Modern attitude, old-school lines. Springfield built the Emissary as a carry-oriented single-action pistol in .45 ACP, and it brings the classic trigger and grip angle that 1911 fans prize. A good 1911 trigger is crisp and short, and that is hard to match on a striker-fired gun.

This used Emissary comes with two magazines, the factory box, and a holster. Getting a holster with the pistol saves you a trip to the shop. It is worth checking whether the holster fits the pistol well before you rely on it for carry.

A 1911 asks for a little attention. Keep the slide rails lightly oiled, check that the grip safety and thumb safety work every time, and inspect the magazines for bent feed lips. Seven or eight rounds of .45 ACP is plenty for most uses, and the single-stack grip is slimmer than a double-stack pistol, so it conceals well.

For a trade-in, look at the slide-to-frame fit and the barrel bushing. Hold the pistol and rock the slide to feel for play. A little movement is normal, but it should not rattle. The pistol is sold as described, in used condition. It ships to your local FFL dealer, where the background check is completed.