[Newton]

I don't shoot IPSC yet, or IDPA, but I try to follow them a little bit here locally, and I do know a good number of competition shooters, as well as all the stuff I've read in this forum and others. What I have seen is that the opinions of the respected shooters in all those areas all seem to say the same thing. The most respected ones don't even seem to suggest a brand name. If you ask them specifics, they will give you specific answers though. What does seem to be consistant throughout their opinions is that they all will "tune" their pistols to their liking, and their biggest concern is a great base gun. Replacing or modifying particular parts is a given for these seasoned competition shooters. Solid frame, barrel, and slide are the top priority. When I think about it, maybe the best way to decide is to look in the hands of the guys who are winning all the prizes, and see what they're holding.