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Springfield Armory just gave its Operator lineup a tactical makeover, and the result is the new 1911 Operator AOS Threaded in .45 ACP — a modernized take on the classic platform with some notable upgrades for today’s suppressor and optics crowd.
Available in four Cerakote finishes — Coyote Brown, OD Green, Tungsten Gray, and good ol’ black. The slide and frame are forged carbon steel, topped with a 5.75” threaded stainless barrel (.578×28 thread pitch, naturally) wearing a low-profile DLC coating and a knurled thread protector. It’s suppressor-ready right out of the box.
One of the more relevant enhancements is the Agency Optic System (AOS) — a modular plate system developed with Agency Arms. It allows mounting of popular red dots using RMR, Shield, DPP, and Docter footprints. Each pistol includes a cover plate, and Springfield throws in one optic plate of your choice for $49 (marked down from $129). Fair deal if you’re running a dot.
SEE ALSO: Springfield Drops SAINT Victor 9mm Pistol
Other practical features include a tritium front sight, ambidextrous safety, Pic rail for lights or lasers, and base pad-equipped mags. Basically, it’s geared for duty or defense, without going full “race gun.”
At $1,289 MSRP, it’s not entry-level, but also not eye-watering compared to some boutique 1911s. The threaded barrel and optic cut might help justify the price to shooters who want their .45 to feel more 2025 than 1925.
Still, let’s be honest — it’s a 1911. Some will love it on principle. Others will ask why they should carry a two-pound .45 that holds 8 rounds when polymer double-stacks exist. That said, for those who want a suppressor-ready .45 with a classic feel and modern accessories, this Operator might hit the sweet spot.
Not flashy, not fussy — just a threaded, forged steel workhorse with a few 21st-century tweaks. Whether that’s “need to have” or just “nice to have” depends on what you expect from your 1911. Learn more HERE.
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is a seasoned outdoorsman, lifelong hunter, and the kind of guy who’d rather track whitetails than scroll social media. As an editor for GunsAmerica, he’s got a sharp eye for spotting both solid gear and bad gun laws. Whether he’s deep in the woods or deep in editorial deadlines, Larry brings a no-nonsense, tell-it-like-it-is approach to firearms, hunting, and the great American tradition of self-reliance. If there’s a hot debate on gun rights or the latest in hunting tech, you can bet Larry’s got an opinion—and it’s probably backed up with both facts and field experience.
Experience:
– Licensed Bowhunter, Hunter, and Trapper – Experienced in ethical hunting and wildlife conservation.
– Concealed Carry Permit Holder (NYS & AZ) – Trained and licensed to carry in multiple states.
– 2A Journalist – Covering firearms legislation, Second Amendment issues, and gun rights for over a decade.
– Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) – Certified to provide emergency medical care in the field.
– Field-Tested Gear Reviewer – Hands-on experience with firearms, optics, and hunting tech.