I bought my wife an Ultra Carry II, 45ACP, back in 2008. She loves it and says it's not too much to handle. And after a dozen years, it's still her favorite pistol in the house.
I own a Kimber Super Carry 1911 stainless steel model. I fell in love with the gun from the moment I received it. However, I was experiencing continued feed problems after the break-in period. I had a local gunsmith take a look. He discovered that the feed spring was too stiff. He replaced the feed spring with a less stiff spring and now the gun functions great. I use Kimber magazines for my model 1911. I am a 17 year veteran Law Enforcement Officer.
I've had quite a few pistols growing up silhouette shooting and my Kimber custom II ($1,100) is the smoothest most consistant hand gun I've ever had the pleasure of shooting!
@@darkswim8686 that’s unfortunate… spending a thousand dollars on a pistol and then having to sell it makes you really feel stupid, speaking from experience.
@@nickgates4387 in the 90s and early 2000s it was nice to swap out firearms now and then but now, with values rising, even for "used", and scarcity,..... 2 yrs ago I bought a 590 shockwave brand new for $349, now used ones are selling for $400.
I have never had a problem with any of my Kimbers, excellent quality. I made a bunch of range videos. I am limited to indoors & shooting paper. I think & most of the audience agrees that watching someone shoot paper indoors is boring. Thanks for your input.
I own both a Wilson CQB Elite and a Kimber Warrior. While I do consider the Wilson an absolute step above in craftsmanship ,and worth the price, the Kimber is fantastic value for the money. Yes, it is true about Wilson mags. I run them in all 1911's.
Have you tried running over 250-300 rounds in one training session with it. I owned 4 kimbers and they are great right up until you get that many rounds through it. Then the malfunctions start. At least that’s been my experience with the 4 kimbers I owned. They started malfunctioning every single time after that many rounds
Rennie Smith the Raptors usually cost more and come from Kimbers custom shop. Most issues/malfunctions in any 1911 are due to the mags. I only run the Wilson combat mags. 👍
I never really cared for Kimbers much myself....until I took Toms advise and bought a lightly used 3 inch....wow! This lil pistol has never once failed to go bang when I pull the trigger. Its also very easy to conceal, and lets face it, if its not easy to carry, its gonna be at home in the safe when you need it. I like it so much I had it sent to Robar and got thier NP3 coating on it, and bought a set of Gorgeous Sanbar Stag no bark grips for it. This is the gun I carry 80 % of the time, tks Tom
I have a Stainless Pro Carry series 1 that I picked up used 5 years ago for about $700. I love that gun and I'm NEVER getting rid of it. It's beautiful and a sweet, sweet shooter.
I was able to shoot a Kimber Raptor II today. It outperformed my Sig 226 that I have been shooting for the past 25 years. All about this Kimber felt odd to me but I shot the best groups I ever had. I am totally impressed !!
I had the the Sig 226 just hated the 40 cal.; I wanted the 9mm! I had shot a friends many times and loved it. Sold the Sig and got my Kimber Raptor ll 45acp and it’s now my favorite handgun I own. I carry it in Galco Miami Classic shoulder rig or Sig 938 9 mm “Rosewood” I’ve carried edc for a decade and 2 of the best shooting guns I own. I have glock, beretta, & ruger.#Kimber# Raptor#1911#45acp@ Billy Carpenter
@@bondalero0074 Thank you, I'm leaning to do about the same as you did, buy a Kimber in 9mm and sell off my Sig 226. I've had Colts and Springfields in .45 but I' smaller framed and prefer the 9mm round.
Couldnt agree more! Kimber is by far the best mass produced factory 1911! Super light trigger pull! Amazing accuracy! Unbelievable resets on target! And it comes with lifetime warrenty!? Plus you can find them on sale at some gun shops for under 1k! I bought mine with night sights, ergo rubber grips, and an under barrel rail all for $999.99! If your looking to buy a 1911! Get a kimber!
Thanks for the video. Your use of adjectives and nouns are what made me choose this Kimber over the Springfield compact 1911 (.45). Besides the fact that Kimber is made in the USA and not Brazil (respect to Brazil).
@@waynecastleman1363 underneath the foam there should have been stickers, a pull through chamber lock, extra fiber optic inserts for the front sight, the take-down tool, owners manual, and an NRA sign up card. You sure your gun was brand new?
Just curious have you had issues with the 3" Kimbers and feed problems? I have an ultra carry 2 and love the way it shoots but it has feed problems every 30-40 rounds.
Just bought two NIB ultras on Gunbroker... one eclipse, one super carry. Cannot wait to get them in tomorrow and head to the range... Thanks for the video.
Got my BNIB Kimber Ultra Carry II in last week. Got to shoot it some yesterday. Ran just over 100 rounds through it. 50 JHP( Sig and Winchester) and 50 Federal FMJ. All 230 grain. The last round from the first magazine failed to feed but otherwise it ran perfectly. It weighs in at 25 oz and felt great in the hand with superbly comfortable shooting. Shoots accurately and well. I LOVE this gun. Kimber recommends putting 500 rounds through it for break in and I will hit that mark before I carry it but I am already confident that this will be my EDC for years to come.
