Watch this *BEFORE* You Buy the Kimber 2K11

Published on March 2, 2025
Duration: 12:53

This review of the Kimber 2K11 2011 pistol highlights its premium features, including a matte DLC finish with polished flats, a bronze PVD coated barrel and trigger, and an aluminum grip with effective checkering. The pistol offers a smooth shooting experience, reliable performance over 1,000 rounds, and a well-tuned trigger, making it a strong contender in the 2011 market. However, potential buyers should be aware of minor drawbacks such as the slide serrations potentially irritating the thumb when riding the safety and the loss of rear iron sights when an optic plate is installed.

Quick Summary

The Kimber 2K11 stands out with its matte DLC finish and polished flats, offering a premium aesthetic. It's available in 9mm and .45 ACP, features a well-tuned trigger, and provides an exceptionally soft shooting experience. While it boasts 100% reliability over 1,000 rounds, potential buyers should note the slide serrations can irritate the thumb when riding the safety, and optic installation removes rear sights.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Kimber 2K11
  2. 00:15Kimber's Recent Turnaround
  3. 01:10What Sets the 2K11 Apart
  4. 01:23Caliber Options: 9mm and .45 ACP
  5. 01:45Aesthetics: DLC Finish and Polished Flats
  6. 02:12Bronze Barrel and Trigger (PVD Coating)
  7. 02:34Slide Serrations and Frame Lines
  8. 02:57Iron Sights and Optic Plate
  9. 03:33External Extractor
  10. 03:39Performance of Slide Serrations
  11. 03:56Safety Fit and Finish
  12. 04:11Barrel Details and Accuracy
  13. 04:19Toolless Guide Rod and Slide Stop
  14. 04:28Trigger Tune and Feel
  15. 05:18Aluminum Grip and Texture
  16. 05:58Grip Texture Surface Area
  17. 06:16Undercut and Ergonomics
  18. 06:46Magwell Beveling
  19. 07:11Soft Shooting and Recoil Impulse
  20. 07:35Reliability: 1,000 Round Test
  21. 08:02Channel Support and Engagement
  22. 08:43Negatives: Thumb Rubbing on Slide
  23. 09:33Trigger Shoe Length and Finger Space
  24. 09:49Trigger Shoe Texturing Preference
  25. 10:06Loss of Rear Sight with Optic Plate
  26. 10:11Metal Injection Molded (MIM) Parts
  27. 10:34Grip Screw Design
  28. 11:01Loaded Chamber Indicator and Optic Fouling
  29. 11:20Overall Opinion and Market Niche
  30. 12:11Flashier 2011 Option
  31. 12:25Conclusion and Outro

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key aesthetic features of the Kimber 2K11?

The Kimber 2K11 boasts a distinctive matte Diamond Like Carbon (DLC) finish on its frame and slide top, complemented by polished flats for a classy look. It also features a bronze PVD coated barrel and trigger, adding to its premium visual appeal.

Does the Kimber 2K11 offer different caliber options?

Yes, unlike many 2011 pistols that are exclusively chambered in 9mm, the Kimber 2K11 provides shooters with the option of either 9mm or .45 ACP, catering to a broader preference base.

How is the trigger performance on the Kimber 2K11?

The trigger on the Kimber 2K11 is highly praised for being perfectly tuned. It features a slight pre-travel take-up, a distinct wall, and a crisp, short break with a quick reset, comparable to high-end 1911 and 2011 platforms.

What are the main drawbacks of the Kimber 2K11?

A notable drawback is the potential for the sharp slide serrations and polished flats to irritate the thumb when riding the manual safety. Additionally, installing an optic plate means losing the rear iron sight for co-witnessing, and the loaded chamber indicator can foul optic glass.

How does the Kimber 2K11 compare to other 2011s in terms of availability?

The Kimber 2K11 is positioned as the best 'brick and mortar' 2011, meaning it's readily available for same-day purchase from most local gun shops, unlike many other high-end 2011s that often require ordering.

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