Kimber

The 1911 Lineup

Kimber's 1911 lineup spans entry-level Custom series guns to near-custom-shop Pro Carry and Super Match configurations. The Custom II is Kimber's baseline — a traditionally configured Government-model 1911 in .45 ACP with an aluminum frame option for reduced weight. The Pro Carry series moves to a 4" barrel with a rounded butt for better concealability while retaining the full-size grip frame for capacity. The Ultra series shortens further to 3" for maximum compactness. Across all configurations, Kimber's match-grade barrel and bushing deliver accuracy that most factory 1911s can't match.

Kimber Stainless Series

The Kimber Stainless series applies full stainless steel construction to Kimber's proven 1911 platform — frame, slide, and barrel all in stainless for maximum corrosion resistance. Available in Government, Pro (4"), and Ultra (3") configurations across the same lineup as the standard blued models. The Stainless II is Kimber's baseline stainless 1911; the Pro Carry HD II and Ultra Carry II HD bring stainless to the carry-oriented shorter configurations. For hunters, outdoor enthusiasts, and carry users who encounter moisture and harsh conditions regularly, the stainless construction provides meaningful long-term protection without sacrificing any of Kimber's performance standards.

Kimber Custom Shop

The Kimber Custom Shop produces Kimber's most refined 1911 pistols — hand-fitted, hand-finished firearms built by Kimber's most experienced gunsmiths to tolerances beyond what production line manufacturing achieves. Where production Kimber 1911s are machine-fitted to specification, Custom Shop pistols receive individual attention: hand-fitted barrels, hand-lapped slides, hand-checkered front straps on applicable models, and individual test-firing with a factory accuracy target before shipping.

Warrior — The combat-duty Custom Shop 1911. Rail-equipped, night sights, and components optimized for hard defensive use. Built to the standard Kimber supplies to special operations forces.

Aegis Elite — The carry-optimized Custom Shop 1911. Refined ergonomics, carry-oriented features, and the full Custom Shop hand-fitting in a pistol sized for everyday carry. Available in 9mm and .45 ACP.

Eclipse — The visually distinctive Custom Shop model with a brushed flat-top slide, gray frame, and stainless highlights. The Eclipse is Kimber's most recognizable Custom Shop design.

Super Match II — Kimber's dedicated competition 1911. Stainless construction, adjustable match sights, and the tightest tolerances in the Kimber lineup.

The 2K11: Kimber Meets the Modern Era

The Kimber 2K11 is the company's answer to the modern high-capacity 9mm market — a double-stack, optics-ready 9mm that brings Kimber's fit and finish to a platform that competes with the Staccato P and Springfield Prodigy. With a 19-round magazine, a match-grade barrel, and the kind of trigger work Kimber is known for, the 2K11 is the first Kimber that makes sense as a carry gun for shooters who aren't committed to the single-stack 1911 format.

The K6s: Kimber's Revolver

The K6s is Kimber's 6-shot .357 Magnum revolver — a compact, stainless-steel double-action-only design that packs six rounds of .357 Mag into a package smaller than most 5-shot J-frame competitors. The K6s represents Kimber applying their 1911 quality standards to the revolver category — tight cylinder lockup, an exceptional double-action trigger, and a finish quality that rivals revolvers costing significantly more.

What You're Actually Paying For

Kimber firearms cost more than comparable-configuration guns from many manufacturers, and the premium is real. Barrel-to-bushing fit, frame-to-slide fit, and trigger work are all executed at tolerances tighter than most production lines achieve. The result is a gun that shoots accurately out of the box and requires minimal break-in. For buyers who appreciate craftsmanship and plan to keep a firearm for decades, Kimber delivers lasting value.

FAQ

Are Kimber 1911s reliable?
Yes — Kimber 1911s have a strong reliability track record with quality ammunition. Like all tight-tolerance 1911s, they benefit from a 200-500 round break-in period and prefer quality jacketed ammunition over lead cast bullets.

What is the difference between a Kimber Custom II and Custom Shop pistol?
The Custom II is machine-fitted on Kimber's production line. Custom Shop pistols are hand-fitted by Kimber's most experienced gunsmiths — tighter fit, hand-lapped slides, and individual test-firing.

What is the Kimber Stainless series?
Full stainless steel construction — frame, slide, and barrel — across Kimber's Government, Pro, and Ultra configurations. The corrosion-resistant choice for outdoor use and humid carry environments.

What calibers do Kimber 1911s come in?
.45 ACP and 9mm are the primary calibers. .38 Super and 10mm appear in select Custom Shop and special edition configurations.

Is the Kimber K6s a good carry revolver?
Yes — widely regarded as one of the best compact .357 Mag revolvers available. The 6-round capacity and Kimber's trigger quality make it a compelling carry revolver for shooters who prefer the revolver platform.

How does the Kimber 2K11 compare to the Staccato P?
Both are double-stack 1911-pattern 9mm pistols. The Staccato P has a longer track record and broader competition use. The 2K11 offers Kimber's quality standards at a competitive price. Both are excellent — trigger feel and ergonomic preference typically determine the choice.