Thank you for your previous insight to Kimber! I got a SS Raptor Ultra for 1249.00 in an online auction 2 weeks ago. Have run 300 rounds without a hiccup. I treasure this pistol and intend to use it for CC and regular shooting, not a safe queen. It is everything that you claim. I also ordered your custom shoulder holster rig. Thanks again for your sharing and yes it is well worth it!!!!
@@jaytay7989 They're plastic on literally all the models pretty much. First part i bought was a scalloped aluminum mainspring housing and an extra spring kit for my stainless ultra carry ii. Looks great and grips super well.
Nice review. I have 6 different Kimber's and they all shoot well. I also have 2 Colts, 3 Springfield's, 4 Remington's, 1 Rock River's and 2 Ruger's that I have accumulated over the last 11 years. All are 1911's and a few are combat sized. I think the Kimber's have improved over the last several years. Of those mentioned I shoot a few of them better than the rest. Their accuracy is reflected somewhat in their price but unless you are shooting in matches all the time I'm not sure the difference in accuracy is worth the difference in price. That is entirely up to you. One fellow at our club can out shoot me all the time and he has an older Colt. However life is too short to shoot an Ugly gun.
I bought an Ultra Raptor II just like yours except in black. But, I am having problems with mine. I have around 500 rounds through it so far. I keep having failure to feeds...about one in every mag to two mags. I'm also having the slide locking to the rear with one and two rounds left. I'm using Wilson Combat mags. I've tried multiple cleanings with Slip 2000 EWL and several Frog Lube treatments. Same problems. I'm thinking of messing with the extractor next.
+Joey Gonza Those guys at Colt really knew how to run a buffer. Unfortunately, that sort of skill is in short supply nowadays. Any moron can buff the snot out of a gun and make it shinny. It takes skill not to wipe out corners and lettering. That's why most guns nowadays are matte. It's easy to "blast and blue" a gun to a matte finish.
I have a Ultra Raptor II and after the 500 round break-in I started having FTF, but only with JHP. FMJ would feed fine. I was going to send it back to Kimber, but then decided to try installing a new Wolf recoil spring set. I installed #18 for the Kimber Ultra Carry and all all my issues with FTF and JHP were fixed. It is now functioning 100%. I think the tolerances are so tight on these guns that the factory spring goes weak early during the break-in period.
You are right on the Money! I have the Stainless Raptors in the 3" and 5" and love them. Accurate and never fail. I paid about $1050 new in 09 for each. You are correct they are going up in value! To me they are worth the money and will be passed down to my kids. I recently got the all black 4" E Class and love it as well. I generally don't buy such expensive guns but these were worth it! Thanks for the vids!
looked on your site, cool stuff. BTW I'm a financial adv as well. Which holster exactly would you suggest for my ultra raptor II-so many to try and narrow down without holding. either inside waist or external or both would be appreciated . regards
Can i ask a question. Im about to get a kimber pro elite. The 70s style. It was made before the mass production. Its a custom. Its priced at 1500. Made in 1997 i belive and 2500 made. I dont see anything on youtube on it. Do you know anything about them?
Kimber makes great 1911s. I bought a Custom TLE II about 3 years ago. I paid 1045.00 for it and am very happy.. Night sights, amazing trigger, its my favorite out of 7 handguns I own. At the time it was the best deal I could get in town on a 1911 with night sights. I think my next 1911 will be one of 3 commander size guns. Colt, Ruger or Remington are the ones I haven't looked at yet, I have looked at a Sig and it was so frigging nice I almost came home with it.
I own a few 1911's. My colt officers has always been my go to. Be it the range for the day, side carry while hunting and CCW when out and about. I bought my first Kimber 6 months ago. The Compact II S.S.. All I can say is WOW. Feels great. Shoots great. Balance if the pistol is great. It is now my new go to. yes the price is a little high, but the quality is top notch.
Hrey Tom.. Nice intro to a beauty of a gun. I concur on the price of the Kimbers! I have the Ultra Carry II, Stainless Pro Raptor II, and the wife has the Sapphire Ultra Carry II. Thanks for posting..
I've got a super carry ultra with some after market slim VZ super scoop grips and it's my EDC most of the time- living in Florida with a guayabera conceals easily - saw that same model at shoot straight in Apopka today it was tempting! Thanks for the video-Al
Kimbers are great guns. I only own one a kimber crimson pro carry ll. Are there cheaper 1911 that work great? Yes. But they don't have all the extras and I haven't seen a cheap lightweight 1911 yet. Great video and I agree with you 110 percent
I bought the Smith 1911SC E class and love it. My research turned up too many negatives on the Kimber. I think the E is a better looking gun and have never had a FTE on any brand of ammo and accuracy is great!
I too enjoy my 4" Raptor Pro. I wanted a 3" BUT, they are not all S.S. I am not a fan of Aluminum Alloy. I do not care how advanced they say the alloy is either. I too am very 'accurate' with my Kimber. Even more so then my 7.5" SBH Ruger. haha! My ONLY real complaint with my Kimber is the PaperClip Release. I cannot release the Spring to clean it. Any ideas on how to do that? I do NOT have the hand strength to release and then close that spring. Other than that I am very happy.
