ive got a Ruger SR1911 and a Ruger SR1911 CMD and as shown above ive got a SAM Thunderbolt Stainless.
so i can tell you exactly how they compare to each other!
the finish is totally different.
the Ruger has its usually brush stainless which is what i refer to as the matte finish of stainless's - so no shine.
if you where to see them side by side youd pick the SAM every time.
the ruger is bare bones, no ambi safety, no front serrations, no target sites, no front checkering on the grip.
the SAM Thunderbolt comes with pretty much every option you would want to add onto a 1911 - stock.
while i love my 2 Rugers the same is a better gun for a better price and fit and finish the SAM is slightly ahead as well - just a little better fit and a little better polished up.
ill go get my camera out and take a side by side pic for ya.