What Is A 2011? Double-Stack 1911s vs Widebody Frames Explained

Shooters often ask, “What is a 2011 pistol, and how is it different from a double-stack 1911?” This article answers that clearly. You'll learn what defines a 2011, how it compares to other widebody 1911s, and whether it’s the right platform for your needs.

What Is a 2011 Pistol?

A 2011 pistol is a specific type of double-stack 1911 handgun that uses a modular frame design, originally developed by STI International (now known as Staccato). Unlike a traditional 1911 with a single-piece steel or aluminum frame, the 2011 consists of two main structural components: a steel upper frame (housing the slide rails and fire control system) and a polymer grip module that attaches to it. This setup allows the use of high-capacity, double-stack magazines while maintaining the trigger characteristics and slide geometry of a standard 1911.

The STI 2011 platform was designed to solve a specific challenge: retain the precision and ergonomics of the 1911 while significantly increasing magazine capacity for competitive and tactical use. The result is a pistol that looks like a 1911 on top but carries up to 17+ rounds in the grip.

Although the term “double stack 1911” is often used interchangeably with “2011,” they are not the same. The double stack 1911 meaning refers broadly to any 1911-style handgun that uses a staggered magazine, but only pistols built on the modular STI 2011 frame system qualify as true 2011s.

2011 vs Double-Stack 1911: What’s the Difference?

While all 2011s are double-stack 1911s, not all double-stack 1911s are 2011s. The confusion is common, but the difference comes down to frame design and how the gun is built.

Frame Architecture: Modular vs Solid

A traditional double-stack 1911—sometimes called a widebody 1911—uses a one-piece steel or alloy frame, similar to the original 1911 design but widened to accept a staggered magazine. Examples include early Para-Ordnance, Caspian, and Rock Island Armory models. The grip, trigger guard, and frame rails are all machined from a single block of material.

In contrast, a 2011 frame is a modular platform, developed by STI International. It separates the fire control group and slide rails (upper frame) from the polymer grip and trigger guard module (lower assembly). The grip section is removable and can be replaced, customized, or upgraded without altering the serialized frame.

Magazine and Component Compatibility

The 2011 magazine design is also distinct. It’s narrower at the feed lips to match standard 1911 slide geometry but expands toward the base to hold more rounds. These magazines are specific to the 2011 platform and are not interchangeable with standard 1911 or most other double-stack 1911 mags. Traditional widebody 1911s—like those from Para—use proprietary magazines that differ in construction and dimensions.

Key Differences: 2011 vs Double-Stack 1911

Feature	2011	Traditional Double-Stack 1911
Frame Design	Modular (steel upper + polymer grip module)	One-piece solid metal frame
Trigger Guard	Polymer, removable with grip module	Integrated into metal frame
Magazine Type	STI/Staccato 2011 magazine	Proprietary widebody 1911 magazine
Common Manufacturers	Staccato, BUL Armory, Nighthawk, Atlas	Para-Ordnance, Caspian, RIA, MAC
Customization	Grip module can be swapped or modified	Limited to full-frame modification

 

The key difference is structural: the 2011 uses a modular frame, while traditional double-stack 1911s rely on a one-piece, solid metal frame. In a 2011, the steel upper frame contains the slide rails and fire control components, while the polymer grip module—which includes the trigger guard—is a separate, replaceable unit. This allows the shooter to swap grips, reduce weight, and fine-tune ergonomics without affecting the serialized part of the pistol.

Traditional widebody 1911s, like those from Para-Ordnance or Caspian, have no modularity. The grip, trigger guard, and dust cover are machined from a single piece of steel or aluminum. That design is durable, but it limits the ability to customize or replace components without full gunsmithing.

Magazine compatibility also sets them apart. The 2011 magazine taper is proprietary—narrow at the feed lips to fit a standard 1911 slide, but double-stack at the base for added capacity. It only works with 2011-style pistols. Double-stack 1911s use different, often brand-specific, magazine patterns that are not interchangeable.

