GLI45

This is a good idea if you can do it. My primary and backup guns are both 2011s (STI Edge / STI Eagle) and are the same caliber, same sights, same trigger both at 2.5 lbs, same extended mag release buttons, etc. I used to use the Eagle when I shot IDPA so I already had it in the safe when I started shooting Limited in USPSA with the Edge. If I have to go to my backup it feels almost the same as my primary. Having said that I’ve never had an issue with the Edge, but it’s nice to know it’s in the bag.

Shot my first match today. I didn’t get DQ’ed, didn’t finish last (barely 37/41), and had a great time! Accuracy was pretty good, but I had one procedural and overlooked a target on one stage that cost me two misses. Biggest thing learned, I’m slooooooow. Second thing I learned, bring hand warmer packs. It was in the mid to upper 30s for the entire match and for this Texas boy that’s damn cold! I’m already looking for my next match.

I shoot an full size 1911 (STI Sentinel) in CDP. While I see some non-1911s in CDP, at least at my club, the 1911 is by far the pistol of choice. Not trying to start a 1911 vs. plastic debate, it's just what I'm seeing. The popularity of polymer guns will undoubtably contribute to the numbers increasing in CDP, just has it's done over the last ten years in the other divisions. Only the revolver divisions are still safe from plastic onslaught. LOL!

+1 on the STI Trojan. I have a pair (9mm & .45) and they are excellent. I shoot the 9mm in IDPA. Got it through Dawson with the Dawson no gap magwell and Dawson mags. Runs great. It's never failed me in a match (or anywhere else).

Trojan. Just picked up my second one. First was a .45. This one is in 9mm for IDPA. Got it through Dawson with the CRP package. Excellent pistol and shot smooth from the very first round. I've got about 800 rounds through it without a single failure of any kind. The only thing I've changed is to add a set of VZ grips. Shoots as accurate as my Sentinel.

Sorry, didn't have any stock basepads with me. The pics above are with the 140 basepads. The stock basepads can easily be used with either as the are fractionally longer than the bottom edge of the magwells. I use the 140s almost all the time, but the 126 basepads don't present a problem. I just find the 140s easier when trying to make fast mag changes during a match.

Here's a couple of pics of the STI tactical and standard magwells.

I have an Edge and a 6" Eagle. Both are easy to shoot and the extra inch of sight radius on a 6" gun is a plus for accuracy. Both pistols reduce recoil, but the Edge is about 5 oz heavier which makes it a very soft shooter. I also find that I can reestablish a site picture quicker with the Edge. Just my two cents.

Over the last 3-4 yrs I've been having a similar issue. I picked up a new pistol from Dawson recently with their adjustable rear sights with the FO inserts. Big improvement! I can't speak to the SVI sights as I've got no experience with them, but I can tell you that the Dawson sights are worth a try. I was skeptical because I've always preferred plain black rear sites, but the new sights work for me.

Recently replaced the guide rods in one of my Eagles and in one of my Trojans with Dawson Tool Less guide rods. Excellent product. Plan on doing the same with my Sentinel. All are bushing barrels. Haven't tried it on any of my bull barrel pistols.

+1 on Dawson. JunotFranco is right on. I've got a 9mm Trojan with the no gap magwell and the Dawson mags with the no gap basepads. Mags perform flawlessly.

My STI Tactical 4.0 in .40 with aluminum alloy frame, tactical magwell, tritium tactical adjustable sights.

To steal a Bogart line from my all time favorite movie, Casablanca. If you get rid of your STI you'll regret it... "Maybe not today, maybe not tomorrow, but soon and for the rest of your life."

Oops. Forgot to attach the pic the first time.

My Guardian

+1 on the STI Guardian. I have one in 9mm that's been my primary EDC for several years. Single sided safety, very accurate, eats any ammo I've ever used, and reliable as the sun coming up. Carries great in my Crossbreed Super Tuck Deluxe on an Ares Gear Ranger belt. I also have a Ranger in .45 and an aluminum framed VIP in 9mm (both STI) that I carry occasionally, but the Guardian is my most trusted friend.

This falls under the category of "only in NY " (or Mass., Conn., RI., Cali...). So if the earlier comments are correct you can load 10 rounds to shoot in a competition, but you're only allowed 7 rounds to protect your family. Am I just slow or is there something absurd about that logic? Thank God I'm in Texas.

I don't have an answer, but I hope someone replies because I'm having the same problem with a brand new Escort I bought my wife. At some point in a magazine (2nd shot, 5th shot, last shot...) I pull the trigger back to what should be the break point and it hits a wall and will travel no further. I then rack the slide and continue just as you did in your match. Between my two sons and myself we have a dozen STI pistols and haven't ever had this issue before.

I drank the STI kook-aid several years ago and now have quite a few of their 1911 and 2011 pistols. Having said that, I would say the choice between a Kimber and an STI isn't that tough a decision. A close friend and regular shooting partner has a Kimber Pro Carry that can't match up to either my Ranger or Guardian. Beyond the fact that my STIs are more accurate, the Kimber seems to be loosely built compared to my guns. For the prices that Kimber charges I would expect a more refined pistol. Additionally my buddy seems to have an uncomfortable amount of FTFs and FTEs while my two commander size STI pistols run all day. I don't know if their full size models are any different, but I'd be willing to put my Sentinel or Edge up against anything Kimber builds. I realize that this is a very limited perpsective and I'm sure there are a lot of very happy Kimber owners. It just appears to me that Kimber spends enormous amounts on advertising in order to sell "pretty" guns. I also want one of those sub $1000 Baers. I'd also like a Nighthawk and Wilson Combat for under a grand. A guy can dream can't he?!