
Caliber	10mm
Capacity	16+1
Barrel length	4.5”
Overall length	7.6”
MSRP	$653.00

The new Springfield XD-M Elite OSP (Optical Sight Pistol) combines the refinements of the Elite series with the impressive power of the 10mm cartridge. This polymer-framed pistol offers a high capacity of 16+1 rounds and provides ample firepower for self-defense situations.

The XD-M Elite features the Match Enhanced Trigger Assembly, which includes a flat-faced trigger with a crisp break and an integral overtravel stop. This trigger system enhances the pistol's shootability and accuracy.

Springfield equips the XD-M Elite with an optics-ready slide, which is milled from the factory to accept popular red dot sights. This feature allows shooters to easily mount their preferred optic, improving target acquisition and overall performance.

The pistol incorporates an extended and flared "short" magwell, designed to provide fast and efficient reloading capabilities while maintaining compact dimensions. This magwell design provides a good balance between size and functionality.

The XD-M Elite includes improved slide serrations for enhanced grip during slide manipulation and an ambidextrous slide stop for easy operation by both right and left-handed shooters.

Ronin

Features	Details
Caliber	.45 ACP
Capacity	8+1
Barrel length	5”
Overall length	8.6”
MSRP	$917.00

The Springfield Ronin's foundation of strength comes from its forged steel slides and frames, with a carbon steel slide and a stainless steel frame, as well as a hammer-forged barrel for durability. The pistol features a standard 5" barrel, traditional recoil spring assembly, and barrel bushing.

The Ronin's sights consist of a tactical rack rear sight and a fiber optic front sight, providing a modern twist on the classic 1911 design. These sights improve target acquisition and visibility in different lighting conditions.

The Ronin sports a two-tone finish, with a stainless steel forged frame and a forged carbon steel slide that has undergone a hot salt bluing treatment. This attractive finish not only enhances the pistol's appearance but also protects against wear and corrosion.

The pistol's hybrid smooth and checkered Crossed Cannon wooden grips complement the two-tone finish. These grips offer a comfortable and secure hold while adding to the Ronin's overall aesthetic appeal.

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How do I choose the right full-size Springfield for concealed carry?

Here are some factors to keep in mind when choosing the right full-size Springfield concealed carry pistol.

Ergonomics. Consider backstrap configurations, grip textures like stippling, and control positioning that enables consistent draw grip and weapon retention. Ambidextrous operation is also a plus.
Concealment. Carry profile matters for concealability, so examine slide and frame milling options and look for rounded edges that prevent snagging.
Trigger quality. Look for 4-5 lb clean breaks with short resets for reliable precision.
Optics compatibility. Find options with slides cut for popular optic footprints that allow for backup iron sight use and improve concealability.
Reliability reputation. Opt for options based on round count testing data rather than trends or marketing claims.
Holster options. Think about how you will be carrying and consider what holster options you have before you make your final choice.

Why are full-sized guns good for concealed carry?

When properly set up, full-sized handguns bring underrated concealed carry abilities. Though smaller compact pistols are more discreet, full-size platforms offer superior ergonomics, sight radius, and ammunition capacity.

Full-size guns offer the following advantages:

Accuracy. Full-size guns offer more accurate shots. This is because their longer barrels allow the bullet more time to stabilize in flight.
Recoil management. Larger guns often have better recoil management due to their increased weight and size.
Ammunition capacity. Full-size frames usually have larger magazines and hold more ammo.
Durability. Larger guns often can withstand more wear and tear and are usually more durable and robust. They are great for heavy-duty use.
Range. Due to the longer barrel length and the ability to use larger, more powerful ammunition, full-size guns have a longer effective range.
Frame size. Full-size pistol frames can accommodate different calibers and slides while sharing magazines and providing a consistent grip feel.
Accessory compatibility. Full-size guns can often accommodate more accessories and modifications, such as scopes, suppressors, and extended magazines.

These advantages come with trade-offs. Full-size guns are typically heavier and less convenient to carry, which can be a disadvantage for concealed carry. They may also be more difficult to handle for individuals with smaller hands or less strength.

Full-size Springfield FAQ

Why is the Springfield Hellcat so popular?

The Springfield Hellcat has gained popularity due to its high capacity in a micro-compact frame. It offers an 11+1 or 13+1 capacity, which is impressive for its size. It's also praised for its reliability, accuracy, and the option for an optic-ready version straight from the factory.

Which is better: Hellcat Pro or XD-S Mod.2?

The Hellcat Pro offers a higher capacity 15-round flush-fitting magazine and a slightly longer barrel for better accuracy and control. The XD-S Mod.2 is thinner and has an edge in deep concealment and pocket carry. The final choice between these two models depends on individual preference.

What does XD mean in Springfield concealed carry guns?

In Springfield's concealed carry guns, "XD" stands for "X-treme Duty." This designation represents Springfield's commitment to building reliable, durable, and feature-rich handguns suitable for both self-defense and recreational shooting. XD series guns are known for their ergonomics, safety features, and ease of use.

What is the difference between Springfield XD and XD-M?

The main differences between the Springfield XD and XD-M are the latter's match-grade barrel, interchangeable backstraps, and enhanced ergonomics. The XD-M also has a more aggressive grip texture, a higher-capacity magazine, and a fiber-optic front sight. The XD-M comes with improved accuracy and customization.

Which is better: Glock 19 or Springfield XD?

Both the Glock 19 and Springfield XD are reliable, accurate, and popular choices for concealed carry and duty use. The Glock 19 has a longer track record and more aftermarket support, while the XD offers features such as grip safety and a loaded chamber indicator. The better choice depends on personal preference and individual needs.

How does the grip angle of Springfield 1911s affect comfort and accuracy?

The grip angle of Springfield 1911s promotes a natural point of aim and allows for instinctive shooting and improved accuracy. The comfortable grip, combined with the grip angle, helps reduce felt recoil and muzzle flip for a more comfortable shooting experience.

What benefits do the 3-dot sights offer on Springfield pistols?

The 3-dot sights on Springfield's defensive pistols provide a clear, easy-to-acquire sight picture, enabling faster target acquisition and improved accuracy in different lighting conditions. These sights are durable and can be quickly aligned which is great for self-defense situations.

How does the magazine release on Springfield's carry handguns influence reloading speed?

The magazine release on Springfield's carry handguns is positioned for easy access and allows users to quickly release spent magazines without significantly adjusting their shooting grip. This placement enables faster reloading, which is essential in defensive situations or competitive shooting events.

About the Author

About the author: Mark Buff is the founder and CEO of GunZee. He is an ardent firearms enthusiast and has been carrying concealed for more than 15 years. He created GunZee to solve his own problem: that of uncomfortable KYDEX holsters. His patented GunZee memory foam holster pad makes inside-the-waistband carry super comfortable.