my first 1911 is actually a 2011, go figure. i tried para's in the past, but found the grip to blocky (like a USP) for me. This 4" tactical by STI fits my M/L hands much better. This picture is outdated, my 2012 model came with machined slide serrations on the front as well as the back of the slide, and the more practical (smaller) magwell. Carries very nice, I'm used to non-micro carry. Trigger is great. Sites: would have been nice to have the Heine night sights from the factory, the current ones work fine in daytime. But night sites were immediately ordered. the flashlight rail fits my TLR lights just fine with easy actuation control. Zero malfunctions in my first 300 rounds. (200 of 230gr ball and 100 of 230gr JHP), ran like a top. Came lubed with light oil, i ran it factory for 100 rds, then added some of my own lube for 200 more, then finally cleaned it at 300 rds. Recoil is less than some of my .40 cal full size pistols, and very accurate for a pistol. I don't mind paying for this as I wanted quality and reliablity, but the lack of night sights and only a signle mag at $1800 drove me to give it 4 stars for the value proposition.