Exactly, people forget that about .45 ACP. It’s fantastic and (nowadays) misunderstood and even straight up lied about. In the ranges that you’re shooting in typical self defense scenarios (and even non-typical), .45 ACP is hard to beat.
My father purchased an early Kimber Custom. I did some minor trigger work on it and he competed in various matches with it for 12-13 years, enjoying it immensely. With his passing in 2014, it joined my Kimber Eclipse II in my safe. They both enjoy a 230 grain FMJ, coated LRN or XTP over 5.0 grains of Vhitavori N 320. They have heirloom status now.
The finest pistol design ever made. John Browning was an absolute genius. It seems that people either love or hate it. To each it’s own. It is my favorite
I've always found the hate interesting. I dislike shooting a number of pistols including Glocks for some reason but don't hate them or mock and rundown the vast number of people that do. Says more about the Larper than about those that shoot 1911's to me.
I don’t know why people hate on the 1911. I don’t hate Glocks. In fact, I just love guns period. But Glock people who hate on 1911’s are literal idiots. The 1911 (a 45 chambered 1911) is the king. It’s the perfect platform to drop a man at close distances. Wars are not won with pistols. They’re won with rifles. But if I were going to war with my rifle, the pistol I’d want at my side while reloading in some ditch or trench somewhere is the king (a fucking 45acp 1911). Or if I ran out of ammo for my rifle and had to dig in and hide somewhere. I’d want that 45acp 1911. JUDGE ME,!!!
I don't hate 1911's, I just don't like ergonomics of carrying it. If I ever needed to use it, I don't want to miss. I carry 9mm in summer, and in Winter .357 Sig.
That is awesome 👌. I have a Colt Combat Elite I bought new in 1991. Shot it in competition for year's. Retired it at 250k rounds and barrel #4. I replaced a lot of parts on that gun but never due to breakage or failure. It even survived my experimentation phase with .45 Super's for bowling pin shoots, love it.
So I have know Guy for many years and went through scouting with his sons. I remember seeing Guy as an officer in my hometown carrying this gun and have shot along side him at at least one class and numerous times at the range. Good to see that 1911 still ringing steel!
From the title and the intro alone. That is a real statement about the low wear and tear that 45 ACP puts on guns, that's really interesting. And that's what you should see with other low pressure rounds in a full size quality gun.
Two takeaways: First-the 80,000+ round barrel looks a bit worn but, all things considered, many pistols never make it to 80K! Second-I wish my agency had used 45ACP. We used 40S&W when I started and never liked it compared to 45’s. We later swapped to 9mm, the lesser amount of recoil helped the “non-gun” officers so that was a positive. I’m retired these days and I carry a Kimber TLE II Stainless, smoothest trigger I’ve ever used! Great video, thanks for posting!
I haven't heard anything bad about the Springfields, and I haven't heard anything good about the new Kimbers. The old Custom Classics were and are fantastic.
There’s something about a gun that’s been carried and used for multiple decades, tens of thousands of rounds, that just makes the gun something special. I have one handgun in particular I’ve had for a couple years now (a highly modified and built P320) and I fully intend for it to become that kind of experienced pistol in time. I can’t wait
I own a Classic Custom that I bought new in April 1999. After a couple of years of shooting it, I changed out the factory plastic trigger, sent the lower frame/parts off to Accurate Plating and Weaponry (then in Fla) and had 20lpi checkering on the frontstrap, hardchrome finish ( so it's now 2 tone) and they fitted/installed an Ed Brown mainspring housing with detachable magwell, which replaced the factory plastic mainspring housing. I have the OE rubber grips like the one in the video but swapped them out for some double diamond rosewoods with SS hex grip screws. It's basically my safe queen but I've never had any issues with it and the trigger is like none other. I use Wilson and Chip McCormick magazines. Absolutely the finest handgun i own.
