Welcome Ed45. I have had a Defender for two or three years now. .45 cal. Great gun. I love the sights and beavertail. It is reliable and accurate. The recoil is very manageable and this would be one of if not the last one that I would let go. They are so nice to carry. Light and easy to conceal. I have added a Chip McCormick trigger, 19lb main spring, checkered MSH and day before yesterday rosewood grips. I guess from my post you can tell I am a definite fan of the Defender. I think Mr. Neal and I always respond to the Defender posts. By the way the only .40 cal Defender I have had any experience with is not reliable and doesn't get shot any more. It belongs to a Dr. friend of mine.
Chuck
Chuck