This matters when sourcing parts, magazines, or holsters, especially for duty or competition use. A 2011 frame offers greater flexibility, broader accessory support, and easier upgrades—advantages that traditional widebody 1911s simply don’t offer.

History of the 2011 and Other Widebody 1911s

The 2011 platform did not appear in isolation. It was born from a progression of innovations that began in the late 1980s and early 1990s, when competitive shooters demanded higher-capacity pistols without sacrificing the crisp trigger and shootability of the 1911 design.

This section outlines how various companies, designs, and individuals contributed to the evolution of the widebody 1911 and ultimately the 2011 handgun as we know it today.

Para-Ordnance and the First Double-Stack 1911

The first commercially successful double-stack 1911 was the Para-Ordnance P14-45, released in 1989. Known later as the Para-Ordnance 14.45, this pistol featured a solid steel frame with an enlarged grip housing that accepted a staggered 14-round magazine of .45 ACP—nearly double the capacity of the traditional 7+1 1911 format. The frame maintained standard 1911 upper dimensions (slide, barrel, controls) while widening the grip to accommodate the magazine.

This marked a major shift. Para-Ordnance demonstrated that the 1911 platform could be adapted to meet modern capacity demands without abandoning its core ergonomics or function.

Their success opened the door for other manufacturers to explore the widebody concept. Companies like Caspian Arms quickly followed with their own widebody frame kits for custom builds.

The Birth of the 2011: Strayer Tripp and CMC Products

While Para-Ordnance focused on building an integrated steel-frame double-stack, pistolsmiths Virgil Tripp and Sandy Strayer took a different path. Their goal was to create a high-capacity 1911 that reduced weight and allowed for frame modularity—something that had never been done in the 1911 world.

Their solution became what we now call the 2011 pistol. They developed a system that separated the steel frame rails and fire control group from the polymer grip module, resulting in a true modular handgun platform. This design reduced weight, lowered manufacturing costs, and improved adaptability. It also allowed shooters to tune grip dimensions and feel to match different hand sizes or shooting disciplines.

The design was first brought to market through CMC Products, but shortly thereafter Tripp and Strayer formed their own company: Strayer Tripp International, or STI. STI began building high-performance competition pistols using the new frame system, which became popular in USPSA and IPSC circuits for its capacity, controllability, and 1911-style trigger.

Tripp Research, STI, and the Name “2011”

The legacy of Virgil Tripp extends beyond frame design. He also founded Tripp Research, one of the premier manufacturers of 1911 and 2011 magazines. These magazines were—and remain—an essential part of making the high-pressure, high-capacity 2011 platform reliable in competition.

STI's rebranding of the frame system as the 2011 didn’t occur immediately. The name was applied after the platform had already gained traction. The term “2011” helped distinguish it from legacy double-stack 1911s and stuck with the community.

As of today, STI operates as Staccato, focusing on building 2011-pattern pistols for law enforcement, professional use, and civilian concealed carry. The modular 2011 frame system, once a niche solution for competition shooters, now serves in duty holsters across multiple agencies.

The first double-stack 1911s—whether Para-Ordnance or Caspian—set the stage, but the Tripp/Strayer modular design is what reshaped the platform. By decoupling the grip from the serialized frame, the 2011 created a more flexible, durable, and modern evolution of the 1911—a format that continues to expand in both commercial and law enforcement markets.

Key Components of a 2011 Pistol

The 2011 frame system was engineered to retain the mechanical excellence of the 1911 while addressing its limitations in capacity, modularity, and weight. Unlike traditional widebody 1911s with one-piece steel frames, the 2011 is built on a multi-component architecture, designed for performance, adaptability, and longevity.

Understanding its parts reveals why it stands apart from both single-stack 1911s and solid-frame double-stacks.

Steel Frame Rails and Dust Cover (Serialized Upper Assembly)

At the core of every 2011 is a steel upper frame that houses the slide rails, fire control group, and dust cover. This is the serialized component of the pistol—the legal “firearm” in ATF terms—and serves as the structural base. It provides rigidity where it matters most: controlling the slide’s reciprocation and maintaining barrel-lockup integrity.

