Kimber barrels

[FUBAR]

I was interested in the Kimber TLE but the only thing holding me back was the barrel. Why do they use a steel barrel in "white"? Why not use a Stainless Steel barrel? Sig does it so why doesn't Kimber?

[abe82]

Cheaper, I run standard Springfield barrels in mine to avoid rust n extend life

[stormvet]

I have never had one rust, as long as you shoot your gun clean and lube it, you'll be ok.
The ones that you read about rusting are mostly safe queens and gun store displays. Handled a lot but never shot.

[Synergy]

Just buy a Springfield and be happy!

[railroader]

My kimber is 15 years old and no rust. I don't know what to tell you.

[sd_fox_racer]

mine had rust on it heres my thread on it, it was just on the top of the barrel cleaned it up and lubbed it never had a problem since. and i love my kimber you wont regret buying one.

http://www.calguns.net/calgunforum/showthread.php?t=557531

[FUBAR]

Has there been rust found in the rifling?

[vantage]

In over 6 years I've never had any trouble with mine rusting. I'd say get the model that you've got your heart set on, be it Kimber, Springfield, etc.

I suppose if I did ever have any trouble with rusting or barrel life, I would just buy a new match barrel and have it custom fit by my gunsmith. To me, that's part of the beauty of the 1911 platform -- endless availability of upgraded parts (few of which really affect my ability to make the gun hit the center ring, but all of which are nice to have).

[Aldemar]

I've got a TLE/RL but it's the stainless model. You get a stainless barrel with that model. Same with my Stainless Target.

[skosh69]

I had an issue with outer barrel rust right after buying my CDP. I had left a fingerprint on the barrel during reassembly and the next time I took it apart, I noticed my fingerprint had turned to a light rust spot. A touch of CorrosionX and some steel wool took care of that and haven't had any issues since. I spray all my barrels with CorrosionX prior to reassembly now!

[BajaJames83]

Just buy a Springfield and be happy!

no need, buy american

[Synergy]

no need, buy american

I guess my TRP Operator is not made in the USA?

[static808]

I guess my TRP Operator is not made in the USA?

i know my springfield milspec isnt...

[Synergy]

i know my springfield milspec isnt...

I was on my phone, couldn't find the sarcasm smilie! Some Springfields are made in Brazil and some made in the USA, like most everything... The high end models are US made. I know the TRP series is 100% US. Though I would still take a Brazil SA over a Series II Kimber!

[bluzman]

The ones that you read about rusting are mostly safe queens and gun store displays. Handled a lot but never shot.

That describes my TLE when I bought it...just a hint of rust about the size of a fingerprint on the top of the barrel near the muzzle. Easily removed and never returned now that I apply a very light coat of gun oil after cleaning.