STI

International, Inc.

114 Halmar Cove

Georgetown, TX 78628 USA

HANDGUN
SAFETY REFERENCE
and
OWNERS MANUAL

Edge Eagle Executive Competitor TruBore Grandmaster

VIP
ALL 2011 Style Firearms

Safety Reference Owners Manual All Model 2011 Firearms

Important Safety Information Inside

Read, Understand and Follow all instructions and safety rules
inside this Manual before handling any STI series firearm. Improperly handled firearms of any kind represent a hazard to persons and
property.
Contents
Model and Serial Number Information ....................................... 2
Safe Ownership
The Need For Instruction ............................................... 2
General Precautions ........................................................ 3
Children and Firearms .................................................... 4
The Basic Rules of Safety .............................................. 5
Your New STI Handgun
General Description ........................................................ 6
Basic Components .......................................................... 8
Ammunition Requirements .......................................... 10
Preparing To Fire
Gun Handling and Preparation ..................................... 11
Loading The Magazine ................................................. 12
Inserting The Magazine ................................................ 13
Loading The Chamber .................................................. 14
Firing The Handgun
General Precautions ...................................................... 14
In Case of Malfunction ................................................. 15
In Case of Misfire ......................................................... 16
Clearing The Handgun
Removing The Magazine ............................................. 17
Unloading The Chamber .............................................. 18
Carry And Transport ..................................................... 19
Storage .......................................................................... 19

Safety Reference Owners Manual All Model 2011 Firearms

Handgun Maintenance
Disassembly .................................................................. 20
General Care ................................................................. 27
Cleaning ........................................................................ 28
Requesting Factory Service .......................................... 30
Warranty Statement ................................................................... 31
Illustrated Parts Breakdown ...................................................... 31
Owner Notes and Additional Information ................................. 32

Model and Serial Number Information

For your convenience, please record the following information.
STI Handgun Model: ________________________________________
Serial Number: _____________________________________________
Barrel Length: ____________ Caliber: __________________________
Date of Purchase: ___________________________________________
Purchased From: ____________________________________________
Receipt or Invoice Number: ___________________________________
Address: __________________________________________________
City: _____________________________________________________
State: ___________________________ Zip: ______________________

Safety Reference Owners Manual All Model 2011 Firearms

READ FIRST !
We at S.T.I. International would like to congratulate you on your purchase of an STI firearm. We feel these are the finest handguns made. We
welcome your comments by phone, or e-mail at sales@stiguns.com.
While STI stands behind our firearms 100%, and strive to offer the best
customer service in the industry, there are maintenance requirements that
you, as an owner, must adhere to. In order to manufacture a firearm of
this quality and accuracy, very close tolerances are held on all fitted
parts. These parts must remain contaminate free and well oiled, to insure
the life of firearm. Stainless Steel and Aluminum components are more
susceptible to seizing in a close tolerance environment, and therefore
necessitate additional maintenance. Neglecting to do so, could cause
failure of moving and fitted parts, therefore voiding the warranty.
Thank you for your purchase,
S.T.I. International

SAFE OWNERSHIP - THE NEED FOR INSTRUCTION

Warning!
Firearms have been determined by the United States Government to
be dangerous and potentially lethal weapons subject to restrictions.
Possession of this or any firearm indicates your acceptance of responsibility to comply with the law and prevent consequences of danger which
can result from improper handling.
STI International strongly recommends that every person receive
complete and thorough instruction on the safe and proper use of firearms
from a competent instructor before handling this or any other firearm.
Those unfamiliar with firearms should not remove this STI product
from its packaging until successfully completing a full course of instruction by a competent instructor on the safe use and handling of firearms
with an emphasis on semi-automatic type handgun safety.
Information on qualified instructors in your area may be obtained by
consulting your local law enforcement authorities, a firearms retailer or
through local gun clubs.
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Safety Reference Owners Manual All Model 2011 Firearms

Additional sources on firearms safety and instruction can be obtained

by writing to national organizations, such as the United States Practical
Shooting Association (USPSA - 903-A Metcalf Street, Sedro Woolley,
WA 98284, or the National Rifle Association (NRA - 11250 Waples Mill
Road, Washington, DC 22030, (703) 267-1430).
SAFE OWNERSHIP - GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
Be prepared - Firearm safety depends on proper preparation. Always
have the right gear and accessories available for handling a firearm. The
key to safe firearm handling is to protect yourself against distractions and
adverse conditions. Proper planning and equipment will allow you to
handle your firearm in a comfortable manner. And give you the ability to
focus on safety.
Protect your hearing - Firearms produce high noise levels when
discharged. Protect your hearing from potentially harmful exposure with
an adequate sound attenuation product, such as ear plugs and/or ear
muffs. Unprotected exposure to loud noises can cause a loss of hearing
known to have a cumulative effect and can cause permanent hearing loss.
Protect your eyes - Firearms as well as environmental conditions can
affect your eyes if not properly protected. Always protect your eyes with
impact-resistant glasses. Use corrective lenses if necessary to clearly see
your firearm and your target. Tinted lenses should only be used under
proper lighting conditions. Eye protection should provide adequate
protection against airborne debris, hot gases, powder blow-back, ejected
shell cartridges, dust, wind, sun glare, low limbs or any other condition
that could endanger yourself or others nearby.
Protect your body - Wear adequate clothing to help protect your body
from injury. Your body should be protected from firearm discharge and
ejected shell cartridges, which are hot and could cause burns. Be certain
to wear comfortable, well-fit clothing appropriate to the season. Do not
wear clothing which causes discomfort or could impair the safe handling
of a firearm.

