In the world of 1911s, there are a number of companies offering quality products for almost every budget. In the world of reasonably priced 1911s, Springfield Armory is one of the top companies making quality factory production handguns and occasionally, they do something a bit different from their standard models. This latest pistol, the 10-8 Master Class 1911 is one of those special variantsand it’s a Lipsey’s exclusive. These guns have a number of unique features compared to other production models, which makes these exclusive models a bit more special, but how does it perform? Let's take a closer look at the Springfield Armory 10-8 Master Class 1911. Specs When it comes to the 10-8 Master Class 1911, Springfield decided to work with Hilton Yam, developing this pistol with him to build a blend of modern and traditional 1911 features. One of the biggest departures from most Springfield Armory models on the market is the inclusion of a bull barrel rather than the traditional barrel bushing system. It may not make the purist happy, but a bull barrel system is a step in modernization with better accuracy and less wear over time. Other features included a square trigger guard, Agency Arms AOS optics system and a fiber optic front sight with a textured blacked out rear sight. The 10-8 Master Class also features an enlarged slide release and magazine release button for easier access to speed up reloads. The flat-faced matte trigger gives it that classic gunsmith 1911 feeling with a 4.25lbs trigger pull. Some of my favorite features on the gun are the 25 LPI front checkering as well as the G10 grips and integrated magwell that you can comfortably concealed carry with. MSRP on the 10-8 Master Class 1911 is $2,099 and it’s available in 9mm as well as 45 ACP, which is what I went with for this review. Spec List MSRP$2,099.99ManufacturerSpringfieldManufacturer Part #PX9108-45AOSModel10-8 Master ClassActionSemi-automaticType1911SizeFull SizeCaliber45 ACPBarrel Length5"ColorBlackGripsG10Capacity8 RoundsAccessories3 Mags, CaseType of BarrelMatch Grade Bull BarrelSightsNight SightsSubcategoryPistols - Metal FrameMaterialSteel Range Time So far throughout my testing, I have fired just over 850 rounds through the 10-8 Master Class 1911. I’ve only had the 10-8 pistol out on four different range sessions, so there was a higher than normal round count per session, but the gun was 100% reliable with no oddities or hiccups of any kind. For this review, I used a mix of Federal American Eagle 230gr ammo as well as the Federal Syntech training match ammo. I also tried out a box of Federal HST to make sure hollow points fed reliably through the 10-8, which they did perfectly. One of the touches that I really liked is the flat trigger for a very consistent and predictable trigger with a clean, consistent break and fast reset. Having a flat face trigger does change where the trigger breaks, allowing for fast follow-up shots that make shooting double taps really easy. Another feature that makes a difference at the range is the front and rear checkering that isn't too aggressive but really does lock into your hand, allowing for a positive grip on the pistol. I did think about putting an optic on the pistol, but you need specific optic plates for each style of red dot. Springfield does include a coupon so you can get an optics plate at a discount, which helps, but I was hoping to have an optics plate with the gun from the factory. Shooting the gun, though, even with the high-visibility front sight and blacked-out rear sight, makes for quick sight acquisition, so I wasn't upset at all. I appreciated the fact that it comes with three MecGar magazines since that's enough to go to the range immediately without having to pick up extra magazines from the store. I think more companies should send handguns out with multiple magazines like that, just to make life easier, so nicely done, Springfield, on that one! How It’s Different The 10-8 Master Class is a TRP level 1911 from Springfield Armory with a number of great upgrades that really elevate the overall shooting experience. Small things like the G10 grips with a slight cutout to easily access the magazine release, the flat-faced trigger, front fiber optic and bull barrel assembly really do offer high-end function while keeping the price relatively low for a tight fit 1911-style handgun. I really am a fan and the added extras that may be small individually add up to a special mix that allows this handgun to perform fantastically. I’ve reviewed a number of 1911s over the last few years and this is one of my personal favorites because they did such a nice job adding in a number of upgrade features that ultimately move the needle on the handgun as a whole. Overall Thoughts If you're looking for an upgraded 1911 pistol straight from the factory, I think this is a better pick than a TRP or anything else for the price. I have shot a ton of new production 1911s over the last few years and this truly does feel different. I think Springfield Armory did a fantastic job with this 10-8 Master Class and I certainly will give it two thumbs up approval if you're thinking about picking one up. Let me know if you guys have had any experience with this pistol in the comments below. If you have questions about the 10-8 Master class or firearms in general, feel free to shoot me a message on Instagram @fridgeoperator. Stay safe out there and we will see you in the next review.