smithjd

I've been to the M&P Armorers school, and have built a few 1911's, and I think I've got a copy of the same powerpoint. I only mention this as background when I say, for a number of reasons, I'd rather buy these parts than file on the factory: http://apextactical.com/hp_zencart/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=7&zenid=2f1a512d12489cj3dukhh8n1t5 While I have no personal experience with them - yet; they have been getting a large number of very good reviews on another site.

I think the SA MC Operator is the absolute best value in 1911's today. I had one and put 7000 rounds through it with very few stoppages, and no parts break. I sold it to a team mate and it's still going strong. I know another team that has used several, one with over 21k and one with over 26k. They had a couple minor issues, like A plunger tube coming loose. I had an opportunity to audit a federal agencies 1911 transition school with the MC Operator. The pistol, and I, did well. Another person made the comment that for the price, they'd rather by two MC Operators for the price of one of the more "upgraded" 1911's.

Its been a while, but I've traded brass for ammo with him before. I've still got some of the 5.56 left. I'd call it good training ammo. It isn't full powered, which is fine with me for what its for, training. I've had no negative issues with it. I reload my own pistol, so no experience there.

I had one ISSUED for duty use in the early 90's...made me swear off S&W (until the M&P came out that is). From what I've heard a while back, you could get a Sigma, new in bubble packaging, for about $100 bucks if you bought an M&P AR. They were also sending them by the pallet for the new Afghanistan Police force. I wouldn't waste any $$ replacing any springs or anything else. Just shoot it as is; you'd be lucky if it did blow up. Save your pennies for the new M&P.

I too drank the Meopta Koolaid, and am glad I did. Got it in a Larue LT-104, so the objective bell sits just above the folding rear sight. Glass is good, Reticle is perfect. Finally got it leveled, my eyes are not level. I find the sight picture is a lot bigger and clearer than an Aimpoint. Other than the Aimpoint is paralax free and its batteries last a lot longer, prefer the Meopta. Found 2354 batteries in stock at the local Interstate Battery shop, under their own label. They were about $4, but no shipping, credit card thieves, etc, just cash and carry.