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Suppressors 3" Kimber 1911 as CC Weapon

F

Fisky

Sergeant
Full Member
Minuteman
Apr 6, 2010
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Jamestown, ND
#1
I've decided to sell my 4"XD as I don't find my self carrying it nearly as much as I should. I want something lighter and more compact.

I've wanted a Kimber for quite some time. I keep telling my self a 3" Kimber would be a perfect CC weapon, and that the purchase would be justified. I'm looking at the Ultra TLE II and Tactical Ultra II.

Also giving slight consideration the the Sig P239 40. But I know I'd be much happier with the Kimber.

Somebody push me over that proverbial cliff so I can make a decision.

Thanks.
 
#4
Re: 3" Kimber 1911 as CC Weapon

for a 1911 I would want a 4" at least. Sig makes a great gun, but I don't know if a 4" kimber cdp or pro carry might be better for you. The 1911 will more than likely be slimmer than your previous XD.
 
#5
Re: 3" Kimber 1911 as CC Weapon

So is it the general concensus that 3" 1911's just suck ass or what? I will admit I'm an idiot when it comes to pistols. So please clue me in a little more will ya?

Thanks
 
#6
Re: 3" Kimber 1911 as CC Weapon

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Quote:</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I want something lighter and more compact.</div></div>
Walther P99C: compact, light, reliable, and well designed.
 
#7
Re: 3" Kimber 1911 as CC Weapon

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Fisky</div><div class="ubbcode-body">So is it the general concensus that 3" 1911's just suck ass or what? I will admit I'm an idiot when it comes to pistols. So please clue me in a little more will ya?

Thanks </div></div>

There are lots that have issues but you can't condemn all 3" guns. i carry a 4" but my wife has about 4k FMJ rounds and another 450 JHPs through her EMP so I'd say it's fine and I've seen a few Ultras and Micros hit double digit round counts without any more issues than 4-5" guns.

The trick is to know that you COULD have more issues with the shorter guns and be prepared to work with it and put enough rounds through it before you carry it to make you confident that it will work when you need it. If you want to up the odds that it will work right out of the box or you don't have the patience to deal with potential issues then go with the longer barrel length.
 
#8
Re: 3" Kimber 1911 as CC Weapon

My SA Micro will run 100% even limp wristed. DesertHK even saw me at the range shooting it upside down weak handed for a few mags. And scar accurate for what I din't expect to be an accurate pistol...

They have a higher number of unreliable reports than full size 1911's, but with a little tweaking they can be very good.
 
#9
Re: 3" Kimber 1911 as CC Weapon

If you are going to go bigger than an Officer's keep in mind that the grip is the hardest part to conceal, not the barrel length. SA nad Kimber both made great models that had Officer length grips and Commander length slides-best size in a carry 1911 out there (in my opinion).
 
#10
Re: 3" Kimber 1911 as CC Weapon

I carry a Springfield 3" 1911 everyday as my EDC in a VM2. I love it and it has been 100% no failures what so ever. With that said I was also prepared for the pistol not to be 100% when I got it knowing that the little 1911's are just a little more finicky. So far mine has proven as reliable as my fullsize 1911s.
 
#11
Re: 3" Kimber 1911 as CC Weapon

Despite reports of reliability issues with 3l kimber's and springfields, I've just personally not seen much despite having handled shot a couple of dozen or so of these pistols. And personally, I'd rather shoot a Kimber Ultra with an aluminum frame than a lightweight 4-4.25" 1911 variant as the recoil systems seem less prone to beating the crap out of the shooter.
 
#12
Re: 3" Kimber 1911 as CC Weapon

I have a Kimber Tactical Ultra II, it has been totally reliable through well over 1000 rounds. Carry it with Federal 230 JHP. Two friends have the same guns and have perfect reliability also. The three of us even compete against each other at a local steel plate match with these little guns. You can also get a replacement basepad for a wilson 8 round mag which fills in the gap where your little finger goes. Then you have 8+1 if you want, stock Kimber msgazine is 7 rounds.
 
