I just got my STI ranger II in 9mm with the heinie straight 8 night sights as a factory option. Costs was about the same as a non night sight S&W scandium commander.
The thin grips are great and the bull barrel gives it a bit of heft up front. I suspect this gun will be very impressive in rapid fire due to all the weight in the barrel.
Also Phoenix Range and Freedom Ventures provide ready and easy maintenance and warranty for the STI without having to cross the border...lots of people buy guns but forget about maintenance, having a repair depot in the Country helps a lot.