Table of Contents
The Kimber 1911 is a renowned semi-automatic pistol that represents the pinnacle of classic handgun design with modern enhancements. Kimber, celebrated for its premium firearms, is best known for precision-engineered 1911 pistols, offering exceptional performance for self-defense, concealed carry, and competition. Introduced as a refined take on the timeless 1911 platform, the Kimber 1911 is chambered in .45 ACP, 9mm, and 10mm, with a 5-inch barrel and high-quality craftsmanship that sets it apart from competitors. If you would like to read about other Kimber 1911s, check out our guide to choosing the best kimber 1911.
The Kimber 1911 delivers outstanding accuracy, ergonomic comfort, and durability, making it a favorite among seasoned shooters. Priced as a premium offering, it reflects the value of its match-grade components and superior build quality. In this review, you’ll discover its key specifications, strengths, weaknesses, and how it compares to other top-tier handguns.
Kimber 1911: Background & First Impressions
When I first laid my hands on the Kimber pistol, I immediately appreciated its balance of classic elegance and modern precision. Kimber designed this pistol to honor the timeless 1911 platform while incorporating features that meet the needs of today’s shooters. Created with concealed carry, self-defense, and competition in mind, the Kimber pistol combines the reliability of the original 1911 with premium upgrades, including enhanced accuracy and improved ergonomics.
The Kimber pistol is a full-sized firearm with a 5-inch barrel, making it one of the most versatile options for those seeking a powerful yet manageable handgun. Its design is rooted in John Browning’s iconic 1911 but refined by Kimber’s signature craftsmanship, resulting in a handgun that delivers both style and performance.
Key Features of Kimber 1911
The Kimber 1911 stands out with its 5-inch barrel, offering exceptional accuracy and making it a superb choice for both concealed carry and self-defense. Chambered in .45 ACP, 9mm, and 10mm, it caters to a variety of shooting preferences while providing reliable stopping power. Its magazine capacity ranges from 7+1 to 8+1 rounds, which may seem limited compared to modern pistols but is typical for the 1911 platform.
Constructed with a high-quality steel frame and slide, the Kimber 1911 ensures durability and dependable performance even under heavy use. Its slim profile and intuitive controls make it comfortable to carry despite its heavier weight. While the robust construction is an advantage for durability, the weight—close to 38 ounces—can be a drawback for some when carrying for extended periods.
Main Specs of Kimber 1911
The Kimber 1911 is a full-sized semi-automatic pistol built for precision and dependability, featuring a 5-inch match-grade barrel that delivers exceptional accuracy. Its durable stainless steel frame and slide, paired with ergonomic rosewood grips, make it an excellent choice for self-defense, target shooting, and competitive use.
| Kimber 1911 Spec | Kimber 1911 Details |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .45 ACP, 9mm, 10mm |
| Magazine Capacity | 7+1 or 8+1 rounds |
| Height | 5.25 inches |
| Width | 1.28 inches |
| Overall Length | 8.7 inches |
| Barrel Length | 5 inches |
| Front Sight | Fixed low-profile |
| Rear Sight | Fixed low-profile |
| Frame Material | Stainless Steel |
| Accessory Rail | No |
| Red Dot Ready | No |
| Weight | 38 ounces (empty) |
| Price | ~$980 (MSRP) |
Kimber 1911 Pros and Cons
The Kimber 1911 offers a blend of precision engineering and timeless design, making it a standout choice for self-defense, competition, and concealed carry. One of its key advantages is its match-grade 5-inch barrel, which delivers exceptional accuracy, giving shooters a distinct edge in precision-focused scenarios like target shooting or defensive engagements. However, its heavier weight of 38 ounces can be a drawback for extended concealed carry, potentially leading to fatigue and discomfort for some users. Despite this, its craftsmanship and reliability make it a trusted firearm among enthusiasts and professionals alike
What are the main advantages of Kimber 1911?
The Kimber 1911 is a full-sized semi-automatic pistol that combines classic design, superior craftsmanship, and reliable performance, making it a top choice for concealed carry, target shooting, and self-defense. Below are the key advantages of the Kimber 1911.
- Kimber 1911 Match-Grade Barrel: The 5-inch barrel ensures exceptional accuracy, allowing for precise shooting even at longer distances, making it perfect for both defensive situations and competition.
- Kimber 1911 Durable Construction: Made from high-quality stainless steel, the Kimber 1911 offers outstanding durability, designed to withstand extensive use in demanding conditions.