#13
Re: 3" Kimber 1911 as CC Weapon

Daily carry STI Escort. Alloy frame, nice and light. I often forget that it is even there. Have run over a 1000 rounds through it and not hiccups.
 
#14
Re: 3" Kimber 1911 as CC Weapon

I carried a Kimber ultra II for about 2 years before going to a Springfield Micro Compact. Both were and are 100% and I would trust my life to either. As with any 1911..... Shoot it....tune it as necessary and it will not let you down. Never got the 3" suck mentality. Maybe my experience is just different than everybody else. I have several 1911 s from 3-5" Wilson,Kimber, and Springfield and I xcarry the 3" guns exclusively.
 
#16
Re: 3" Kimber 1911 as CC Weapon

I have a 4" Kimber Custom Compact (mid-90's original version) and it carries really easy. It's thin, well balanced and plenty of grip and I have fairly big hands. I can draw it just as fast as my 5" 1911 but is more comfortable when riding in cars IWB. I do plenty of target shooting with it too b/c it is suprisingly accurate for a 4" bbl. 6+1 .45 is all I need. (but I carry a spare just in case)
 
#17
Re: 3" Kimber 1911 as CC Weapon

My off duty cary is a SA Champion Operator, 4" alum. frame with a EGW guide rod replacement and VS Grips.I carry it in a SOB Holster and I am easliy able to conceal it.
 
#18
Re: 3" Kimber 1911 as CC Weapon

Both of the choices are guns that I would avoid.

Kimber 1911's are typically problematic anyway (http://10-8performance.blogspot.com/2010/07/kimber-warrior.html), and 3" guns are the worst. (http://forum.m1911.org/showthread.php?t=54403)

I've worked for 2 Kimber dealers (both "Master Dealers"). At the first, we stopped carrying their guns because they were having too many issues and it wasn't worth the headache of sending such a high % back. After enough people bitched, they were brought back for sale again. They seem to have gotten a little bit better, but I still won't ever buy one.

I've yet to see a single sub 4.25" 1911 run to my expetations (this includes working as a Range Officer for years where I supervised like .75M rounds go through predominantly pistols).

Micro 1911's are simply too much of a headache. I know of no-one else with more experience shooting folks with 1911's, nor anyone else who knows more about 1911's than LAV, who recommends sub-4.25" variants.
http://link.brightcove.com/services/player/bcpid1155316168?bctid=33510888001

As for SIG, their current quality control is largely missing. They've released guns with frames so out of spec that mags wouldn't fit (nor would holsters), they've delivered guns to Federal LE dept's completely missing extractors (http://www.firearmstrainingandtactics.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1006), and their most recent abortion (the P250) was such a piece of shit that it was pulled out of service by the only Federal agency which adopted (which never tested it in the caliber they bought it in) and the only agency to test them in .40S&W yanked them from their trials because they wouldn't run (http://www.gao.gov/decisions/bidpro/4023393.htm).

IF you can find an old German made P239, it should run like a top for you. If you are talking about a new production SIG, skip them.

As for pistols in that same general size which should be excellent performers...look at the Gen 3 (or RTF2) Glock 19, the M&P45 compact, the HK P2000 (and P2000 SK), the HK45c, and possibly even the Glock 26/27 and the M&P 9/40c.

 
#19
Re: 3" Kimber 1911 as CC Weapon

3" Kimber for me, 3" Springfield for the GF. Both better than 1K rounds reliable. As stated above, I too have had more issues with my full size than these shortys. YMMV I guess.
 
#20
Re: 3" Kimber 1911 as CC Weapon

I own a 4" Kimber TLE RLII Pro and I love it. Shoots great. My ex-wife shot my Kimber and within a fairly short period of time went and purchased herself a Kimber Ultra Raptor II. Shot great every time... no problem. She carried it as her CC.
 
