Kimber 1911 is a pistol that, for many shooters, is synonymous with quality and precision in the world of handguns. Based on the legendary Colt 1911 design, Kimber has introduced a number of modifications and improvements that have made it a popular choice among both professionals and amateurs.
If you're looking for a pistol that combines classic form with modern solutions, the Kimber 1911 is certainly worth considering. But what exactly is behind that name? What are its strengths and why should you consider it?
What is the Kimber 1911?
Kimber 1911 is a series of pistols manufactured by Kimber Manufacturing. All models are based on the design of the Colt 1911 pistol, designed in the early 20th century by John Browning. However, Kimber did not limit itself to faithfully copying the original. It introduced numerous improvements in terms of materials, fitting, ergonomics and finish.
As a result, the Kimber 1911 is a pistol that combines classic reliability with modern precision and ease of use. It is available in different calibers, although the most popular is .45 ACP, which is the same one used in the original Colt 1911. Other popular calibers include 9mm and 10mm.
History and evolution of the Kimber 1911
Kimber began operations in the 1970s, but its real boom came in the 1990s, when the company began producing 1911 pistols on a large scale. From the very beginning, Kimber focused on high quality workmanship and precision, which quickly gained recognition among shooters.
Over the years, Kimber has introduced numerous innovations to its 1911 offering. These included, among others:
- Improved trigger systems
- New materials (e.g. stainless steel, aluminum)
- Ergonomic grips
- Picatinny rails for mounting accessories
- Various finishes (e.g. bluing, Cerakote)
Thanks to these improvements, the Kimber 1911 has become a popular choice among sports shooters, law enforcement officers and people looking for self-defense weapons.
Application of the Kimber 1911 in shooting
Kimber 1911 is widely used in various fields of shooting:
- Sport shooting: Kimber 1911 is often used in IPSC and IDPA competitions, where precision and reliability are key.
- Self-defense: Due to its power and accuracy, the Kimber 1911 is a popular choice for self-defense, although its size may make concealed carry difficult.
- Law enforcement: Some police and military units use the Kimber 1911 as a service weapon or backup weapon.
- Recreation: Kimber 1911 is also a great pistol for recreational shooting at the shooting range.
Regardless of the application, the Kimber 1911 offers high quality workmanship, precision and reliability, making it a valued tool in the hands of an experienced shooter.
Advantages and disadvantages of the Kimber 1911
Like any pistol, the Kimber 1911 has its strengths and weaknesses. Here are some of them:
Advantages:
- High quality workmanship: Kimber is famous for its attention to detail and precision in the manufacture of its pistols.
- Precision: The Kimber 1911 is known for its high accuracy, making it ideal for sports and target shooting.
- Reliability: The classic 1911 design, combined with high-quality materials and workmanship, ensures high reliability.
- Large selection of models: Kimber offers a wide range of 1911 models, differing in caliber, size, finish and equipment.
- Availability of accessories: A huge number of accessories are available for the Kimber 1911, such as magazines, grips, holsters or sights.
Disadvantages:
- Price: The Kimber 1911 is usually more expensive than other pistols with similar parameters.
- Size and weight: The classic Kimber 1911 is quite large and heavy, which can make concealed carry difficult.
- Maintenance requirements: 1911 pistols require regular cleaning and lubrication to maintain reliability.
- Grip angle: The specific grip angle in the 1911 may not suit every shooter.
Ultimately, the choice of the Kimber 1911 depends on the individual preferences and needs of the shooter. It is worth considering both the advantages and disadvantages of this pistol to make an informed decision.
Sample Kimber 1911 models
Kimber offers a wide range of 1911 models tailored to different needs and preferences. Here are a few examples:
- Kimber Custom II: A classic 1911 model in .45 ACP caliber, ideal for sports and recreational shooting.
- Kimber Pro Carry II: A compact 1911 model designed for concealed carry.
- Kimber Stainless Target II: A stainless steel 1911 model with adjustable sights, ideal for target shooting.
