Launched last year, the Springfield Armory 911 is a micro 1911 aimed squarely at the concealedcarry market. It came out first in .380 ACP and is a direct competitor to the SIG Sauer P238.
This year, Springfield is introducing a 9mm version, clearly an answer to the SIG SAUER P938. It’s nearly identical to the original .380 ACP version, adding just a half-inch in length and a few ounces to upgrade the caliber. They even both ship with a 6-round flush-fit magazine and a 7-round extended magazine. Other features are also similar between the .380 and 9mm 911: ambidextrous safeties, Ameriglo tritium night sights, and custom G10 grips are all featured for both calibers.
Both pistols were on display during the Industry Day at the Range, so I had the opportunity to shoot them side by side. The 911 9mm not unexpectedly was a handful of rather stout recoil though it remained shootable. The aggressive texturing on the G10 grips made a big difference in keeping the gun controllable. The 911 .380 was pleasant in comparison and, with modern defensive ammunition, is still a solid choice for the recoil sensitive or for those who simply want an easier to shoot pistol.
Fortunately for those folks who are interested in the 911 .380, Springfield also launched the 911 Alpha as a basic, entry-level option for folks who are interested in the 911 platform but may have a limited budget. The Alpha is able to pack in more value for the money by using polymer for several parts where appropriate, as well as deleting the ambidextrous safety for one on the left side of the gun only. In addition, the Alpha has a fiber-optic front sight and white dot rear sight instead of night sights.
MSRP for the original 911 .380 is $599, the 911 9mm is $659, and the 911 .380 Alpha is $429.
