At 25 yards, accuracy testing from a bench was as expected. Groups were quite large, ranging from 3 to 4½ inches. The smallest group came was from Hornaday 230-grain TAP. Nonetheless, the accessory rail and combat sights on this pistol suggest it was intended to be used for self-defense, which typically involves shooting quickly at short distances. With that in mind, I decided to conduct the majority of accuracy testing at 7 yards. Naturally, group size shrank considerably, however bullet weight played a major factor. The pistol displayed an affinity toward heavier-weight bullets and higher velocities, both at 7 and 25 yards. Concerning reliability, one malfunction occurred during testing. The slide failed to lock on the last round and the magazine became stuck in the pistol. Nonetheless, after several minutes and a substantial amount of elbow grease the magazine eventually came free and went on to behave hiccup free.

For 1911 fans looking for custom pistol performance on a less-than-grandiose budget, consider DoubleStar's 1911. It offers all the high-end features commonly seen on pedigreed pistols, at a fraction of the price. You can never have too many 1911s, and in this case shooters will definitely be getting more bang for their buck.

Manufacturer: DoubleStar, (859) 745-1757, Star15.com

Action Type: Recoil operated semi-automatic

Caliber: .45 ACP

Capacity: 8+1

Frame: Forged steel, checkered front strap

Slide: 71⁄2 inch forged carbon steel

Finish: Parkerized

Barrel Length: 5 inches

Rifling: 6 grooves, 1:16-inch RH twist

Grips: Black G-10 with golf ball-like texture

Magazine: Novak, 8 rounds

Sights: Novak LoMount, 3-dot configuration

Trigger Pull Weight: 4 pounds, 2 ounces

Length: 83⁄4 inches

Width: 3⁄4 inches

Height: 51⁄2 inches

Weight: 38 ounces unloaded

Accessories: Logo-embroidered 5.11 nylon soft case, 1 Novak 8-round magazine and trigger lock

Suggested Retail Price: $1,300

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