Actually, I don’t know the weight of the P16-40 but I think it’s less then the stainless S&W1911. I never used my P16-40 in IDPA as I put an ICE mag-well on it when I bought it (would not even think about fitting in the box).
I don’t know if the P16-40 in single action is available new but I think Northeast Trading has a used P16-40 with a bunch of Hi Caps for about $1000. I think it’s been tricked out and may not be IDPA legal anyway.
GTOShootr makes a couple of very good points. But, if I were to pick between only the three pistols you asked about I’d pick the S&W1911. I have a P16-40 (for USPSA Limited and Limited-10), a Para C745 (for no good reason other then you can’t get them) and a S&W 1911 (for IDPA CDP).
I loved shooting my S&W 1911 in IDPA and if it hadn’t developed a problem (FTE, which I understand is do to it being an early model) I’d still be shooting it.
That said I still think that my S&W 1911 is a much higher quality firearm then my two Paras (which are not the Paras you asked about) and out shoots them hands down (when I’m driving them anyway). But as Steve says, .45 ACP is expensive ammunition.
I think P-14 has experience with both the P14-45 and the PX745E so if you decide on a Para (the newer Paras look better made then my old guns) he could give in sight into how those compare.
I’d suggest that you go to both USPSA and IDPA matches, ask questions and decide which sport you are most interested (if you haven’t already). Purchase your equipment for that sport.
9mm is fun and light, .40 S&W is snappy, .45 ACP is slow but forgiving.
You have three very knowledge shooters in RGS, GTOShootr, and MAshooter (who’s brains I pick on shooting) answering you questions, but be wary of RGS he’ll have you hanging moon clips off your belt and reloading every three seconds.
Respectfully,
jkelly