#21
Re: 3" Kimber 1911 as CC Weapon

Went to a gun show today and had the opportunity to take a closer look at the two pistols I was considering. I know I'm not going with the P239. Nice pistol, but just doesn't feel great in my hand. A 3" Kimber does feel great, but the problems some of you mentioned are cause for concern I think. Also, the dealer I'm going through can't seem to find any of the models I'm looking for. Apparently they are behind on production?

Also had the opportunity to pick up a Walther PPS. Loved it; how it felt, size and weight, but it's DA only, and I'm kind of wanting a SA/DA at this point.

Looked online for a bit here and came across the HK P2000 SK, V3. How is this pistol? I see a couple of you mentioned the HKs. It really looks like a good candidate.
 
#23
Re: 3" Kimber 1911 as CC Weapon

After reviewing your original post.. if the 4" is too big.. and too heavy.. you really aren't going to be getting lighter with 1911 in any form. 1911's are heavy guns to start with. Cutting them down does help but they will never compare to a simialr size polymer gun. If your polymer 4" is too heavy.. your next step down would have to be to a smaller polymer gun. In that case I would say get a G26/G27 (or simaler size from Springfield or S&W). Or.. think more about what you really want our of your next gun. Don't rush into it, as it sounds like you aren't really sure what you want yet.

Good luck in whatever path you choose.
 
#24
Re: 3" Kimber 1911 as CC Weapon

I use a kimber Ultra Carry II for when I can carry out of state. For the price you're not really gaining much with the tactical ultra as you can get an ultra carry for a lot less with night sights. The gun shoots lights out and will shoot one ragged hole easily. I don't find recoil to be a problem at all and my girlfriend actually prefers shooting it rather than my P229 in 40. Reliability has also been good I haven't had it jam in the past 2000 rounds I've put through it.

The big downside to this gun is field stripping it. The dual spring recoil assembly requires this small special tool that looks like a "L" shaped paperclip. If your lucky the hole in the guide rod where its supposed to go will be diagonal so you can slip it in without the dustcover being in the way. In my case its perfectly vertical so I have to play with it to get it in. Getting the slide stop lever in after a routine cleaning is a pain in the ass. This step is not problem on my other 1911's but its a bit of a chore with the Ultra Kimber because its smaller and it has a stronger spring.

If I had to choose between the 239 and the Ultra I'd still go with the Ultra even with sigs being stupid reliable and easy to maintain. The ultra just carried better for me and I shoot a lot better with it.
 
#25
Re: 3" Kimber 1911 as CC Weapon

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Fisky</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Went to a gun show today and had the opportunity to take a closer look at the two pistols I was considering. I know I'm not going with the P239. Nice pistol, but just doesn't feel great in my hand. A 3" Kimber does feel great, but the problems some of you mentioned are cause for concern I think. Also, the dealer I'm going through can't seem to find any of the models I'm looking for. Apparently they are behind on production?

Also had the opportunity to pick up a Walther PPS. Loved it; how it felt, size and weight, but it's DA only, and I'm kind of wanting a SA/DA at this point.

Looked online for a bit here and came across the HK P2000 SK, V3. How is this pistol? I see a couple of you mentioned the HKs. It really looks like a good candidate. </div></div>

Kimber is always behind on guns (so is Glock, and many other manufacturers).

Why do you want a DA/SA gun?

The P2000's are good guns. The P2k series is really where they started designing guns that fit the hand well. Before that series, they all pretty much felt like bricks.

Were it me, I'd look at the LEM option. I hated it at first, but as time has gone on, I think it's a great system. You still have a healthy bit of pre-travel (which is easier to perceive than weight when you're amped up), the reset it short, your trigger pull is consistent, and you can swap the springs around to give it a heavier/lighter pull.

