STI HOST DS
Bottomline
The STI HOST DS is an impressive firearm that lives up to its reputation.
When it comes to blending cutting-edge innovation with performance-driven design, the STI HOST DS is a firearm that demands attention. As a shooting enthusiast and self-proclaimed gun geek, I’ve spent my fair share of time with handguns that promise the moon but fail to deliver when it comes to real-world use. That’s not the case with the STI HOST DS, but it’s also not a flawless firearm. Let’s break it all down, starting with a little history, and then diving into what makes this handgun shine and where it disappoints.
Table of Contents
Bottomline
The STI HOST DS is an impressive firearm that lives up to its reputation.
Pros
- Ambidextrous thumb safety
- Tactical magwell
- Affordable
- Light trigger pull (approx. 4.5 lbs)
- Black diamond-like-carbon (DLC) finish
- High capacity
Cons
- Heavy
- Expensive
STI HOST DS Specs
| Caliber | Capacity | BBL | OAL | Width | Weight |
| 9mm | 18+1, 21+1 | 4.15″, 5″ | 8.1″ | 1.3″ | 33.6 oz |
A Quick History of STI International
STI International (recently rebranded as Staccato) has earned its place as a top-tier manufacturer of competition and tactical pistols. Rooted in the rich tradition of the 1911 design, STI took this iconic platform and gave it a modern twist, pioneering the modular double-stack system. This innovation didn’t just appeal to competition shooters; it caught the eye of law enforcement and tactical professionals. The HOST DS, designed to cater to suppressed shooting and tactical use, reflects STI’s commitment to merging innovation with practicality.
Key Features of the STI HOST DS
The STI HOST DS is built with suppressor compatibility in mind, making it a fantastic choice for gun enthusiasts. Here are some of its standout features:
- Threaded Barrel: The pistol comes equipped with a threaded barrel, allowing you to attach a suppressor without any fuss. This makes it a dream for those who prioritize low-profile shooting.
- Tall Suppressor Sights: These sights are designed to co-witness with a red dot and remain usable even with a suppressor attached. They’re crisp, clear, and easy to acquire.
- Modular Design: Like many STI models, the HOST DS boasts a modular design that blends the familiarity of a 1911-style trigger with the capacity of a double-stack magazine.
- Optics Ready: The HOST DS comes ready for red-dot optics, making it a solid choice for those who want a modernized shooting experience.
- Durability: With a steel frame and tough Cerakote finish, the HOST DS is built to take a beating while still looking sleek. Everything about the HOST DS feels top-notch, from the finish to the smooth cycling action. While the steel frame adds durability and reduces recoil, it also makes the gun relatively heavy. For extended carry or use in a high-mobility context, this could be a downside.
Performance on the Range
When it comes to performance, the STI HOST DS doesn’t disappoint. The trigger is crisp, breaking like a glass rod with minimal reset. This allows for quick follow-up shots and impressive accuracy, even during rapid fire. The gun’s heft and well-thought-out ergonomics absorb recoil beautifully, which is a godsend for long shooting sessions.
Shooting with a suppressor attached is where the HOST DS truly shines. The tall suppressor sights and threaded barrel work harmoniously, and the balance of the gun remains excellent even with the added weight. The pistol’s compatibility with various optics further enhances its versatility, making it a joy for both tactical drills and precision shooting.
Who Is the STI HOST DS For?
The HOST DS is a firearm tailored for seasoned shooters who want top-tier performance and are willing to invest in it. It’s an excellent choice for tactical enthusiasts, competitive shooters, and anyone who values precision and customizability. However, if you’re a beginner or looking for a budget-friendly option, this pistol might not be the best fit.
Further reading: Ultimate Gun Reviews
Final Thoughts
The STI HOST DS is an impressive firearm that lives up to its reputation. It’s designed for those who want to shoot suppressed, embrace modern optics, and enjoy the precision of a 1911-inspired trigger system. While it’s not without its flaws, primarily its hefty price tag and weight, the HOST DS remains a solid investment for anyone serious about their shooting.
So, is it worth it? If you’re ready to invest in a handgun that marries tradition with innovation and offers a premium shooting experience, the STI HOST DS is a strong contender. For those willing to accept its drawbacks and cost, this pistol could easily become the crown jewel of your collection.
STI HOST DS Score Card
| Ergonomics | Easy to upgrade the grips. | 1 |
| Trigger | Light trigger pull. | 4.4 |
| Accuracy | Decent accuracy. | 4 |
| Quality | Solid build and sleek look. | 4 |
| Value | Very expensive! | 2.21 |
| Overall | The STI HOST DS is an impressive firearm that lives up to its reputation. | 3.12 |
Manufacturer’s Description
STI‘s HOST DS is a double-stack 1911-style pistol built on a steel frame with a steel slide, and chambered in 9mm, .45 ACP or 10mm. STI calls it the HOST because it can “host” a suppressor via a threaded bushing barrel and a small classic cut; an optic and/or light via an under-barrel picatinny rail; and an optic via a pre-tapped slide.
Other features include:
- Either a a 4.15″ or 5″ barrel, both with a thread protector;
- a 4.5-lb. trigger pull;
- an ambidextrous thumb safety;
Note: STI offers the HOST DS in 10mm only with the 5″ barrel.
The Specs
| Caliber | Capacity | BBL | OAL | Height | Weight |
| 9mm | 18+1, 21+1 | 4.15″, 5″ | n/a | n/a | n/a |
| .45 ACP | 11+1, 13+1 | 4.15″, 5″ | n/a | n/a | n/a |
| 10mm | 15+1, 18+1 | 5″ | n/a | n/a | n/a |
Pricing & Shopping
MSRP: $3,199
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