Hey everyone, this is Shooting Illustrated bringing you another episode of “I Carry.” In today’s feature, we’re taking a look at a Lipsey’s Special Springfield Armory SA-35 9 mm pistol and some related gear. Let’s take a closer look at this setup:
Firearm: Springfield Armory SA-35 Lipsey’s FDE Exclusive (MSRP: $899)
It’s interesting to see the surge in interest in double-stack, 9mm 1911s these days. It’s understandable, given that these pistols pair the proven design and excellent trigger of the 1911 with the capacity of their polymer-frame, striker-fired rivals. However, John Moses Browning’s last creation, what would become the fabled Hi Power, did that some 90 years ago (in fact, we've discussed this very thing before...). Today’s kit features a modern take on that pistol with a Lipsey’s exclusive FDE Springfield Armory SA-35 9mm pistol.
With the traditional dimensions of the Hi Power, the SA-35 is only slightly larger than its striker-fired counterparts: Barrel length is 4.7 inches, overall length is 7.8 inches, height is 4.8 inches and weight is 31.5 ounces. Sizewise, it’s in between the Glock G17 and G19; it’s the weight that is significantly more, with the SA-35 more than 9 ounces heavier than the G17. Capacity equals that of the G19, although slightly extended, 17 round magazines are available for the Hi Power family. Carrying the Hi Power is certainly no more difficult than a Government 1911 or full-size striker-fired pistol.
The most obvious part of the Lipsey’s Exclusive package for this Springfield Armory SA-35 is of course the flat-dark earth finish and G10 grips. These upgrades give the SA-35 greater durability and more purchase in the hand, respectively, as well as offering an updated look for the 90-year-old design. There’s another benefit, though: While the standard SA-35 comes with only a single magazine, the Lipsey’s exclusive comes with three – those extra magazines alone make up most of the difference between the MSRP of the standard and the exclusive. Plus, it’s FDE (I’m a fan, what can I say?)
So, if you carry a polymer-frame, striker-fired pistol, should you run out and get an SA-35? I mean, yes, if you don’t already own an example of the Hi Power, Springfield Armory’s take is pretty much spot-on. Should you switch over to carrying the Hi Power? That’s a different question – if you’re prepared to practice and drill with it first, of course. There’s a different manual-of-arms from a single-action pistol like the Hi Power and a striker-fired pistol like a G19; it will take a little practice and repetitions to engrain that different operating system. Of course it can be done, but there will be somewhat of a learning curve. If you’re a fan of the 1911 (or, of course, of the Hi Power itself), it will feel very familiar. It is yet another option, and we are always fans of that.
Holster: Falco Holsters CX-91 Carbon Fiber OWB (MSRP: $299.95)
We’ve opted for a non-traditional holster to match our non-traditional Hi Power, and have one of Falco Holster’s new carbon-fiber outside-the-waistband holsters, the CX-91 for today’s kit. One advantage to the Hi Power is that it is a slim design, so it’s not as obtrusive when carried outside-the-waistband. This pairs well with the CX-91, which is extremely thin and light owing to the carbon-fiber construction. Obviously, for even greater concealment one would choose an inside-the-waistband version, but part of showcasing this new holster is showing it off on the belt.
The CX-91 is itself a study in simplicity: Sandwich-style construction has a flat section of carbon fiber on the inside, next to the body, while the outside section is molded to the pistol. This makes for a comfortable carry option that still has excellent retention. The holster is light – but the carbon fiber gives it plenty of shape and strength. Drawing and reholstering are smooth and nearly effortless – just what you want in your everyday holster. Falco has done an impressive job with the CX-91, indeed.
Accessory: CRKT OTF Twist Tighe knife (MSRP: $300)
The last item in today’s kit continues the carbon-fiber motif: The Twist Tighe out-the-front knife from Columbia River Knife & Tool Co. features a MagnaCut steel, spear point blade in a carbon-fiber handle. Blade length is 2.7 inches and the Twist Tighe has an overall length of 4 inches when closed. Weight is all of 1.6 ounces – you will barely notice this is in your pocket. It’s also 100-percent American made and the low-riding pocket clip can be changed for right- or left-pocket carry.
Of course, be sure to check all local and state ordinances on automatic knives, as not every location allows either the carry of or even simply possession of automatic knives. It’s a shame, really, because when it comes to ease of operation, an automatic out-the-front knife is one of the easiest-to-use cutting tools out there. The Twist Tighe is an exemplary example of just such a tool, and is supremely lightweight for carrying—and attractive, as well.