- Kimber 1911 Ergonomic Design: With its slim profile, intuitive grip angle, and checkered grips, the pistol provides excellent handling and comfort, even during prolonged shooting sessions.
- Kimber 1911 Versatile Chamberings: Available in .45 ACP, 9mm, and 10mm, the Kimber 1911 caters to various shooting preferences, ensuring versatility for different applications.
- Timeless Aesthetic Appeal: The Kimber 1911’s combination of polished finishes and traditional 1911 styling makes it a standout for those who appreciate a balance of functionality and elegance.
These advantages make the Kimber 1911 a trusted and versatile choice, appealing to professionals, enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a reliable, high-performing firearm.
What are the main disadvantages of Kimber 1911?
The Kimber 1911, while an exceptionally well-crafted and reliable firearm, does have some drawbacks that may affect its suitability for certain users. Below are the key disadvantages of the Kimber 1911.
- Kimber 1911 Limited Magazine Capacity: With a capacity of 7+1 or 8+1 rounds, the Kimber 1911 falls behind modern semi-automatic pistols, requiring more frequent reloads during defensive or competitive shooting.
- Kimber 1911 Heavier Weight: Weighing approximately 38 ounces, the all-steel construction can make it less comfortable for extended concealed carry compared to lighter, polymer-framed alternatives.
- Kimber 1911 Lack of Accessory Rail: The absence of an accessory rail restricts the attachment of tactical accessories like lights or lasers, potentially limiting its versatility for some users.
- Kimber 1911 Premium Pricing: As a high-end firearm, the Kimber 1911 is more expensive than many other handguns, making it less accessible for budget-conscious buyers.
These Kimber 1911 disadvantages reflect its focus on craftsmanship and tradition, which may not align with the priorities of users seeking modern features or lightweight designs.
Best Upgrades for Kimber 1911
Aftermarket accessories for the Kimber 1911 are designed to enhance its performance, accuracy, and overall usability, making it an even more effective firearm for modern shooters. These upgrades can improve features like sight visibility, recoil control, and grip comfort, allowing users to tailor the pistol to their specific needs. Whether you aim to optimize it for self-defense, competition, or recreational shooting, aftermarket options elevate the Kimber 1911’s capabilities while preserving its timeless design.
Additionally, investing in a high-quality Kimber 1911 holster ensures secure retention, a smooth draw, and comfortable carry. These accessories not only refine the performance of the Kimber 1911 but also enhance the overall shooting experience, making it a more versatile and reliable option.
What are the best Kimber 1911 accessories?
Enhancing your Kimber 1911 with the right accessories can significantly improve its functionality, accuracy, and overall shooting experience. Below are the top aftermarket upgrades compatible with the Kimber 1911.
- Best Kimber 1911 Red Dot: Adding a red dot sight enhances target acquisition and accuracy. The Trijicon RMR Type 2 is a great choice for the Kimber 1911, offering durability and precise performance. Note that mounting a red dot may require slide modifications or a red dot-ready model, and custom red dot bearing Kimber 1911 holsters.
- Best Kimber 1911 Sights: Upgrading to night sights ensures better visibility in various lighting conditions. The TruGlo TFX Pro Sights combine tritium and fiber-optic elements, making them an ideal upgrade for the Kimber 1911.
- Best Kimber 1911 Grips: Custom grips enhance comfort and control. The VZ Operator II G10 Grips are a popular choice, offering a rugged texture and stylish appearance that complement the 1911’s design.
- Best Kimber 1911 Extended Magazines: Extended magazines provide increased capacity for range or defensive use. The Wilson Combat 10-Round Magazine in .45 ACP adds three extra rounds to the Kimber 1911’s standard capacity.
- Best Kimber 1911 Holsters: A well-fitted holster is essential for safe and convenient carry. Like this tuckable IWB holster. Let’s now take a closer look at the best Kimber 1911 holsters in the next section.
- Best Kimber 1911 Gun Belts: The 1.5” Leather Belt is highly regarded for its durability and support, making it an excellent choice for everyday carry.
- Best Kimber 1911 Magazine Holders/Pouches: The Leather Double Mag Pouch provides secure storage and quick access to additional magazines, making it the best Walther P38 magazine holder.
These upgrades allow you to optimize your Kimber 1911 for various shooting scenarios, making it a versatile and reliable companion.
Kimber 1911 Holsters: How to Choose the Best Holster for Kimber 1911?