By isolating the upper portion from the grip assembly, the 2011 minimizes stress on the frame under recoil while preserving the tight tolerances 1911s are known for. It also allows for precise machining of critical areas without the added bulk and weight of a full steel grip.

Modular Polymer Grip Module

The modular 1911 grip is the heart of the 2011’s adaptability. Molded from polymer (or sometimes aluminum or carbon-infused blends), the grip module includes the trigger guard, magazine well, mainspring housing, and grip panels. It is bolted to the steel frame via mechanical fasteners and can be replaced without disturbing the serialized portion of the firearm.

This separation allows shooters to:

1. Choose different grip textures or profiles
2. Fit hands of various sizes without changing the core frame
3. Reduce total frame weight while maintaining balance
4. Swap damaged or worn grips without replacing the entire lower

This level of modularity is impossible with traditional widebody 1911s.

STI-Type Magazine Taper and Feed Geometry

The 2011 magazine design is a critical part of the system. Unlike standard double-stack magazines, which maintain a consistent width, the 2011 mag tapers sharply from a wide double-stack base to a narrower single-feed top.

This geometry is necessary to preserve compatibility with standard 1911 slide dimensions and feed ramps while accommodating increased capacity—typically ranging from 17 to 21 rounds, depending on caliber and basepad.

Because of the tension created by this tapered design, early 2011 pistols required magazine tuning for reliable function. Though modern manufacturing has improved consistency, the tight relationship between magazine geometry and feed angle remains a defining trait—and a potential tuning point—for high-performance builds.

Functional Advantages of the 2011 Frame System

The 2011 pistol platform offers several practical benefits that directly result from its component design:

1. Weight Distribution: The polymer grip lowers overall weight and shifts the balance point higher, improving recoil control and pointability.
2. Grip Customization: Shooters can tailor grip width, texture, and even trigger reach by selecting different modules—something impossible on one-piece frames.
3. Maintenance and Service Life: The modular nature makes it easier to replace worn or damaged parts without scrapping the serialized frame. For high-volume users, this reduces downtime and cost.
4. Competition and Duty Proven: This frame layout originated in USPSA and IPSC Open/Limited divisions, but its reliability and adaptability have led to increasing adoption in law enforcement duty pistols, especially Staccato models.

The 2011 modular frame system is more than a technical upgrade—it’s a redesign with purpose. By decoupling the grip and trigger guard from the serialized frame, the platform introduces a level of serviceability and user customization that traditional widebody 1911s simply cannot match.

For shooters who prioritize performance, adaptability, and long-term durability, this is the feature that defines the platform.

Notable 2011 Pistols and Manufacturers

The 2011 pistol platform has expanded far beyond its competition roots. What began as a specialized system built by STI International for USPSA shooters has evolved into a full spectrum of pistols for duty, defense, and high-end performance.

Today’s market includes both production-grade and semi-custom 2011s, built by companies ranging from law enforcement-focused manufacturers like Staccato to high-end gunsmith-driven brands like Atlas Gunworks and Infinity Firearms.

 

Current Production: Modern 2011 Pistols

Staccato (Formerly STI International)

The most recognized name in the 2011 category today is Staccato, which emerged from STI’s rebranding to align the 2011 platform with duty use, concealed carry, and professional performance. Staccato pistols are still built on the original 2011 frame system, but with design refinements for reliability, holster compatibility, and field service.

• Staccato P
  Duty-grade 2011 designed for law enforcement and armed professionals. 4.4-inch barrel, 17-round mags, optic-ready, rail-equipped, and tested to 20,000+ rounds by major departments. It’s one of the few 2011 handguns issued to law enforcement agencies nationwide.

• Staccato C2
  Compact carry version of the 2011. 3.9-inch bull barrel, 16-round mags, optics-ready slide. Designed for concealed carry while retaining the controllability of a full-size 1911 trigger. Frequently ranks as the best 2011 handgun for EDC.

• Staccato XC
  High-performance variant with an integrated compensator and optic cut. Built for flat shooting under speed. Geared toward competition and high-speed tactical roles. Often cited as the pinnacle of Staccato’s 2011 lineup.

