Kimber DS Warrior

DS Warrior vs. Traditional Kimber 1911: What the Double-Stack Platform Changes

The DS Warrior shares the 1911’s grip angle, manual safety placement, and single-action trigger with Kimber’s single-stack lineup, but the frame is wider to accommodate the double-stack magazine. The grip circumference is larger than a standard 1911 — closer to a full-size polymer striker pistol — which suits shooters with medium to large hands but may feel bulky for smaller hands. The trigger remains a key selling point: the DS platform retains the short, crisp single-action break that 1911 shooters value, combined with a capacity that makes it competitive with modern polymer duty pistols. If you shoot a traditional Kimber 1911 and want more rounds without changing platforms, the DS Warrior is the natural step up.

Capacity and Magazine Compatibility

The DS Warrior ships with 15-round 9mm magazines. The double-stack frame is purpose-built for this magazine, and compatibility with other double-stack 1911-style magazines depends on the manufacturer’s tolerances. Kimber’s own DS magazines are the recommended choice for reliable feeding. For competition or duty use where capacity matters, the 15+1 configuration puts it on par with full-size polymer service pistols while retaining the 1911’s manual-of-arms.

Finish, Frame, and Carry Features

The DS Warrior is built on an aluminum frame with a stainless steel slide, keeping weight manageable for a full-size pistol. The KimPro II finish on the slide provides corrosion resistance for duty and carry use. The frame is equipped with front strap checkering, an extended beavertail grip safety, and a round-heel frame — features that improve purchase and control under rapid fire. Night sights are standard, making it ready for low-light defensive use without modification.

DS Warrior for EDC and Duty Use

The DS Warrior is designed with law enforcement and serious civilian carry in mind. Its manual safety, lightweight aluminum frame, and night sights check the boxes for a defensive pistol. Holster availability for the DS Warrior has improved as the platform has matured — most major manufacturers now offer 1911 double-stack compatible options in both OWB and IWB configurations. Kimber backs the DS Warrior with their standard manufacturer warranty.

Frequently Asked Questions: Kimber DS Warrior

What makes the DS Warrior different from a regular Kimber 1911?
The DS Warrior uses a double-stack frame and magazine, giving it 15+1 capacity versus the traditional 1911’s 8+1. It keeps the 1911’s single-action trigger and manual safety, so the shooting experience is very similar to a standard 1911 — just with a wider grip and more rounds.

What caliber is the Kimber DS Warrior?
The DS Warrior is chambered in 9mm. The double-stack frame is designed around the 9mm cartridge, which allows for 15-round magazine capacity in a 1911-footprint pistol.

Is the Kimber DS Warrior good for concealed carry?
It can be carried concealed, but the full-size frame and wider grip make it better suited to OWB carry or duty use. Shooters looking for a more compact Kimber carry option should consider the Kimber Micro 9.

Browse Kimber DS Warrior Pistols

Shop the full DS Warrior lineup at Impact Guns. For other Kimber pistols, see the Kimber Micro 9 and the Kimber brand page. For other high-capacity 1911-style pistols, see the Springfield Prodigy and our 1911 pistols page.

See Also

Kimber Firearms • 1911 Pistols • 9mm Pistols • Competition Guns