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Competition pistol opinions

JALVI

Sergeant
Full Member
Minuteman
May 7, 2008
283
0
50
Sacramento, PRK
I've never shot a Tac PR match that INCLUDED a pistol stage. YET. I shoot with some guys that have comp pistols that are just OFF THE HOOK, and then there are guys that run box stock Glocks. It seems that Tac comp pistols span the spectrum from end to end and I know opinions are like assholes so I'm just gonna ask -

What are you guys runnin, and why do you like running it? And is that Badass STI REALLY gonna work better (in a Tac match), than a G17, or off the shelf TRP? I'm just curious. Once I get out of flight school, I really want to shoot the Hide Cup, or Bash, whatever else comes around, & just want to educate myself a lil bit on what people are running for a pistol stage.

I myself have always been a 1911 kinda guy, but I'm also fond of my G17, and XD45.
 
Re: Competition pistol opinions

People will probably disagree...but there are reasons you see the big name / top competitors in pistol/3gun running 2k+ 2011 setups.
 
Re: Competition pistol opinions

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Poison123</div><div class="ubbcode-body">People will probably disagree...but there are reasons you see the big name / top competitors in pistol/3gun running 2k+ 2011 setups.</div></div>

That is exactly why I'm asking. I hope to see plenty of opinions, from all sides. I run a top tier comp rifle, and I know the value of a good tool.

I've also learned that no matter how good your rifle is, you still gotta be able to run it, and I've seen some real good shooters do a lot more with a lot less.
 
Re: Competition pistol opinions

Most of the pistol evolutions in a tactical rifle match seem to be pretty straight forward with relatively simple shoots and not a ton of time pressure. Many of the shooters running expensive rigs are IPSC shooters and use the same gear they use in the pistol matches.

I would recommend saving money on the pistol, and putting the extra dollars in your rifle.
 
Re: Competition pistol opinions

Are you going to run 3gun or Precision Rifle Match. If you run 3 gun I would take Geordie's advice and get a STI. It is on my short list. If you are competing in precision rifle, then a stock glock (after you put Sevigny sights on) or 1911 will service you well . I ran a 1911 at the last match and didn't feel under-gunned with 10 round mags. The next time I go to RO for a match, I will have my 1911 with me.

Now if you are wanting to spend money, take a look at the Infinity. It may cost more than your precision rig........
 
Re: Competition pistol opinions

You can buy a Glock for $500 but by the time you trick it out to shoot as good as a 2011, you have spent another $600.
 
Re: Competition pistol opinions

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: blklabs</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Are you going to run 3gun or Precision Rifle Match. If you run 3 gun I would take Geordie's advice and get a STI. It is on my short list. If you are competing in precision rifle, then a stock glock (after you put Sevigny sights on) or 1911 will service you well . I ran a 1911 at the last match and didn't feel under-gunned with 10 round mags. The next time I go to RO for a match, I will have my 1911 with me.

Now if you are wanting to spend money, take a look at the Infinity. It may cost more than your precision rig........</div></div>

Eventually I woudnt mind checkin out a 3 gun, but right now, I shoot PR Matches. I'm just waitin for our club to whip out a pistol stage! :)
 
Re: Competition pistol opinions

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Heavy Haulin</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I've never shot a Tac match with a pistol stage. YET. I shoot with some guys that have comp pistols that are just OFF THE HOOK, and then there are guys that run box stock Glocks. It seems that Tac comp pistols span the spectrum from end to end and I know opinions are like assholes so I'm just gonna ask -

What are you guys runnin, and why do you like running it? And is that Badass STI REALLY gonna work better/ help me score better (in a Tac match), than a G17, or off the shelf TRP? I'm just curious. Once I get out of flight school, I really want to shoot the Hide Cup, or Bash, whatever else comes around, & just want to educate myself a lil bit on what people are running for a pistol stage.

I myself have always been a 1911 kinda guy, but I'm also fond of my G17, and XD45. </div></div>

I run a box stock Sig Sauer P220 ST (All stainless slide and frame)DA/SA in 45 ACP, for pistol portions of tactical matches.

I run it on a Blackhawk CQC (Non Serpa) Holster w/Jacket Slot Duty Belt Loop. This whole rig cost less than $50. as shown below:

DSCF1798.jpg


DSCF1795.jpg


The drop offset allows me to wear my RedTac Apollo harness rig with my rifle stuff, and the holster and mags on a belt rig under the harness.