When it was my turn to join the 1911 club 5 years ago, I went with the Stainless Steel Pro TLE II LG in .45 cal. from Able Ammo. Great price and I couldn't be happier with my purchase. I went with 8 round magazines instead of the 7 round stock Tha came with the pistol. Accurate? I can consistently hit 7 out of 10 cans of soda pop @ 50 yards. That's all the accuracy I'm looking for and a lot more. 1911's are the best handgun model you can buy.
It is funny you say that, the Ultra Eclipse is the nicest finish on any gun I own. I have been carrying mine all week & I think...I do not need another gun!
I don't have any experience with Kimber firearms so I can't really comment about them. But I do have a Springfield Micro Compact Operator with 3" bushingless bull barrel, night sights, ambidextrous safety, carry bevel treatment, skeletonized hammer and trigger, an aluminum frame, and stainless slide. Love this gun more then any gun I own. I paid around $1300 for it in 2004.
+iBoos I just bought that one too, I love it ! Don't want it to be a safe gun, so I use it to practice with to get those first few love scratches, then I won't worry about it getting marked up. Wonderful pistol !
That's tearable. It's suggested that we field strip a new weapon and clean and lube slide rails, these guns seem to ship dry and very tight. Not saying you didn't but hope it helps.
What are the benefits/drawbacks between the EMP (3inch barrel) vs. EMP4 (4 inch barrel)? Are there differences in the feel of the two guns when fired? I prefer the fit of the 3 inch barrel gun and I am also considering the Kimber CDP ultra (what would be the better gun CDP or EMP) . Please enlighten me.
The longer the barrel , the better your accuracy will be. The bullet has more rifling and speed...but I love my 3" . You won't miss at 25' or less if you train.
Got a 1911 gun question for you. Without the magazine loaded in the well, does your slide lock in place when pulled all the way back or do you have to manually push up on the slide lock lever to lock it into place?
I have a Para P-12 with some custom work about $900.00 in it and it`s a awesome I love it. Kimber to me out priced them selves but you have to look at the work/custom work and yes that cost money. I had just joined the navy when they started getting known, they make good guns. I just don`t have that kind of cash to lay out at one time... Great video`s brother. Thank you
Tom I was wondering what your thoughts where on the Kimber Stainless Raptor.....the full size 5" barrel? I was always looking at the ultra's but after further research and stumbling along a Stainless Raptor....I fell in love....I tried to price it out with other gun stores but no one else has it or ever had that one! $1,450.00 pricie but beautiful......any thoughts? Love the channel I have my Florida permit and have a condo in Tarponsprings ........would love to shoot with you the next time I am down in the sunny state of Florida?
Browning designed the 1911 to be 5" go for it. BTW I know thew waters offshore of Tarpon Springs very well, I spent years boating there. Anclote Island is my favorite place on earth. I know the sponge docks from my high school years, etc. Stay in touch.
Tom thank you for getting back to me so quick.....I am going to pick it up in the morning....I am from NJ right now right across the river from Philadelphia.....saw you video with Pete at Cabela's. ..that was great....love your car and gun collection...stay it touch pal!
Actually I just bought a 3" Colt Defender that has bushingless barrel. Build quality is excellent and it shoots exceptionally well and easy to clean. Highly Recommended!!
IMO - I love my Kimber's I compete in various disciplines with them. I have never been let down by the gun it's self only by the shooter. For the price they are well worth the money. I have seen several other guns listed below only worth the 800 - 1000 range. Slide to frame fits are loose, gun rattles. I have yet to pick up a kimber that rattles. Trigger pull is a fair 4.5 pounds with a match grade barrel. Barrel lug fit as well as the bushing are also good. A+ rating for the price.
I looked at the less expensive little baby Kimber 45 cal., I wish I had a picture to show you, the gun was around $7-800? Anyway, the barrel to the slide, the top of the barrel was flush against the top of the slide hole, but the bottom of the barrel? Almost 2mm gap between the barrel and the slide, looked sloppy, creeping trigger, horrible. But the Custom Shop Raptor, the barrel to the slide hole fit was perfect, the trigger crisp, no creep, VERY NICE! But the cheaper Kimber, was crap.
Just bought i kimber 1911 stainless target II 9mm and have fired 400 shots with it without a single glitch. Only gripe is it came with only one 9 bullet mag. Bought a mec-gar 10 shot mag and both work very fine. The sights were a bit low for 25 meters when i got it but after a quick adjustment its right on! It makes me a much better shot than any cz75, browning high power or glock i have ever tried. Only gun i have tried that felt better was the sig sauer p220, but in Norway that one costs twice as much. Im extremely happy with my choice. Also .... it looks amazing!
What do you think about colt elite combat for 1400 , 3 inch barrel ? The colt is all stainless , frame , barrel, and slide which helps with recoil.. colt also has the dual recoil spring which helps recoil .. what does kimber do to help with recoil ?
To be honest a 1911 is a 1911, dual springs do not help with recoil. The 1911 is a 1911. Period.. No matter who makes it, the recoil is similar unless you have a different frame, which I did many videos on. I like one spring in my 1911's. Thanks
I don't like very much 1911 but have seen a Kimber some days ago in my gun shop and I was really impressed by the level of fit and finish. I don't know how it shoot but really like it!
