Thoughts on Kimber 1911s

[glockman19]

I have had 5 Kimbers. sold one and regret it. It was a Cstom II. I still have a Pro Carry II, and the 3", 4" & 5" Raptor II's, They are Excellent in every way.

Kimber manufactures more 1911 style pistols than the next 5 combined.

I had one issue with the Pro Carry II, sent it back and since reurning 5 years ago has been running flawlessly, It is my nightstand gun. All have night sights.

If you have the money to spend I highly recommend the Raptor II, either Stainless or Blued.

[EdinCA]

Thanks to everyone for the input, opinions and the photos too. I'm just starting my research so I do plan to look at Springfield and other 1911-types.

[static808]

owner of a kimber custom II, a springfield loaded, and a RIA railed tactical. the kimber is the best shooter of the three, as well as having the best fitting. not necessarily talking about the slide to frame fit, but also the little things like the beavertail safety. best trigger out of the box from the three was also the kimber.

when they go on sale at turners for 750, the custom II's i think are a good value. there is a significant difference in the fit and finish between the kimber and an RIA, so you definitely see/feel the difference in their prices. i say its a toss up between a comparable springfield and kimber. all in all, i enjoy all of my 1911's, but the kimber gets the slight nod as my favorite.

[trigger945]

Oh yes, there is no such thing as changeable backstrap on Kimbers or other 1911 steel handguns. Grips can be changed to slim grips, but that's about it.

I guess it depends upon your definition of backstrap.

On 1911's, the "backstrap" consists of the main spring housing and the grip safety imho.

You can opt for straight, arched or with modification round butt and bobbed mainspring housings. You can choose from a pretty wide selection of standard, ducktail and beavertail grip safeties, some of which will require modification and some which are "drop-in" albeit with a bit of fitting usually.

Additionally, beside thin or standard grips you can choose from short, medium and long triggers.

Point taken. I guess "changeable backstrap" threw me off. Most, if not all, mainspring housings and grip safeties can be replaced.

Anyhow, good point!

[trigger945]

Thanks to everyone for the input, opinions and the photos too. I'm just starting my research so I do plan to look at Springfield and other 1911-types.

Did you say photos?

[mceod]

^^^^
That's a sharp looking pistol!

[ramathorn]

^^^ Cool checkering. I like.

[INFAMOUS762X39]

I bought a Kimber TLE/RLII used as; a beater for defensive handgun classes
I have run 4000 rounds through it with no FTF or FTE

I would happily purchase a Springfield loaded or operator if I could find one

Both make fine pistols in the mid 1911 price range

+1.

2500+ Rds through my TLE, runs and shoots like a champ.


Please don't make fun of my grips, they are practical when it comes to sweaty palms.

[DBADRAT]

Love 1911's, 4 Kimbers, 1 colt, 1 Sig, looking for a Springfield to add to the collection.

[madjack956]

I own a Custom CDP II and a Custom Target II. Love em both. No problems whatsoever.

[yankee-pete]

The first 1911 I shot was a Kimber. I immediately knew I wanted a 1911. I tried a few different varieties and settled on a Springfield. However, I still love the Kimber and think you will as well if that is what you decide on. Try a few out before you pick and see what you like best. Don't pick based off of our opinions. Just so long as you don't go and do something stupid like buy a Glock.

[ImprezaSTI]

I'm not a fan of the series II safety.
I'd get a similarly priced Springfield instead.

[Dattebayo]

I like the Kimbers a lot and they have a proven track record with SWAT and LAPD. They are great service pistols and have a lot that comes with them already.

I personally went the Springfield route as their quality is similar with better availability in my area.

[LovingTheYear1911]

Why get a gun made in brazil when youncan get one made in the usa? Springfields start life in brazil even the ones with an NM serial number. I wont pay that much for something made there. I love my kimber. Been 100%

[E92335i]

Why get a Glock if it's made in Austria? Kimbers are g2g.

I'd pick a Springer over a Kimber btw. That's just me.