Certainly if your a 1911 guy, get a gun that suits your style. Lot's of ways to approach the problem. But to don't have to spend north of $1.5 K just to get a handgun suitable for the pistol portions of tactical matches. This not IDPA or IPSC kind of competition....
 
Re: Competition pistol opinions

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Heavy Haulin</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
I'm just waitin for our club to whip out a pistol stage! :) </div></div>

Since it is "our" club, perhaps you can volunteer to design and set up a pistol stage for the next match.

In all volunteer organizations, there is no "they". Be a "we" and volunteer.

As far as 3 gun versus PR, sounds like a great excuse to drop another few G's in a custom whatever.
 
Re: Competition pistol opinions

Run what you got. I run a G35 with Dawson target sights and a Glock Werks fulcrum trigger system. The sights were a huge improvement, and the trigger changed the gun dramtically for the better. I also do a load work up on my pistol just like a rifle. After testing 3 various bullets over the years, there is always a load or two that will shoot better. This also helps to accurize your pistol. There are many custom pistols, and even more stock, or slightly modified, Glocks being run. Mag capacity is also important for less mag changes, so I run 20 round mags with the Aredondo 5+ mag extenders. I know my Glock is more accurate than I am when I'm running around out of breath shooting. So, a high-end pistol wouldn't help me. If I had to shoot the ticks off deer nuts, then maybe. Til then, I'll rock my G35.
 
Re: Competition pistol opinions

best bang for the buck in my opinion to use in any type of pistol match or stage, minus bullseye, is a glock 34 or 35. dont need to modify in any way to get ya shootin and beatin or hanging with the thousand dollar guns for bout 600 bucks. Stock comp trigger, extended mag release, adjustable sights.

not an STI or 2 thousand dollar race gun but cant beat it for the money. Compete with my 35 all the time
 
Re: Competition pistol opinions

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: ChadTRG42</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Run what you got. I run a G35 with Dawson target sights and a Glock Werks fulcrum trigger system. The sights were a huge improvement, and the trigger changed the gun dramtically for the better. I also do a load work up on my pistol just like a rifle. After testing 3 various bullets over the years, there is always a load or two that will shoot better. This also helps to accurize your pistol. There are many custom pistols, and even more stock, or slightly modified, Glocks being run. Mag capacity is also important for less mag changes, so I run 20 round mags with the Aredondo 5+ mag extenders. I know my Glock is more accurate than I am when I'm running around out of breath shooting. So, a high-end pistol wouldn't help me. If I had to shoot the ticks off deer nuts, then maybe. Til then, I'll rock my G35. </div></div>

I can totally relate to this.

Thanks ChadTRG.

Thank you too BobinNC. Both of your opinions are jiving real good with me.
 
Re: Competition pistol opinions

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: _9H</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Heavy Haulin</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
I'm just waitin for our club to whip out a pistol stage! :) </div></div>

Since it is "our" club, perhaps you can volunteer to design and set up a pistol stage for the next match.

In all volunteer organizations, there is no "they". Be a "we" and volunteer.

As far as 3 gun versus PR, sounds like a great excuse to drop another few G's in a custom whatever.</div></div>

Wow. I wasnt prepared for such a colorful answer from such a simple question.

Just so we are on the same page, up at the top I posted that I had never shot a pistol match. How can I design a pistol course if I don't know shit about one?

As far as volunteering, I don't know who the heck you are, but I am well aware of the 80/20 thing. It's always the same people (20%)that help setup, teardown, RO, or workparties. I'm more than confident to say that I'm in the 20%. I believe you called it a "We". I'll leave it at that. Anyone that knows me, knows were I'm at with the club.

As for dropping "another few G's in a custom whatever", thats reason why I'm posting. I already have considerably well over a few G's, (as most people do) in my comp rifle, and up at the top of the page I posted that I was going to flight school. Another "few G's" is another rating dude. Thats why I'm educating myself on this matter.
 
Re: Competition pistol opinions

I run a glock 34 in uspsa, and 3gun. Dawson sights, and i do some trigger work. That has got me through a lot of matches. Shoot what you have, or if you have money to spend, spend it how you like.
I do recommend you try a couple out first. That's a good bit of cash, for an accessory.
 
Re: Competition pistol opinions

Sig 226 tac ops.

I used to run a HK 45.

The low mag capacity has bit me in the ass a couple of times.

Why Sig? 20 round mags, stupid accurate, great trigger, works all the time-period, points naturally, feels good, I hate Glocks.