Safety Reference Owners Manual All Model 2011 Firearms

Be responsible - Firearm safety depends on you. A responsible owner

respects the right and privilege of gun ownership. A responsible firearms
owner learns and obeys all firearm safety practices, and always considers
every firearm to be loaded. Stay aware of the fact that you have a responsibility for your own safety and the safety of others around the firearm.

SAFE OWNERSHIP - CHILDREN AND FIREARMS

WARNING!
Keep firearms away from children. Avoid conditions which could
allow a firearm to be unexpectedly discovered by a child. Keep
firearms and ammunition under lock, out of sight of, and beyond the
reach of children.
Children should be made aware of the danger presented by improperly handled and stored firearms and must be given instructions to
report any unexpected discovery of a firearm to a responsible adult.
Minors and adolescents SHOULD NOT have access to firearms without
proper adult supervision. Keep firearms and ammunition locked away in
a safe place, inaccessible to any minor or adolescent. The parent, guardian, or legal adult supervisor should be aware of the laws and restrictions
regarding the use of a handgun by a minor or adolescent, and should use
proper judgment regarding such use. The legal adult supervisor should
realize the additional responsibility of a minor with a firearm and be
certain to provide close, competent instruction prior to using this or any
other firearm. Be sure to remind minors and adolescents that firearms
differ from toys and are not to be used in play.

SAFE OWNERSHIP
THE BASIC RULES OF FIREARM SAFETY

1. Do not rely on your firearms safety mechanism. Treat every firearm

as if it were loaded, and ready to fire, at all times.

Safety Reference Owners Manual All Model 2011 Firearms

2. Never point your firearm at anything you do not intend to shoot.

Always keep the muzzle pointed away from other people, and in a
safe direction.

3. Always check the barrel for obstructions. Use only ammunition of

the proper type for the firearm you are using.

4. Do not shoot unless you are absolutely sure of your target and what
exists beyond it.

5. Never shoot at a hard surface or the surface of the water. Make sure
you have a safe backstop.

6. Never drink alcoholic beverages or take drugs before or during

shooting.

7. Never leave your firearm unattended until you have unloaded it and
secured it from unauthorized handling and use.

8. Never carry a loaded firearm when you climb a tree, cross a fence,
jump over an obstacle, or go across area where you are likely to trip,
slip, stumble or fall.
9. Carry only empty firearms when traveling between destinations.

10. Store firearms and ammunition separately, out of sight of and beyond
the reach of children, minors, and adolescents.

YOUR NEW STI HANDGUN - GENERAL DESCRIPTION

Overview
An STI handgun functions as a single-action, blow-back recoil , automatic loading firearm - more commonly referred to as semi-automatic.
A semi-automatic firearm will fire a single ammunition round and
automatically reload another round into the chamber with each pull of

Safety Reference Owners Manual All Model 2011 Firearms

the trigger. All STI model handguns will continue this reloading operation until all ammunition rounds have been emptied from the magazine
and there is no remaining supply from which to chamber a new round.
The slide will remain open after the last round has been fired from the
handgun.
Components for safety
STI handguns have a mechanical Grip Safety and a Thumb Safety device
to assist you in the safe handling of the firearm. These features, when
engaged, provide additional protection against Accidental Discharge by
preventing the trigger from releasing the hammer and striking the firing
pin.
The Grip Safety assists in preventing the handgun from firing without the
Grip Safety being depressed.
The thumb Safety locks the slide and restricts movement. The thumb
safety also prevents the sear from disengaging the hammer allowing the
hammer to strike the firing pin. On some STI models, the Thumb Safety
can be operated from both sides of the handgun, and is referred to as an
ambi-safety. The Thumb Safety can only be engaged with the hammer in
the cocked position ready to fire.
Note: Safety systems provide only a limited amount of protection, and
like any mechanical system can malfunction unexpectedly.
Do not load the STI 2011 model handguns with ammunition before
reading all the Safety Instructions and Basic Rules of Firearm Safety
(page X of this owners manual).