I've shot pretty much all of the LEM configurations (the stock 6lb one, the light weight V1 version on a P30L(S), and the "Todd Green Special" spring combo on Todd's test HK45. All were extremely easy to shoot quickly and accurately. http://pistol-training.com/archives/3172

I would consider the P2k SK to be a more reliable pistol than the G26/27, the M&P 9c/40c, or the XD-9SC/40SC. It's just a safer bet.

Weight, capacity, size, reliability...it should trump the P239 or "Ultra" Kimbers in everything (possibly even price).
 
#26
Re: 3" Kimber 1911 as CC Weapon

I've got a Kimber CDP Officers model. It runs fine now, but it took a fair amount of work to get it there. I wouldn't get another kimber again unless it was free. I have shot 3 SA Micro 1911's 2 straight out of the box and all 3 ran without a hiccup. I absolutely Love the 1911 platform. If I were you I'd get something with the Ed Brown Bobtail or a full size frame so that you could have it done later. It really makes it print a lot less and is very comfortable to shoot. Do yourself a big favor though and forget the Kimber
 
#27
Re: 3" Kimber 1911 as CC Weapon

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Fisky</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Went to a gun show today and had the opportunity to take a closer look at the two pistols I was considering. I know I'm not going with the P239. Nice pistol, but just doesn't feel great in my hand.</div></div>

It's better in the hand with Hogue grips, but it isn't much of a weight and size savings over a P229, which is one SIG that I tend to favor. And for those reading along, avoid it in short trigger set-up unless you've got hands like a Barbie doll and no other options.

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Fisky</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Also had the opportunity to pick up a Walther PPS. Loved it; how it felt, size and weight, but it's DA only, and I'm kind of wanting a SA/DA at this point.</div></div>

Too much recoil perceived through the back of the grip for me, and it felt like a skinny, nasty brick. All it has going for it IMHO is skinny. Don't let DAO be a deal-killer; some of them aren't too bad to shoot.

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Fisky</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Looked online for a bit here and came across the HK P2000 SK, V3. How is this pistol? I see a couple of you mentioned the HKs. It really looks like a good candidate. </div></div>

I had a DAO (v1, was it? v2, see above comment) model that shot like an extension of my hand, but I couldn't get used to the magazine release. If that release had been a better fit for me, I would never have gotten rid of it. That might be your winner.

What I've seen tells me that 3" 1911s are hit or miss, and then only with tuning and experimentation. Range, yes, but carry, no.
 
#28
Re: 3" Kimber 1911 as CC Weapon

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Hawk45</div><div class="ubbcode-body">After reviewing your original post.. if the 4" is too big.. and too heavy.. you really aren't going to be getting lighter with 1911 in any form. 1911's are heavy guns to start with. Cutting them down does help but they will never compare to a simialr size polymer gun. If your polymer 4" is too heavy.. your next step down would have to be to a smaller polymer gun. </div></div>

Actually, if weight is an issue you can go to an alloy gun. The 4" Kimber I carry is 28oz compared to 31oz for my Polymer compact. I believe my wife's EMP is about 25oz.
 
#29
Re: 3" Kimber 1911 as CC Weapon

I've got a Kimber series 1 in 3"

It has about 3K failure free rounds through it.

I've also had good luck with short springfields.

as long as you are willing to shot it 500 or 1000 rounds before carrying it I would got for the shorty if you really want one.

If you are looking for out of the box comfort, go with a sig/glock/M&P/XD etc...
 
#30
Re: 3" Kimber 1911 as CC Weapon

The shorter the 1911 the harder it is to get it to run perfect, partly because it was not designed to be a 3" gun, and partly because with the 3" barrel in many loads you are not getting anywhere near 100% burn, which means the right spring for proper function with one load may not be with another. The longer the barrel the less of an issue that is.

