VIDEO: Springfield Armory's EMP Lightweight Champion

Springfield Armory’s EMP pistols have become concealed-carry favorites for many 1911 users. They’re small, lightweight, accurate and reliable, making them great choices for daily carry. Designed from the ground up for the 9mm, the EMP is one of the most reliable 3-inch-barreled 1911s on the market today. Of course, this has led to many requesting a 4-inch-barreled version for enhanced ergonomics, targeting and ballistics. Well, Springfield Armory has answered that call with its new 4-inch-barreled EMP Lightweight Champion.

This new model starts with the proven EMP and adds a 4-inch, match-grade, stainless steel barrel. It’s fully supported and does not use a bushing. The aluminum alloy frame has a dimpled frontstrap along with a high-cut and extended beavertail. The pistol also has an increased magazine capacity of 10 rounds of 9mm. Sitting atop the forged stainless steel slide is a fiber-optic front sight and a snag-free, white-dot rear sight. Both sights are dovetailed to the slide, making it easy to replace them if needed. Finally, Springfield Armory has installed slim, checkered cocobolo grip panels that provide the right amount of traction without being abrasive. They’re perfect for concealed carry.

Take a couple minutes and watch this short video of me putting the 4-inch-barreled EMP to the test on a crisp 12-degree day in Utah. And keep your eyes peeled for a complete review in the upcoming issue of CONCEALED CARRY HANDGUNS. To order, visit https://www.personaldefenseworld.com/subscribe.