Differences between Kimber models?

[Shane916]

Trying to figure out the differences in comparing the following Kimber's:

Custom II (also what is the TLE and RL) I would assume a rail?
Eclipse Custom II
Tactical Custom II

Any internal differences between the models? Or is mostly external?

Thanks in advance!

[Black Majik]

Mostly external.

The Custom II is the base model with the black finish.

The Eclipse has a black stainless finish with checkering, and I think night sights? I don't remember off the top of my head.

The Tactical model is different from the other two in the sense that it has a alloy frame instead of steel. Also has a magwell.

I'm missing few minor details, but that's the real jist of it. They'll all pretty much shoot the same, just different options/finishes to choose from.

Good luck.

[Casual Observer]

All the "Custom II" family of guns are more-or-less the same interally, though external differences (sights, rails, checkering, finish, etc) will vary.

[Shane916]

Interesting!

Thanks for the info gentleman!

Any benefits of the alloy frame otherwise the weight?

[xxdabroxx]

the only thing i see the alloy frame as is being susceptible to wear quicker. I cant see how a steel/ stainless slide rubbing on an aluminum frame couldn't wear faster than steel on steel.

If you are planning on carrying this every day i would say go for the aluminum frame, if not go for the extra weight of the steel/ stainless. a heavier gun should have less felt recoil than a lighter one.

[rorschach]

TLE (based on the LAPD SWAT Custom II) is the same as the Custom II, with the addition of frontstrap checkering and 3 dot tritium sights, as requested by LAPD. TLE/RL is a TLE with the rail.