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I have been blessed with a very generous 80 year old mother who gave me a grand to spend as I wish. She knows I carry and has held my customized sp101 on occasion. I own an XD 9mm and .40, a Ruger .357, and a Bersa Thunder .380. I have always wanted to own a 1911 style pistol and being that I am a Springfield enthusiast have been looking at two particular models for a CCW. The choices I have narrowed down to are the Springfield Champion Loaded (px9142LP) and the Ultra Compact Loaded (px9161LP) with the differences being 4 and 3.5 inch barrel length. These were chosen because of features and price which would leave some funds for a quality holster. The gun would be range driven twice a month with 100 rounds each visit. Pros or cons appreciated.

Tim the Teacher wrote:. The choices I have narrowed down to are the Springfield Champion Loaded (px9142LP) and the Ultra Compact Loaded (px9161LP) with the differences being 4 and 3.5 inch barrel length.

The Champion has a full size frame while the UC is a bit shorter.

1/2" difference in barrel length between the two as you pointed out.

The UC is about 2ozs. lighter and gives up one round in capacity (6+1).

I haven't shot a "Champion" but I have put several thousand rounds through the Ultra Compact. It is amazingly controllable for its short size.

But, choosing between the two would be tough. I am partial to a 4" barrel.

I really hate to see somebody in such emotional turmoil,does your mother understand the phsychological trauma she can cause you,you just send that cash his way i will make sure it gets sp ent on the appropriate firearm related items.I.'m sure you will thank me for this selfless act in the future but believe me helping you out of your dilemma would be all the thanks i need .seriously congratulations on your windfall

Dude,
I could really use an AK Variant right about now. I will be glad to help you spend your greenage.

Congrats...Spend wisely young grasshopper!

Would your mother consider adopting a needy child? (ME!)

I would be jumping on that Ultra compat like a duck on a june bug!

Congrats on the Christmas present. Let us know what you get.

I would go get some combat style rifle (aka assault rifle) before you can.

Tim the Teacher wrote:The choices I have narrowed down to are the Springfield Champion Loaded (px9142LP) and the Ultra Compact Loaded (px9161LP) with the differences being 4 and 3.5 inch barrel length.

Uh, she gave you plenty of cash to buy a grown-up 1911. 5" barrels conceal better than you might think in a good holster, since they help keep the grip tucked in tight.

Tim the Teacher wrote:The choices I have narrowed down to are the Springfield Champion Loaded (px9142LP) and the Ultra Compact Loaded (px9161LP) with the differences being 4 and 3.5 inch barrel length. These were chosen because of features and price which would leave some funds for a quality holster. The gun would be range driven twice a month with 100 rounds each visit. Pros or cons appreciated.

I have both and I would go with the Commander size. My 2 ultra carries stay in the safe most of the time. I used both in IDPA and the larger seems to aim better and reconnect quicker. Barrel length to me is irrelevant where carry is concerned as I notice the grip length way more.
Champion:
Pros: Capacity up to 8+1, accuracy, return to target time, grip if you have large hands, IMHO better reliability and easier break down
Cons: Larger frame harder to conceal, weight.

Compact:
Pros: Weight is less, frame easier to conceal, can use full size mags if needed for capacity they just stick out.
Cons: more recoil, lower capacity , IMHO less reliable as small 1911's seem to be hit or miss out of the box, harder to disassemble.

Well, I bought the SA Champion Loaded this morning. Range trip in the next few days....

Guess i was a little late. But i think you will be happy with it.