Kimber 1911 holsters are essential for ensuring the safe, secure, and comfortable carry of this classic handgun. Choosing the right Kimber 1911 holster protects your firearm while keeping it easily accessible when needed.
- Intended Use: Begin by considering how you intend to use your holster. For everyday concealed carry, prioritize holsters that offer discretion and comfort to keep the Kimber 1911 secure and unobtrusive. If you plan to carry openly or for tactical purposes, opt for holsters that provide quick access and adjustable retention. For range use, focus on options that emphasize durability and support repeated draws.
- Carry Style: Your preferred carry style will significantly impact your choice of holster. IWB (Inside the Waistband) holsters are perfect for concealed carry, offering a discreet fit that keeps the Kimber 1911 close to your body. OWB (Outside the Waistband) holsters, however, are better suited for open carry or competition shooting, providing faster access and enhanced comfort.
- Material: The material of the holster affects both comfort and durability. Leather holsters offer a timeless aesthetic, comfort, and a snug fit that molds to the Kimber 1911 over time. Kydex holsters are an excellent alternative for those prioritizing rugged durability and precise retention.
- Accessory Compatibility: If your Kimber 1911 has modifications such as a red dot, tactical light, or upgraded sights, ensure the holster you select is compatible with these accessories. Custom holsters designed for modified firearms can accommodate these features without sacrificing functionality or security.
By considering your intended use, preferred carry style, holster material, and accessory compatibility, you can find the perfect holster for your Kimber 1911. This ensures safe, comfortable, and efficient carry tailored to your needs.
What are the best Kimber 1911 concealed carry holsters?
The best Kimber 1911 concealed carry holsters offer a balance of comfort, versatility, and secure retention. Below are the top styles tailored for discreet and practical carry.
- Kimber 1911 IWB Holsters: Perfect for everyday concealed carry, these holsters fit snugly inside the waistband, ensuring excellent concealment under most clothing while maintaining accessibility.
- Kimber 1911 OWB Holsters: Designed for outside-the-waistband carry, these holsters provide comfort and quick access, ideal when paired with a proper cover garment for concealment.
- Kimber 1911 Shoulder Holsters: These holsters evenly distribute the weight of the firearm across the shoulders, making them an excellent choice for extended wear or for those who prefer an off-the-waist carry position.
- Kimber 1911 Chest Holsters: A practical option for outdoor activities like hiking or camping, these holsters offer secure placement and easy accessibility in rugged environments.
Each of these Kimber 1911 concealed carry holsters caters to different carry preferences, ensuring safety, practicality, and comfort for all types of users.
Best Kimber 1911 IWB Holster
The Leather IWB Holster with Steel Clip is an excellent option for secure and discreet concealed carry of your Kimber 1911. Specifically designed for inside-the-waistband use, this holster is made from premium Italian leather, ensuring unmatched durability and comfort for all-day wear.
The steel clip provides a stable and reliable fit inside your waistband, keeping the holster securely in place. Its precise molding guarantees a snug fit perfectly tailored to the Kimber 1911’s dimensions. The holster’s low-profile design enhances concealment under clothing, making it a practical choice for everyday carry. Additionally, its reinforced opening allows for quick and smooth reholstering, offering a seamless blend of functionality and elegance.
Best Kimber 1911 OWB Holster
The Open Top Leather Belt Holster is a top-tier option for outside-the-waistband carry of your Kimber 1911. Handcrafted from premium Italian leather, this holster combines durability, comfort, and elegance, making it an excellent choice for everyday carry or range use.
The open-top design ensures a fast and smooth draw, while the precise molding provides a snug and secure fit tailored to the Kimber 1911’s dimensions. Its close-to-body profile enhances concealment under a jacket or loose clothing, offering a practical solution for discreet carry. The sturdy belt loops ensure a stable attachment to your belt, maintaining the holster’s position throughout the day.
Best Kimber 1911 Shoulder Holster
The Vertical Roto Shoulder Holster with Double Mag Pouch is an outstanding option for carrying your Kimber 1911 in comfort and style. Crafted from premium Italian leather, this holster system is designed for extended wear, offering exceptional balance and weight distribution across the shoulders.
The vertical orientation ensures a secure fit for the Kimber 1911, while the roto feature allows for a smooth and natural draw. The adjustable straps provide a customizable fit, making this holster comfortable for various body types. Additionally, the included double magazine pouch offers convenient storage for spare magazines, enhancing practicality for tactical scenarios or long-term use.
