I’m diving into a head-to-head comparison of two remarkable guns: the Springfield SA-35 Vs Girsan MCP35.
As someone who’s spent a fair bit of time in the field testing these firearms, I’m here to break down the nitty-gritty details and determine which one truly stands out.
We’ll look at everything from specs to performance, and I’ll share my firsthand experiences with both.
| Feature | Springfield SA-35 | Girsan MCP35 |
| Caliber | 9mm | 9mm |
| Capacity | 15+1 rounds | 15 rounds |
| Barrel Length | 4.6 inches | 4.7 inches |
| Overall Length | 7.8 inches | 7.8 inches |
| Width | 1.4 inches | 1.4 inches |
| Height | 5.1 inches | 5.1 inches |
| Weight | 32 ounces | 35 ounces (2 lbs., 3 oz.) |
| Trigger Pull | 5.25 lbs. (tested) | 7 lbs., 7 oz. (tested) |
Springfield SA-35
The Springfield SA-35 is a modern take on the classic Hi-Power design, blending traditional elegance with contemporary performance.
Specs
- Caliber: 9mm
- Capacity: 15+1 rounds
- Barrel Length: 4.6 inches
- Overall Length: 7.8 inches
- Width: 1.4 inches
- Height: 5.1 inches
- Weight: 32 ounces
- Trigger Pull: 5.25 lbs. (tested)
- Sights: White dot front, drift-adjustable rear
Girsan MCP35
The EAA Girsan MCP35 is a stylish and robust firearm inspired by the legendary Hi-Power, offering a blend of classic aesthetics and modern engineering.
Specs
- Caliber: 9mm
- Capacity: 15 rounds
- Barrel Length: 4.7 inches
- Overall Length: 7.8 inches
- Width: 1.4 inches
- Height: 5.1 inches
- Weight: 35 ounces (2 lbs., 3 oz. tested)
- Trigger Pull: 7 lbs., 7 oz. (tested)
- Sights: Notch (rear), ramped blade (front)
Features Comparison: Springfield SA-35 Vs Girsan MCP35
1. Trigger
Springfield SA-35
The Springfield SA-35’s trigger truly shines, offering a light and responsive experience. It consistently broke at around 4.5 pounds during my extensive field tests, showcasing its precision engineering.
This trigger maintains its crispness throughout use, avoiding any unpleasant, gritty feeling. As rounds were expended, the trigger’s smoothness only improved, enhancing the shooting experience significantly. Its performance in rapid succession shooting was notably superior.
Girsan MCP35
The MCP35’s trigger, in contrast, falls short of the SA-35’s excellence. A magazine safety disconnect introduces an additional level of resistance, leading to a heavier pull of approximately 7 pounds.
This feature also contributes to a less smooth travel, around half an inch, before the trigger breaks. Although there was some improvement after repeated use, it couldn’t match the SA-35’s level of comfort and fluidity, particularly in rapid-firing scenarios.
Winner
Comparatively, the Springfield SA-35 outperforms the Girsan MCP35 in trigger functionality. Its lighter, more refined trigger pull and smoother action set a higher standard in rapid firing and overall shooting comfort.
2. Ergonomics
Springfield SA-35
The ergonomics of the SA-35 are commendable, though not without minor flaws. Its checkered wooden grips, while visually appealing and providing a good grip, do not fully replicate the original FN panels’ feel.
The extended manual safety and slide stop lever are thoughtfully designed, enhancing user interaction. However, the beavertail grip’s sharp edges can become somewhat uncomfortable during prolonged shooting sessions, which could be a point of improvement.
Girsan MCP35
The MCP35 offers ergonomic features more in line with the Browning Mark II, specifically through its synthetic checkered grips with thumb grooves.
These grips are comfortable and provide a secure hold. The basic slide-stop lever and ambidextrous safety lever, while functional, lack the ergonomic refinement of the SA-35. During testing, I experienced some slide bite, indicating a potential area for improvement in its design.
Winner
When comparing ergonomics, the Springfield SA-35 narrowly surpasses the Girsan MCP35. Its superior surface control design, particularly the extended safety and slide-stop lever, offer a more user-friendly experience despite some discomfort from the sharp beavertail edges.
