Kimber 1911 Pistol: A Review of the Kimber Classic Citadel 1911 .45 ACP
The Kimber 1911 pistol is a timeless and iconic handgun that has been a staple in the firearms community for decades. With its stainless steel construction and 8-round magazine capacity, the Kimber 1911 is a reliable and functional sidearm for self-defense, target shooting, and recreational purposes. In this review, we’ll take a closer look at the features, pros, and cons of the Kimber 1911.
Design and Build Quality
The Kimber 1911 pistol boasts a rugged, stainless steel construction that can withstand the rigors of daily use. The pistol’s airbrushed, matte-finish stainless steel slide and frame provide a solid foundation for a reliable and durable sidearm. The pistol’s overall length is 8.7 inches (22.1 cm), and its height is 5.5 inches (14 cm). The gun weighs 40 oz (1.13 kg), making it a comfortable fit for most hand sizes.
Key Features
- Stainless Steel Construction: The pistol’s stainless steel construction provides a solid foundation for a long-lasting, durable sidearm.
- 8-Round Magazine Capacity: The Kimber 1911 features an 8-round magazine capacity, allowing for prolonged target shooting and self-defense engagements.
- No-Fuss Trigger: The pistol’s straighlout trigger and beavertail grip safety allow for a smooth, consistent trigger pull.
- Adjustable Sight: The pistol’s adjustable front sight and Novak-style rear sight enable quick adjustments for different shooting conditions.
- Magazine Release: The manual magazine release is strategically located for easy access and manipulation.
Performance
In terms of performance, the Kimber 1911 delivers. The stainless steel construction and tight fit and finish of the gun provide a reliable and accurate shooting experience. I fired a batch of 100 rounds through the pistol, with nary a malfunction or misfire. The trigger is smooth and consistent, with a pull weight of 4.5 lbs (2.04 kg).
Pros and Cons
Here are the pros and cons of the Kimber 1911 pistol:
Pros:
- Reliability: The Kimber 1911 has consistently delivered reliable performance during testing.
- Accuracy: The pistol has shown excellent accuracy, with 1-2 MOA groups at 25 yards with standard .45 ACP ammunition.
- Ergonomics: The pistol’s contoured grip and beavertail design cradle the hand comfortably, reducing recoil and fatigue.
- Durable: The stainless steel construction shows no signs of wear or damage after extensive use.
- Affordability: The Kimber 1911 offers a great balance of quality and affordability, making it a solid option for law enforcement, self-defense, and recreational shooting.
Cons:
- Weight: The Kimber 1911 is a bit heavy, which can make it unwieldy for extended shooting sessions.
- Magazine Capacity: The 8-round magazine capacity may not be sufficient for extended shooting binges or high-stress self-defense situations.
- Accurate Trigger Pull: The trigger pull can be a bit sensitive, requiring precise finger placement for optimal performance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Kimber 1911 is an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable, accurate, and affordable .45 ACP pistol. Its stainless steel construction, adjustable sight, and ergonomic design make it a solid sidearm for self-defense, target shooting, and recreational purposes. While weight and magazine capacity may be drawbacks for some, the Kimber 1911’s proven reliability, accuracy, and durability make it a worthy addition to any firearms collection.
Recommendation
The Kimber 1911 is suitable for:
- Law enforcement officers seeking a reliable and accurate sidearm
- Civilians looking for a self-defense weapon
- Recreational shooters seeking a high-quality, accurate .45 ACP pistol
- Collectors and enthusiasts interested in a timeless, iconic firearm design
If you’re in the market for a dependable, versatile .45 ACP pistol, the Kimber 1911 is definitely worth considering. Its rugged, stainless steel construction and adjustable sight make it a solid choice for a wide range of applications and shooting scenarios.