I enjoyed your video. I have a 1911 that my father bought for me for my 18th birthday I had the best Dad a son could have. I did a little research on it that shows it was manufactured in 1913. My father bought it from a Korean war vet who carried it during his service and bought it from the us govt. to take home with him. The army armorer told him he checked the records which show the gun was carried in WW1 and WW2 and of course the Korean war. The veteran who had been wounded had it accurized by Bob Chow in 1951 in San Francisco and mailed to his house. I used to keep strict reloading records until I stopped in about mid 1980's. The records show that the brass that I bought from the coast guard from their Thompson qualifications (still about 360 rounds left) cheap because no body wanted it the Thompson has such an open chamber the brass can be difficult to resize and hangs up on the dies. Lee made me a very open lead in full length hammer die that I used to restore the brass. I hammered two shopping bags full of brass through the die and used their primer pocket reamer to cut off the military crimp. I have annealed it several times over the years with an alcohol torch when I picked up a cracked case. Out of those to bags I have reloaded well over a hundred thousand rounds. I think Bob Chow might have changed the barrel and bushing because I think the barrel is stainless and the bushing has a beautiful lock up. The sights were bowman I dropped it once and bent the sight they were a soft steel. I replaced them with Dillon sights. It will out shoot a colt gold cup. I have replace the recoil and firing pin springs many times with Wolf variable power springs.
I have a Taurus PT 1911 I bought from a very close family friend that actually taught my dad and myself how to reload because he and his family were short on money for christmas. Sadly he passed away a week and a half after I got it so to me that 1911 will always be a piece of him and I carry it as often as possible. Put probably 3 or 4 thousand rounds through it and it's run it all like a top whether it's 185 grain 230 grain it just eats it all and shoots like a dream
I have this same gun. It's on its third set of springs. I don't think I've put 80k through it, but the round count is pretty high and my finish is only a little darker than this one. Fantastic gun. Thanks for sharing this.
I have three 1911 pistols - a Colt Govt model 1911A1, a Kimber TLE II, and I recently got a Tisas Govt model 1911A1. I have been shooting .45 1911A1’s for about 65 years. I was trained in the Army as an MP officer, and then joined Special Forces where we also used the 1911A1, including during an extended tour in VN. I really like the 1911A1, and have a fair amount of proficiency with it.
I have a Springfield Loaded model 1911, have had it 8yrs and somewhere around 6K rds through it but havent kept track. I carried it everyday up until about 5 months ago. Totally reliable, i trust my life with it. i have customized it a tad and fit some parts to it.
I have an early Kimber Custom, with a 4 digit serial number. At the time I bought it, they only had fixed sites and rubber grips. I milled the slide for an original Bo-Mar and put a Smith Patridge front site in the dovetail up front. I was in the last USMC TBS class to qualify with the 1911 before the switch to the M9. My Kimber is on its third set of springs, and has almost exclusively been shot with cast bullets of my own making and loading. I know I havent shot 80k through it, but I have shot it a lot.
I bought mine two or three months before January 1st 2000 I bought it for Y2K lol. I'll never forget I told the guy I want the best 45 and he said you want a Kimber that's how good their reputation was back then. I just took my concealed carry test with it because it shoots so well a couple months back
I own a number of 1911's, including double stack Para's I used in action pistol matches back in the 90's and early 2000's. I know people constantly piss and mone about the Para double stack mags being unreliable. Since I was shooting competition, unreliable mags was unacceptable and successfully made not only my 14rd mags 100%. But my 20rd ones too by simply replacing the springs with wolf competition high performance springs, replaced the followers with after market, and only run ball ammo through it. Got good accuracy too! But the one I shoot 99% of the time since 2004 is my Les Baer single stack Premier II SUPER TAC guaranteed to shoot 1½" at 50 yards, and came with a test target to prove it. Paid $2,400 for it back in 2004; it proved to be one of my better purchasing decisions! I've largely stopped shooting competition in the mid 2000's due to physical issues, so I've only put about 5 or 6 thousand rounds through it, but it's still tight!
Absolutely a fantastic set.... not quite a 1911, but I have had a Para Ordnance p12 for about 27years, customized by myself, beaver tail, Wilson match barrel and bushing, guide rod, custom hammer and sear massaged by yours truly, aftermarket trigger with over travel stop, trigicon night sights that no longer glow. It's life includes three years of competitive stock class shooting, one broken slide due to 20k rounds and loosing all the series 80 parts while shooting a match, factory actually replaced free of charge, and still my #1. For being an officer size 1911, 13 round capacity,, shoots better than I can hold, and still my favorite. I have a soft spot for the 1911 platform. I do own a series 70 Colt Gold Cup National Match that is stock but for the Millett sights, and that would be my #2... there is a reason that almost every pistol manufacturer has had their own version of the 1911. It simply works. 😁
Look up Kimber rust and you’ll see tons of results on them rusting or being rusted new. We would have to clean them often if they didn’t sell fast enough.
