Innovation can take many forms. Sometimes it’s a brand new idea – like the XD®. Other times innovation is the fine-tuning of a classic – like the EMP®.
How could the enduring design that is the 1911 be improved? Springfield Armory® answered that question in 2007 with the introduction of the Enhanced Micro Pistol™. The EMP® changes what a compact 1911 can be.
The action of the EMP® is 1/8 inch shorter than that of the original 1911. This translates into several concrete advantages for the shooter. The shorter grip radius produces a shockingly comfortable shooting experience. You have to shoot the EMP® to believe how controllable it is. The shorter dimensions also work to increase reliability – something that’s crucial in a concealed carry pistol. And of course, the overall dimensions are one of the smallest 1911s out there.
The good news doesn’t stop with the innovative design. The EMP® comes loaded with all the features you expect in a 1911 of this class – like low profile 3-Dot tritium combat sights and a match grade fully supported and ramped barrel. And with 9+1 rounds of 9mm, the EMP® packs an amazing amount of punch in one of the smallest 1911s ever.
I have owned this pistol, bought it from Sportman's Outdoor Superstore, and I will say that I am a new shooter. I have fired this pistol about once a month at my local indoor range, running approximately 1000 rounds. I have found that if I do not clean my pistol after each firing day, it has a tendency to develop issues such as the slide not resetting after ejecting a cartridge, or not ejecting the spent cartridge. When it is clean, it works and cycles just fine, but I still feel this pistol is somewhat finicky. For comparison, I have a Rock Island Armory 45. I have shot the same amount of rounds from this gun and have had no issues. For home defense, I would choose the RIA 45acp over the SA EMP 9mm.
I have shot approximately 500 rounds and the semi-auto is very comfortable with a light trigger pull/squeeze. Ill shoot another 500 before cleaning, per the professionals at the Firing LIne in Huntington Beach, CA. I also bought the appropriate OWB holster and mag pouch, that is recommended by SA. Next, will be the hoops I have to jump through to get a CCW. Overall, I like the feel and the eaze of the EMP. A little pricey, but I feel it is worth it.
This Springfield EMP is one of the best compact 1911 hand guns. I bought this firearm a year ago and it's about time to review this gun. I have no issues or any malfunction every time I fired. After approximately 1000 rounds of ammo home defense or FMJ and not a single malfunction.
I'm loving this gun, with a manageable recoil, you can shoot it with one hand and still hit the target. I'm so glad that I have this kind of firearm. I cannot complain. I'm very happy with my purchase, a little bit pricey but it's worth it.....