I see no reason to crawl around all day in the mud, dust, etc with a race gun on my hip so it will not work when the time comes.
 
Re: Competition pistol opinions

A glock or such will work, but a 2011 is better. You just have to make your decisions on disposable income available.
 
Re: Competition pistol opinions

Hey H.H.,

I had the same questions. What did I do? I bought both. . . eventually!
crazy.gif
I shoot only USPSA, and the Glock got me to be a "B" poster. I'm CERTAINLY not going to get sponsorships, but I have one HELLUVA fun time shootin!

First I bought an STI Executive in .40, had the mags pro-tuned, and everything. Purchased a race-rig/belt/mag holders. I was having fun. Then I thought, well, why don't I get a G-35 as a back-up gun too! Hell, it's only $550 compared to the near $2500 I had in just the STI and a few mags?

I run my Glock out of a Hellweg holster that is similar(minus the finger latch) to a Blackhawk CQB holster.

The PACT timer doesn't lie! Timing myself out of the rigs I had, I was Juuuuuuuuuuust as fast with the G35 and rig setup I had as I was with the STI rig setup. I was just as smooth with mag changes, follow-up shots, target transitions. Soooooo, I saved myself more money than if I'd switched to Geico, and sold off the STI. Sure, it was a neat looking gun, got lots of compliments at local matches, but. . . . that's still $2500 in one's pocket!!

My G35 is set up with Dawson Ice magwell, my 15-rd magazines have Dawson aluminum basepads which add +4 to capacity plus SUPER easy to disassemble if you drop mags in sandy conditions. I have Dawson sight set up, iron rear/Green fiberoptic front, and Ghost Inc $30 trigger set(connector, FP safety spring, FP spring and trigger spring.) I run the factory barrel. I'm shooting speed, not bullseye.

SO, that's my $.02. TO be fair, my duty gun is a Glock as well, so, it would make sense to shoot the same platform and such.

I shoot USPSA Limited with my setup. I could easily shoot L10 as well. For production ya might as well shoot a 9mm since there is no power-factor in it.

What should YOU do? Get a handgun platform you like. Get a belt, holster, mag holders for the CLASS you would like to shoot in. Then practice practice practice. First slow-for-form, use dummy rounds for practicing mag changes. Practice your draw slow, develop where you want to grip the gun, when it clears holster, rotate forward, etc. Consistent push forward to your firing platform.

It's fun to be sure! If USPSA is like "crack", Then I have NO IDEA what to call 3-gun!! Hella-crack?
grin.gif


Best of luck! I'll see if I can't post a pic(well, gotta take one first) if you're interested.

-G45
 
Re: Competition pistol opinions

This is all exactly what I was lookin for thanks to you all for all the great info.

I really agree with ChadTRG42, BobinNC, and G45 on running a modified out the box pistol. I'm leaning heavily toward a G34. My G17 points naturally like my finger, and with a lil work can hang in there with the STI. I really like my 1911's but I also like how light, reliable, and inexpensive the G34 is.

Like I mentioned above, I'm only gonna be using this for pistol stages at PR matches, in conjunction with my GAP rifle. I just want to make sure I put my $$$ in the right places for a pistol.

G45 - if you are offerin to post Glock porn, I'd love to see it.
 
Re: Competition pistol opinions

I run a G35 with fiber optic front sight and a .25 cent trigger job, I was the overall winner in a club IDPA ish match last Saturday using my Gamer reduced power load, my spilts were good, and had enough power to knock over pepper poppers at 25yds, I wish I had a SVI or STI 1911, but I will never be without a Glock.
 
Re: Competition pistol opinions

I don't see many at comps but i really like my CZ SP0-1 tactical. It is heavy and drops right back on target. It uses 18 round mags. I must say maybe I'm lucky but I have yet to have a malfunction with at least 1000-1500 rounds of crap ammo.
 
Re: Competition pistol opinions

I have grown to love my Glock 34

IMG_1273.jpg
 
Re: Competition pistol opinions

H.H.

I hope my photos come through. First time posting photos here on the 'Hide. Humble photos of my lil' G35 and setup.

G35overall.jpg


G35_frtst.jpg


G35_hellweg.jpg


G35_comprig.jpg


Pretty simple, but it works for me. ENJOY the sport, remember, we do it for fun! I know some Grandmaster shooters, shoot with them regularly, but only one of them is sponsored, and it's small SMALL time, NOT enough to make a living.