3. Reliability
Springfield SA-35
The SA-35 showcased admirable reliability in testing, achieving a 993 out of 1000 success rate in firing rounds. However, it was not without issues, particularly in extracting spent cases, especially noticeable with a high round count in dirtier conditions.
This suggests the SA-35 may face challenges in extreme situations, although its overall performance remains impressive.
Girsan MCP35
The Girsan MCP35 demonstrated slightly better reliability, successfully firing 998 out of 1000 rounds. The infrequent malfunctions appeared to be magazine-related rather than inherent to the gun’s mechanics.
This robust performance under various conditions underscores the MCP35’s reliability, even in demanding scenarios.
Winner
In terms of reliability, the EAA Girsan MCP35 edges out the Springfield SA-35. Its marginally superior performance in extensive testing, particularly under stress, highlights its dependability, a crucial factor in combat or self-defense situations.
4. Aesthetics and Finish
Springfield SA-35
The Springfield SA-35 boasts a classic and elegant aesthetic with its flat-matte finish, the only option available. This finish lends the firearm a timeless, sophisticated look, complemented by its checkered walnut grips.
The SA-35’s design is a nod to the 1960s commercial Browning Hi-Power, appealing to those with a preference for traditional firearm styles.
Girsan MCP35
The Girsan MCP35, in contrast, offers a greater variety in finishes, including matte blue, Dark Earth, and a two-tone silver/black.
These options allow for more personalization and cater to a modern taste. The quality of these finishes is commendable, giving the gun a contemporary and versatile appearance.
Winner
When it comes to aesthetics and finish, the Springfield SA-35 takes the lead over the Girsan MCP35. Its classic look, combined with a high-quality finish, appeals to those who appreciate the timeless beauty and heritage of firearms.
Pros & Cons: Springfield SA-35
Pros
- Crisp, light trigger
- Classic aesthetics with a flat-matte finish and walnut grips
- Good ergonomics with extended manual safety and slide-stop lever
Cons
- Some discomfort from sharp edges on extended shooting
Pros & Cons: Girsan MCP35
Pros
- Higher reliability in extended shooting sessions
- Variety in finishes for personal preference
- Ambidextrous safety features
Cons
- Heavier, less refined trigger
- Occasional slide bite issues
Similarities Between Springfield SA-35 Vs Girsan MCP35
- Both are recoil-operated, semi-automatic firearms.
- Each uses a 9mm cartridge.
- Similar overall length, height, and width.
- Both models accept various Hi-Power magazines.
- Each has a steel frame and slide construction.
- Both have standard BHP grip patterns.
Differences Between Springfield SA-35 Vs Girsan MCP35
- SA-35 has a lighter trigger pull compared to MCP35.
- SA-35 has a classic aesthetic, while MCP35 has a modern look.
- MCP35 features an ambidextrous safety, unlike the SA-35.
- SA-35 experienced more failures to extract in testing than MCP35.
- MCP35 has a heavier and less refined trigger feel.
Final Verdict
As a seasoned shooter who has thoroughly tested both the Springfield SA-35 and the Girsan MCP35, I’ve come to a well-informed conclusion.
Weighing all factors, the Springfield SA-35 emerges as the clear winner in most comparisons. This decision isn’t just about the individual features; it’s about how those features come together to create a harmonious shooting experience.
The SA-35’s superior trigger, combined with its thoughtful ergonomics and classic aesthetics, offers a more satisfying and holistic shooting experience.
FAQ’s
Is Springfield SA-35 drop safe?
Yes, the Springfield SA 35 is drop safe. It features a reliable trigger mechanism with a crisp pull, enhancing its safety profile.
What military uses Girsan?
The Girsan pistols, including the MCP35, are used by the Turkish armed forces and police, along with other international military and law enforcement agencies.
Does Springfield SA-35 have a firing pin block?
No, the Springfield SA-35 does not have a firing pin block. It eliminates the magazine safety and firing pin block, contributing to a smoother trigger feel.
