Any double-stack, hammer-fired 1911-style pistol has become known as a “2011.” Springfield Armory introduced the 1911 DS Prodigy in a 4.25-inch barrel Commander-size model and a 5-inch barrel full-size variant. The full-size version is designed for match competitions, while the more compact 4.25-inch Prodigy is suitable for concealed carry.
Springfield Armory has made these 2011-style handguns more affordable, allowing shooters to access the benefits of a double-stack 9mm at a lower cost.
The pistols have a polymer grip module bolted onto a steel slide and frame and employ a bushing-less bull barrel with an integral feed ramp for smooth and reliable feeding of 9mm cartridges. They feature an interchangeable optics plate system and Agency Arms rear sight for red-dot sight compatibility.
The grip safety has a decent speed bump and an upswept beavertail that prevents hands from being bitten by the hammer and slide. Both pistols are compatible with Springfield Prodigy and Staccato P magazines.
The author’s tests
The author conducted tests on both the 4.25-inch and 5-inch models, running iron sights on the 5-inch Prodigy and mounting a Crimson Trace CTS-1250 compact reflex sight with a round 3.25 MOA red aiming dot on the 4.25-inch model. The pistols displayed excellent accuracy, with the best groups measuring 1.2 inches and 2 inches at 25 yards for the 4.25-inch and 5-inch models, respectively. The 4.25-inch pistol exhibited precision and is suitable for everyday carry, while the 5-inch model allowed for fast target acquisition and follow-up shots.
The Prodigy pistols demonstrated outstanding recoil control, with the 4.25-inch model showing soft recoil when equipped with a red-dot optic, providing an advantage in accuracy.
The Prodigy line represents a high-value option for those seeking performance and versatility at a reasonable price, featuring excellent trigger reset and recoil management.
The Prodigy 5-inch model, with an overall length of 8.5 inches and a 4.25-inch one with an overall length of 7.8 inches, both deliver the performance and features expected in a modern 1911-style handgun. The polymer grip module and steel components ensure the pistols are durable and comfortable to handle.
This article is an excerpt from Gun Digest 2024, 78th edition.
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