I Was Wrong About Kimber.

Published on May 31, 2026
Duration: 12:26

This review challenges a long-held bias against Kimber firearms, presenting empirical data from over 7,000 rounds fired through two models: the 1911 DS Warrior in 10mm and the 2011 Pro Comp in 9mm. The instructor highlights the surprising reliability, excellent fit and finish, and American manufacturing of both, suggesting Kimber now competes with or surpasses established benchmarks like Staccato, especially considering their price points.

Quick Summary

After firing over 7,000 rounds through the Kimber 1911 DS Warrior (10mm) and 2011 Pro Comp (9mm), the instructor found them to be exceptionally reliable with excellent fit and finish. These American-made firearms challenge previous biases and offer strong value, with the 2011 Pro Comp rivaling Staccato models.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Overcoming Kimber Bias
  2. 00:54Past Experiences & Earned Bias
  3. 01:33What Changed My Mind: Humble Marksman
  4. 01:49Kimber Sends Guns: Full Disclosure
  5. 03:00Kimber 1911 DS Warrior (10mm) Review
  6. 03:22DS Warrior: First Impressions & Build Quality
  7. 04:24Shooting the 10mm DS Warrior: A Chore
  8. 05:04DS Warrior Reliability: 2000 Rounds Tested
  9. 05:30Sponsor Break: Gideon Optics & HSL Ammunition
  10. 06:07Kimber 2011 Pro Comp (9mm) Review
  11. 06:172011 Pro Comp: Fit, Finish & Staccato Comparison
  12. 07:042011 Pro Comp: Ported Comp & Slide Action
  13. 08:202011 Pro Comp Reliability: 5000 Rounds Uncleaned
  14. 08:40Shooting the 9mm 2011 Pro Comp: A Cheat Code
  15. 09:342011 Market: Beyond Staccato
  16. 09:47Kimber 2011 Pro Comp vs. Staccato Value
  17. 10:00DS Warrior: Unique 10mm Double Stack 1911
  18. 10:15Optic Mounting & Carbon Prevention
  19. 10:30Conclusion: Kimber's Comeback
  20. 10:53Final Thoughts & Future Plans

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key takeaways from the Kimber firearm review?

The review highlights that Kimber firearms, specifically the 1911 DS Warrior (10mm) and 2011 Pro Comp (9mm), offer surprising reliability and excellent fit and finish. After extensive testing with over 7,000 rounds, the instructor found them to be dependable and well-made, challenging previous biases against the brand.

How does the Kimber 2011 Pro Comp compare to Staccato pistols?

The Kimber 2011 Pro Comp's fit and finish are considered on par with Staccato firearms. Additionally, it includes optic plates and is priced around $2000, potentially offering better value than comparable Staccato models, especially considering recent shifts in Staccato's production quality.

What was the reliability experience with the Kimber 1911 DS Warrior in 10mm?

The Kimber 1911 DS Warrior successfully fired 2,000 rounds of 10mm ammunition without a single malfunction. This included zero stovepipes, failures to feed, or failures to extract, demonstrating exceptional reliability for a firearm in this caliber and price range.

Can Kimber firearms be trusted for competition or duty use?

Based on over 7,000 rounds of testing without cleaning, the instructor indicates that Kimber firearms like the 2011 Pro Comp are reliable enough for competition use right out of the box. The instructor personally plans to use a Kimber longslide for future competitions.

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