@@Justin-zv4cm LOL pretty obvious you have no clue what a non MIM parts fitted pistol costs. Dan Wesson "NON MIM" is the closest I can think of price wise and starting @ MSRP $1,249 vs Kimber @ MSRP $802. And just a heads up,some MIM parts are non critical and won't matter if MIM or Forged. Plastic MSH I have yet to see 1 fail and seems like an OCD issue with most owners. As far as rust goes,some kimber parts were still in "The White" and it will happen but I've also seen my co-workers Wilson Combat which came from the factory with some very small rust on some interior frame sections and was easily cleaned and never an issue after. It's a tool,it's going to get dirty and will have some love handles on it if your using it for its intended purpose or maybe you should just keep it in the safe and brag about having it and not be able to shoot worth a sh*t because you were afraid to get it dirty. 🙄
@@mdh1775 I actually have a better idea than you might think. But my main point is that you don't get what you pay for with Kimber or Colt. No sense going full KBCommando. Besides, I'd never own a Kimber, so I wouldn't have it in my safe.
As this fella. We also started with the 1911 base. Then very early switched to the berreta M9. My M9 threw over 40000 rounds during my first 4 years. With a handful of stove pipes. It was still in service long after i left. As a matter of fact the armory still had it at the 20 yr reunion. It seen service around the world from Panama to Afghanistan. And used the same barrel! We recieved 1911's for parting gifts. They all were remnants from WWII. If you make something good...and it works. Why fix it?
Awesome! I carried my own Kimber Classic Custom with a Sheriff's Department in north Texas . My serial number was only three actual numbers. the rest was all zeros. ... after 23 years in the Marine Corps myself (1966-1989). Loved that gun. It was not too bad at $700+ when I bought it. Sady, I sold it when my wife received DoD orders to Britain. My hands are fairly large and my fingers short so the grip was perfect for me. Semper Fi USMC Retired 1966-1989 RVN 01/69-10/70
I really enjoy your videos but this one touched me in that special way. To say that I am a 1911 guy would be an understatement. The one I have had the longest was purchased in 1976 is a Colt Combat Commandar. The one with the most rounds is a competition Remington R1 stock gov't purchased when they first came to market. I use it in Wild Bunch competition and run around 8k per year through it so call it around 40k. The only thing I have done to it is replace the springs every year or more, you can tell how the gun functions if you need to replace them before my annual complete maintenance which includes checking the plunger tube which is tighten at the same time. My current EDC is a Sig Nightmare Commandar size that rides either in a belt holster at 4 o'clock or a jackass rig.
Do you have a suggestion for a group I could join to learn more about the 1911? I have looked at a couple of web forums, but it seems that they are mostly geared toward pictures of purchases/finds and that sort of thing. Outside of problems encountered, it is not very technical in nature.
I put over 100,000 rounds through a Chinese made Norinco 1911 (200+ rounds a week for 12 years) that was strictly "goverenment" in form which I bought in 1992....one failure, it broke the extractor at about 80K....spares very difficult here in NZ so I made it another one... at the same time I replaced the bottom link and recoil spring. When I sold it, it was ticking like a clock, no worries. I have another from the same maker now, and as I am almost 80 and not as well off as I was 20 years ago, I don't think I'll wear it out, Norinco have chrome lined barrels and I shoot almost entirely hand cast 200gr LSWC and 230gr LRN bullets out of it. I had a mirror finish when I bought it and was exactly the same when I sold it... no measurable wear. Both pistols shoot about 2" at 25 yards... I usually use ADI AP50 powder... The 1911 is inherently rugged and reliable.... my new one has ambi safety, extended slide release and mag release, big beavertail, flat mainspring housing (better for my little paws), and as always a pretty good trigger,... 3 1/2 lbs and pretty crisp... We are not allowed carry here, but if push came to shove I'd trust my life to that .45....