As a follow up on previous post, I also had a Kimber ultra carry for awhile, and had zero malfunctions with it. Sold to a friend and as far as I know he's had no problems either. I have heard that Kimber's customer service has improved drastically lately too. Not to pick on one manufacturer, I've had bad guns from others too.
My father owns a old taurus pt99, works great, only changed the grips and the firing pin. bought it for $400 at an old local gun shop, and as worked for 15 years with over 40,000 rounds through it
I bought a kimber 1911 lw in 45acp the other day. I haven't fired it because it's a peice of crap. I cleaned it and function checked it and the detent for the thumb safety popped out. The plunger tube was not staked properly from the factory and not caught. Don't know if I'm going to get it fixed locally or send to kimber for who knows how long to get repaired
Nice points you make. I hear this common opinion from those who have bought kimber. They are a lot, but worth the price I am sure. Looking to buy a 1911 master carry with a crimson laser. I do alot of cowboy fast draw and I am very anxious to see how that laser works for me from the hip.
Good video. I love Kimbers. That being said, I traded a Kimber stainless TLE for a Sig Scorpion 1911. I think I like the Sig slightly better because it is slightly less expensive but the quality is identical in every aspect of the gun.
@@gutadin5 given time with the Sig, I grew apart from it. I preferred the feel of the Kimber. One thing I never got over with the Sig is the squared slide. I hated that.
You’re absolutely right I have the micro nine and I have the ultra carry both inch stainless and you can’t go wrong with the Kimber specially for the quality of the beautiful design and the price I’m with you 100% thank you for the great video
I bought my wife an Ultra Carry II, 45ACP, back in 2008. She loves it and says it's not too much to handle.
And after a dozen years, it's still her favorite pistol in the house.
I own a Kimber Super Carry 1911 stainless steel model. I fell in love with the gun from the moment I received it. However, I was experiencing continued feed problems after the break-in period. I had a local gunsmith take a look. He discovered that the feed spring was too stiff. He replaced the feed spring with a less stiff spring and now the gun functions great. I use Kimber magazines for my model 1911. I am a 17 year veteran Law Enforcement Officer.
Did you carry Kimber when you were In law enforcement?
How can you compare a Taurus "quality" to a Kimber. They are in two different leagues, thanks for the opinions.
Taurus makes a good dependable gun, but kimber is top notch
I've had quite a few pistols growing up silhouette shooting and my Kimber custom II ($1,100) is the smoothest most consistant hand gun I've ever had the pleasure of shooting!
Wish I could say the same about my kimber
@@nickgates4387 yeah, I've sold it since then. Didn't end up on the permanent list.
@@darkswim8686 that’s unfortunate… spending a thousand dollars on a pistol and then having to sell it makes you really feel stupid, speaking from experience.
@@nickgates4387 in the 90s and early 2000s it was nice to swap out firearms now and then but now, with values rising, even for "used", and scarcity,.....
2 yrs ago I bought a 590 shockwave brand new for $349, now used ones are selling for $400.
@@darkswim8686 yeah imagine buying 100,000
Rounds of 9mm now… waiting 5 years then selling it how much money you’d profit
I have never had a problem with any of my Kimbers, excellent quality. I made a bunch of range videos. I am limited to indoors & shooting paper. I think & most of the audience agrees that watching someone shoot paper indoors is boring. Thanks for your input.
I own both a Wilson CQB Elite and a Kimber Warrior. While I do consider the Wilson an absolute step above in craftsmanship ,and worth the price, the Kimber is fantastic value for the money. Yes, it is true about Wilson mags. I run them in all 1911's.
Kimber custom 2 was my first and still favorite. I have Glocks and Desert Eagles . Most accurate by far
I just bought my first Kimber stainless custom 2 in 45. No it wasnt $1400 it was just over $1000 out the door but so far very pleased with it!
I just bought a custom 2 two tone and I had no problems at all oh and I paid 637.00 out the door
Omar Nichols i bought my kimber stainless ii for 540 but i worked for a dealer at the time
way to make him feel like shit. My first pistol was a Custom II, bare bones black. 850$ out the door but I live in california.
Have you tried running over 250-300 rounds in one training session with it. I owned 4 kimbers and they are great right up until you get that many rounds through it. Then the malfunctions start. At least that’s been my experience with the 4 kimbers I owned. They started malfunctioning every single time after that many rounds
Rennie Smith the Raptors usually cost more and come from Kimbers custom shop. Most issues/malfunctions in any 1911 are due to the mags. I only run the Wilson combat mags. 👍
I’ve had my 1911 Kimber Ultra Raptor ll for a few years and I Don’t feel dressed without it on my hip, Best carry gun I have, Love it ❤️❤️
I never really cared for Kimbers much myself....until I took Toms advise and bought a lightly used 3 inch....wow! This lil pistol has never once failed to go bang when I pull the trigger. Its also very easy to conceal, and lets face it, if its not easy to carry, its gonna be at home in the safe when you need it. I like it so much I had it sent to Robar and got thier NP3 coating on it, and bought a set of Gorgeous Sanbar Stag no bark grips for it. This is the gun I carry 80 % of the time, tks Tom
10 Years. The price is still same you were spot on to the dot.
How they gonna say that when Springfield out here with forged parts and match grade barrel standard on their cheapest ones
I have a Stainless Pro Carry series 1 that I picked up used 5 years ago for about $700. I love that gun and I'm NEVER getting rid of it. It's beautiful and a sweet, sweet shooter.
