SA 1911 Sights - Mil Spec vs Loaded models

[ElDub1950]

Can someone fill me in about the Mil Spec vs Loaded sights.

Specifically the availability and ease of replacement.

Reading through threads seems to indicate the Mil Spec sight replacement is difficult and there are fewer options than for the Loaded.

Other differences are pretty clear, but SAs web site isn't at all helpful in understanding the sight mounting issues.

My old eyes always prefer a high visibility site, usually F.O. and if the Loaded model is significantly easier to find and install other sights, then it's probably worth the extra $100.

Thanks and any comments on the other feature differences are more than welcome.

[HKMadness]

Loaded models have a Novak cut and can (should) take any novak style sights. gi and Mil spec have no cut, fixed sights part of the slide. Changing sights would require a gunsmith/machining/cutting the slide. You want the loaded.

[ElDub1950]

Loaded models have a Novak cut and can (should) take any novak style sights. gi and Mil spec have no cut, fixed sights part of the slide. Changing sights would require a gunsmith/machining/cutting the slide. You want the loaded.

That's what I needed. Thanks. The sight issue alone makes the Loaded well worth the extra $100. Beavertail and other improvements are just the icing on the cake.

[HKMadness]

You're welcome. I couldn't agree more.

I'm still gonna get rid of both my loadeds though, but that's only because my love for 1911s has faded away like a fart in the wind.

[_TomT_]

Only reason to not get the Loaded is if you have problems with the front serrations. Otherwise the Loaded is a much better value than the MilSpec.

[OC_Gunner]

Buy a TRP!!

[Sailormilan2]

Mil spec replacement is not hard, and yes, your options are limited. But, you can get Hi viz 3 dot sight sets easily.
Replace them involves removing the front sight by punching thru the pending inside the slide where it's peened to hold it in place. The rear sight is just tapped to the side to remove, then the new sight is fitted by filing and tapping into place.
Basically what I did to mine when I went to hiviz 3 dot sights.