Great review…I bought the Prodigy and had 12 FTF in my first 150 rounds straight out of the box. I then cleaned and oiled the gun ran 120 rounds through it with one FTF. Ran across a video where a guy recommended doing a manual break in due to the cerakote coating wearing and causing friction between the slide and frame. I did a 3k manual slide rack break in with cleaning and oiling every 250 racks. Each cleaning resulted in lots of cerakote being worn and removed. Shot 300 rounds after the 3k break in and had no issues. I have since done another 500 manual racks and shot another 300 round with no issues. The Prodigy is a tack driver and shoots very well.
Your laid back honesty is so refreshing. You didn't make it look like they ran like CZ's nor did you make it seem like they were POS. For the $ you'll have to do some work and you should know that going in. Great review and info
100 rounds of brass with 9lbs spring no issues. Added a 12lbs wilson combat spring and ran another 100 aluminum case rounds. 0 issues. Love mine so far. Added a dawson tool less guide rod today. Will put another 100 rounds through it
Good stuff. Joe Chambers had the same experience with a customers 5" prodigy. He suggested a marvel ramp cut, trigger job with existing parts, new springs, and new extractor to get the 5" to run more reliably. You 2 gentlemen are the only ones I'd listen to for 1911 advice 👍🏾
Fantastic video. I purchased both the 4.25” and the 5” models last week. I fired only 50 rds of PMC 115gr fmj through each gun this past Sunday. Only 50 because it was pouring down rain, and I was soaking wet and ready to go home. I used the 2 mags that came with each gun, plus an additional 20rd mag that I purchased from Springfield, for a total of 5 mags. I loaded each with 10 rds and ran the mags one after the other. I experienced no malfunctions with either gun. I am saving this video so when I take the guns back out this weekend, I can do what you did.
Awesome review. You cracked me up with the Elves comment man! Appreciate your thorough detail and willingness to share your findings. I truly enjoy your videos.
thank you so much for the most honest and precise review on the Prodigy. Everyone else has sold out and has demo selected pistols sent to them by Springfield. your the man.
Although I have owned numerous 1911's in the past, I am really a striker fired gun guy. But, when SA introduced the Prodigy, I was seriously considering a purchase of the 4.25 version but decided to pull on the brakes due to all of the negative reviews, especially with the 5.0 version. To me, $1500 is not chump change, and I thought that spending that much money on a pistol could get great results out of the box. I've not seen anyone conduct testing as thurough as yours and I appreciate how you demonstrated and explained it in good detail. Great job! I may want to wait a bit longer and see if SA addresses the issues with their product.
Ive known about your company for quite awhile. I never knew you had a youtube channel. Im completely addicted. I love the information you put out, and how its presented. Thanks, and subscribed since last week.
I agree with your comments, having seen your previous video, that the Staccato and Prodigy don’t share the same market space at all, especially not with a $900 delta and lots of MIM. That said, with $900 of space for folks like us to tinker with some 10-8 upgrades could be fun and a chance for us novices to learn what goes into 1911’s to make them run right. Some folks may prefer an out of the box Staccato that runs well, and that makes sense too especially for a duty weapon. But for the rest of us using this on the range, it could be a great learning opportunity. Thanks Hilton, you’re the man!
I agree. It’s my first 1911 and I’m learning a lot completely disassembling it and putting it back together. I so far added a new 12# recoil spring, Wilson combat disconnector and will be adding a Dawson precision tool less guide rod.
Thanks for the detailed run down. Awesome info! Thanks for the Staccato P, which I’m lucky enough to own and love, comparison at the end. Glad I didn’t ask, and yes I’ll go watch the prior video ASAP! 😂
Thanks for the no BS review. I was looking at a 5 inch as an intro to the platform, that I can work on as money/time becomes available. I think this is still the route to go, and really appreciate your input. I am 100% stealing that test protocol and putting it in my hip pocket.
Thank you for this detailed review. I have been looking at these and the Staccato P. I know it’s not comparing apples to apples due to the difference in price. After your review I will just have to dig deeper in my wallet to get the quality I am looking for in my purchase. Thank you.
Hilton, excellent video Sir! Can you please do a part 2 video with your suggested 10-8 parts for upgrades (i.e. extended slide stop, extended mag release button, extended mag well, a better disconnecter, 12 lb recoil spring, maybe a trigger-job, etc. etc.). A whole lot of “Hilton’s choice upgrades” would be awesome and a great way for us to support your channel. I agree “it’s not a charity”. But on my own I would order the wrong thing without some guidance on which of your parts would work best. Standing by sir, ready to order, happy to support on Patreon as necessary…
Never seen your site before. Glad it came up on my timeline. I’ve been interested in reviews of these pistols and yours confirms and gives reasons for what I’ve seen on other reviews. Thanks for putting this out.