All current Staccato pistols retain core 2011 traits: forged internals, hand-fit slide/frame interfaces, and optimized magazine geometry for function under hard use.

BUL Armory SAS II Series

BUL Armory, based in Israel, has rapidly gained traction in the global 2011 market. Their SAS II series includes competition-ready and tactical variants using a modular 2011 frame and double-stack 1911 magazine taper.

• SAS II Tac – Duty/defense model with an RMR-cut slide, rail, and ambi safeties.

• SAS II Ultralight – Lightweight competition variant with aggressive slide cuts and tuned recoil systems.

• SAS II Air – One of the lightest 2011s available, with major cuts for speed shooters in USPSA/IPSC.

BUL’s use of tool steel internals, fit-and-finish levels, and competition pedigree make them one of the most credible non-U.S. manufacturers of 2011 handguns.

Nighthawk Custom – TRS Commander & TRS Comp

Nighthawk Custom is known for full-custom, hand-built 1911s. Their entrance into the 2011 world came with the Tactical Ready Series (TRS), which retains 1911 core precision while offering a widebody magazine system.

• TRS Commander – 4.25" barrel, optics-ready, steel frame with 17+1 capacity.

• TRS Comp – Full-size, integrated compensator, hand-fit internals, match barrel. Designed for those seeking custom-grade performance in a 2011 configuration.

Nighthawk’s approach to the 2011 is ultra-premium—each gun is built by a single gunsmith and fitted for accuracy, not mass production.

Atlas Gunworks and Infinity Firearms

These two represent the top end of the 2011 performance spectrum, building pistols for elite-level USPSA, 3-Gun, and professional users.

• Atlas Gunworks
  Known for the Nemesis, Athena, and Titan series, all designed for competition use. Atlas uses honed tolerances, aggressive slide cuts, and match-fit barrels with tuned recoil systems. Prices often exceed $4,000 but performance is unmatched.

• Infinity Firearms (SVI)
  Custom-built to order with full control over slide weight, grip texture, barrel profile, and optics compatibility. Infinity pistols are dominant in USPSA Open and Limited divisions. Their frames and components are also used by other custom 2011 builders.

Both companies cater to serious shooters who require a competition-ready 2011 with zero compromise on fit, finish, or function.

Discontinued or Legacy Models

STI Trojan and Marauder

Before the Staccato rebrand, STI produced a variety of 2011 pistols geared toward competition and tactical markets.

• STI Trojan – 5" barrel, steel frame, simple controls. One of the earliest carry-friendly 2011s.

• STI Marauder – 4.25" tactical/duty pistol, similar to the modern Staccato P but predating optic systems.

These legacy STI models laid the groundwork for what would become Staccato’s professional-duty 2011 series.

Summary Table: Current 2011 Pistol Landscape

Manufacturer	Model	Purpose	Capacity	Optics-Ready
Staccato	P, C2, XC	Duty, Carry, Comp	16–21+	Yes
BUL Armory	SAS II Tac, UL, Air	Tactical, Comp	17+	Yes
Nighthawk Custom	TRS Commander, Comp	Custom Tactical	17+	Yes
Atlas Gunworks	Nemesis, Titan	Elite Competition	20+	Yes
Infinity (SVI)	Custom Builds	Open/Limited USPSA	20+	Configurable

 

2011 vs 1911: Practical Differences

Although the 2011 and 1911 share core mechanical principles, they diverge significantly in design, handling, and user experience. Understanding these differences is essential for anyone considering a transition from a traditional 1911 to a semi-custom 2011 platform, or vice versa.

Both pistols use the same single-action trigger system, tilting-barrel lockup, and short-recoil operation. But in practice, a 2011 pistol behaves very differently due to changes in frame architecture, capacity, balance, and component fitment. This section outlines those key differences with the technical depth expected by experienced shooters.

Frame Design and Carrying Capacity

The standard 1911 frame is a one-piece steel or aluminum forging designed around a single-stack magazine, typically holding 7 to 8 rounds of .45 ACP, or 9 rounds of 9mm. The 2011 frame, by contrast, is modular: a steel upper assembly (housing the rails and fire control group) is paired with a removable polymer grip module that accepts a double-stack magazine.

