Kimber: Differences between Custom II and TLE II?

[dhl]

Hello,

Can someone please tell me the differences between the Kimber Custom II and the Kimber TLE II? Is it just the strap checkering and night sites? Also, what is the difference between the TLE II and the TLE II/RL II? I'm thinking it's just the rails and pickatinny (sp?) mounting under the barrel frame.

Thank you,

Joe

[Black Majik]

Yes, frontstrap checkering and nightsights are the only differences. Correct again regarding the TLE/RL.

[Kruzr]

When LAPD did their pistol testing and evaluation, Kimber sent plain Custom II's. When Kimber was chosen, LAPD said the only changes they wanted were night sights and front strap checkering..........hence, the TLE. The following year they asked for railed models which "begat" the TLE/RL.

[dhl]

I'm assuming it's all personal preference but, are the TLE II and TLE II/RL II worth the extra money over the standard Custom II?

[Kruzr]

The cost difference is less than if you added the checkering and night sights after the fact. They don't make the Custom with a rail. The additional features are a personal preference. The gun won't shoot any better but the shooter might.

[cho034442]

+1 for Kruzr.
If you really want the night sights and front strap checkering (the ones on the TLE), then it is a lot less expensive to get the Custom TLE II compare with getting the Custom II and then add those later.

[Aluisious]

I'm assuming it's all personal preference but, are the TLE II and TLE II/RL II worth the extra money over the standard Custom II?

Yes, if you're going to go with standard panel grips and want something "grippy" up front. I like it personally.

No, if you're going to put on some kind of grip that will just cover the front strap serrations.

No, if you have no need/desire for night sights.

[Aluisious]

Oh, don't forget that "LAPD SWAT uses my gun" will make your wang bigger.

[high_revs]

I've been looking at the Kimbers closely too. Aside from finish, is there even an advantage to the "match" family or even the "custom" family? I was like "wow" on the price difference.

[Aluisious]

I've been looking at the Kimbers closely too. Aside from finish, is there even an advantage to the "match" family or even the "custom" family? I was like "wow" on the price difference.

The Custom line is actually their most basic and least expensive product.

No experience personally with any Match products.

[Ratters]

I've been looking at the Kimbers closely too. Aside from finish, is there even an advantage to the "match" family or even the "custom" family? I was like "wow" on the price difference.

The Gold Match/Custom Shop pistols mostly have different features that some might find desireable. Mostly they come with lighter triggers (though only a half pound or so) and stainless barrels. They are also had fit in their custom shop. Both my Pro Carry and Eclipse have great triggers though and both are very accurate. Haven't had a chance to try out my new TLE though. But many of the features can very well be worth the price difference if they are the options you want in a pistol.

[high_revs]

thanks ratters. i was so drooling over the super match, but $1700 on gunbroker.com plus shipping/fees was a tad too much. so i'm eying a gold match II SS.