That's not to say it can't be done I've seen a few 3" guns that run very well, however I see more issues the shorter you go. I'm also guessing that as the micro 1911's are getting more popular that companies are getting better at building them reliably. Typically in the 1911's if you talk to the custom smith's most won't recommend going shorter than 4-4.25" if you want better concealability the bobtail frame helps a lot. Also depending on your frame, a shorter barrel is not always more comfortable to carry, I know a couple guys that tried carrying short barrels and the end of the holster/barrel sat on their hip bone just right and was much less comfortable for them than carrying a 5" 1911.

Most people never put enough rounds through their carry gun to know if it's reliable or not anyway. If my sidearm won't run 1000 rounds in a single session, no cleaning, without an issue of FMJ to start, it gets worked on till it does, once it will do that it needs to run 500 rounds of carry ammo under the same conditions without issue before I consider it reliable. Typically in the guns I've had that will complete those hurdles they rarely have issues down the road. The ones I've had that had issues here and there would never pass that initial test.

 
#31
Re: 3" Kimber 1911 as CC Weapon

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Gavin S.</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I've never heard of a 3" 1911 being reliable enough to trust your life with. I'd go with the Sig if I were you. </div></div>

Because you haven't heard of a 3" 1911 that is reliable, it must not be so.

Clearly, this indicates that buying a double action pistol is somehow a substitute.

Seriously, do people even read this crap before they post?
 
#32
Re: 3" Kimber 1911 as CC Weapon

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Downzero</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Gavin S.</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I've never heard of a 3" 1911 being reliable enough to trust your life with. I'd go with the Sig if I were you. </div></div>

Because you haven't heard of a 3" 1911 that is reliable, it must not be so.

Clearly, this indicates that buying a double action pistol is somehow a substitute.

Seriously, do people even read this crap before they post? </div></div>

Did you read his post? He said he was considering the Sig and I think it's the more reliable choice. I have one and it goes bang every time I pull the trigger. You like 3" 1911s go for it.
 
#33
Re: 3" Kimber 1911 as CC Weapon

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Gavin S.</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Downzero</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Gavin S.</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I've never heard of a 3" 1911 being reliable enough to trust your life with. I'd go with the Sig if I were you. </div></div>

Because you haven't heard of a 3" 1911 that is reliable, it must not be so.

Clearly, this indicates that buying a double action pistol is somehow a substitute.

Seriously, do people even read this crap before they post? </div></div>

Did you read his post? He said he was considering the Sig and I think it's the more reliable choice. I have one and it goes bang every time I pull the trigger. You like 3" 1911s go for it. </div></div>

I do have a customized, 3" 1911 type pistol and it shoots nice and carries even better. I had two Sigs. Both are gone.
 
#34
Re: 3" Kimber 1911 as CC Weapon

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Downzero</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Gavin S.</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Downzero</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Gavin S.</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I've never heard of a 3" 1911 being reliable enough to trust your life with. I'd go with the Sig if I were you. </div></div>

Because you haven't heard of a 3" 1911 that is reliable, it must not be so.

Clearly, this indicates that buying a double action pistol is somehow a substitute.

Seriously, do people even read this crap before they post? </div></div>

Did you read his post? He said he was considering the Sig and I think it's the more reliable choice. I have one and it goes bang every time I pull the trigger. You like 3" 1911s go for it. </div></div>

I do have a customized, 3" 1911 type pistol and it shoots nice and carries even better. I had two Sigs. Both are gone. </div></div>

You know what? I am just repeating things I've heard about 3" 1911s and don't have any personal experience. I have no doubt this unreliable stuff has been magnified by people doing the same as I, repeating what they heard. I'd love to have one and may give it a shot someday. Hell, I just bought a Kahr PM9 and you could argue that those guns are pretty finicky too. So, enjoy your micro 1911 and I hope it continues to be 100% for you.
 