Safety Reference Owners Manual All Model 2011 Firearms

YOUR NEW STI HANDGUN - BASIC COMPONENTS

Basic Components (STI TruBore Competitor Shown)
1 Hammer
2 Rear Sight (not present in this sample)
3 Safety (Left Side)
4 Beavertail
5 Frame (Magazine Port Area)
6 Slide (Ejection Port on opposite side)
7 Slide Stop
8 Magazine Release
9 Trigger
10 Trigger Guard
11 Front Sight (not present in this example)
12 Compensator (optional) & Barrel (Muzzle End)
2

11

12

10
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YOUR NEW STI HANDGUN - BASIC COMPONENTS

STI International produces a number of different models of semi-automatic handguns in various calibers. To identify an STI handgun model,
look at the engraving on the left side of the firearm. It includes the
models name and, sometimes, a number, which represents the barrel
length. The caliber and type of ammunition to be used with an STI
handgun is engraved on the barrel. (Some barrels may have the barrel
supplied with generic caliber markings of .355 or .400. The .355 includes
9mm Luger, 9x21, 9x25, and 38 Super while .400 includes .40 S&W,
.40Super, and 10mm. Please refer to page 2 of this manual, consult a
qualified gunsmith or contact STI International to confirm the specific
caliber of any barrel. Do not attempt to load or fire a firearm until you
have confirmed specific caliber.)
Safe and proper use of this handgun requires full knowledge and understanding of each component and mechanical feature. Refer to the view at
the left.
Before Loading this Firearm
Learn to recognize and identify each of the functional components of
this STI firearm.
Understand how to safely operate this firearm by carefully reading the
instructions on the following pages.
Follow each step for operating this STI firearm as described in this
manual with the chamber empty, the magazine removed, and the muzzle
pointed in a safe direction.
Practice operating the firearm with it unloaded. Continue your practice
until you have become familiar with the firearm functions and can
comfortably handle the firearm in a safe manner.
Repeat these steps frequently to assure safe shooting conditions.
Review this manual of operation and safety instructions periodically. If
you have not handled this or any other firearm recently, be certain to
review this manual before you load this firearm with live ammunition.

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YOUR NEW STI HANDGUN - AMMUNITION

WARNING!
Always keep firearms and ammunition out of the sight of and beyond the reach of children. Do not load this or any other firearm
with live ammunition while learning the firearms operation.
Before Loading Any Firearm With Ammunition
Check your ammunition to be certain that the caliber matches the
caliber of your firearm. Commercially-manufactured ammunition has the
caliber number clearly stamped around the rim at each end of the cartridge. Every STI handgun has the firearms caliber (or a generic marking, in the case of the .355 and .400 barrels see page 9) engraved on the
barrel.
Do not shoot this firearm if you question the compatibility of the
ammunition you are using. Do not use unmarked or hand-loaded rounds
of unknown origin. Use only clean, dry, original high-quality commercially-manufactured ammunition in good condition.
Do not use ammunition with split, crushed, or dented casings or bullets
which show sign of damage.
Remove unfired ammunition from firearms immediately after use and
return to proper storage containers.
Always keep ammunition away from heat and flame.
STI handguns can be safely fired using factory specification standard
velocity ammunition. STI accepts no responsibility for claims brought
against the company due to any other loads or any loads which do not
meet the safety tolerances endorsed by the Sporting Arms and Ammunition Manufacturers Institute (SAAMI).

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Safety Reference Owners Manual All Model 2011 Firearms

PREPARING TO FIRE - GUN HANDLING & PREPARATION

WARNING!
Do not rely on your firearms safety mechanism. Treat every firearm
as if it were loaded, and ready to fire, at all times.
When Reaching for any Firearm
Do not reach for any firearm by the muzzle end.
Never accept anyones word that a firearm is unloaded when receiving
it from them - always check for an empty chamber.
Always check for an empty chamber by opening a firearms action.
Note: STI model handguns must be checked by first removing the
ammunition magazine from the firearm to prevent a round from entering
the chamber.
Before Shooting any Firearm
Check the condition of the firearm. Check the firearm for cleanliness
and smooth operation. Do not use a dirty or wet firearm, or one that has
been excessively oiled or greased. An unclean firearm can become
dangerous hazard when fired.
Consult a physician when taking medications to be certain that your
senses will not be impaired, and that your judgment will not be affected,
so that you will be able to safely handle and shoot a firearm.
Check your backstop.
WARNING!
Never drink alcoholic beverages or take drugs before or during
shooting.

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Safety Reference Owners Manual All Model 2011 Firearms

PREPARING TO FIRE - LOADING THE MAGAZINE

Preparing the handgun for firing is composed of three basic steps:
Loading the magazine, Inserting the magazine, and Loading the Handgun
Chamber.
WARNING!
Load magazines carefully. Avoid dropping the magazine or the
ammunition, as damage or an accidental discharge can occur. Load
magazines in a work area where accidentally dropped round can be
found easily, above a work surface that is of a comfortable height
and located in an area free from distractions.
1. Hold the magazine with the feed lips up, and the loading opening
pointing outward, as shown below.