Great honest review. Joe Chambers put out a vid on his instagram discussing a 5” that came into his shop. He went over all the numbers, parts, issues etc. He said if I remember correctly that his sample had a 25lb main spring. I wonder if they’re mixing and matching trying to line out the performance issues? I’m glad you put to rest the idea that it’s equivalent to a Stacatto and stated the obvious that they aren’t comparable.
The pistol costs 1k less than a staccato, I’ll happily take that and changing a few springs and polishing the sear pin. From what I’ve seen that’s all it takes to fix them. Also you kind of have to send the pistol out to the masses to get stuff hammered out. Look at Sig, they test every pistol on consumers and can’t even make a drop safe pistol still. All it takes is a little hand tuning and knowing your pistol. I’ve also seen that the 4.25 inch has a lot less malfunctions than the 5. A very common issue in 1911/2011 platforms chambered in 9mm. The 5 inch is a long heavy slide and standard 9mm has problems creating enough pressure for reliable cycling. Early STI/ staccatos had the same issue with the longer variants. Hell even some of the more expensive 2011, like Atlas have had the same issues in early production. They’ll get it sorted out and it will be a better option for most than Staccato.
@@thorshammer5134 one thing great about the prodigy, it brought out all of the “experts” who think they know what they are talking about. But don’t, like yourself. Wtf is a sear plug? Did you mean disconnector?
I'm running your U notch M&P rear sight, had it on my gun for over a decade at this point. Used it in many a Pat Rogers class. I'm getting old, though, so a dot is in my future, I think. :)
Another Great video and review. Been going through many of your videos since finding your channel. Great content and learning a tremendous amount of details and practical info. Plus whenever I hear your music, I still hope my eldest son will start playing his Gibson Les Paul I bought him as a teenager; love your creativity.
Not true I spent 50 dollars for a new spring and new extractor polished the rails (free) minor porting (free) and 2.5lb trigger (also free) and it shoots as flat and smooth as my XC if not better. Total price with purchase 1485.00. Staccato XC with red dot 5000
@@ephriamsmith8905 who did the porting job? Hard to believe it shoots as flat as an XC but I personally don't know you so all we can do is give you the benefit of the doubt.
I did a video on my 4.25 model yesterday on how much cerakote was coming out from the slide and frame with zero rounds fired through it, I’m absolutely positive it’s a big part of the problem people are having with them because of how much resistance it creates when it starts wearing off and building up in the channels.
THANK YOU for the fantastic, in-depth review on these guns! Best video I've seen yet for the Prodigy. I have the 5" version and experienced the same as you. I think Springfield nailed the price point in attempt to get folks into a 2011 style pistol under $2500, but not even close to Staccato quality, fit, or functionality. Sadly, it seems like they rushed these guns to market.
I'm glad I decided to wait.for the hype to die down. Hopefully Springfield fixes some of the issues or some releases a fix it kit and the price of the guns fall to make it worth it to upgrade at decent price.
Appreciate your honesty! Would I be rude to ask a question here? I have a Colt Rail gun. It will fail to go into battery about once every five magazines. I’ve replaced all the springs. Next, I thought extractor. I purchased a Wilson Bullet-Proof, followed a fitting guide and used a tension gauge and it seemed to be set right according to the tutorials. But it still does the same thing. I’ve also switched from the factory guide rod to a GI plug. Then I also tried the Wilson tool-less version FLGR. Most of the ammo has been Winchester 230 gr ball, Federal AE 230 gr ball, Remington UMC 230 gr. ball, and finally some hand loaded ammo. The hand loaded ammo functions slightly better, but it still happens. Finally, Hornady 185 gr XTP Critical Defense seems to be the only ammo I’ve not experienced it with. Is there something else I should check?
Such an awesome, thorough, and unbiased review- Thanks!!! I'm glad Springfield has brought a 2011 to the market for an affordable price but looks like it's still not a Staccato. 😝 Never been a big fan of Springfield but hopefully this will influence some other manufactures to build 2011s (Talking to you Sig) that I can add to my Staccato collection. 😎
Please upload a video after the mods and explanation of each one you are my main to go when it comes to fire arms and I’m really indecisive if I should purchase this weapon or the emissary 4.25 9mm
After I find our what you did for the slide stop I'll get one. On my 1911's I like to release my slide with my thumb and I hear these slide stops were too flush for just one hand.