I carried a Kimber on duty for about 6 years until the city rotated them out. I had several thousand rounds through mine (I have no idea exactly how many). The only problem I had with it was a broken extractor, which causes secondary malfunctions. Thank God that happened in training. I liked the gun and bought it after the city moved onto the next platform (Glock).
I sadly had to retire my Dan Wesson Specialist in .45 ACP when the department required me to carry the Glock 17. The Glock is a nice reliable gun but the Dan Wesson was amazing and I’m not sold on the 9mm.
that gun has been shown alot of love. a loved item, gun, car, motorcycle, etc isn't one thats bright and shiney and never leaves the safe/garage. its the one thats used and worn.
Awesome, thanks for sharing this Gavin! My Kimber was the first pistol I ever purchased, in 1999. Since then it has seen several thousand rounds, but certainly not 80k! Mine has also been great with no issues. Only thing I’ve done is upgrade springs last year to a Wilson set, mostly for my own preference and feel better in any situation!
I've had my Kimber Custom I for a little over 20 years now. My first firearm. Still my favorite. Nowhere near 80K rounds through mine but definitely in the 5 digit range as I used to shoot it all the time when a box of 50 rds could be had for $8-$10 back in the day. It's mostly original except I swapped out the all black sights with 3-dot night sights as my eyesight is pretty degraded from when I first got it (blind in one eye, limited but functional vision in the other, long story). Also, I've been using Wilson Combat mags for most of the time I've had it. Aside from recoil springs, the only part I've had to replace from a maintenance standpoint is the slide release. The part of the release that slides into the notch on the slide was so worn that earlier this year, it was failing to stay locked back after the last round and even inserting a new mag was causing the slide to drop. I got a replacement slide release from Wilson Combat with an extended thumb tab which works great. Glad to see a video singing the praises of these older Kimber models.
They are nice pistols when they are made right. I shot a friends newer kimber that ran flawlessly. But then I’ve known a lot of people that have had nothing but problems. If you got a good one that’s awesome they really are beautiful pistols.
My first 1911: I have an ati 5” government that I wore parts out on, then rebuilt into a very nice shooting and very accurate gun I call el cheapo lovingly. About 30k rounds, cheap internals. Tighted the frame to slide fit the old school way. Then replaced the ignition parts with Wilson combat parts, Swenson match barrel, Wilson combat barrel bushing, flat pad trigger, extended beaver tail, and taller sights. My second (but I have more) 1911: Springfield loaded model 5” parkerized. This gun has been utterly reliable even when doing a mud test and sand test. No failures due to the gun. Only 2 failures due to a magazine spring failure and a round that the brass was screwed up, part of the brass got pealed up to the case head. The gun potentially saved my life one night, luckily I did not have to shoot. It’s my favorite handgun, and it goes with me everywhere. I did put a mag well, g10 grips, and a flat pad trigger on it. And it has a Wilson flatwire recoil spring which are great. The parkerized finish has held up fantastically compared to other parkerized guns I have that have a fraction of the use my Springfield has.
Para Ordnance 14.45 Custom limited class .45. The Barsto barrel has roughly 60,000 rounds through it and it's companion piece a custom carry class 12.45 with a bushingless bull barrel has about 30,000 rounds. I built both in the early 90's. I built both myself, did all the mill work, gunkote from Brownells has held up exceptionally well. The 14.45 I just Cerakoted and fit a new hammer and sear after the 2.5lb trigger started with the occasional hammer drop. They've both been "retired" for some time with a S&W MP9 custom in 9mm taking its place once the 9mm became undeniably a better option. 30,000+. Its a bit funny how close to the 14.45 I built the MP9. I just picked up a bone stock SA SA-35 that just might be the next anointed one depending on how much I like it. Sadly I sold my mill during a move some time ago, still have the tooling. There's no trust like the trust you put in your own work. I hope a solution presents itself if the SA-35 is the next..