2. With your shooting hand, carefully insert a round through the loading
relief, pressing down and to the rear of the magazine until the round
is properly positioned. The primer end of the case should be in
contact with the rear wall of the magazine. Repeat until the magazine
is full.

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PREPARING TO FIRE - INSERTING THE MAGAZINE

WARNING!
Keep the muzzle pointed away from yourself and in a safe direction.
Do not use magazines that show signs of damage, cracking or excessive wear. Consult a qualified gunsmith if the magazine binds, fails to
seat fully and securely, fails to release smoothly, or loads ammunition
into the chamber of the handgun erratically.

1. Check for dirt and debris in the magazine port, and clean or clear as
needed.

2. Securely hold the handgun with your shooting hand, with the magazine port pointing down as shown.

3. Insert the tip of the magazine into

the magazine port of the handgun, with
the ammunition feed opening pointing to
the front of the handgun and the body of
the magazine angled to match the angle
of the grip as shown above.

4. Push the magazine into the

magazine port until it is
firmly seated and the
magazine retainer locks
into place.

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Safety Reference Owners Manual All Model 2011 Firearms

PREPARING TO FIRE - LOADING THE CHAMBER

WARNING!
Keep the muzzle of the handgun pointed away from anyone and in a
safe direction. For this operation, the Thumb Safety must be in the
READY or FIRE position and the handgun will be capable of firing
a round. Your finger must be off the Trigger and outside of the
Trigger Guard unless directed to do otherwise by these instructions.

1. Pull the slide fully back using thumb and forefinger on rear
serrationsand inspect the chamber for dirt or debris. If the chamber
needs cleaning or clearing, push the Slide Lock UP to hold the slide
open.
2. load the chamber by releasing the Slide Lock and allowing the slide
to snap back into position on its own. Do not interfere with its
forward movement.
3. set the Thumb Safety to the SAFE position until you have chosen a
target and are prepared to fire the handgun.

FIRING THE HANDGUN - GENERAL PRECAUTIONS

WARNING!
Dont shoot unless you are absolutely sure of your target and what
exists beyond it. Always keep the muzzle pointed away from yourself
and in a safe direction. Until you have chosen a target and are
prepared to fire the handgun, keep the Thumb Safety in the SAFE
position.
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Safety Reference Owners Manual All Model 2011 Firearms

Before firing your STI handgun for the first time

To assure safe, trouble-free performance beginning with the first time
you fire your STI handgun, follow the cleaning and lubricating instructions on page 32 of this manual.
To assure safe firing conditions
Always handle a loaded firearm responsibly.
Follow all safety precautions and customs of firearm safety at all times.
Always keep the muzzle pointed away from anyone and in a safe
direction.
Always have the thumb safety set to SAFE when the handgun is cocked
and ready to fire.
Never release the thumb safety until you have aimed your handgun at
your intended target and are ready to fire.
Always position yourself sufficiently away from other people to assure
everyones safety when firing.
Always squeeze the trigger slowly and deliberately towards you with
your index finger when firing. Do not pull the trigger abruptly, in a
jerking motion, or use another finger, under any circumstances.
Never shoot any firearm in an unstable stance or position.
Never drink alcohol or use other drugs before or during a shooting
session. In the case of prescription medications, consult your doctor
about possible side-effects that could interfere with your ability to safely
handle a firearm.
Never shoot at a hard surface or at the surface of water. Make sure you
have a safe backstop.
FIRING THE HANDGUN - IN CASE OF MALFUNCTION
WARNING!
Never attempt to remedy a malfunction yourself before completing a
course of training by a qualified instructor.
Malfunctions occur from improper firearm handling, defective ammunition, or from damaged parts. A malfunction can be recognized by the
improper feeding or ejection of a round of ammunition - a condition
otherwise known as a jam.
The remedy of malfunctions requires specialized training and should
not be attempted without first completing a full course of instruction by a
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Safety Reference Owners Manual All Model 2011 Firearms

person qualified in the safe use of semi-automatic handguns.

STI International assumes no responsibility for malfunctions which
occur from user abuse, neglect, or failure to follow the warnings and
instructions in this manual.
Never attempt to remove an ammunition round or casing from the
chamber or ejection port with your finger.
Never use excessive force to remedy a jam or attempt to remove a
stuck round with a tool or object which can damage a firearm or set off a
live round of ammunition.
WARNING!
Always have any firearm that malfunctions examined by a qualified
gunsmith.
FIRING THE HANDGUN - IN CASE OF MISFIRE
WARNING!
Never point your firearm at anything you do not intend to shoot.
Always keep the muzzle pointed away from people and in a safe
direction.
Should a firearm fail to fire
Always keep the muzzle pointed in the direction of your target. An
ammunition round can have delayed ignition, called a hang fire, and
can fire unexpectedly - up to a minute - after being struck by the firing pin.
Always remove the ammunition magazine first, before attempting to
determine the cause of misfire. Check the ammunition for proper type.
Inspect the primer for firing indentation, to determine whether or not the
firing pin engaged the primer, or if the firing pin hit the primer firmly.
Never rechamber damaged or misfired ammunition. Keep them separate from other rounds.
Never shoot any firearm if it continually misfires or malfunctions. A
firearm that consistently misfires or malfunctions should be examined by
a qualified gunsmith.
WARNING!
Always check the barrel for obstructions. Use only ammunition of
the proper type for the firearm you are using.
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Safety Reference Owners Manual All Model 2011 Firearms