This architecture drastically increases capacity. A standard 2011 in 9mm typically holds 17 to 21 rounds, depending on mag and basepad configuration. Even compact models like the Staccato C2 carry 16+1—almost double the round count of a single-stack 1911.

Specification	1911 (Single Stack)	2011 (Double Stack Modular)
Magazine Capacity	7–10 rounds	16–21+ rounds
Frame Design	One-piece metal frame	Modular (steel + polymer)
Grip Profile	Slim, linear	Wider, more hand-filling

 

This difference in 1911 vs 2011 capacity directly affects not only shoot time between reloads but also how the pistol fits the shooter's hand. The wider grip of the 2011 can improve recoil control but may be too large for shooters with smaller hands, depending on the grip module selected.

Maintenance, Tuning, and Parts Fit

A well-tuned 1911 is known for tight lockup, crisp break, and excellent mechanical precision—but achieving that precision often requires hand-fitting of parts, and ongoing attention to detail during maintenance.

The semi-custom 2011 platform inherits many of these characteristics, but adds specific considerations due to its modular frame system and high-pressure magazine taper.

• Magazine tuning: Traditional 1911s use a simple, single-feed magazine. 2011 magazines taper from a double-stack body to a single-stack feed lip area. Early models (and even some modern ones) require tuning of feed lips, spring pressure, and follower angle to run reliably with specific guns and loads.
• Grip modules: The polymer grip of a 2011 is secured by screws into the steel upper frame. While durable, it can loosen or flex under hard use if not installed correctly. Some users opt for aftermarket aluminum modules to improve rigidity at the cost of added weight.
• Replacement parts: Internal components (sear, disconnector, hammer, etc.) are largely interchangeable between 1911 and 2011 platforms. However, external parts—especially grips, mainspring housings, and magazines—are unique to each platform and not cross-compatible.

Owners of 2011s must also consider that aftermarket support is still more mature for 1911s, though this is rapidly changing with the popularity of Staccato, Atlas, and BUL Armory.

Performance in Recoil, Balance, and Follow-Up Shots

The 1911 is widely respected for its low bore axis and clean trigger, both of which contribute to excellent recoil control. However, the 2011 builds on this with additional performance advantages due to its modern geometry and weight distribution.

• Recoil impulse: The added mass of the double-stack grip, often combined with a bull barrel and heavier slide, helps to dampen muzzle rise and soften perceived recoil—especially in 9mm models like the Staccato P or XC.
• Follow-up accuracy: Faster split times and better muzzle control are tangible benefits of the 2011’s weight distribution and higher grip surface area. The wider grip allows for a stronger support-hand connection and increased control under rapid fire.
• Balance: Polymer grip modules shift weight forward, lowering the center of gravity and improving tracking through recoil. This is a notable difference vs traditional all-steel 1911s, which often feel rear-heavy unless specifically tuned for balance.
• Trigger consistency: Both platforms use a straight-back single-action trigger, but many 2011 manufacturers (Staccato, Nighthawk, Atlas) fit their triggers to match-grade tolerances. The result is a clean break with minimal take-up and reset—identical in theory to a tuned 1911, but more consistent across units in production-grade 2011s.

Summary: 2011 vs 1911 Practical Takeaways

Feature	1911	2011
Magazine Capacity	7–10 rounds	16–21+ rounds
Grip Size	Slim	Wide, modular
Recoil Management	Excellent	Enhanced with grip and slide mass
Trigger	Crisp, tunable	Crisp, match-grade fit (semi-custom)
Maintenance	Fewer parts, fewer variables	More complex, modular maintenance
Ideal Use Case	Classic carry, range, duty	Duty, competition, high-volume shooting

 

The 1911 vs 2011 comparison is not simply about old vs new—it’s about use case, capacity requirements, and shooter expectations. The 2011 is not a replacement for the 1911. It is an evolution designed for those who need 1911 trigger quality and reliability in a platform that can withstand the demands of modern duty, tactical, and competitive environments.