Funny how all the gun tubers that released videos on launch day had nothing but praises. I almost gave into the hype and got a 5" model. Glad I was able to beat my impulsiveness and wait. I think this will be a great platform to get into the double stack 1911 game, ONCE Springfield can improve the reliability on them.
I'm sure you'll delve into this with modifications in future videos, but what's your take on swapping some parts out on these to make a good range (and perhaps even more serious use) entry 2011? Asking for this reason. A shop near me is selling these for $1325 already. At that price, with a: -Dawson tooless guide rod (or 10-8 plug) -20lb mainspring and 13lb recoil spring -Disconnector fix -Extractor swap -Possible trigger work You're still at a very affordable level and *should* have a reliable, soft shooting entry 2011. Is that a terrible idea, or a pretty good way to have a solid 2011 starting point?
A lot of companies make 5" 1911s but I'm beginning to think that the longer slide is getting to be a bit too heavy for that caliber unless the design includes lightening cuts somewhere on the slide. A 5" 1911 barrel will naturally be heavier than a 5" .45ACP barrel, especially if it is a bull barrel. I don't know how much difference this makes since the barrel doesn't move back all that far. Maybe the 5" guns need more attention to get everything tuned just right. IIRC the first Colt 1911 in 9mm was the shorter Commander length, I wonder if they knew something back then.
Excellent video. I’ve never been a fan of anything Springfield and when it comes to their semi autos. For competition, yeah I guess with a lot of work on that gun, maybe. However for purely a defensive/offensive “10-8” duty weapon…. Glock 17 Gen5 for me. I’m not looking for $$bling - bling$$ paper target killers at a competition course. I’m looking for durable combat and hunting “tools.”
I know it's a bit late after the videos already been out for nearly a year but thanks for the video. Just some minor bits of criticism. What separates the Springfield and Staccato is not really the price. You kind of alluded to it but focused on the wrong part in the end. The price difference is a symptom, not the focus. The Staccato is a semi-custom to fully-custom gun. It's basically getting a full gunsmithing session at the factory with a full tune. That's why it's not comparable. The question should be asked on how they stack up once the Springfield gets full attention from a gunsmith. Then you have something that's actually somewhat comparable. The Staccato isn't really "stock" in the same sense as its fully hand tuned. We saw how well they tended to work with little to no tuning when they were still called STI. When you get the Prodigy and send it to a gunsmith for some basic work, you still get something that's approaching or nearly equaling the Staccato for still far less than a basic Staccato P. Especially since Springfield seems to at least done some of the MiM right and they can nearly all be worked on by a gunsmith to improve feel and performance. Also, while these may be production representative, having just 1 each means they aren't statistically significant. A sample size of two is still anecdotal. We can't derive anything about the rest of the production runs with this sample size at all. Having 1 Staccato P is closer to being statistically significant than 1 Springfield Prodigy in that size.
Just stumbled upon your channel. Love it. Sub’d. thankfully I found this review and wasn’t buying into all of the YT hype on these guns. My SA-35 extractor was atrocious. I think SA has some QC issues. Thanks for the hard work on the video.
I’ve recently acquired the interest in 1911/2011 type guns. Was always a Glock guy, still have them all, but then got into the p320 kick. So I know practically nothing about the 1911.. full honesty. Not that I wouldn’t love to have a staccato, but I just can’t bring myself to pay that much for a handgun, I know you get what you pay for, and I’m sure the market has some to do with that also. But I have several rifles that are in the staccato xc price range. Hell I have a precision rifle that I’ve got 7k invested in 🤷♂️ so why can’t I bring myself to that much for a hand gun? So I’m leaning towards the prodigy, with some upgraded parts. And of course more knowledge on the platform.
If the gun is new and the ejection pattern varies wildly BUT after 500 rounds ejection pattern changes drastically to better align itself mag in or out would that be ok? Or do you think the gun NEW should operate the same mag in or out? Thanks.
My 4.25 inch model had a few hiccups in the first 200 rds. Second 200 flawless. Springfield could not have done any testing on the 5 inch models considering all the problems they are having.
Will you be doing a comparison of the Prodigy DS magazine as it compares to the Staccato magazine? I've seen that they are interchangeable but what about quality and reliability. Thank you for the info that you share, it is greatly appreciated.
