A Smith and Wesson rep came to the range last week during an IDPA match. He brought the new "1911" and the Walther P99 look-a-like in .45 ACP. I was impressed with the 1911. He said the firing pin safety operates via the grip safety. It had McCormick parts, an external safety from their .45, Novak sights and the stainless finish looked like matte hard chrome. I was impressed with the fit and finish. However, parts of the gun are black (grip safety and thumb safety I believe-no big deal-doesn't affect shooting). Either have an all black gun or all stainless. We took several different brands of mags and they functioned fine. He let us shoot it during the match and there were no problems. It comes with 8-round mags that have a plastic semi-extended floorplate. I asked the rep if he was concerned about harming their relationship with Kimber. He said "We don't want the whole pie, just a piece". We asked him if they would be making it in .40 caliber or .38 super; he refused to say anything and just smiled. He gave a street price but I do not remember how much. I do remember that it was comparable to the Kimber. It has an awesome finish and I can't wait to have one in a .40 or 38 super. S&W are you listening!
Oh yeah, the P99 model was cool too.