I've got a bunch of different 1911's from Colts to Kimbers and I like the Smith & Wesson the best. It out shoots the Gold Cups and customs and will not rip the wallet out of your pocket. I spoke with a Smith Rep about it at an SCI Convention and he told me Smith did the CNC work on the slides and receivers and all of the other parts were Wilson or Brown. I wouldn't trade it for one of the high end 1911s (of which I have a couple!). Enjoy, 1911s are great!