Pardini GT-9
Frame:
Aluminum
Slide:
Steel
Unloaded weight:
38.0oz
Price:
$2000
Action:
SAO
Accuracy:
9
Trigger:
10
Ergonomics:
7
Grips:
8
Sights:
8
Controls:
9
Finish:
8
Build quality:
9
Overall rating: 8.5
Here we have a very specialized target pistol in the Italian Pardini GT-9. It rates a solid 8.5 on my scale and one of my favorites at the range. The trigger is its strongest point, as is the overall smoothness of the gun. Its just a very slick pistol. The aluminum frame keeps this large pistol under 40oz, but its still very solid all around. I believe they're imported only through Larry's Guns these days.
Smith & Wesson PC952
Frame:
Steel
Slide:
Steel
Unloaded weight:
40.4oz
Price:
$1500-$2000
Action:
SAO
Accuracy:
10
Trigger:
9
Ergonomics:
8
Grips:
8
Sights:
10
Controls:
6
Finish:
10
Build quality:
10
Overall rating: 8.9
Only a very poor safety kept this stellar pistol from a rating over 9. Since the safety doesn't come into play at the range, its probably my favorite non-1911 target pistol. Build quality, finish, and attention to detail are impeccable. Along with the X-Five, I shoot this gun 100 yards on occasion with surprising results. Again, like the X-Five, it may be the best pistol S&W ever built, which says a great deal.
