Full length guide rods are a matter of personal preference. It's up to you to decide if you like them, or not.

 

So really no issue between the two? I'm a 1911 newbie so there is that...

 

How often do you run through 5k rounds? Like Uncle Bob says the guide rod is personal choice, but I like GI setups because it's just one less thing to worry about.

 

I like a GI guide rod in a 5” and also a Commander length gun. Shorter than that, I like a full length guide rod. Does it really matter, not really. Now my choice of oil is always…..

 

My DW ECO .45.had the flat.spring too. It helped mitigate the recoil on the tiny barrel.

 

Just remove the slide stop and as you slide the top end off, capture the recoil spring in your hand. Saves you a lot of grief.

 

BTW if you do get a 1911 with a FLGR, this is the way to take them down. Gotmy first FLGR in the early 80s.. it was the way to go. It's still the way I take a 1911 down.

 

First thing I do is take extended rail out and put it back together like JMB designed it

 

John, nothing wrong with a Full Length Guide Rod. Had one in one of my IPSC pistols in 82 and I liked it. Personal choice.

 

My master grade came with one. After 1st mag it fell out and a short spring guide fell in

 

My Leatham TGO has one and it's still there! 😉

 

Different strokes for different folks. It's just what you like, nothing right or wrong.