- Kimber Eclipse Pro Target II: A two-tone finish 1911 model with adjustable sights and ergonomic grips.
These are just a few examples from the extensive Kimber 1911 range. It is worth familiarizing yourself with the full range of models to find the one that best suits your needs.
Kimber 1911 vs. other 1911 pistols
There are many 1911 pistols from different manufacturers on the market. What makes Kimber stand out from the rest?
First of all, Kimber focused on high quality workmanship and precision. Many Kimber 1911 models are assembled by hand and undergo rigorous quality control. In addition, Kimber offers a wide range of models and configurations, which allows you to tailor the pistol to the individual needs of the shooter.
Of course, 1911 pistols from other manufacturers can also be of high quality and offer good parameters. However, Kimber has gained a reputation as a manufacturer that focuses on quality and precision, which translates into user satisfaction.
Accessories for the Kimber 1911
The availability of accessories is an important aspect when choosing a pistol. A wide range of accessories are available for the Kimber 1911, which allow you to customize the pistol to your individual needs and preferences. Here are a few examples:
- Magazines: Magazines are available in various capacities, made of various materials.
- Grips: You can choose from grips made of wood, plastic, rubber or G10.
- Holsters: Holsters for concealed carry (IWB), external holsters (OWB) and tactical holsters are available.
- Sights: Adjustable, fiber optic or tritium sights can be installed.
- Picatinny rails: Allow you to mount accessories such as tactical flashlights or aiming lasers.
The choice of accessories depends on the individual needs and preferences of the shooter. It is worth experimenting with different accessories to find the ones that best suit your shooting style.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Kimber 1911 a good pistol for beginners?
The Kimber 1911 can be a good pistol for beginner shooters, but it requires some skill and knowledge of weapon handling. Due to its size, weight and power, it may be more difficult to master than smaller 9mm pistols. It is worth considering starting with a smaller caliber and a simpler design.
Which Kimber 1911 caliber is best for self-defense?
The most popular Kimber 1911 caliber for self-defense is .45 ACP, due to its high stopping power. However, the 9mm caliber is also a good choice, offering a larger magazine capacity and less recoil.
How to take care of the Kimber 1911 to make it last for years?
The Kimber 1911 requires regular cleaning and lubrication. After each shooting, clean the barrel, slide and frame of carbon and deposits. Then, lubricate the moving parts with special gun oil. At least once a year, it is worth taking the pistol to a gunsmith for inspection.
Is the Kimber 1911 suitable for concealed carry?
The classic Kimber 1911 is quite large and heavy, which can make concealed carry difficult. However, there are compact Kimber 1911 models, such as the Pro Carry II, that are more suitable for concealed carry. The selection of an appropriate holster is also important.
Where to buy the Kimber 1911 and how much does it cost?
The Kimber 1911 can be purchased in gun stores. The price depends on the model, caliber and equipment, but usually ranges from several to several thousand zlotys. It is worth comparing offers from different stores to find the best price.
Do I need a gun permit to buy the Kimber 1911?
Yes, to purchase a Kimber 1911 (as well as any other pistol) in Poland, it is required to have a gun permit. The procedure for obtaining a gun permit is described in the Act on Weapons and Ammunition.
What are the most common problems with the Kimber 1911 and how to prevent them?
The most common problems with the Kimber 1911 are jams and ammunition feeding problems. They can be prevented by regularly cleaning and lubricating the pistol, using high-quality ammunition and taking care of the condition of the magazines.
How does the Kimber 1911 differ from the Colt 1911?
The Kimber 1911 is based on the Colt 1911 design, but is characterized by improvements in materials, fitting, ergonomics and finish. Kimber also offers a wide range of models and configurations, while Colt focuses on classic versions of the 1911.
Is the Kimber 1911 compatible with accessories for other 1911 pistols?
Most accessories for 1911 pistols are compatible with the Kimber 1911. However, you should make sure that a given accessory fits a specific Kimber 1911 model, as some models may have non-standard dimensions or mountings.
