This line of work has its percs, and what I enjoy the most are those rare occasions when I get to evaluate a really top-of-the-line firearm.
By Paul Scarlata
It is a real eye-opening experience when you get to handle and fire a gun you probably couldn't afford, and to be honest I get a kick out of the stares of envy such a firearm engenders from fellow shooters. Believe me, there is no finer feeling than strutting around at a match with the type of pistol that is guaranteed not only to impress your peers but to cause consternation to rise in the hearts of the competition.
I recently had the opportunity to evaluate such a firearm. Dave Skinner at STI asked me if I'd care to evaluate one of its limited edition USPSA Single Stack pistols for the information-hungry readers of Handguns. Before the folks at STI sent me the pistol, they inquired as to what optional features I'd like on it, so I requested a .40 caliber model with a Dawson fiber-optic front sight.
comes with one fitted magazine, Dawson
fiber optic front sight (optional), padded carrying box, disassembly tools, Recoil Master sleeve
Finish
two-tone stainless steel slide blue frame
Price
$1,796
As might be expected of a pistol from one of America's premier custom builders, the STI Single Stack displayed top-notch quality of parts, fit and finish. I spent the first five minutes after I opened the box examining the radical Sabertooth cocking serrations at the rear of the slide. They not only provide an extra secure grip when retracting the slide--especially with perspiring hands or when wearing gloves--but they just look plain funky. The sides of the stainless steel slide are emblazoned with U.S.P.S.A. on the left and the organization's crest on the right.
The Single Stack put five rounds of Cor-Bon Performance Match ammo into an impressive 1.13-inch group.
While the Tri-Top slide is finished bright on the sides, the top features a subdued blue finish to reduce glare. The sighting arrangement consists of an STI fully adjustable rear sight mated to a Dawson fiber-optic front, a combination that significantly enhances target acquisition and transitioning. To ensure reliable ejection of spent cases, the ejection port is lowered and flared in a most unique manner.
The STI's frame is constructed from forged steel. Metal has been removed from under the trigger guard, and the front strap features sharp cut, 30 lpi checkering. Combining these with the checkered D&T mainspring housing and STI's Alumagrip grip panels allows the shooter to get a high, secure grip--greatly enhancing their ability to make fast, accurate shots.
Controls consist of an STI long, curved trigger, High-Ride grip safety and stainless, extended, ambidextrous thumb safety levers. Both the slide release and magazine release are standard length.
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