It's been 6 years and it has not gone down in price.
Thank you
Nice review! I just bought my first Kimber, an Ultra CES, a Beautiful Cabelas exclusive! On sale for $699. Could not pass that up!
I was able to shoot a Kimber Raptor II today. It outperformed my Sig 226 that I have been shooting for the past 25 years. All about this Kimber felt odd to me but I shot the best groups I ever had. I am totally impressed !!
I had the the Sig 226 just hated the 40 cal.; I wanted the 9mm! I had shot a friends many times and loved it. Sold the Sig and got my Kimber Raptor ll 45acp and it’s now my favorite handgun I own. I carry it in Galco Miami Classic shoulder rig or Sig 938 9 mm “Rosewood” I’ve carried edc for a decade and 2 of the best shooting guns I own. I have glock, beretta, & ruger.#Kimber# Raptor#1911#45acp@ Billy Carpenter
@@bondalero0074 Thank you, I'm leaning to do about the same as you did, buy a Kimber in 9mm and sell off my Sig 226. I've had Colts and Springfields in .45 but I' smaller framed and prefer the 9mm round.
Couldnt agree more! Kimber is by far the best mass produced factory 1911! Super light trigger pull! Amazing accuracy! Unbelievable resets on target! And it comes with lifetime warrenty!? Plus you can find them on sale at some gun shops for under 1k! I bought mine with night sights, ergo rubber grips, and an under barrel rail all for $999.99! If your looking to buy a 1911! Get a kimber!
Thanks for the video. Your use of adjectives and nouns are what made me choose this Kimber over the Springfield compact 1911 (.45). Besides the fact that Kimber is made in the USA and not Brazil (respect to Brazil).
I own a Kimber Ultra Carry II, only issue is you get one (1) magazine for $1,200 . But the gun Runs like a Beast !
Yeah that is kind of cheap, I bought one today, and I ask (just one mag) Nothing extra in the case either !
@@waynecastleman1363 underneath the foam there should have been stickers, a pull through chamber lock, extra fiber optic inserts for the front sight, the take-down tool, owners manual, and an NRA sign up card. You sure your gun was brand new?
I love the 3" Kimbers, thanks!
Just curious have you had issues with the 3" Kimbers and feed problems? I have an ultra carry 2 and love the way it shoots but it has feed problems every 30-40 rounds.
@@dvlpup27 Need to break her in.
I love Kimbers!
Just bought two NIB ultras on Gunbroker... one eclipse, one super carry. Cannot wait to get them in tomorrow and head to the range... Thanks for the video.
Got my BNIB Kimber Ultra Carry II in last week. Got to shoot it some yesterday. Ran just over 100 rounds through it. 50 JHP( Sig and Winchester) and 50 Federal FMJ. All 230 grain. The last round from the first magazine failed to feed but otherwise it ran perfectly. It weighs in at 25 oz and felt great in the hand with superbly comfortable shooting. Shoots accurately and well. I LOVE this gun. Kimber recommends putting 500 rounds through it for break in and I will hit that mark before I carry it but I am already confident that this will be my EDC for years to come.
Thank you for your previous insight to Kimber! I got a SS Raptor Ultra for 1249.00 in an online auction 2 weeks ago. Have run 300 rounds without a hiccup. I treasure this pistol and intend to use it for CC and regular shooting, not a safe queen. It is everything that you claim. I also ordered your custom shoulder holster rig. Thanks again for your sharing and yes it is well worth it!!!!
I recently bought a 45 cal. tle2 ss and love love love it. She is the most accurate pistol I have ever shot.
Beautiful pistol. Is the main spring housing steel or plastic?
@@jaytay7989 They're plastic on literally all the models pretty much. First part i bought was a scalloped aluminum mainspring housing and an extra spring kit for my stainless ultra carry ii. Looks great and grips super well.
Nice review. I have 6 different Kimber's and they all shoot well. I also have 2 Colts, 3 Springfield's, 4 Remington's, 1 Rock River's and 2 Ruger's that I have accumulated over the last 11 years. All are 1911's and a few are combat sized. I think the Kimber's have improved over the last several years. Of those mentioned I shoot a few of them better than the rest. Their accuracy is reflected somewhat in their price but unless you are shooting in matches all the time I'm not sure the difference in accuracy is worth the difference in price. That is entirely up to you. One fellow at our club can out shoot me all the time and he has an older Colt. However life is too short to shoot an Ugly gun.
I bought an Ultra Raptor II just like yours except in black. But, I am having problems with mine. I have around 500 rounds through it so far. I keep having failure to feeds...about one in every mag to two mags. I'm also having the slide locking to the rear with one and two rounds left. I'm using Wilson Combat mags. I've tried multiple cleanings with Slip 2000 EWL and several Frog Lube treatments. Same problems. I'm thinking of messing with the extractor next.
I just wish more companies would go back to bluing. NOTHING LIKE A COLT BLUING JOB !
+Don ald
I remember the old Python in deep blue. It sure was pretty.
