Springfield Mil-Spec defender 1911 .45acp for $465?

[Farmer17]

I have a Rock Island GI Commander 1911 .45 that I am perfectly happy with except for the small "GI" sights and installing new sights is about 100 bucks and was about to spend the money for bigger sights then I saw the new Springfield Mil-Spec Defender today on the web for $465 shipped. The gun looks great in the photos as I have always loved the original "GI" military look and don't have any problem with hammer bite on my M-L hands and it has nice and big modern sights. Does anyone have one of these or know much about them and why are they $125 cheaper than the standard Springer Mil-Spec?

 

[OLDSTER]

I just purchased the Defender and will pick it up next week. Springfield is offering the Defender at a special price for a limited time to introduce 1911 fans to their new mil-spec. line. I read that by Oct. 1st they'll be around $600-650. Get 'em while they last at this price. I'm a 1911 mil-spec. fan and this will be company for my Colt, Norinco, and Auto-Ordinanace. All mil-spec.

 

[Dogbone44Spl]

I bought one in June. It's a tack driver. I shoot it better than my Range Officer. It is the same gun as the more expensive Mil Spec. But it comes with only one magazine and ships in a cardboard box. I wanted a sorta military 1911 but with sights I can see. It fits the bill for me.