Holster Compatibility and Support

Finding a holster for a 2011 pistol requires more precision than most platforms. Due to the wider dust covers, flared trigger guards, and taller slide profiles found on most double-stack 1911-style pistols, especially models like the Staccato P or BUL SAS II, standard 1911 holsters often do not fit securely or safely.

Even within the 2011 category, subtle differences in rail geometry, slide length, and optic cuts mean that exact model compatibility is essential when selecting a holster.

Why 2011 Pistols Require Holster-Specific Fitment

Unlike single-stack 1911s, a 2011 pistol incorporates a double-stack frame and frequently includes enhancements like full-length dust covers or accessory rails. These dimensional differences can interfere with trigger guard retention, draw angle, or security in generic holsters. While some double stack 1911 holster options attempt to offer cross-compatibility, a 2011-specific holster will always offer better fitment, retention, and reliability.

For example, a Staccato P holster must accommodate a full-size slide, flared dust cover, optics cut, and possibly a light-bearing setup—all of which deviate from standard 1911 geometry. This level of complexity is exactly where Alien Gear Holsters excels.

Alien Gear: Engineered Holsters Built for 2011 Platforms

Alien Gear Holsters designs and manufactures holsters specifically engineered to accommodate different gun models. Unlike Kydex or leather—both of which deform over time and rely on heat molding—Alien Gear’s injection-molded polymer shells are built from proprietary blends for maximum durability, flex resistance, and retention consistency.

These materials outperform traditional holsters in every category:

1. Better than leather: No sagging, warping, or moisture retention.
2. Better than Kydex: Stronger under stress, doesn’t crack or deform from repeated holstering.
3. Better fitment: Each shell is molded to the precise firearm—including slide serrations, suppressor height sights, rails, and optic profiles.

This is particularly important for 2011 platforms, where exact slide profile and grip angle alignment are critical for smooth draw and reholstering—especially under duty or competition stress.

Full Range of Holster Types for Different Pistols

Alien Gear offers one of the widest compatible holster ecosystems for double-stack 1911s and Staccato pistols, including:

• IWB (Inside-the-Waistband) – Ideal for concealed carry with slimmer-profile 2011s like the Staccato C2

• AIWB (Appendix Carry) – Precision-molded shells for balanced comfort and fast access

• OWB (Outside-the-Waistband) – Includes paddle, slide, and belt-loop options
  

• Chest Holsters – Rugged chest rigs for backcountry carry, ideal for long slide 2011s or optic-equipped setups

• Hook and Loop Mounts – Modular platforms for vehicles, desks, or discreet setups

Conclusion: Is the 2011 Worth It?

The 2011 platform is not just a modernized 1911—it’s a purpose-built system that offers expanded capacity, modularity, and performance suited for today’s most demanding shooting environments. Compared to a traditional 1911, it delivers substantial gains in magazine capacity, recoil control, and customization flexibility, all while preserving the core attributes that made the 1911 iconic: a crisp trigger, strong mechanical lockup, and predictable slide behavior.

For competitive shooters, the 2011 offers tangible advantages—faster follow-up shots, higher round counts per stage, and tunable grip modules for optimized control. For law enforcement professionals, duty-rated models like the Staccato P provide real-world reliability with the trigger characteristics and accuracy required for high-stakes scenarios. And for serious enthusiasts and high-volume range users, the 2011 strikes a balance between precision, shootability, and long-term durability—provided it’s maintained correctly.

That said, the platform does demand a higher level of investment and attention. Quality magazines are essential. Proper holster fitment—especially for full-size or optic-equipped models—is critical. And regular maintenance, particularly with tuned or semi-custom builds, ensures continued performance under pressure. For users accustomed to the relative simplicity of striker-fired handguns, this may be an adjustment.

In short, the 2011 is not the right tool for every shooter—but for those who understand and value what it offers, it remains one of the most capable and refined handgun systems available. When precision, control, and configuration flexibility matter more than compactness or cost, the 2011 earns its place.