+Joey Gonza Those guys at Colt really knew how to run a buffer. Unfortunately, that sort of skill is in short supply nowadays.
Any moron can buff the snot out of a gun and make it shinny. It takes skill not to wipe out corners and lettering. That's why most guns nowadays are matte. It's easy to "blast and blue" a gun to a matte finish.
John4566442
Man, that did not even occur to me.
Pretty sad .
Don ald I have a friend that sanded down a black mate and it came out blue
Man, I love your channel bro'. I find all of your vids extremely entertaining and educational. Keep up the good work. Very informative.
Your comment means a lot to me. Thank you, Tom
I have a Ultra Raptor II and after the 500 round break-in I started having FTF, but only with JHP. FMJ would feed fine. I was going to send it back to Kimber, but then decided to try installing a new Wolf recoil spring set. I installed #18 for the Kimber Ultra Carry and all all my issues with FTF and JHP were fixed. It is now functioning 100%. I think the tolerances are so tight on these guns that the factory spring goes weak early during the break-in period.
So far there are 333 non-kimber owners that gave a dislike. Just purchased me a raptor and i love it. Nice vid!
Thanks! 👍
You are right on the Money! I have the Stainless Raptors in the 3" and 5" and love them. Accurate and never fail. I paid about $1050 new in 09 for each. You are correct they are going up in value! To me they are worth the money and will be passed down to my kids.
I recently got the all black 4" E Class and love it as well. I generally don't buy such expensive guns but these were worth it!
Thanks for the vids!
Hi Tom, What are you thoughts on the Kimber custom 2? I heard these are the cheapest of the Kimbers.
The lighting really shines off that baby, beautiful gun... Like a Colt Python, it's a thing of beauty, and purely American! Cool video.
looked on your site, cool stuff. BTW I'm a financial adv as well. Which holster exactly would you suggest for my ultra raptor II-so many to try and narrow down without holding. either inside waist or external or both would be appreciated .
regards
Dude you have a huge awsome collection. I have totally fallen in with 1911s and you got some nice ones man. I love youre appreciation.
Can i ask a question. Im about to get a kimber pro elite. The 70s style. It was made before the mass production. Its a custom. Its priced at 1500. Made in 1997 i belive and 2500 made. I dont see anything on youtube on it. Do you know anything about them?
I like it, how's the recoil for follow up shots ?
The Kimbers are nice, congratulations
I feel like if this video was half the length, I would have enjoyed it more. 8 minutes is an eternity on TH-cam!
Awesome gun! Have you had a chance to see the Caracal 9 mm yet? I was just wondering what your take on it was. Thx.
I am getting the ultra carry II , Kimber 45 ACP what do you think of this pistol its the two tone I'm sure its just as good in quality
Kimber makes great 1911s. I bought a Custom TLE II about 3 years ago. I paid 1045.00 for it and am very happy.. Night sights, amazing trigger, its my favorite out of 7 handguns I own. At the time it was the best deal I could get in town on a 1911 with night sights. I think my next 1911 will be one of 3 commander size guns. Colt, Ruger or Remington are the ones I haven't looked at yet, I have looked at a Sig and it was so frigging nice I almost came home with it.
Good video. My father-in-law has this exact gun so the answer to your question of is it worth the price is"no". It's worth more that the price.
Scott Person qaqq
I am glad you are happy with your new Kimber.
I own a few 1911's. My colt officers has always been my go to. Be it the range for the day, side carry while hunting and CCW when out and about. I bought my first Kimber 6 months ago. The Compact II S.S.. All I can say is WOW. Feels great. Shoots great. Balance if the pistol is great. It is now my new go to. yes the price is a little high, but the quality is top notch.
Hrey Tom.. Nice intro to a beauty of a gun. I concur on the price of the Kimbers! I have the Ultra Carry II, Stainless Pro Raptor II, and the wife has the Sapphire Ultra Carry II. Thanks for posting..
I've got a super carry ultra with some after market slim VZ super scoop grips and it's my EDC most of the time- living in Florida with a guayabera conceals easily - saw that same model at shoot straight in Apopka today it was tempting! Thanks for the video-Al
Kimbers are great guns. I only own one a kimber crimson pro carry ll. Are there cheaper 1911 that work great? Yes. But they don't have all the extras and I haven't seen a cheap lightweight 1911 yet. Great video and I agree with you 110 percent
I am in love with the Ed Brown 1911 Special Forces model. So beautiful!
Just bought the Kimber CDP ultra carry II and am wondering if the Eclipse is a smaller weapon?
great vid. have several Kimbers, one has at least 15,000 rounds and shoots like new. definitely worth the price
you really do have the best camera and lighting of all the reviewers Sir. take pride in that.
I bought the Smith 1911SC E class and love it. My research turned up too many negatives on the Kimber. I think the E is a better looking gun and have never had a FTE on any brand of ammo and accuracy is great!
I too enjoy my 4" Raptor Pro.
I wanted a 3" BUT, they are not all S.S.
I am not a fan of Aluminum Alloy. I do not care how advanced they say the alloy is either.
I too am very 'accurate' with my Kimber. Even more so then my 7.5" SBH Ruger. haha!
My ONLY real complaint with my Kimber is the PaperClip Release.