Take care!

-G45
 
Re: Competition pistol opinions

I think the deal is bout sealed..... G34 for me!

Thanks for the cool pix guys!
 
Re: Competition pistol opinions

Equipment is never going to make you a better shooter, it might make it easier for you but won't increase your abilities. You can easily compete against the custom 2011's with a Glock or another production gun if you have the skill. Dave Sevigny and Bob Vogel beat them all the time. Just this weekend at the Texas State Tactical 2-Gun match I finished 1st in Limited and 3rd in Tactical division with my Beretta 92FS Vertec beating out the custom 2011's.
 
Re: Competition pistol opinions

I never shot tactical events, but there was a time when I did a lot of 3-gun Bullseye comp.

I remain convinced that the JM Browning 1911 design was, for all its quirks, still the most dependable platform out there.

These days, I don't even own a handgun, but this topic intrigued me. I looked up the 2011 STI platform, and I gotta say, I'm impressed. While being a definite departure, and a definite improvement; I believe it faithfully preserves all the advantages the 1911's basic design has always encompassed.

Greg
 
Re: Competition pistol opinions

Depends on what your going to shoot. If it's USPSA then you have to be major power factor, which means .40 an up in limited and 9mm and up in open. If your getting into the outlaw 3 gun matches where they have no power factor then 9mm in a high-cap is the gun you want. In standard 140mm mags the STI has the highest capacity of all of them. My .40 holds 19+1 with standard base pads. It's all in what you like. Nobody in the upper tier shoots anything less than some type of single action 1911 paltform unless they are sponsored and shooting some sort of factory guns.

Bottom line in all of this is what you want out of it. If it's just for fun or tactical mindset type training, shoot what ever makes you happy. There is a reason the top dogs shoot 2k guns.
 
Re: Competition pistol opinions

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: rkgsmith</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
Bottom line in all of this is what you want out of it. If it's just for fun or tactical mindset type training, shoot what ever makes you happy. There is a reason the top dogs shoot 2k guns. </div></div>

I'm NOT being a smartass here, I'm really not. But what is the reason to shoot a 2k gun? In equally competant hands(Sevigny, Leatham, Miculek, etc.) what is the advantage of the 2011 platform firearms vs. the "duty type gun"? what mechanically allows these(2011, 1911, single-action auto) firearms to be superior?

I think to us mere mortals that do not have sponsorship, it doesn't really matter. I believe until us mere mortals have a consistent mindset going into the action pistol game, the firearm just comes along for the ride. I'm guessing all of us have had that brain-fart and lost 5, 10, 15 seconds in a stage for screwing the pooch! DOH!!!
sick.gif


regards!

-G45
 
Re: Competition pistol opinions

If you want to shoot pistol comps, you just need to know if you favor Glocks or 1911's-that will guide the majority of your selection.
Or just run what you have.

I don't have a fancy match pistol anymore, I do have a reworked 1942 GI 1911 for single stack and a CZ75B for produstion/limited.

If I had the dough I'd have a STI 2011.

For precision rifle comps that throw in pistol stages, the best thing is what you shoot well without extra thinking or training. The most important thing for such a match is a GOOD retention holster. Pistol match holsters usually don't do well shooting two deays of dynamic long gun stuff without coming out of the holster inadvertantly to ruin your weekend.

I have a Safariland 6004 for the 1911 platform and a Blackhawk SERPA I modified for the CZ.
 
Re: Competition pistol opinions

I'm a fan of Glocks for their economy, parts availability, and dependability. The Limited, Limited 10, and Production classes of the USPSA Nationals have all been won by Glocks before, so the gun itself will not hold you back.
 
Re: Competition pistol opinions

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: sobrbiker883</div><div class="ubbcode-body">If you want to shoot pistol comps, you just need to know if you favor Glocks or 1911's-that will guide the majority of your selection.
Or just run what you have.

I don't have a fancy match pistol anymore, I do have a reworked 1942 GI 1911 for single stack and a CZ75B for produstion/limited.

If I had the dough I'd have a STI 2011.

For precision rifle comps that throw in pistol stages, the best thing is what you shoot well without extra thinking or training. The most important thing for such a match is a GOOD retention holster. Pistol match holsters usually don't do well shooting two deays of dynamic long gun stuff without coming out of the holster inadvertantly to ruin your weekend.

I have a Safariland 6004 for the 1911 platform and a Blackhawk SERPA I modified for the CZ.</div></div>

2nd on the retention holster!