CLEARING THE HANDGUN

REMOVING THE MAGAZINE
Clearing the handgun is composed of two basic steps: Removing the
magazine and Unloading the chamber.
WARNING!
Until you pull the slide back and check for a remaining round in the
chamber, the handgun is still LOADED and capable of firing a
round. Keep the muzzle pointed away from yourself and in a safe
direction. Your finger must be off the trigger and outside the trigger
guard.

1. Make sure that the Thumb

Safety is in the SAFE
position.
2. Hold the handgun in your
shooting hand, and place
your other hand underneath
the grip area to receive the
magazine as shown below.
3. Fully depress the magazine
release. The magazine
should slide out of the
handgun freely.

CLEARING THE HANDGUN

WARNING!
Keep the muzzle of the handgun pointed away from anyone and in a
safe direction. The Thumb Safety must be in the READY or FIRE
position and the handgun is capable of firing a round. Your finger
must be off the trigger and outside of the trigger guard until you
confirm the ammunition magazine is removed and the chamber is
empty.

1. With the muzzle pointed away from yourself and in a safe direction,
release and remove the ammunition magazine, pull the slide back
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Safety Reference Owners Manual All Model 2011 Firearms

2.
3.
4.
5.
6.

and move the slide stop UP to keep the chamber open. If there was a
round in the chamber it should eject with the opening of the slide.
Inspect the chamber. If there is a round in the chamber, carefully
remove it and place it in a appropriate storage container.
Release the slide stop and slowly close the slide only after confirming the ammunition magazine is removed and the chamber is empty.
With the muzzle pointed away from yourself and in a safe direction,
depress the trigger to release the hammer.
If you are finished shooting, have confirmed the ammunition magazine is removed and the chamber is empty, remove any remaining
ammunition from the magazine.
Store the ammunition, the handgun, and the magazine in appropriate
storage containers.

WARNING!
Until the magazine is removed and
the chamber is empty, the handgun
is still LOADED and capable of
firing a round. Keep the muzzle
pointed away from yourself and in a
safe direction. Keep your finger
outside the trigger guard and OFF
the trigger.

CARRY AND TRANSPORT

WARNING!
Carry only empty firearms when traveling between destinations.
Before carrying or transporting any firearm
Always remove the magazine and check the firearm for an empty
chamber before carrying or transporting. Note: STI model handguns
must be checked by first removing the ammunition magazine from the
firearm to prevent a round from entering the chamber.
Never carry any firearm with the hammer in the cocked or half-cocked
position. Keep the hammer forward, with the chamber empty, until you
are ready to shoot.

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Safety Reference Owners Manual All Model 2011 Firearms

Always carry firearms in a case or holster specifically made for the

type of firearm you are using until you are ready to fire.
Never carry any firearm with your finger on the trigger or inside the
trigger guard.
Never carry any firearm by the muzzle end.
Always keep any firearms muzzle pointing in a safe direction when
carrying it or preparing to shoot. Remain alert at all times. Be aware of
how you could prevent an accident in the event of a stumble or fall by
keeping the muzzle pointing away from any person or object that could
be endangered.
Avoid dropping your firearm under any circumstances.
WARNING!
Never carry a loaded firearm when you climb a tree, cross a fence,
jump over an obstacle, or go across areas where you are likely to
trip, slip, stumble or fall.

STORAGE
WARNING!
Never leave your firearm unattended until you have unloaded it and
secured it from unauthorized handling and use.
Before storing or leaving this firearm unattended
Immediately remove the ammunition magazine from the firearm and
check for an empty chamber. Note: STI Edge, Eagle, Trojan, and
Falcon model handguns must be checked by first removing the ammunition magazine from the firearm to prevent a round from entering the
chamber.
Remove all unfired ammunition from the firearm, the magazine,
clothing, and from around the shooting area. Place unfired ammunition in
a safe and separate location from the firearms.
Place the unloaded firearm in an appropriate storage case or holster.
Keep this and all firearms securely locked up and out of sight, away
from any possibility of unauthorized access or unexpected discovery,
unto ready to use.
Always remain aware of the danger of firearms, even when stored.
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Safety Reference Owners Manual All Model 2011 Firearms

Check firearm storage frequently, to be certain the location remains

secure and has not been violated in any way.
WARNING!
Store firearms and ammunition separately, under lock and out of the
sight of and beyond reach of children, minors, and adolescents.

