Kimber Stainless II – Gov. 1911 .45 Review

Kimber Stainless II – Government .45 ACP

Welcome to our Kimber Stainless II – Gov. Review, a modern take on the classic 1911 design. The Kimber company is renowned for producing high-quality firearms, and the Stainless II – Government Model is no exception. This full-size, stainless-steel pistol is designed for accuracy, reliability, and durability and is a popular choice among law enforcement officers, military personnel, and civilian shooters. In this blog post, we will be taking a closer look at the features and performance of this iconic firearm and sharing our own experience and impressions of the Kimber Stainless II – Government Model .45 ACP. Whether you are a seasoned 1911 enthusiast or simply curious about this legendary design, we hope you find this review informative and valuable.

About the Kimber Stainless II – Government

The Kimber Stainless II – Government Model .45 ACP is a modern firearm based on the classic 1911 design that Colt first introduced in the early 1900s. The Kimber company was founded in 1979 in Clackamas, Oregon, and quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality 1911-style handguns.

The Stainless II – Government Model .45 ACP is a stainless steel, full-size 1911-style pistol with a 5-inch barrel. It is designed for accuracy, reliability, and durability and is popular among law enforcement officers, military personnel, and civilian shooters.

Kimber Stainless Steel II 1911
The Stainless II – Government Model .45 ACP

Kimber’s first 1911-style pistol was introduced in 1997, and the Stainless II – Government Model .45 ACP was added to the company’s lineup in 1999. The gun features a match-grade barrel, adjustable sights, and a lightweight trigger with a crisp, clean break.

Over the years, Kimber has made several improvements and refinements to the Stainless II – Government Model .45 ACP, including changes to the grip design and adding a beavertail grip safety. The pistol has also been offered in various finishes and with different grip options to suit the preferences of individual shooters.

Today, the Kimber Stainless II – Government Model .45 ACP remains a popular choice among 1911 enthusiasts and is widely regarded as one of the finest examples of this classic design.

Unboxing the Kimber Stainless II – Government

When you first receive your Kimber Stainless II – Government Model .45 ACP, it comes in a hard plastic case with the Kimber logo on the outside. Inside the box, you will find the pistol, a disassembly assist tool, a packet of CLP, Fiber optic sight inserts in two colors, a gun lock, and a user manual.

Wow!! The Kimber Stainless II – Government Model .45 ACP is a full-size 1911 that makes one hell of a first impression. If you have any love for a 1911 or any interest in them, this pistol sets a high bar.

Kimber Stainless II – Government Specifications

  • Height (inches) 90° to barrel: 5.25
  • Weight (ounces) with empty magazine: 38
  • Length (inches): 8.7
  • Magazine capacity: 7
  • Recoil spring (pounds): 16.0
  • Full-length guide rod
  • FRAME
    • Material: Stainless steel
    • Finish: Satin Silver
    • Width (inches): 1.28
  • SLIDE
    • Material: Stainless steel
    • Finish: Satin Silver
    • Front serrations
  • BARREL
    • Length (inches): 5
    • Material: Steel, match grade
    • Stainless steel match grade bushing
    • Twist rate (left hand): 16
  • SIGHTS
    • Fixed low profile
    • Fiber optic front sight
    • Radius (inches): 6.8
  • GRIPS
    • Rosewood, with Kimber logo
  • TRIGGER
    • Aluminum, match grade
    • Factory setting (approximate pounds): 4.0 – 5.0
  • PRODUCT CODE
  • Product #: 3200328
  • UPC: 669278323282
  • MSRP: $1,021.00

Getting to know Kimber Stainless II – Government

Barrel & Slide

The pistol features a match-grade barrel, finely crafted for precise tolerances and a tight fit with the slide. This ensures the barrel is held securely during firing, reducing barrel movement and improving accuracy.

Kimber Stainless II slide

The slide of the Kimber Stainless II – Government Model is also made from stainless steel and has front and rear serrations for a secure grip when racking the slide. The slide-to-frame fit is also carefully engineered for smooth, reliable pistol cycling.

Overall, the barrel and slide of the Kimber Stainless II – Government Model .45 ACP provide consistent performance and durability

Finish

Kimber Stainless II .45 Finish

The Kimber Stainless II – Government Model .45 ACP features a high-quality stainless steel finish that gives the pistol a sleek, modern look and provides superior protection against rust and corrosion.

The stainless steel used in the Kimber Stainless II – Government Model is known for its durability and resistance to wear, ensuring that the finish will hold well even with regular use. The finish on this firearm is also easy to maintain, requiring only basic cleaning and occasional oiling to keep it looking like new.

Frame

The frame is made from high-quality stainless steel, providing superior strength and wear and tear resistance. The frame is also designed to fit the pistol’s other components snugly, reducing the likelihood of rattling or other movement during firing.

Kimber Stainless II .45 frame

The Kimber Stainless II – Government Model frame also features a beavertail grip safety. This provides added protection against accidental discharge and improves the shooter’s grip on the pistol.

Grips

The grips of the Kimber Stainless II – Government Model .45 ACP provide a comfortable and secure hold on the pistol, helping to improve accuracy and control during firing. The grips are made from rosewood and are shaped and finished to fit the contours of the hand.

The textured surface of the grips provides a firm grip even in wet or sweaty conditions. They have beveled edges that help to reduce discomfort during extended shooting sessions. The grips are also easily replaceable, allowing shooters to customize the look and feel of their guns.

