Kimber 1911 Custom LW Shadow Ghost Review

Kimber Custom LW Shadow Ghost .45 ACP 1911 Pistol

The Custom LW Shadow Ghost Review is a highly anticipated one for us and a solid addition to Kimber’s line of lightweight 1911 pistols. Its unique design and impressive features quickly became a favorite among gun owners. In this review, we will look in-depth at the Kimber Custom LW Shadow Ghost, examining its features, performance, and overall value to help you determine if it’s the right firearm for you.

About the Custom LW Shadow Ghost

The Kimber Custom LW Shadow Ghost is a relatively new addition to Kimber’s line of firearms, first appearing in 2020. However, its design draws heavily from the longstanding history of the 1911 pistol, which has been a popular choice among gun enthusiasts for over a century.

Kimber, founded in 1979, has become well-known for producing high-quality 1911 pistols. In recent years, they have expanded their offerings to include more lightweight models, such as the Custom LW series. The Custom LW Shadow Ghost is the latest iteration of this line, featuring a unique design and improved features, such as a durable, black DLC finish and a fiber optic front sight.

While the Kimber Custom LW Shadow Ghost is a new addition to the market, it has quickly gained a reputation for its reliability, accuracy, and overall quality. With its lightweight frame and impressive features, it’s no surprise that it has become a favorite among gun enthusiasts.

The photo is Kimber Stainless II – Gov. (top)., Kimber 1911 Custom LW Shadow Ghost (bottom).

Unboxing the Custom LW Shadow Ghost

The Kimber Custom LW Shadow Ghost comes in good looking lockable Kimber hard case. Inside the box, you will find the pistol, a sticker, a takedown tool, fiber optic night sight inserts, a packet of CLP, a lock, a user manual, and one magazine. This pistol makes a hell of a first impression; it comes with a black DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) finish on the slide and frame, giving it a sleek, modern look stealth look.

Custom LW Shadow Ghost Specifications

• Height (inches) 90° to barrel: 5.25
• Weight (ounces) with empty magazine: 31.2
• Length (inches): 8.7
• Magazine capacity: 9rd., 9mm or 8rd., .45acp
• Recoil spring (pounds):14.0
• Full-length guide rod
• FRAME
  • Material: Aluminum
  • Finish: KimPro Gray
  • Width (inches): 1.28
• SLIDE
  • Material: Stainless
  • Finish: KimPro Black
  • Front serrations
• BARREL
  • Length (inches): 5
  • Material: Stainless steel, match grade
  • Black match grade bushing
  • Twist rate (left hand): 16
• SIGHTS
  • White Dot fixed rear sight
  • Red Fiber optic front sigh
• GRIPS
  • F/S Rubber (set)
• TRIGGER
  • 3-hole aluminum, Black
  • Factory setting (approximate pounds): 4.0 – 5.0
• PRODUCT CODE
• Product #: 3700693
• UPC: 669278376936
• MSRP: $840

Barrel & Slide

The Kimber Custom LW Shadow Ghost features a 5-inch match-grade stainless steel barrel. The barrel is precisely fitted to the slide and bushing, ensuring a tight lock-up that minimizes barrel movement during firing, which improves accuracy.

The barrel is made from high-quality stainless steel, known for its durability, corrosion resistance, and ability to withstand high temperatures. This material ensures that the barrel can handle a high volume of rounds without showing signs of wear, making it an ideal choice for those who plan to use the pistol for frequent target shooting or competition use.

The barrel features a standard barrel ramp that helps to guide the bullet into the chamber, ensuring reliable feeding and ejection. Additionally, the barrel is crowned at the muzzle, which helps protect the rifling and ensure consistent bullet exit, enhancing accuracy.

The match-grade construction, precise fit, and high-quality materials used in its construction make it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a 1911-style pistol that can deliver exceptional performance at the range or in competition.

Finish

The Kimber Custom LW Shadow Ghost’s unique finish distinguishes it from other 1911s. The pistol features a black DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) finish on the slide and frame. This finish provides several benefits, including increased durability, scratch resistance, and corrosion resistance.

DLC is a type of coating applied to the surface of the metal using physical vapor deposition. During this process, a thin layer of carbon is deposited onto the surface of the metal, creating a hard, durable coating that is resistant to wear and tear.

In addition, the black finish is visually appealing and has a low profile that can help reduce glare and improve the sight picture. As a result, it is an excellent choice for those looking for a pistol that can handle frequent use while maintaining its appearance over time.

Frame

The Kimber Custom LW Shadow Ghost features a full-size aluminum frame that has been lightened for improved handling and reduced weight. As a result, it feels great in hand! The aluminum construction reduces weight and increases durability and corrosion resistance, making it an ideal choice for a 1911-style pistol.

Additionally, the frame includes a beavertail grip safety to prevent accidental discharge by ensuring that the pistol cannot be fired unless the grip safety is fully depressed.

Grips

The Kimber Custom LW Shadow Ghost comes with slimline G10 grips that have a unique texture and pattern; these make the grip feel secure and comfortable. G10 is a composite material made of layers of fiberglass and resin, which is known for its durability, strength, and resistance to wear and tear.

The slimline design of the grips not only looks great but also helps to reduce the overall width of the pistol, making it easier to hold and maneuver. This feature is handy for those with smaller hands or planning to use the gun for concealed carry, competitive shooting or self-defense.

Photo Gallery

Magazine

The Kimber Custom LW Shadow Ghost comes with one 8-round Kimber Tac-Mag .45 caliber magazine, designed to provide reliable feeding and function with the pistol. It’s easy to load and a hell of a lot of fun to unload; sorry, I couldn’t resist adding that.