#35
Re: 3" Kimber 1911 as CC Weapon

Ha, the EMP is the best carry gun I've ever had, by far. In a way, I wish they'd make a "commander" sized, aluminum frame, ramped barrel, 9mm EMP, as I might find that just as comfortable to carry.

It's really hard to beat a single stack, 9mm, 10 round capacity, single action pistol that is light in weight, compact enough for OWB carry if desired, and flat shooting enough for repeatable accuracy at close range.
 
#36
Re: 3" Kimber 1911 as CC Weapon

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Downzero</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Gavin S.</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I've never heard of a 3" 1911 being reliable enough to trust your life with. I'd go with the Sig if I were you. </div></div>

Because you haven't heard of a 3" 1911 that is reliable, it must not be so.

Clearly, this indicates that buying a double action pistol is somehow a substitute.

Seriously, do people even read this crap before they post? </div></div>

You always say the nicest things.....

BUT as I always say, once you get through the Downzero Cloak of Arrogance, somewhere in there hides a cogent thought.

I carry a Kimber Ultra Super Carry and before that an Ultra CDP II. never an issue with the CDP II, I had to celan up the slide stop on the Super Carry. Both are extremely accurate, the recoil thing is, well just silly IMHO. I have a Pro and Custom Super Carry as well, so I have a good control group.
 
#37
Re: 3" Kimber 1911 as CC Weapon

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Gavin S.</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
You know what? I am just repeating things I've heard about 3" 1911s and don't have any personal experience. I have no doubt this unreliable stuff has been magnified by people doing the same as I, repeating what they heard. I'd love to have one and may give it a shot someday. Hell, I just bought a Kahr PM9 and you could argue that those guns are pretty finicky too. So, enjoy your micro 1911 and I hope it continues to be 100% for you. </div></div>

Finally, a man of honor. I place the " But Kimbers have MIM parts" in that same category. Ask half the fellas making that claim and they do not even know what it means. Thanks for coming clean.

OK, back on track, Hijack complete
 
#38
Re: 3" Kimber 1911 as CC Weapon

From the "what do you carry" thread:

IMG_20110201_210007.jpg


It had some of the typical Kimber problems- no extractor tension, too-long slide stop, and then the Swartz safety binding on the Ed Brown Hardcore extractor I put in. Note that this isn't a min-1911 problem, a lot of Kimbers have those problems, and once they were resolved it runs perfectly. It's not a high round count pistol, under 5K rounds probably, but it's seen a couple of handgun classes and a match or two, and a lot of miles on my belt.

If I were to do it again, I'd still have the 3" 1911, but it would probably be a Springfield.
 
#39
Re: 3" Kimber 1911 as CC Weapon

I have a Kimber Tactical Ultra II, I really like it. Exceptional accuracy, easy to carry, feels more like a shooter than a compact. Before it I carried a Glock 36 which wasn't terrible to shoot but you were very aware it was a compact auto. The Kimber is actually fun to shoot.

Having said that, I would never buy a Kimber again. When I first bought the pistol, it wouldn't chamber some hollow point rounds, for a 1000.00 1911 that's just stupid, on top of that the plunger tube was separating from the frame. I've seen this before but only on old series 70s.
Kimber fixed the issues for no cost and were fairly quick about it but they were terrible to talk to.. they had horrible PR, I had to fight with them to get them to fix the gun. A week and a half after the gun was sent to them one of their reps called me and said they hadn't received the gun. So, after contacting the shipping company, gun store and a dozen other people trying to find the gun, it was sent back to the gun store from Kimber all fixed.. the rep at kimber still had no record of receiving or shipping it back out.

Summary, I love the gun but it was a pain in the ass getting it to work right and Kimber's admin department sucks. I would prefer to go threw a different company in the future. Maybe things are different and other people have had good experiances but I'm a once bitten kind of guy and with so many good options, why bother witha second chance?

Sig however, I have had 3 sigs with zero problems and awesome customer care. Never needed a repair but I've had the custom shop do some stuff plus they've sent me a half doxen free things over the years just from being a registered customer.
 