I cannot release the Spring to clean it.
Any ideas on how to do that? I do NOT have the hand strength to release and then close that spring.
Other than that I am very happy.
Do you know if the full size raptor have a full length guide rod?
When it was my turn to join the 1911 club 5 years ago, I went with the Stainless Steel Pro TLE II LG in .45 cal. from Able Ammo. Great price and I couldn't be happier with my purchase. I went with 8 round magazines instead of the 7 round stock Tha came with the pistol. Accurate? I can consistently hit 7 out of 10 cans of soda pop @ 50 yards. That's all the accuracy I'm looking for and a lot more. 1911's are the best handgun model you can buy.
Tom what holster would you use for the Kimber Stainless Raptor II? Thanks for your help!
This one: www.armoryexpressoutlet.com/Improved-Belt-Slide-II-Holster_p_433.html 12 weeks to custom make it. You will have it for life.
It is funny you say that, the Ultra Eclipse is the nicest finish on any gun I own. I have been carrying mine all week & I think...I do not need another gun!
I don't have any experience with Kimber firearms so I can't really comment about them. But I do have a Springfield Micro Compact Operator with 3" bushingless bull barrel, night sights, ambidextrous safety, carry bevel treatment, skeletonized hammer and trigger, an aluminum frame, and stainless slide. Love this gun more then any gun I own. I paid around $1300 for it in 2004.
Hey Tom, new to the channel, great review on the beautiful Kimber 1911. How would you compare it to the SW1911SC?
I purchased this 3" Kimber from Shoot Straight!
I have a Kimber Pro CDP II from the Kimber Custom Shop. Love it. Starting to get tiny rust spot on the gun. any way to remove that?
iBoos Ballistol pus 0000 steel wool here: www.homedepot.com/p/Homax-4-0-12-Pad-Steel-Wool-Super-Fine-Grade-10120000/100212006
Weapons Education awesome, thank you so much!
iBoos Let the spot soak in Ballistol overnight first
+iBoos I just bought that one too, I love it ! Don't want it to be a safe gun, so I use it to practice with to get those first few love scratches, then I won't worry about it getting marked up. Wonderful pistol !
+Weapons Education Maybe a dab of CLR first, let sit for a couple of hours... Then Breakfree Collector... a much better rust killer than Ballistol.
Just got my first Kimber..and had the thing hardlock the very first bullet I loaded..
That's tearable. It's suggested that we field strip a new weapon and clean and lube slide rails, these guns seem to ship dry and very tight. Not saying you didn't but hope it helps.
Man your videos are awesome! Nice 1911s
I like the Taurus Judge. The cylinder is "tight" but I like it & use it a lot on my property, thanks
Do you know the quality of zebrawood? It goes back to 1773.
What are the benefits/drawbacks between the EMP (3inch barrel) vs. EMP4 (4 inch barrel)? Are there differences in the feel of the two guns when fired? I prefer the fit of the 3 inch barrel gun and I am also considering the Kimber CDP ultra (what would be the better gun CDP or EMP) . Please enlighten me.
The longer the barrel , the better your accuracy will be. The bullet has more rifling and speed...but I love my 3" . You won't miss at 25' or less if you train.
I'm buying this same gun and I personally think for what I'm getting it's under priced I will have this Kimber for life...Great video by the way..
You are correct,
Got a 1911 gun question for you. Without the magazine loaded in the well, does your slide lock in place when pulled all the way back or do you have to manually push up on the slide lock lever to lock it into place?
No; without an empty magazine in the gun, the slide will not automatically lock to the rear. You'll have to manually push the slide lock up
What are your thoughts on the Kimber pro crimson 11 .45 ?
I just bought my kimber eclipse ultra 2 $1300
What can the Kimber .45 or Ed Brown .45 do that my Rock Island .45 that cost me $465 ( out the door ) do?
I have a Para P-12 with some custom work about $900.00 in it and it`s a awesome I love it. Kimber to me out priced them selves but you have to look at the work/custom work and yes that cost money. I had just joined the navy when they started getting known, they make good guns. I just don`t have that kind of cash to lay out at one time... Great video`s brother. Thank you
Tom I was wondering what your thoughts where on the Kimber Stainless Raptor.....the full size 5" barrel?
I was always looking at the ultra's but after further research and stumbling along a Stainless Raptor....I fell in love....I tried to price it out with other gun stores but no one else has it or ever had that one! $1,450.00 pricie but beautiful......any thoughts? Love the channel I have my Florida permit and have a condo in Tarponsprings ........would love to shoot with you the next time I am down in the sunny state of Florida?
Browning designed the 1911 to be 5" go for it. BTW I know thew waters offshore of Tarpon Springs very well, I spent years boating there. Anclote Island is my favorite place on earth. I know the sponge docks from my high school years, etc. Stay in touch.
Tom thank you for getting back to me so quick.....I am going to pick it up in the morning....I am from NJ right now right across the river from Philadelphia.....saw you video with Pete at Cabela's. ..that was great....love your car and gun collection...stay it touch pal!
Actually I just bought a 3" Colt Defender that has bushingless barrel. Build quality is excellent and it shoots exceptionally well and easy to clean. Highly Recommended!!