Thanks for the video I’m disappointed in the flaws I’m interested in buying the gun it’s in my price range I like the double stack 9mm and the looks I’m a Springfield guy I have the Emissary in 45 cal
Great review 1 Buy a Prodigy for $ 1500 and with all the issues and $$ to fix it. 2 Buy a Staccato for $ 2400 that runs out of the box. I know which choice i would make. Or preferably buy CZ Shadow 2 and Canik SFX Rival Darkside for $ 2000 as have and have no problems out of the box. 😁
So can you pinpoint why my 4.25 fails to chamber defense ammo? I polished the feed ramp to a mirror shine but once in awhile they hang up. based off of what you have been seeing and hearing what could be the issue?
My buddy had an interesting idea… We are going to get a Wilson flat recoil spring that’s 15lbs and a drop in Nighthawk trigger kit to fix the disconnecter crap….. and a Wilson bulletproof slide stop to make it easier to use…
@@jado4149 5 inch So far it’s been awesome the nighthawk drop in one piece kit really smoothed up the slide drag on the disconnecter and a tiny bit of polishing compound on the rails and polished feed ramp sand it’s been 100% since….. After all the parts and work I could’ve almost bought a C2 though…..just a few hundred short cost wisr
If you dry fire a p226 without the slide on the frame can you damage the gun? After doing it a couple of times I realized this may not be a good idea. Just wondering if I possibly could have done some damage
Hi Hilton - New comer to your channel and appreciate your reviews but how about doing a follow-up with same tests after putting say 500rds thru them and giving them a chance to break-in. I'd be interested to see if you get better performance and less malfunctions. IMO its not really apple to apples comparing stats of a $2400 gun with 2500 rds vs a $1500 gun with only 150 rds. In no way do I think the Prodigy will ever match the Staccato, but perhaps the Prodigy will find its sweet spot after a break-in period.
The mechanical issues aren’t ones that will break in. The concept of break in is a fallacy - the extractor on the 4.25” won’t get better geometry and tension with more rounds.
For 1911, as it is necessary to evaluate extractor very stringently whereas in modern guns the extractor is not a hand fit part where we expect such a level of failure.
Great review…I bought the Prodigy and had 12 FTF in my first 150 rounds straight out of the box. I then cleaned and oiled the gun ran 120 rounds through it with one FTF. Ran across a video where a guy recommended doing a manual break in due to the cerakote coating wearing and causing friction between the slide and frame. I did a 3k manual slide rack break in with cleaning and oiling every 250 racks. Each cleaning resulted in lots of cerakote being worn and removed. Shot 300 rounds after the 3k break in and had no issues. I have since done another 500 manual racks and shot another 300 round with no issues. The Prodigy is a tack driver and shoots very well.
Your laid back honesty is so refreshing. You didn't make it look like they ran like CZ's nor did you make it seem like they were POS. For the $ you'll have to do some work and you should know that going in. Great review and info
Your efforts are black and white thus eliminating the "voodoo". Much appreciated and your protocol is respected!! Thank you Sir!
May be the most comprehensive analysis of a firearm - or any product for that matter - that I have ever seen.
Thank you for being honest about this gun
Hilton is the man you go to for any new 1911/ 2011 brake down #onlyperformancecounts🇺🇸
Bring the 10-8 thumb safety back !!
So refreshing to see an honest and through review of these guns.
100 rounds of brass with 9lbs spring no issues. Added a 12lbs wilson combat spring and ran another 100 aluminum case rounds. 0 issues. Love mine so far. Added a dawson tool less guide rod today. Will put another 100 rounds through it
Good stuff. Joe Chambers had the same experience with a customers 5" prodigy. He suggested a marvel ramp cut, trigger job with existing parts, new springs, and new extractor to get the 5" to run more reliably. You 2 gentlemen are the only ones I'd listen to for 1911 advice 👍🏾
Fantastic video. I purchased both the 4.25” and the 5” models last week. I fired only 50 rds of PMC 115gr fmj through each gun this past Sunday. Only 50 because it was pouring down rain, and I was soaking wet and ready to go home. I used the 2 mags that came with each gun, plus an additional 20rd mag that I purchased from Springfield, for a total of 5 mags. I loaded each with 10 rds and ran the mags one after the other. I experienced no malfunctions with either gun. I am saving this video so when I take the guns back out this weekend, I can do what you did.
Awesome review. You cracked me up with the Elves comment man! Appreciate your thorough detail and willingness to share your findings. I truly enjoy your videos.