#40
Re: 3" Kimber 1911 as CC Weapon

i started out with a RIA full size ran great, daughter was born and needed some cash so i sold the RIA. When i got some cash again i bought Kimber i had it for 3 motnhs, 2 of those months Kimber was working on it and never could get it to work right. you name it, it was doing it even for them. They gave me the option to replace it or refund it. I took the refund and bought a glock 27. I had no problems with it, and i still love it but it's not a 1911. so i bought a american classic about 6 months ago. the thing ran perfect and came with lots of upgrades. well today i went to get a smaller gun for better CC for the warmer months. i was going to get a 380 or 9mm. I walked out with a Springer micro. took it to the range and fired 100 rounds half reloads and half factory. zero problems. only wish it had better sights like the loaded version. they will be replaced soon.

what i am saying is, if you want a 1911 and get a something else, you will still be wanting the 1911. i am not bashing kimber, a lot of people i know have em and love them i just got a lemon i guess
 
#42
Re: 3" Kimber 1911 as CC Weapon

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Fisky</div><div class="ubbcode-body">So is it the general concensus that 3" 1911's just suck ass or what? I will admit I'm an idiot when it comes to pistols. So please clue me in a little more will ya?

Thanks </div></div>


I have a bone stock ultra carry II with about 2000 rounds 0 malfunctions and about as accurate as my 4" SA 1911
 
#43
Re: 3" Kimber 1911 as CC Weapon

I bought a 3" kimber some time ago, the cdp II ultra (LG), and i have never been more comfortable. not only with the caliber the size of the gun is very comfortable to cary on my hip in a IWB holster. i have put thousands of rounds through my kimber, everything from highgrade defense ammo to handloads and never a jam. maybe i got lucky? maybe not? i would trust my life my wifes life and my newborns life with this gun. never been happier money well spent in my book.
smile.gif
 
#44
Re: 3" Kimber 1911 as CC Weapon

My experience in shooting the 3" 1911's is I've had cycling issues in both 9mm and in .45 ACP. Seems the timing(or spring rate of recoil assembly) is just tricky for the things.

If you want a compact .45 that will always go bang, I recommend a Glock 36. I carry one as my primary CCW and it's awesome! If you're looking for holsters, just get a G-19/23 holster. If you look for listing specific to G-36, they will be limited. G36 and 19 are so close, not even funny. G36 is .05" narrower, FWIW to ya.

NOooooooooooooooooo denying there's something sexy and cool about a 3" 1911. But, it's more sexy to have your gun go "BANG - bang - bang" at the threat vs "bang - click!"

Just sayin'!
 
#45
Re: 3" Kimber 1911 as CC Weapon

Glock45,

Try my patented Kimber break in methodology for a finicky Kimber. I carry a G 36 most of the time, but my Super carries are definitely my Bar B Que guns.

1. Field Strip the Pistol in a safe manner.
2. Put a dab of the old Colgate white toothpaste on the rails and a touch inside of the slide. not much, about a pinheads worth every inch and a half or so.
3. Reassemble the pistol.
4. With opposing force from each hand, work the slide back and forth about 150-200 times. You can do it with just the slide and frame, but the whole action being intact makes for a better workout and is safer on the fingers. The toothpaste should start to get a bit dark. if you have a coating or finish on the frame or slide, you should start to see some very slight ware marks in the finish.
5. Wipe off what tooth paste you can, add a few more fresh dabs and give it another 150-200 cycles.
6. Disassemble and throughly clean the toothpaste off, lubricate and reassemble.
 
#46
Re: 3" Kimber 1911 as CC Weapon

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: fast eddie</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Glock45,

Try my patented Kimber break in methodology for a finicky Kimber. I carry a G 36 most of the time, but my Super carries are definitely my Bar B Que guns.