Thanks for the informative video Tom. I am subscribed to your channel and love it. I have watched quite a few of your videos. Keep up the good work.
Thanks for your support.
IMO - I love my Kimber's I compete in various disciplines with them. I have never been let down by the gun it's self only by the shooter. For the price they are well worth the money. I have seen several other guns listed below only worth the 800 - 1000 range. Slide to frame fits are loose, gun rattles. I have yet to pick up a kimber that rattles. Trigger pull is a fair 4.5 pounds with a match grade barrel. Barrel lug fit as well as the bushing are also good. A+ rating for the price.
I looked at the less expensive little baby Kimber 45 cal., I wish I had a picture to show you, the gun was around $7-800? Anyway, the barrel to the slide, the top of the barrel was flush against the top of the slide hole, but the bottom of the barrel? Almost 2mm gap between the barrel and the slide, looked sloppy, creeping trigger, horrible. But the Custom Shop Raptor, the barrel to the slide hole fit was perfect, the trigger crisp, no creep, VERY NICE! But the cheaper Kimber, was crap.
Just bought i kimber 1911 stainless target II 9mm and have fired 400 shots with it without a single glitch. Only gripe is it came with only one 9 bullet mag. Bought a mec-gar 10 shot mag and both work very fine. The sights were a bit low for 25 meters when i got it but after a quick adjustment its right on! It makes me a much better shot than any cz75, browning high power or glock i have ever tried. Only gun i have tried that felt better was the sig sauer p220, but in Norway that one costs twice as much. Im extremely happy with my choice. Also .... it looks amazing!
I'm about to get a 1911 and I'm looking into Colt, Sig and Springfeild. Would you recommend a Kimber above those?
Good God no.
What do you think about colt elite combat for 1400 , 3 inch barrel ? The colt is all stainless , frame , barrel, and slide which helps with recoil.. colt also has the dual recoil spring which helps recoil .. what does kimber do to help with recoil ?
To be honest a 1911 is a 1911, dual springs do not help with recoil. The 1911 is a 1911. Period.. No matter who makes it, the recoil is similar unless you have a different frame, which I did many videos on. I like one spring in my 1911's. Thanks
Weapons Education wondering if I can get this in stainless steel frame vs aluminum . Colt elite combat is all stainless
Um, how does Les Baer compare? :)
+Gabriel Thompson
The Les Baer is a very well made gun. Exceptionally tight in fit. The internal parts are high quality, with a lot of hand fitting.
I'd love to have one...much less 12 or 13! It's official, Tom's a baller!
I don't like very much 1911 but have seen a Kimber some days ago in my gun shop and I was really impressed by the level of fit and finish. I don't know how it shoot but really like it!
Ever have any problems with your officer sized 19911's,related to the shorter barrel,and slide length? Thanks in advance......
No, just keep them clean
runs better than the full size, I think its because the the officer's model has a built in feed ramp, all of the others do not.
As a follow up on previous post, I also had a Kimber ultra carry for awhile, and had zero malfunctions with it. Sold to a friend and as far as I know he's had no problems either. I have heard that Kimber's customer service has improved drastically lately too. Not to pick on one manufacturer, I've had bad guns from others too.
I have a Kimber Raptor 2 full size on order and I cannot wait to get my hands on it and be able to put some rounds down range.
My father owns a old taurus pt99, works great, only changed the grips and the firing pin. bought it for $400 at an old local gun shop, and as worked for 15 years with over 40,000 rounds through it
I bought a kimber 1911 lw in 45acp the other day. I haven't fired it because it's a peice of crap. I cleaned it and function checked it and the detent for the thumb safety popped out. The plunger tube was not staked properly from the factory and not caught. Don't know if I'm going to get it fixed locally or send to kimber for who knows how long to get repaired
Some people collect stamps & coins, I collect guns:) Thanks, I appreciate your comment.
I am glad you like your new Kimber.
Thank you for the kind comment.
You got a great deal on that Kimber
what kind of barrel did it have, i missed it
i have a kimber 1911, i can't complain it shoots beautifully, and looks it too.
Nice points you make. I hear this common opinion from those who have bought kimber. They are a lot, but worth the price I am sure. Looking to buy a 1911 master carry with a crimson laser. I do alot of cowboy fast draw and I am very anxious to see how that laser works for me from the hip.
Good video. I love Kimbers. That being said, I traded a Kimber stainless TLE for a Sig Scorpion 1911. I think I like the Sig slightly better because it is slightly less expensive but the quality is identical in every aspect of the gun.
how you compare your Sig scorpion to Kimber TLE?
@@gutadin5 given time with the Sig, I grew apart from it. I preferred the feel of the Kimber. One thing I never got over with the Sig is the squared slide. I hated that.
@@swango1 is it true that kimbers had too many issues ?
my Kimber compact cdp 2 is unreal. the quality is superb! never jams, nice and tight, and accurate. great 1911.
You’re absolutely right I have the micro nine and I have the ultra carry both inch stainless and you can’t go wrong with the Kimber specially for the quality of the beautiful design and the price I’m with you 100% thank you for the great video
I have a Royal II I got for $895 12 years ago. It blows my Glock and Springfield away and I really like them That Ultra Raptor II is a beauty.