Before You Buy A Kimber 1911 You Need To Know This

Published on May 28, 2024
Duration: 7:24

This review critically examines Kimber 1911 pistols, highlighting that their tight tolerances, while mimicking custom builds, lack essential hand-fitting due to mass production. This can lead to reliability issues requiring a lengthy break-in period or gunsmith intervention. While aesthetically pleasing, their performance may not match their price point compared to more reliably functioning, albeit more expensive, custom options or even budget-friendly alternatives with looser tolerances.

Quick Summary

Kimber 1911 pistols use tight tolerances but lack essential hand-fitting due to mass production, potentially causing reliability issues. They require a 500-round break-in period before warranty service, and some budget brands may be more reliable out of the box.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Sponsorship
  2. 00:54Kimber Manufacturing Process Explained
  3. 02:15Price vs. Performance: Kimber vs. Custom
  4. 03:33Reliability: Tolerances & Brands Compared
  5. 04:26Personal Kimber Raptor II Issues
  6. 05:40Final Verdict on Kimber 1911s

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main issue with Kimber 1911 pistols regarding reliability?

Kimber 1911s use very tight tolerances, similar to custom guns, but they are mass-produced without the necessary hand-fitting. This can lead to reliability problems, often requiring a significant break-in period or gunsmith intervention to resolve.

Does Kimber offer a warranty for reliability issues?

Yes, Kimber has a warranty, but it requires a mandatory 500-round break-in period before they will address any reliability concerns. This means you must shoot the pistol extensively before they will consider it for warranty service.

Are cheaper 1911 brands more reliable than Kimber?

Brands like Rock Island Armory or Tisas, often at a lower price point, can be more reliable out of the box. They typically feature looser tolerances, which allows for more functional 'give' and reduces the likelihood of immediate malfunctions.

What does the speaker mean by Kimber 1911s lacking 'hand-fitting'?

Hand-fitting involves a gunsmith meticulously shaping and polishing parts like the slide stop and frame for perfect function. Mass-produced Kimber pistols skip this labor-intensive step, relying on machinery, which can result in parts that don't perfectly interface.

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