Do you recall when Para Ordnance just made frame kits and not complete pistols? My cousin has one my Dad and I built for him with a colt commander slide and barrel. First P13 I can think of 😁
@@SharpShooterCO I do. And as you'd expect being the first they were the worst when it came to holding tolerances and the complete pistols that followed the frame kits weren't all that great either. It would take on average 4-6 hours longer to complete a custom Para than say a Colt and they weren't the beesknees either. Personally I enjoyed the early Norinco's for their close(r) tolerances and super hard frames and slides. When you stacked the poor tolerances of any gun but especially the Para's you'd sometimes not be able to fit a part at all, but Para was good about replacing frames and slides. At least if you had a good relationship with them. Once you got one right though, there was nothing else like them on the market for capacity and that was a great advantage to have. STI came on the scene and at first they weren't great either. But once CNC's became affordable at the smaller manufacturing levels we started seeing much better products. Kimber is one who took advantage of this before most others. I recently picked up an SA-35, and having dealt with polymer frames and steel/SS slides for so long, the much tighter tolerances of steel on steel via CNC is almost stunning.. Heck, a DRO used to be what you lusted after, now CNC 5-axis milling machines are within reach at the gunsmith level.. we live in good times.
That's a awsome 1911. I'm new to the 1911 just got a springfield 1911 A1 loaded model recently. Glock is still my choice for serious use. Glock 17 gen 4 was my first pistol and as a former LEO I have alot of training time on and carried a Glock on duty. But now that I own a 1911 they are just a cool gun and easy ti fall in love with.
Though I highly regard the 1911 "platform", I have only had 3 and none of them were truly classic 1911s. I had a compact 45 & 2 Colt Mustang 380. I hope to get one some day. Thank you gents.
If the Kimber has the early Clackamas Oregon roll mark (Custom), although most made in Yonkers already, it’s a used Kimber that I’m interested in. The later ones (Custom II) made in Yonkers New York added the firing pin safety system and eventually were full of MIM and had periods of spotty quality control. I’m not sure if they all came with the in the white carbon steel barrels but a quick hand polish and light coat of oil will keep rust away.
It cracks me up to hear the haters make their comments for this good video. My Kimber Desert Warrior shoots like a champ. There is not a damn thing wrong with Kimber guns. Yes you need to maintain them more diligently with cleaning and lubing. Then again, some people seem to have forgotten some of those basic common sense habits. A 1911 might be too complicated for some people, and that’s a good thing for them to know their limitations.😂😂. Thanks for the video.
People pay to get worn out finish? Lawd. Very odd. I do love how modest Guy is. Please keep sharing the knowledge and info. Greatly appreciate. Born in 87, diesel tech, auto enthusiasts, firearms enthusiast. Build everything I can myself. Including engine trans diff wiring harness and do what I can with my guns. Did a little reloading but just bolt on stuff. But I have a bad case of mechanical OCD. it’s bad. And I can see you have it too Gavin. I feel you lol. Anyways. Thanks man.
I have a Kimber in 45. It is probably as old as the one in your video. When I bought it Kimber only offered 2 models. One with fixed sights an one with adjustable, I had to order the adjustable model. The Kimber was a replacement for a Colt 80 series that was completely warn out. I have shot a lot of IPSC and 3 gun for many years. It has been feed a steady diet of 200gr LSWCs. And it gets what I think is the best Chip McCormick 10 round mags. I have other 1911's. A Para in 40s&w and a new SA in 9mm and a Colt commander. The Kimber has always done great, it has been upgraded with a set rosewood grips and a S&A magwell and it is probably one of my favorites.
I have heard so many people say Kimber is junk, I have owned pretty much every manufacturers 1911 but always avoided Kimber because of the negative reviews. I was in the market for another basic 1911 and all I could find was a Kimber Custom II with manufacturer installed Night Sights. So I picked it up, got it home and detail stripped it. I was really surprised at how well made and fit together this Kimber was, everything was polished that should be, the homer and sear engagement wan very nice, I have no complaints
Kimber today aren’t like this one. Do some research and you’ll find his gun was made with lots of chip McCormick internals. Kimber switched to MIM internals and had some teething issues with that and that’s why you hear what you hear. Current Kimbers are probably better than what you’ve heard but not as good as this implies. They also have Schwartz safeties now which also aren’t recommended
@@mjcmustang the one I got was new old stock, it was made in 2015, maybe things changed, but I have owned and gunsmithed pretty much every production 1911, and my Kimber is the only one that had every internal (disconnectors, sear, hammer,etc.) polished. One of my Colt 1911's had the worst internals I have ever seen, I didn't even mess with them, I replaced everything with Wilson parts then did my normal polish and trigger job. I have a Springfield Garrison and P-35 on backorder at my LGS, getting anything has been a PITA lately so I don't expect to see either for a while
@@New2Kendo the kimber parts typically have a nice fit because they are mim. You get great tolerances on mass produced small parts but it’s not barstock at the end of the day. I’ve heard the stories about Colts but I’ve only ever seen one I thought had issues and we sent it back. I’d give the colt a slight edge in small parts quality over the Springfield or Kimber just due to the fact that the slide stop is still bar stock and the safeties don’t seem to be problematic. Kimber were/are notorious for the slide stops and thumb safeties breaking on guns that get shot a lot. Springfields are all MIM small parts too but I’d definitely go Springfield over Kimber.