1. Field Strip the Pistol in a safe manner.
2. Put a dab of the old Colgate white toothpaste on the rails and a touch inside of the slide. not much, about a pinheads worth every inch and a half or so.
3. Reassemble the pistol.
4. With opposing force from each hand, work the slide back and forth about 150-200 times. You can do it with just the slide and frame, but the whole action being intact makes for a better workout and is safer on the fingers. The toothpaste should start to get a bit dark. if you have a coating or finish on the frame or slide, you should start to see some very slight ware marks in the finish.
5. Wipe off what tooth paste you can, add a few more fresh dabs and give it another 150-200 cycles.
6. Disassemble and throughly clean the toothpaste off, lubricate and reassemble.
</div></div>

Interesting methodology. Could be worth exploring if a guy gets one that doesn't work right.
 
#47
Re: 3" Kimber 1911 as CC Weapon

I have a full size Stainless Classic 1911 and I had some problems with it 10 years ago. It needed the chamber reamed out, polishing, and extractor replacement new. With Chip McCormicks mags it is flawless and feeds anything you can give it.

Everyone that I know has had to send their Kimber in for something to make it right.

My neighbor across the street has a 3" Kimber and he just got it back from Kimber after it wouldn't extract rounds or would get numerous 3 pt jams. He hasn't shot yet, but it was more of a paperweight than a concealed carry gun.


I don't think that Kimber is what it used to be and I own one. They make too many and don't QC them like they should. Sounds a lot like Leupold nowadays.

Even the Charlotte NC ALE got rid of them

http://www.charlotteobserver.com/2011/02/07/2039969/costly-ale-guns-fail-get-traded.html
 
#48
Re: 3" Kimber 1911 as CC Weapon

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: fast eddie</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Glock45,

Try my patented Kimber break in methodology for a finicky Kimber. I carry a G 36 most of the time, but my Super carries are definitely my Bar B Que guns.

1. Field Strip the Pistol in a safe manner.
2. Put a dab of the old Colgate white toothpaste on the rails and a touch inside of the slide. not much, about a pinheads worth every inch and a half or so.
3. Reassemble the pistol.
4. With opposing force from each hand, work the slide back and forth about 150-200 times. You can do it with just the slide and frame, but the whole action being intact makes for a better workout and is safer on the fingers. The toothpaste should start to get a bit dark. if you have a coating or finish on the frame or slide, you should start to see some very slight ware marks in the finish.
5. Wipe off what tooth paste you can, add a few more fresh dabs and give it another 150-200 cycles.
6. Disassemble and throughly clean the toothpaste off, lubricate and reassemble.
</div></div>

Eddie,

You are the second person I've heard that from. I fired a S&W 686 that someone did that too for the trigger. Using the grit as a polishing compound. So, taking the owner's word for it, it was amazing what it did for the trigger action - IN A GOOD WAY!!!

I'd love to get my own 3" 1911 and put a gun I own though its paces. I just can't_quite_ _ _ justify it. . . . . . yet!
smirk.gif


Thanks for sharing your methodolgy though!
smile.gif


-G45
 
#49
Re: 3" Kimber 1911 as CC Weapon

For me any 3" gun seems heavy and off balance. I personally prefer a 5" 1911 in a GOOD IWB holster (Milt Sparks). It seems to ride tighter and flatter and the length seems to keep it better in balance which in turn makes it more comfortable and seem lighter.
 
#50
Re: 3" Kimber 1911 as CC Weapon

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: RicosRevenge</div><div class="ubbcode-body">For me any 3" gun seems heavy and off balance. I personally prefer a 5" 1911 in a GOOD IWB holster (Milt Sparks). It seems to ride tighter and flatter and the length seems to keep it better in balance which in turn makes it more comfortable and seem lighter. </div></div>

Your experience is vastly different than mine. I hated carrying a full size 1911, although I love shooting it. I do not feel the same way about my 25 ounce EMP.
 
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