He’s like the 1911 whisperer 😍
Enjoyed both video on these.
thank you so much for the most honest and precise review on the Prodigy. Everyone else has sold out and has demo selected pistols sent to them by Springfield. your the man.
Although I have owned numerous 1911's in the past, I am really a striker fired gun guy. But, when SA introduced the Prodigy, I was seriously considering a purchase of the 4.25 version but decided to pull on the brakes due to all of the negative reviews, especially with the 5.0 version. To me, $1500 is not chump change, and I thought that spending that much money on a pistol could get great results out of the box. I've not seen anyone conduct testing as thurough as yours and I appreciate how you demonstrated and explained it in good detail. Great job! I may want to wait a bit longer and see if SA addresses the issues with their product.
You do the best job on gun reviews on the web. You are straight up and honest. Thanks, keep up the great work.
Always the Standard for all 1911 and 2011 Platforms. Hilton👍
Ive known about your company for quite awhile. I never knew you had a youtube channel. Im completely addicted. I love the information you put out, and how its presented. Thanks, and subscribed since last week.
Well done presentation of the pistol function/performance.
Look forward to more videos
Great video sir, thank you.
Your deep knowledge is a game changer regarding all the guys I watch. I’m your newest subscriber.
I just discovered your channel last night and I love your in depth content. I am already a huge fan.
Outstanding T&E protocol.
Going to borrow it for myself.
Love the content man. Easiest sub ever. Got a c2 on waiting list locally.
Great review!
Excellent test protocol and something I’m going to start doing…never thought about 1 shot testing without the magazine.
I came for the honest review and stayed for the Keebler Elves commentary.
I love the honest and no BS approach. Great video.
This video was great and your knowledge is even better. Very few people out there have your obvious technical knowledge and performance experience.
I agree with your comments, having seen your previous video, that the Staccato and Prodigy don’t share the same market space at all, especially not with a $900 delta and lots of MIM. That said, with $900 of space for folks like us to tinker with some 10-8 upgrades could be fun and a chance for us novices to learn what goes into 1911’s to make them run right. Some folks may prefer an out of the box Staccato that runs well, and that makes sense too especially for a duty weapon. But for the rest of us using this on the range, it could be a great learning opportunity. Thanks Hilton, you’re the man!
I agree. It’s my first 1911 and I’m learning a lot completely disassembling it and putting it back together. I so far added a new 12# recoil spring, Wilson combat disconnector and will be adding a Dawson precision tool less guide rod.
Thanks for the detailed run down. Awesome info! Thanks for the Staccato P, which I’m lucky enough to own and love, comparison at the end. Glad I didn’t ask, and yes I’ll go watch the prior video ASAP! 😂
Hilton thanks for the 1st and 2nd reviews as always well done 🇺🇸
Absolute appreciation for this most honest and detailed review. Thank you Hilton.
Great honest report.
Really great video editing, Hilton. Super awesome to see how far this has come and I'm happy to be along for the ride!
following the 5inch work up
Hilton, thanks so much for your detailed testing and review. Much appreciated.
Damn fine review sir
Thanks for the no BS review. I was looking at a 5 inch as an intro to the platform, that I can work on as money/time becomes available. I think this is still the route to go, and really appreciate your input. I am 100% stealing that test protocol and putting it in my hip pocket.
Thank you for sharing your research. Always informative and definitely interesting.
I appreciate your work a lot I tune 2011 setups for a living you are my go to source
Thanks for watching!
Thank you for this detailed review. I have been looking at these and the Staccato P. I know it’s not comparing apples to apples due to the difference in price. After your review I will just have to dig deeper in my wallet to get the quality I am looking for in my purchase. Thank you.
Hilton, excellent video Sir! Can you please do a part 2 video with your suggested 10-8 parts for upgrades (i.e. extended slide stop, extended mag release button, extended mag well, a better disconnecter, 12 lb recoil spring, maybe a trigger-job, etc. etc.). A whole lot of “Hilton’s choice upgrades” would be awesome and a great way for us to support your channel. I agree “it’s not a charity”. But on my own I would order the wrong thing without some guidance on which of your parts would work best. Standing by sir, ready to order, happy to support on Patreon as necessary…
Great video. I appreciate your honesty and diagnosing the issues.
Most excellent review my Dude.
Thanks for this very accurate and technical review. Based on this review I do not have a positive feeling about these guns for the price.