HANDGUN MAINTENANCE - DISASSEMBLY

WARNING!
Always remove the magazine and any ammunition in the firearms
chamber before disassembly. Always wear safety goggles during
disassembly and reassembly to protect your eyes while handling
spring-loaded parts.
General preparations
Choose a clean, stable surface at which to comfortably disassemble the
firearm. Allow sufficient room to place the parts removed from the
firearm without interfering with the disassembly process. To prevent
damage to the firearm, disassemble the firearm on a clean, lint-free cloth.
Read through the entire disassembly procedure before attempting to
disassemble any of the STI model handguns
The following disassembly procedure requires manual dexterity and
specific tools. Seek the service of a qualified gunsmith for assistance if
you are uncertain of your ability to perform the following disassembly
process.
Contact STI International for further clarification or instructions should
any of the parts or assemblies shown in the disassembly process of this
manual appear different from those found on your STI model.
Tools and supplies:
Your STI handgun is a precision assembly. Only high-quality tools and
supplies should be used when working on it.
Safety goggles
5/32 Hex wrench
1/8 Dia. Steel punch
Lint-free cloths
Small non-marring hammer (optional)
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Safety Reference Owners Manual All Model 2011 Firearms

HANDGUN MAINTENANCE - DISASSEMBLY

Two Piece Guide Rod Removal

1. Insert 5/32 Hex wrench into the hex head of Outer Guide Rod
below the muzzle. Loosen the Guide Rod by turning counterclockwise.
2. Remove Outer Guide Rod from the handgun by pulling the Rod out
of the handgun towards the muzzle end.
Note: Most STI models have a one
piece guide rod assemble. When
holding the slide to the rear, place a
pin in the small hole in the guide
rod. Allow the slide to slowly move
forward until the spring cap catches
on the pin. The guide rod assembly
will be captivated and will remove
as one unit. Be careful when
handling the unit as it is under
spring tension.
One Piece Guide Rod Removal
1. Remove slide stop (page 22) and slide assembly (page 23.)
2. With the slide assembly off, turn it over exposing the bottom of
barrel and recoil system.
3. For the next step you will need a tool made. Take a standard paper
clip and straighten it out. On one end of the now straight piece make
a small 90 bend. The length of the hook should be about .100".
HOOK

BEFORE

AFTER

4. With your thumb push on the guide rod head thus compressing the
recoil spring. When a small hole appears in the front of the guide
rod, insert the hook into the hole. Slowly release recoil spring
pressure until the tool has captured the reverse plug. The captured
system will be removed by pulling the guide rod head towards the
rear of the slide. Keep the system captured for installation.
Note: with larger caliber firearms the recoil spring will be heavier
thus making it harder to compress.
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Safety Reference Owners Manual All Model 2011 Firearms

HANDGUN MAINTENANCE - DISASSEMBLY

Slide stop removal

1. Holding the handgun by the grip with one hand, firmly grasp the
handguns slide at the rear and pull the slide back. Be careful not to
release pressure on the slide or allow the handgun to slip from your
grasp. Pull the slide back until the disassembly notch on the slide
(the second notch from the muzzle end) aligns with the rear of the
slide stop on the left-hand side of the handgun.

2. While maintaining the slide

disassembly notch alignment
with the slide stop, remove
the slide stop by pushing
against the extended portion
of the stop, located on the
right-hand side of the handgun.

TIP: Maintain a firm grasp on

both the slide and frame to
prevent any movement.
Pressure can be released from
the slide once the slide stop
has been removed.

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HANDGUN MAINTENANCE - DISASSEMBLY (continued)

Slide Assembly Removal
CAUTION:
Wear eye protection! The next two steps require the removal of a
spring under compression.

1. Remove the slide assembly from the handgun frame while maintaining a firm grip on the handgun.

2. Restrain the recoil spring with the fingers of the hand holding the
slide to prevent the spring form leaving the slide assembly.
The recoil spring will be
exposed at the underside of the
slide as the entire assembly
moves forward and off the
frame of the handgun. Set the
handgun frame aside after
removing the slide assembly

Spring and Guide Rod

Head Removal from Slide
Assembly

1. Turn the slide assembly

upside down, carefully
restraining the recoil spring
under tension. Compress
the recoil spring by grasping the guide rod head and carefully withdraw both from the slide
releasing the spring tension. Lift the spring with the guide rod head
from the slide assembly using fingers to grasp the spring. Pull
towards the back of the slide to remove it from the handgun.
TIP: Work slowly. This step may require some practice.
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Safety Reference Owners Manual All Model 2011 Firearms

Captive Reverse Plug Removal from Slide Assembly

1. Push the captive reverse plug from the muzzle end of the slide
assembly far enough back to be able to grasp the reverse plug and
remove it from the slide assembly.
TIP: The reverse plug may sometimes be seated firmly, requiring
assistance from a light hammer and punch tool to release it from the slide
assembly. Tap lightly with the hammer and punch from the muzzle end
of the slide.
Barrel Removal

1. Hold the slide assembly

upside down and rotate the
barrel link to the forward
position.
Note: The barrel cannot be
removed from the slide
assembly without the barrel
link in the forward position.
Always do this procedure before attempting to remove the barrel, to
prevent damage to the slide.