Why Choose Kimber 1911 Over Other Handguns?
The Kimber 1911 is a standout choice for those who value classic design, precision, and reliability in a semi-automatic pistol. Chambered in .45 ACP, 9mm, and 10mm, and equipped with a 5-inch match-grade barrel, the Kimber 1911 delivers exceptional accuracy and performance. It is an ideal option for self-defense, competition shooting, or enthusiasts who appreciate the timeless appeal of the 1911 platform.
What sets the Kimber 1911 apart is its superior craftsmanship and attention to detail. Features such as the match-grade trigger, slim profile, and ergonomic grip make it comfortable to handle and shoot, even during extended sessions. Its durable all-metal construction ensures long-lasting reliability, while its classic aesthetic appeals to those who value both form and function.
The Kimber 1911 combines proven performance, elegant design, and modern enhancements, making it a top choice for anyone seeking a dependable and iconic firearm. However, as a traditional design, it may not offer the higher capacity or lightweight materials found in some modern alternatives.
How does Kimber 1911 differ from Glock 17?
The Kimber 1911 and Glock 17 differ in design, capacity, and focus. The Kimber 1911 features a 5-inch match-grade barrel, all-metal construction, and single-stack magazines holding 7+1 or 8+1 rounds, emphasizing precision and classic styling.
In contrast, the Glock 17 has a 4.49-inch barrel, lightweight polymer frame, and a 17+1 capacity, prioritizing practicality and high-volume firepower. While the Kimber 1911 excels in craftsmanship and accuracy, the Glock 17 is better suited for users seeking modern features and greater capacity.
How does Kimber 1911 differ from SIG P226?
The Kimber 1911 and SIG P226 differ in design and intended use. The Kimber 1911 features a 5-inch match-grade barrel, single-action trigger, and all-metal construction, offering precision and a classic design with a 7+1 or 8+1 capacity.
The SIG P226, a double-action/single-action pistol, has a 4.4-inch barrel, a higher 15+1 capacity, and is designed for tactical and duty use. While the Kimber 1911 excels in accuracy and elegance, the SIG P226 prioritizes versatility, higher capacity, and modern tactical performance.
Frequently Asked Questions about Kimber 1911
Now that we've been through everything you need to know about the Kimber 1911, let’s wrap it up by addressing some of the most common questions shooters have about this versatile handgun.
Yes, the Kimber 1911 is a reliable and high-performing firearm. Its match-grade barrel, all-metal construction, and precision engineering make it an excellent choice for self-defense, target shooting, and competition.
The Kimber 1911 is suitable for concealed carry due to its slim profile, but its 5-inch barrel and weight of 38 ounces may feel heavy compared to lighter, polymer-framed pistols.
The Kimber 1911 is available in .45 ACP, 9mm, and 10mm, offering versatility to suit different shooting preferences.
The Kimber 1911 has a standard magazine capacity of 7+1 or 8+1 rounds, depending on the model.
The Kimber 1911 measures 8.7 inches in overall length, with a 5-inch barrel, making it a full-sized pistol.
It depends on your needs. The Kimber 1911 excels in accuracy, craftsmanship, and a classic design. The S&W M&P 9 2.0, with its 17+1 capacity, polymer frame, and lighter weight, is better suited for tactical use and extended concealed carry. Choose the Kimber for precision and elegance or the M&P 9 2.0 for modern practicality and capacity. For more information, check out our S&W M&P 9 2.0 review.
The Kimber 1911 offers superior craftsmanship, a match-grade trigger, and a timeless aesthetic, while the CZ P10 features a 15+1 capacity, polymer frame, and striker-fired design for more modern performance. Opt for the Kimber 1911 if you value traditional precision and design, or the CZ P10 for lightweight functionality and higher capacity.
Conclusion: Is Kimber 1911 Worth It?
The Kimber 1911 is absolutely worth considering for those who appreciate a blend of classic design, precision craftsmanship, and reliable performance. Featuring a 5-inch match-grade barrel, durable all-metal construction, and chambered in .45 ACP, 9mm, and 10mm, the Kimber 1911 delivers exceptional accuracy and dependability. It is ideal for self-defense, competitive shooting, or as a timeless addition to any firearm collection.
Its manageable size and ergonomic design ensure a smooth shooting experience, while its aesthetic appeal makes it a standout among handguns. For those who prioritize precision and tradition over modern features, the Kimber 1911 is a top-tier choice.