Never seen your site before. Glad it came up on my timeline. I’ve been interested in reviews of these pistols and yours confirms and gives reasons for what I’ve seen on other reviews. Thanks for putting this out.
Great honest review. Joe Chambers put out a vid on his instagram discussing a 5” that came into his shop. He went over all the numbers, parts, issues etc. He said if I remember correctly that his sample had a 25lb main spring. I wonder if they’re mixing and matching trying to line out the performance issues? I’m glad you put to rest the idea that it’s equivalent to a Stacatto and stated the obvious that they aren’t comparable.
Can you list / link Joe’s IG account pls?
The pistol costs 1k less than a staccato, I’ll happily take that and changing a few springs and polishing the sear pin. From what I’ve seen that’s all it takes to fix them. Also you kind of have to send the pistol out to the masses to get stuff hammered out. Look at Sig, they test every pistol on consumers and can’t even make a drop safe pistol still. All it takes is a little hand tuning and knowing your pistol. I’ve also seen that the 4.25 inch has a lot less malfunctions than the 5. A very common issue in 1911/2011 platforms chambered in 9mm. The 5 inch is a long heavy slide and standard 9mm has problems creating enough pressure for reliable cycling. Early STI/ staccatos had the same issue with the longer variants. Hell even some of the more expensive 2011, like Atlas have had the same issues in early production. They’ll get it sorted out and it will be a better option for most than Staccato.
@@JC-hd4rj chamberscustompistols…click on the pick where he’s smoking his pipe. Part of that video he discusses the Prodigy he has.
@@thorshammer5134 one thing great about the prodigy, it brought out all of the “experts” who think they know what they are talking about. But don’t, like yourself.
Wtf is a sear plug? Did you mean disconnector?
@@ACGBLR I meant to say sear pin, the rounded part that sticks up, it was auto corrected thanks. My comments still stand and are true.
I'm running your U notch M&P rear sight, had it on my gun for over a decade at this point. Used it in many a Pat Rogers class. I'm getting old, though, so a dot is in my future, I think. :)
Another Great video and review. Been going through many of your videos since finding your channel. Great content and learning a tremendous amount of details and practical info. Plus whenever I hear your music, I still hope my eldest son will start playing his Gibson Les Paul I bought him as a teenager; love your creativity.
Thank you for taking the time to give us a honest and very well experienced review. People, just save up and avoid the headaches, go with Staccato.
Not true I spent 50 dollars for a new spring and new extractor polished the rails (free) minor porting (free) and 2.5lb trigger (also free) and it shoots as flat and smooth as my XC if not better. Total price with purchase 1485.00. Staccato XC with red dot 5000
@@ephriamsmith8905 who did the porting job? Hard to believe it shoots as flat as an XC but I personally don't know you so all we can do is give you the benefit of the doubt.
@@ephriamsmith8905 that is some fine BS there.
Absolutely great great content! Thank you for sharing your general knowledge and expertise!
Great video! Looking forward to more videos on the Prodigy, specifically the 4.25.
Thank you for telling it like it is, I really like your products and the knowledge that you share I hope to train with you one day.
I did a video on my 4.25 model yesterday on how much cerakote was coming out from the slide and frame with zero rounds fired through it, I’m absolutely positive it’s a big part of the problem people are having with them because of how much resistance it creates when it starts wearing off and building up in the channels.
Jumped on Brownells and wolf, ordered parts and springs. This will be sent off to my 1911 smith 😉
Yes. Candidate for a Hobbyist "Base Gun" project; use Frame/Slide/Barrel- dump and replace the rest.
great video
Awesome video. Very in depth and thorough. Subbed!
seen several issues online... looks a like a recall is needed
THANK YOU for the fantastic, in-depth review on these guns! Best video I've seen yet for the Prodigy. I have the 5" version and experienced the same as you. I think Springfield nailed the price point in attempt to get folks into a 2011 style pistol under $2500, but not even close to Staccato quality, fit, or functionality. Sadly, it seems like they rushed these guns to market.
I'm glad I decided to wait.for the hype to die down. Hopefully Springfield fixes some of the issues or some releases a fix it kit and the price of the guns fall to make it worth it to upgrade at decent price.
I handled both today. The 5” models mag release was very hard to push. Both had very average trigger pills
Very well said!
Appreciate your honesty!