The Tac-Mag is made of high-quality steel and features a polished stainless-steel body, enhancing durability and corrosion resistance.

The magazine has a standard 8-round capacity, typical for full-size 1911-style pistols. The magazine also includes a removable base pad, allowing easy cleaning and maintenance.

Safety’s

The Kimber Custom LW Shadow Ghost has two safety features.

• Manual thumb safety: Located on the left side of the pistol, just above the grip. Manual thumb safety prevents accidental discharge when the gun is not used or when handling the firearm.
• Beavertail grip safety: On the frame’s rear, and prevents the pistol from firing unless the grip safety is fully depressed. The beavertail grip safety on the Kimber Custom LW Shadow Ghost is comfortable, and for less experienced shooters, it will assist them with hand placement high on the grip.

Together, these two safety features provide important layers of protection and help to ensure the safe and reliable operation of the Kimber Custom LW Shadow Ghost. These features make the pistol a great choice for anyone who wants a high-quality 1911-style safe and reliable pistol.

Sights

The Kimber Custom LW Shadow Ghost features a White Dot fixed rear sight and a replaceable fiber optic front sight. The site picture on the was Kimber Custom LW Shadow Ghost excellent!

The fiber optic front sight is prominent. I can sometimes struggle a little with new sights. I have bifocal LASIK, which can be an adjustment with darker sights. These sights were quickly one of my favorite factory sights. The low-profile design of the rear sight helps to reduce the overall height of the pistol, which makes it easier to carry and handle.

Trigger

As expected, the Kimber Custom LW Shadow Ghost trigger was a smooth and consistent pull. In addition, the trigger is adjustable for overtravel and pre-travel, allowing the shooter to customize the trigger to their preferences.

The trigger is made of high-quality aluminum and has a serrated face, which provides a secure and comfortable grip. The serrated face of the trigger also helps to prevent the finger from slipping off the trigger during firing.

The trigger pulls, and the weight feels fantastic. The factory set is approximately 4-5 pounds, a standard weight for 1911-style pistols. The trigger pull came in consistently at just over 4 pounds.

The Custom LW Shadow Ghost trigger is among the best factory triggers I’ve enjoyed reviewing. The adjustable overtravel and pre-travel, high-quality aluminum construction, and serrated face all contribute to what is already a great trigger.

Aftermarket Parts Compatibility

The Kimber Custom LW Shadow Ghost is a highly customizable firearm, and a wide variety of aftermarket parts are available for those who want to upgrade or personalize their pistol. Some of the most popular aftermarket parts for the Kimber Custom LW Shadow Ghost include:

• Grips: The Kimber Custom LW Shadow Ghost grips can be replaced with aftermarket options.
• Trigger upgrades: While the trigger on the Kimber Custom LW Shadow Ghost is already high-quality, some shooters may want to upgrade.
• Sights: While the factory sights on the Kimber Custom LW Shadow Ghost are already highly functional, some shooters may prefer different sights for their particular shooting style. Aftermarket sight options include night sights, fiber optic sights, or different rear sight designs.
• Magazine upgrades: The Kimber Custom LW Shadow Ghost accepts standard 1911 magazines, but there are aftermarket options available that can provide increased capacity.
• Recoil springs: Aftermarket recoil springs can provide different recoil reduction or control levels, improving accuracy and follow-up shots.

Overall, the Kimber Custom LW Shadow Ghost is a highly customizable firearm that can be tailored to fit the needs and preferences of individual shooters. The aftermarket parts mentioned above are just a few examples of the many options available to those who want to upgrade or personalize their pistol.

Shooting the Kimber Custom LW Shadow

Shooting the Custom LW Shadow Ghost capped off a great review. The gun ran smoothly and was handled excellently overall. It has excellent balance, comfortable recoil, and an outstanding trigger: next to no travel, crisp, clean break, and an excellent reset!

I had over 300 rounds through it in my first outing, and not a single malfunction or anything that felt off. I had two inexpensive range rounds (230-grain Sellier & Bellot and 230-grain Magtech).

Running the Kimber extended 10-round mag through it performed great.

I plan to get some serious range time with the Kimber this summer and will follow up as I do. Also, I am looking at holsters and lights now and will update this post when I get them. All suggestions and comments are welcome below.

Kimber Custom LW Shadow Ghost .45 Review Wrap

The Kimber Custom LW Shadow Ghost gets an A+ from me all the way around. Its lightweight construction, finish, design, trigger, sights, and high bar! The attention to detail in its construction and the quality of its materials are evident, making it a standout choice.

The Custom LW Shadow Ghost’s reduced weight and improved ergonomics provide a comfortable grip and enhanced maneuverability, allowing quick target acquisition. Its enhanced sights, extended beavertail, and textured grips contribute to its superior handling, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a dependable and versatile sidearm.

The reliable performance of the Custom LW Shadow Ghost is further complemented by its impressive accuracy. The match-grade barrel and excellent trigger contribute to tight groupings and consistent shot placement. Whether engaging in precision shooting or honing your skills on the range, this pistol delivers the accuracy needed to excel.

Additionally, the Custom LW Shadow Ghost offers a range of customizable features, allowing shooters to tailor the firearm to their preferences. From grip options to accessory compatibility, this pistol accommodates individual needs, enhancing its versatility and ensuring a personalized shooting experience.

While the Kimber Shadow Ghost carries a premium price tag, its exceptional quality, performance, and durability make it a worthwhile investment. This pistol is a testament to Kimber’s commitment to excellence. It will undoubtedly satisfy the expectations of those seeking a top-tier 1911-style handgun.

Kimber Custom LW Shadow Ghost FAQs