In addition, most tactical rifle matches require you to wear the pistol during the entire match. I personally don't like carrying my expensive pistols through the dirt, mud, sand, water, cow manure, etc. Seems like my Glocks shoot better covered in S#*T!
 
Re: Competition pistol opinions

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Boss</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: sobrbiker883</div><div class="ubbcode-body">If you want to shoot pistol comps, you just need to know if you favor Glocks or 1911's-that will guide the majority of your selection.
Or just run what you have.

I don't have a fancy match pistol anymore, I do have a reworked 1942 GI 1911 for single stack and a CZ75B for produstion/limited.

If I had the dough I'd have a STI 2011.

For precision rifle comps that throw in pistol stages, the best thing is what you shoot well without extra thinking or training. The most important thing for such a match is a GOOD retention holster. Pistol match holsters usually don't do well shooting two deays of dynamic long gun stuff without coming out of the holster inadvertantly to ruin your weekend.

I have a Safariland 6004 for the 1911 platform and a Blackhawk SERPA I modified for the CZ.</div></div>

2nd on the retention holster!

In addition, most tactical rifle matches require you to wear the pistol during the entire match. I personally don't like carrying my expensive pistols through the dirt, mud, sand, water, cow manure, etc. Seems like my Glocks shoot better covered in S#*T!</div></div>

Thats the biggest reason, I originally asked this question. Tac rifle matches are my bag, and it sounds like a tuned up G34 is exactly what the doctor ordered. I want something that I can drag through $hit and grit, and still go bang reliably, AND be accurate enough if I'm on top of things. Plus those things (STI) are just too damn purty for me. I've gotten rid of all my high $$$ custom pistols because they were just to expensive for field use IMO. I always felt chicken to rough them up.
 
Re: Competition pistol opinions

I just can't shoot Glocks well intuitively, but there's nothing wrong with them.
Actually if I'd love to get a beater 17/17L on a good trade and try a grip reduction. 17 or 17L will be pretty much the same as the competition mpodels but lack the big hole in the top of the slide.
 
Re: Competition pistol opinions

Ya know thats the funny thing...I've always been a 1911 guy, and have had a few pricey customs, but a while back I got a G17 RTF in a trade, and man, that thing just fits. It could definately use a trigger job, but on the 17 I'm not to worried about it because I got it for a carry pistol. I also have a 26 which I really like, so when I fondled the 34 it felt very natural too.
 
Re: Competition pistol opinions

Some folks are lucky and have no problem switching back and forth. Wish I were one of them....
 
Re: Competition pistol opinions

Jake - Love you like a brotha, so I'll come to the rescue to the PR guy that wants to eventually shoot 3-Gun from the 3-Gun/pistol guy that shot PR for a bit.

On a "budget", definitely go with a G34. Do some minor tweaks (sights, trigger and springs) and you're in it for less than a grand with a pistol that will definitely take care of you for a while.

If you want to get more "Gucci", you can use my custom built 6" STI framed limited division pistol that'll run you $3k with mags.

Is the STI framed better? Yeah. Is why it's better necessary for the targets shot in PR pistol events? Not likely. In either case, definitely don't run a stock gun. You have a very customized rifle, so why run a stock pistol? I always laugh at the guys that dog IPSC shooters for having custom/race guns (not that they're necessary in the sport to win) and yet they're standing there with a $3-4k bolt rifle and $2k in glass.

Anything you need/want, just holler and I'll be happy to share the pros/cons of both. Ultimately, it just comes down to how much you want to spend.

Rich
 
Re: Competition pistol opinions

Glock45 - I take by your handle your a glock man. Which is fine, I carry one on duty everyday. However shoot a glock then shoot a STI and you will answer your own question. I agree most of the pros will beat the average joe with what ever you stick in their hands. That being said they all look for the advantage and the advantage of the STI is lighter triggers, higher bore axis, less muzzle flip, greater accuracy, and less felt recoil.
 
Re: Competition pistol opinions

Oh...and Jake, when you're ready to get your Glock signin' just let me know and we can get it taken care of.

Rich

PS - Because a person asked via PM, here's the 6" gun:

DSC_0549.jpg


 
Re: Competition pistol opinions

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: rkgsmith</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Glock45 - I take by your handle your a glock man. Which is fine, I carry one on duty everyday. However shoot a glock then shoot a STI and you will answer your own question. I agree most of the pros will beat the average joe with what ever you stick in their hands. That being said they all look for the advantage and the advantage of the STI is lighter triggers, higher bore axis, less muzzle flip, greater accuracy, and less felt recoil. </div></div>

If I could only own one type of auto, yes, Glock would be my choice. Thankfully. . . we're not limited though.
smile.gif


I have owned and STI at the same time as my G35. I sold the STI.

