[CMG]

I recently purchased a pair of the new STI Spartan V pistols, one in 9mm and one in .45 ACP. I like the new look

Although these are Rock Island underneath, I think they exhibit slightly better overall fit, and they have STI fire control parts, as well as LPA rear sights and dove-tailed fiber-optic fronts. I really like the new grips and the high-cut front straps, and even the hard-chromed barrel.

They both got standard guide rods/plugs, a steel MSH and Ed Brown's slightly extended mag releases (ala Kimber), plus a bit of skate-board tape on the front strap.

Both run fine, and are more accurate than I expected.

[bac1023]

They are built by Armscor, just like RIA. I'm not sure the fitting is any different, but I never had an issue with RIA fitting.

The Spartan is one of the best 1911s in its price range.