More Photos

Magazine

The Kimber Stainless II – Government Model .45 ACP magazine has a capacity of 7 rounds, with a single stack design. This adds to the pistol’s slim profile. The magazine release button is on the left side. It is operated with the thumb or index finger.

The Kimber Stainless II – Government Model magazine fits securely in the pistol, with a precise fit that helps prevent jams or misfeeds. Additionally, the magazine is easily removable for cleaning and maintenance and can be quickly and easily replaced with a spare magazine for extended shooting sessions or self-defense situations.

Safety’s

The Kimber Stainless II – Government Model .45 ACP is designed with multiple safety features to ensure safe and responsible firearm handling. The pistol features a beavertail grip safety, which must be fully depressed for the gun to fire. This safety feature helps to prevent accidental discharges and ensures that the pistol is only fired when intended.

Additionally, the gun features a manual thumb safety located on the left side of the frame. It engages or disengages with the thumb or index finger. The thumb safety provides additional protection against accidental discharge. Overall, the safety features of the Kimber Stainless II – Government Model .45 ACP are solid. Thus, making this firearm a top choice for those of you who prioritize safety.

Sights

The Kimber Stainless II – Government Model .45 ACP has low-profile fixed sights. They have a fiber optic front sight blade dovetailed into the slide for a secure and accurate fit. The rear sight is a notch-style solid black sight set to the slide.

I’ve not had a handgun with a solid black rear sight before and wasn’t sure I would like it. But as I raised the pistol to see the sight picture. I liked how much the front bead stood out! With the Bifocal LASIK, I’ve had done to my eyes; I avoid certain sight configurations. This won’t be one of them.

The sights provide a clear and unobstructed view of the target, allowing shooters to acquire and track their targets. The sights are also built to be durable and long-lasting, with rugged construction. Overall, the sights of the Kimber Stainless II – Government Model .45 ACP are a big win in my book!

Trigger

One of the critical components for me always is the trigger. Over the years, I have grown accustomed to swapping out handgun triggers to adjust the trigger to my liking. However, I do have handguns that came with factory triggers that I wouldn’t change. As you can imagine, I was eager to see if the Kimber Stainless II would be among them.

The Kimber Stainless II – Government Model .45 ACP is a single-action trigger with a crisp, clean break, minimal take-up, and overtravel. The trigger pull weight is consistently under 3.5 pounds and felt amazing!! The fact that this Kimber’s trigger is adjustable for overtravel and pull weight is even better.

The trigger is made of high-quality stainless steel, which has excellent durability while being aesthetically pleasing. In addition, it features a smooth and polished surface that complements the overall design of the handgun.

The trigger of the Kimber Stainless II – Government Model .45 ACP is a home run!

Aftermarket Parts Compatibility

We wanted to get to the Stainless II– Gov. review first, but we plan to add accessories in this section over the next few weeks. In addition, various aftermarket parts and accessories are available for the Kimber Stainless II – Government Model .45 ACP, allowing owners to customize and enhance their firearms to their specific preferences.

Some popular aftermarket upgrades include custom grips made from various materials and designed in multiple styles to fit the shooter’s hand and personal taste. Other popular upgrades include extended magazines, upgraded sights, and aftermarket triggers. In addition, owners can upgrade the barrel or slide. Accessories such as lights or lasers for enhanced visibility are also common.

Overall, the availability of aftermarket parts and accessories for the Stainless II provides owners with various options for customizing and improving.

Review Wrap

In conclusion, the Kimber Stainless II – Government Model .45 ACP is a major “WIN”! For starters, durable stainless steel construction. It has great sights, an excellent trigger, and multiple safety features. The Kimber Stainless II – Government Model delivers and is among my top five handgun reviews!

Kimber Stainless II - Government Model .45 ACp

Whether for self-defense, target, or competitive shooting, it’s easy to see why the Kimber Stainless II is a top choice. This handgun is an excellent investment for anyone looking for a reliable, high-performance firearm.

Kimber Stainless II – Government Model FAQs

Is the Kimber Stainless II – Government Model a good choice for self-defense?

Yes, the Kimber Stainless II – Government Model is a popular choice for self-defense due to its reliability, accuracy, and ease of use. However, it is essential to receive proper training and practice regularly to ensure safe and responsible firearm handling.

Is the Kimber Stainless II – Government easy to clean?

Yes, the Kimber Stainless II – Government Model .45 ACP is relatively easy to clean. The firearm’s stainless steel construction helps resist corrosion and makes it easier to wipe down and maintain. The design of the gun also allows for easy disassembly and cleaning. In addition, it has straightforward access to the barrel and other vital components. However, as with any firearm, following proper cleaning and maintenance procedures is essential. Regular cleaning and maintenance can also help prolong the firearm’s lifespan and prevent issues from arising.

Is the Kimber Stainless II – Government easy to clean compared to a stiker-fired pistol?

When it comes to cleaning firearms, there are many factors to consider, including the design of the firearm. In general, the Kimber Stainless II – Government Model .45 ACP may be slightly more involved to clean compared to a striker-fired pistol.

Is the Kimber Stainless II – Government RATED FOR +P .45 ACP Ammo?

Yes, the Kimber Stainless II – Government .45 ACP is rated for use with +P ammunition. However, it’s always important to check with the manufacturer’s guidelines and recommendations before using any ammunition in your firearm.

Author

  • Michael Hodgdon

    A firearm, shooting, outdoor, and hunting enthusiast for over 35 years. Thank you all for the suggestions on topics you would like to see; we'll keep posting as you keep sending them in. Please comment; we will try to answer all comments quickly.

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