Hello 43074, Real world experience: I have both a Pointman 9 and a Springfield Loaded Target in 9mm, as well as a 9MM Kimber Target II. I have owned three Springfield 1911 type pistols, but the Pointman 9 is the first Dan Wesson of any kind I have ever owned. While both appear similar at a distance, the Pointman is far superior, IMHO, in the quality of the parts, the fit, machine work, attention to detail, etc,etc,etc. Internally, the Pointman shows eveidence of fitting and polishing by someone who understands how a 1911 type pistol should fit and function. I have never before encountered this on a production 1911 of any kind. It reminds me of the hand fitting I've noted on the Les Baer pistols I've owned. Now this may sound weird, but my DW does seem to recoil less than my other 9MM 1911s. Perhaps, due to the very precise and smooth fitting of barrel to slide to frame. I know that scientifically, with same weight guns, this is probably not possible, but that is my perception. I also have another, older, Springfield, a custom with a bull barrel. Recoil with the DW feels as light as the bull barreled gun.
My 2011 production Loaded Target is not in the same class as the DW at all. My Springfield, as received, had all kinds of issues, resulting in a gun that was unreliable with any factory ammo I tried, and was one of the two most inaccurate 1911 type pistols I can recall owning ( the other, believe it or not, was a Colt Series '70 Gold Cup purchased NIB back when they were in production).
I can and do recommend The kimber Target II. Over a period of time, three have passed through my hands. All flawless performers. Totally reliable and very accurate, for just a little more money than the SA Loaded Target I bought.
In fairness, the DW cost a lot more than the Springfield's approx. $900.00. Even so, for me, I see the DW as a better value for the money. My Springfield Loaded has now had significant custom work, to include a bull barrel. I have a lot more money in the Springfield than the DW. Very unrewarding. While it is now very accurate and reliable, it will never be as nice and as smooth as the DW, that was built right from the beginning, again, IMHO. I may very well purchase another DW, but have NO interest in another similar Springfield, no matter how much cheaper... ymmv
ps, I have handled, but not owned, a couple of different STI 9MM models. They appear to be very nicely made guns and a very good value for the asking price...