2. Continue holding the slide assembly upside down. Gently lift the
barrel with a finger through the ejection port and slide the barrel out
of the muzzle end.
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Safety Reference Owners Manual All Model 2011 Firearms

Firing Pin Removal

CAUTION:
Wear eye protection! This step requires the removal of a spring
under compression. Before removing the firing pin and stop, position
the slide with the firing pin pointing in a safe direction. The firing
pin can eject from the slide unexpectedly and cause injury.

1. Firmly grasp the rear end of the slide and depress the end of the
firing pin with a 1/8 punch tool. Push down on the firing pin
sufficiently to release it from the hole in the firing pin stop. Place a
finger of the hand holding the slide over the firing pin to retain the
firing pin while removing the firing pin stop, to prevent the firing pin
from ejecting from the slide.
TIP: This can be done in one motion by rotating the punch tool within
the hole of the firing pin stop, using it to move the hole away from the
firing pin.

2. Remove the firing pin stop by sliding the stop off the slide rails
which retain it.

3. Slowly release pressure on the firing pin. The firing pin can be
removed, once all the pressure has been released.

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Safety Reference Owners Manual All Model 2011 Firearms

4. Remove the firing pin spring

from the firing pin by turning the
firing pin clockwise and pulling
off the spring.

Extractor Removal

1. Firmly grasp the back of the slide with the muzzle end towards you
and the underside of the slide facing up. Press firmly against the
front of the extractor using a 1/8 punch tool. Push the tip of the
extractor towards the side of the breach while depressing the extractor tip, until the extractor passes the extractor hold located at the
back of the breach face.

2. Turn the slide around so the rear of the slide faces up, exposing the
back end of the partially-removed extractor. Pull the extractor from
the back of the slide. Use the punch tool as required to assist in
releasing the extractor from its position.

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Safety Reference Owners Manual All Model 2011 Firearms

HANDGUN MAINTENANCE - GENERAL CARE

The STI semi-automatic model handguns must be clean and properly
lubricated to function reliably and maintain optimum performance and
accuracy. Proper maintenance can provide smooth operation, minimize
the wear of parts, and prevent malfunctions.
Periodic maintenance of this family of STI handguns involve cleaning
and lubrication whenever any of the following conditions exist:

1. Before firing you STI handgun for the first time.

2. After disassembling the firearm. Disassembly removes lubrication
from the moving parts and requires that you properly apply a highquality lubricant intended for semi-automatic handguns upon reassembly.
3. After shooting the firearm. Clean and lubricate the handgun to
prevent corrosion and reduce friction on moving parts caused by
powder deposits that accumulate during shooting.
4. Before and after storing the handgun for more that a month. Firearms
which have been stored for long periods of time accumulate deposits
of dust, dirt and sometimes rust and other corrosive actions caused
by the environment.
5. After the handgun becomes wet or dirty. Excessive moisture of dirt
within the firearm and around it can create obstructions, causing an
unsafe shooting condition.
WARNING!
Always empty a firearm before cleaning. Be certain to remove the
magazine and any ammunition in the firearms chamber before
cleaning. Note: STI model handguns must be checked first by removing that magazine from the firearm to prevent a round from entering
the chamber.

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Safety Reference Owners Manual All Model 2011 Firearms

HANDGUN MAINTENANCE - CLEANING

Properly cleaning and lubricating firearms requires a basic set of tools
and supplies. Your STI handgun is a precision assembly. Only highquality tools and supplies should be used when working on it.
Tools:
Bronze Bore-Cleaning Brush to remove heavy bore deposits from the
barrel
Handgun Bore Cleaning Rod with Threaded End to receive Cleaning
Accessories
Slotted Tip to hold Cleaning Patches
Nylon Bristle Brush
Supplies:
Cleaning Patches - 100% Cotton Flannel Cloth
Cleaning Rags - 100% Cotton Flannel Cloth
High-Quality Cleaning Solvent
High-Quality Gun Oil (available through STI International)
Also required before shooting the handgun for the first time.
Procedure:
Cleaning your STI handgun should be done in the following manner.

1. Disassemble your STI handgun (Pages 20 through 26)

2. Clean and lubricate (Page 28-29)
3. Reassemble the handgun by reversing the disassembly procedure
(Pages 20 through 26)

HANDGUN MAINTENANCE
CLEANING INSTRUCTIONS

1. Clean slide using a nylon brush and cleaning solvent; scrub away any
powder residue, particularly on the slide rails. Wipe slide clean with
a lint-free cotton cloth. Inspect the slide for damage or signs of
unusual wear.