Would I be rude to ask a question here? I have a Colt Rail gun. It will fail to go into battery about once every five magazines. I’ve replaced all the springs. Next, I thought extractor. I purchased a Wilson Bullet-Proof, followed a fitting guide and used a tension gauge and it seemed to be set right according to the tutorials. But it still does the same thing. I’ve also switched from the factory guide rod to a GI plug. Then I also tried the Wilson tool-less version FLGR. Most of the ammo has been Winchester 230 gr ball, Federal AE 230 gr ball, Remington UMC 230 gr. ball, and finally some hand loaded ammo. The hand loaded ammo functions slightly better, but it still happens. Finally, Hornady 185 gr XTP Critical Defense seems to be the only ammo I’ve not experienced it with.
Is there something else I should check?
Such an awesome, thorough, and unbiased review- Thanks!!! I'm glad Springfield has brought a 2011 to the market for an affordable price but looks like it's still not a Staccato. 😝 Never been a big fan of Springfield but hopefully this will influence some other manufactures to build 2011s (Talking to you Sig) that I can add to my Staccato collection. 😎
Wow. Very interesting. Excellent review. Thanks a bunch! Loved the vid. Also.. new Sub.
Please upload a video after the mods and explanation of each one you are my main to go when it comes to fire arms and I’m really indecisive if I should purchase this weapon or the emissary 4.25 9mm
After I find our what you did for the slide stop I'll get one. On my 1911's I like to release my slide with my thumb and I hear these slide stops were too flush for just one hand.
Funny how all the gun tubers that released videos on launch day had nothing but praises. I almost gave into the hype and got a 5" model. Glad I was able to beat my impulsiveness and wait.
I think this will be a great platform to get into the double stack 1911 game, ONCE Springfield can improve the reliability on them.
I'm sure you'll delve into this with modifications in future videos, but what's your take on swapping some parts out on these to make a good range (and perhaps even more serious use) entry 2011?
Asking for this reason. A shop near me is selling these for $1325 already. At that price, with a:
-Dawson tooless guide rod (or 10-8 plug)
-20lb mainspring and 13lb recoil spring
-Disconnector fix
-Extractor swap
-Possible trigger work
You're still at a very affordable level and *should* have a reliable, soft shooting entry 2011. Is that a terrible idea, or a pretty good way to have a solid 2011 starting point?
A lot of companies make 5" 1911s but I'm beginning to think that the longer slide is getting to be a bit too heavy for that caliber unless the design includes lightening cuts somewhere on the slide. A 5" 1911 barrel will naturally be heavier than a 5" .45ACP barrel, especially if it is a bull barrel. I don't know how much difference this makes since the barrel doesn't move back all that far. Maybe the 5" guns need more attention to get everything tuned just right. IIRC the first Colt 1911 in 9mm was the shorter Commander length, I wonder if they knew something back then.
Great video!
Excellent video. I’ve never been a fan of anything Springfield and when it comes to their semi autos. For competition, yeah I guess with a lot of work on that gun, maybe. However for purely a defensive/offensive “10-8” duty weapon…. Glock 17 Gen5 for me. I’m not looking for $$bling - bling$$ paper target killers at a competition course. I’m looking for durable combat and hunting “tools.”
I never thought about how reckless those elves are. What are they thinking? Great reviews.
I know it's a bit late after the videos already been out for nearly a year but thanks for the video. Just some minor bits of criticism.
What separates the Springfield and Staccato is not really the price. You kind of alluded to it but focused on the wrong part in the end. The price difference is a symptom, not the focus. The Staccato is a semi-custom to fully-custom gun. It's basically getting a full gunsmithing session at the factory with a full tune. That's why it's not comparable. The question should be asked on how they stack up once the Springfield gets full attention from a gunsmith. Then you have something that's actually somewhat comparable. The Staccato isn't really "stock" in the same sense as its fully hand tuned. We saw how well they tended to work with little to no tuning when they were still called STI. When you get the Prodigy and send it to a gunsmith for some basic work, you still get something that's approaching or nearly equaling the Staccato for still far less than a basic Staccato P. Especially since Springfield seems to at least done some of the MiM right and they can nearly all be worked on by a gunsmith to improve feel and performance.
Also, while these may be production representative, having just 1 each means they aren't statistically significant. A sample size of two is still anecdotal. We can't derive anything about the rest of the production runs with this sample size at all. Having 1 Staccato P is closer to being statistically significant than 1 Springfield Prodigy in that size.
Hey Hilton great review. What weight guide rod spring do you suggest running
Salty Hilton is best Hilton.
