STI Costa VIP 2011 Review

Published on October 23, 2019
Duration: 19:28

This review of the STI Costa VIP 2011, presented by a self-proclaimed 'ho-bag' gun enthusiast, highlights its strengths and weaknesses as a carry gun. The reviewer praises the modularity of the 2011 platform, the comfortable grip texture, and the standard ambidextrous safety. However, criticisms are leveled at the unique tritium sight setup, the heavy Costa Ludus branding, and the lack of front serrations. A significant point of contention is STI's refusal to install a threaded barrel on a customer's existing firearm, contrasting sharply with the reviewer's positive experience with Tri Arc.

Quick Summary

The STI Costa VIP 2011 features a modular grip system, allowing for customization of panels. While praised for its grip texture and standard ambidextrous safety, criticisms include its unique tritium sights, heavy branding, and lack of front serrations. STI's customer service is noted as a significant drawback, particularly their refusal to perform custom work like adding threaded barrels.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Gun Show Context
  2. 00:17STI Costa VIP 2011 Overview
  3. 00:502011 vs 1911: Size Comparison
  4. 01:21STI Costa VIP as a Carry Gun
  5. 02:01Personal Relationship with the Gun
  6. 02:492011 Modularity Explained
  7. 03:48Grip Texture Analysis
  8. 04:19Ambidextrous Safety Feature
  9. 05:57Trigger Performance Review
  10. 06:52Grip Undercuts and Purchase
  11. 07:21Critique of Sights
  12. 09:05Branding and Front Serrations
  13. 10:56Threaded Barrel Discussion & STI Service
  14. 13:09Customer Service Issues
  15. 14:05STI vs. Tri Arc Comparison
  16. 15:54Hype Train & STI's Decline
  17. 17:35Final Recommendation: Tri Arc
  18. 18:15Conclusion & Channel Outro

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the STI 2011 platform modular?

The STI 2011 platform is modular because the frame, which contains the serial number and is considered the firearm, can have its grip panels swapped out. This allows users to customize the texture, color, and overall feel of the grip without altering the core firearm components.

What are the main criticisms of the STI Costa VIP 2011?

Key criticisms include an unusual tritium sight setup, excessive Costa Ludus branding, and a lack of front slide serrations. A significant issue is STI's poor customer service regarding custom modifications like adding a threaded barrel.

How does the STI Costa VIP 2011 compare to Tri Arc firearms?

The reviewer suggests Tri Arc now represents what STI used to be, offering a similar high-quality 2011 product with superior customer service. While STI is a good gun, Tri Arc is recommended as a better overall buy due to a more positive customer experience.

Is the STI Costa VIP 2011 suitable for concealed carry?

The STI Costa VIP 2011, particularly in its commander size (4.25-inch barrel), is considered a viable carry gun, especially in winter with layers. Its modular grip and ambidextrous safety are beneficial, though the reviewer notes it's not ideal for all-day summer carry for some individuals.

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