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Safety Reference Owners Manual All Model 2011 Firearms

2. Clean frame with a nylon brush and cleaning solvent; scrub away
any powder residue, particularly on the frame rails. Wipe frame clean
with a lint-free cotton cloth. Inspect the frame for damage or signs of
unusual wear.
3. Saturate a cotton pad with cleaning solvent and attach it to the bore
cleaning rod; make several passes through the bore with the pad to
saturate and loosen metallic and powder residues. Allow the barrel to
soak for a few moments, then attach the bore brush to the bore
cleaning rod, saturate the bristles with cleaning solvent, and make
several passes through the bore with the bore brush. Inspect the bore
for residues and repeat cleaning with the bore brush as necessary.
Note: Always keep the bore brush saturated with cleaning solvent to
prevent damage to the bore and/or compensator, and make each pass
through the barrel a complete pass starting at the breach end of the
barrel and continuing until the entire bristle section of the bore brush
is outside the barrel or compensator do not change directions when
the brush is inside the barrel or compensator. Once the bore is free of
residues, attach a clean cotton pad to the bore cleaning rod, saturate
it with cleaning solvent and make several passes though the bore.
Continue changing pads until the pad emerges clean. Finally, dry the
bore with a clean cotton pad, apply a very small amount of highquality lubricant to a clean cotton pad and make several passes
through the barrel to lubricate it.
4. Clean all springs, pins and other components with cleaning solvent
and wipe them dry with a lint-free cotton cloth. Inspect each part for
damage or signs of unusual wear.
5. Apply a light coating of high-quality lubricating oil to all moving
parts and reassemble the handgun. To reduce the possibility of
corrosion, apply a very light coating of lubricating oil to all external
steel parts.
Note: If any handgun components show signs of damage or unusual or
excessive wear, stop using the firearm immediately and contact your
gunsmith or STI International for assistance.

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Safety Reference Owners Manual All Model 2011 Firearms

HANDGUN MAINTENANCE
FACTORY SERVICE
WARNING!
Always unload any firearm before packaging the firearm for repairs
or service. Note: STI model handguns must be checked by first
removing the ammunition magazine from the firearm to prevent a
round from entering the chamber. Never ship ammunition with any
firearm.
Requesting factory service
Should your STI International handgun require service by the factory
technicians, please contact STI International and discuss that problem
youre having. In the event you must return your handgun to the factory
for service, follow these shipping instructions.
1. Ask for a Return Authorization number from STI.
2. Provide a written statement in as much detail as possible, describe
the apparent problem or need for which you wish to have service
rendered.
3. Carefully package your STI handgun, the written statement, and an
empty ammunition magazine inside a sturdy, plain cardboard carton.
Use quality protective packing as required to prevent damage to the
handgun and magazine from movement during shipping.
4. Tape the carton shut securely using quality shipping tape, or use
another acceptable method of sealing the carton, to prevent accidental opening during shipment.
5. Be certain to address that package clearly and include a return
address that can receive packages.
6. Insure the package to protect the contents from damage, loss or theft.
STI International cannot be held responsible for damage or loss
incurred during shipment.
7. Ship the package via a reputable carrier with package tracking.

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Safety Reference Owners Manual All Model 2011 Firearms

Notice of NO Written Warranty

Due to the complexities of complying with federal warranty law, STI
International offers no expressed or written warranty on its products.
We continually strive to stand behind out products and satisfy our
customers, but we cannot make guarantees or warranties of any kind.
Please contact us immediately should you experience a problem with any
of our products.
Disclaimer
STI International expressly disclaims any liability for incidental or
consequential damages. STI International firearms are intended for use
exclusively with factory-specification standard velocity ammunition.
Typical Parts Breakdown - STI 2011 Series

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Safety Reference Owners Manual All Model 2011 Firearms

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31

Rear Sight (STI Adjustable shown)

Slide
Sear
Hammer
Hammer Strut
Strut Pin
Beaver Tail
Disconnector
Slide Stop Plunger Tube Pin
Plunger Tube Spring
Safety Plunger Tube Pin
Plunger Tube Assembly
Hammer Pin
Sear Pin
Mainspring Cap Pin
Mainspring Housing Pin
Mainspring Housing
Mainspring Cap
Mainspring
Mainspring Housing Pin Retainer
Frame Unit (with Trigger, Trigger Guard & Mag Release)
Front Sight (Dove Tail)
Barrel
Barrel Link & Link Pin
Recoil Spring
Guide Rod Spring Cap
Guide Rod
Safety, Right Side
Safety, Left Side
Slide Stop
Leaf Spring

Owner Notes and Additional Information

Rev. 12/01

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STI International
114 Halmar Cove, Georgetown, TX 78628 USA
Telephone (512) 819-0656
Fax (512) 819-0465
Website: stiguns.com
Email: sales@stiguns.com