Lighter trigger- I agree, easier on the STI.

confused.gif
higher bore axis?? Isn't that AGAINST what you want? I interpret that as the center of the barrel high, which would then contradict what you said after about "less muzzle flip." If the center of the barrel is higher from the frame, it would have less resistance to fotate more when the slide is moving rearward!? Better leverage to flip with a higher bore axis?

Accuracy - I won't argue for or against that one. (just thinking from the USPSA perspective.)

Less Recoil - subjective I believe. But. . . .depends how you machine the slide and dustcover on the 2011 platform, the 2011 platform could have an edge here. There is always tungston recoil assemblies for a Glock.

rkgssmith, I'm *NOT* ripping on you. If I interpreted what you wrote as incorrect, I'm not too big to be called out on it. My thought of a forum is one comes here to learn. If I can learn from you, fantastic. If you can learn from me, that's cool too. It's not WHAT one says, it's HOW it's said.
smile.gif


Be safe out there!

-G45
 
Re: Competition pistol opinions

I agree with you on the higher bore axis. We want the distance between bore and hand to be as small as possible.

Rich
 
Re: Competition pistol opinions

For sport shooting and competition I bought a CZ Tactical Sports in 9mm. Why 9mm ? Because I do not want to reload pistol ammo and .40 S&W is expensive here. In military competitions 9mm is all I need. For IPSC I give up Major -caliber status but gain 4 rounds more ammo per magazine. Of course one could buy a CZ IPSC Standard in .40 S&W which is basically the same gun as CZ TS but in .40 S&W.

Anyway CZ TS has a full steel frame, long sight radius, 20 rounds of 9mm in the magazine and one of the best triggers out-of-the-box. Say 0,9 kg or 2 Lbs with no creep and a very short reset. I believe a STI Edge might be a little better but it would have cost me +2000 Euros (2700 USD) vs. 950 Euros (apprx.1300 USD) I paid for the CZ TS. Besides the STI would need maybe 200-300 USD wotrh of gunsmithing to get the trigger up to or past the CZ TS level.

Try the CZ TS. The only drawback I know is that the frame requires medium-to-big sized hands. But so does STI wide bodies too.
 
Re: Competition pistol opinions

these photos were for a guy who wanted the difference in trigger shoe faces

my limited 10 setup: Springfield Armory black stainless loaded with all the internals replaced and the frame refinished in solid black:
IMG_0444.jpg

My limited setup: STI Edge origionally built by Dawson Precision, with Cylinder and Slide sear, Koenig ultralight hammer, SVI trigger, extended mag release, and a custom ambi safety. It's ugly but it's slick
IMG_0443.jpg

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Quote:</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Try the CZ TS. The only drawback I know is that the frame requires medium-to-big sized hands. But so does STI wide bodies too.</div></div>
not true, most competitors with small hands (like me) grind down the polymer frame on their gun and wrap it in skateboard tape/stipple it. Mine is 1.170" wide, (and holds 22 rounds of 40S&W) most factory 1911 grips are about 1.250"-1.350". If it breaks, for about 100 bucks you can slap another one on there, they are separate from the serial numbered frame.

for 3 gun I typically shoot a commander sized 1911 (occasionally a 3" Kimber) and enter either in Ironman or Heman (regional/local division where you have to have an 8 round handgun, 30caliber rifle, and pump shotgun. In Heman you have to carry all your kit for the match on your back for the entirety of the match sans water) I'm 5'6" and weight about 170, with like 20% body fat. I do that stuff just to piss off the guys who bring 10K of crap to the match just to lose to the guy with a commader/officer 1911, an M1A/M1 garand, and an 870.

When you put 20-40K through any pistol you will start breaking stuff =] I've seen 3 glocks throw an extractor in the same match (2 of them were back to back shooters) I've had 1911's take dumps on me. I've broken sears in practice, I've engaged thumb safetys while the gun was un-cocked and thought, WTF. turns out the safety was toast... the trick is to get something you know you can have a local smith work on, you are confident you can shoot well, and then buy a dillon 550 and start shooting the hell out of it.

if you have any questions about the details of my setups feel free to PM me.