Just stumbled upon your channel. Love it. Sub’d. thankfully I found this review and wasn’t buying into all of the YT hype on these guns. My SA-35 extractor was atrocious. I think SA has some QC issues. Thanks for the hard work on the video.
I’ve recently acquired the interest in 1911/2011 type guns. Was always a Glock guy, still have them all, but then got into the p320 kick. So I know practically nothing about the 1911.. full honesty. Not that I wouldn’t love to have a staccato, but I just can’t bring myself to pay that much for a handgun, I know you get what you pay for, and I’m sure the market has some to do with that also. But I have several rifles that are in the staccato xc price range. Hell I have a precision rifle that I’ve got 7k invested in 🤷♂️ so why can’t I bring myself to that much for a hand gun? So I’m leaning towards the prodigy, with some upgraded parts. And of course more knowledge on the platform.
Have you reviewed bul armory tac 2 5 inch?
I have a Springfield Ronnin 9mm 5in barrel. So I have problems with the last round that never go in battery. Can you recommend something?
If the gun is new and the ejection pattern varies wildly BUT after 500 rounds ejection pattern changes drastically to better align itself mag in or out would that be ok? Or do you think the gun NEW should operate the same mag in or out?
Thanks.
My 4.25 inch model had a few hiccups in the first 200 rds. Second 200 flawless. Springfield could not have done any testing on the 5 inch models considering all the problems they are having.
so using your assortment of parts what do ya feel cost will be to get them where they need to be, for you and your standards.
I’m going to wait until the second batch comes out with some tweaks
Will you be doing a comparison of the Prodigy DS magazine as it compares to the Staccato magazine? I've seen that they are interchangeable but what about quality and reliability. Thank you for the info that you share, it is greatly appreciated.
Thanks for the video
I’m disappointed in the flaws
I’m interested in buying the gun it’s in my price range I like the double stack 9mm and the looks I’m a Springfield guy I have the Emissary in 45 cal
Question should be how this compares to a Bul Armory and Rock Island 2011.
Great review 1 Buy a Prodigy for $ 1500 and with all the issues and $$ to fix it. 2 Buy a Staccato for $ 2400 that runs out of the box.
I know which choice i would make. Or preferably buy CZ Shadow 2 and Canik SFX Rival Darkside for $ 2000 as have and have no problems out of the box. 😁
So can you pinpoint why my 4.25 fails to chamber defense ammo? I polished the feed ramp to a mirror shine but once in awhile they hang up. based off of what you have been seeing and hearing what could be the issue?
Impossible to gunsmith via UA-cam comment, it's hard enough in person. Sorry.
Yep... I had to sell my Prodigy. I just don't have the time to troubleshoot Springfield's latest release.
Hey. Have you any of the Bul armory offering?
My buddy had an interesting idea…
We are going to get a Wilson flat recoil spring that’s 15lbs and a drop in Nighthawk trigger kit to fix the disconnecter crap…..
and a Wilson bulletproof slide stop to make it easier to use…
That sounds like a good plan.
How did the 15lb spring work? Is this in the 5" or 4.25?
@@jado4149
5 inch
So far it’s been awesome the nighthawk drop in one piece kit really smoothed up the slide drag on the disconnecter and a tiny bit of polishing compound on the rails and polished feed ramp sand it’s been 100% since…..
After all the parts and work I could’ve almost bought a C2 though…..just a few hundred short cost wisr
If you dry fire a p226 without the slide on the frame can you damage the gun? After doing it a couple of times I realized this may not be a good idea. Just wondering if I possibly could have done some damage
What about the Bul Armory SAS TAC II 4.25?
👏👏👏
Question - will the Staccato pistols accept the Prodigy magazines(slightly cheaper than Staccatos)?
Yes but no reason to do so.
Hi Hilton - New comer to your channel and appreciate your reviews but how about doing a follow-up with same tests after putting say 500rds thru them and giving them a chance to break-in. I'd be interested to see if you get better performance and less malfunctions. IMO its not really apple to apples comparing stats of a $2400 gun with 2500 rds vs a $1500 gun with only 150 rds. In no way do I think the Prodigy will ever match the Staccato, but perhaps the Prodigy will find its sweet spot after a break-in period.
The mechanical issues aren’t ones that will break in. The concept of break in is a fallacy - the extractor on the 4.25” won’t get better geometry and tension with more rounds.
Can I assume the same testing protocol is for other pistols or is it exclusive to 1911s?
For 1911, as it is necessary to evaluate extractor very stringently whereas in modern guns the extractor is not a hand fit part where we expect such a level of failure.