I have heard kimber comments all over the page. Some are great, some aren't so good. I have a Springfield Ronin Government. 45, 2 Les Baers, and an Ed Brown SF. Thr Baers and EB 1911 are superb. Thr Baers are fitted like racing engines. Thr EB is like butter. Thr Ronin is good and is my beater.
After all these years of wanting a 1911 I finally got one. But mine was budget friendly. It’s a Rick Island in 45 ACP. I like it but the older my eyes get, the harder it is to pick up the front sight. Makes me want to install a new front sight. Which makes my choices to get an upgraded slide or new 1911. Or both!😬
@@45calibermedic I never said they couldn’t last. Why are people automatically assuming that? “It shows how steel frame guns last” what the hell does that have anything to do with polymer guns?
I have that same model, I probably bought it in 1997 or 1998. It is the first 1911 I ever purchased. I probably only have about 500 rounds through mine and it still has all the factory finish.
not a 1911, but I have a j frame 357 that's been with me since my 21st birthday. When I bought it it was the hot carry gun, and even though there are a thousand better options now, Its still my go to. third set of grips second triduum sight.
80,000 rounds. Hell lad, it’s just getting started. I also learned of the 1911 back in 1968 in the Marine Corp. A 1911of some sort has been my constant companion ever since. Influenced by the likes of Jeff Cooper and Clint Smith just got me more enthused. I’ve found if you clean them once in a while and feed them properly they’re dead bang reliable. Cool gun sir. By the way, what type of sights are those, I like them.
I have a Springfield full size 9mm with a 9x23 barrel also I have around 40k through was I my go to idpa, steel challenge and ipsc for years still love to shoot it bought a double stack 1911 9mm 2011 to be a bit more competitive but is still love to take the old Springfield out and run all my mags through it from time to time. Still one of the best shooting pistols I have and smooth as glass now that it’s worn in so well. I’ve changed firing pins firing pin springs recoil springs a few times but other than that same two barrels. Came as a 9x23 bought the 9mm barrel right away for cheaper rounds love it.
Love my Kimber Custom TLE 2 TFS in .45. It was the gun made for the LA SWAT. It has been nothing short of a dream in every way. Hasn’t let me down one bit. Just a beast of a gun.
Kimber Grand Raptor 2, purchased new I believe in 2008. Probably has had 8 to 10 thousand rounds shot now and still has 1 1/2” groups free hand. I put a full metal back strap and a Wilson Combat 8 round 47D magazine with a laser max guide rod laser installed. Replaced the sights after 12 years because they were getting pretty dim, the new ones are really bright again. I love this gun like it was one of my children. I have had a Government issue Colt manufactured in 1918 that was all original and pinched the skin between my thumb and trigger finger several times, but still loved it. It would shoot about a 5” group from 7 yards. I like a lot of different guns but the Kimber is by far my favorite. It has never jammed or malfunctioned in any way. Some people say the series 70 has less moving parts and has a lighter trigger pull the Kimber is a series 80 and has a lighter trigger pull. I have had both and l feel the Kimber is better. Between 3.5 to 4 Lbs I shoot 230 grain fmj mostly for target and jhp for self defense. I trust my family and my life with this gun. I gave it to a gunsmith for a week so he could see if he could make any improvements on it, he gave it back and told me his wife shot a 8” plate at 200 feet on the first shot. He said no need for improvement.
I've owned a dozen or so 1911 pistols in my life, many of them from Colt. I bought a Kimber Eclipse Target in 2005 and yes, I replaced some of the internals mostly since it was a popular thing then (the MIM scare). I used Wilson "bullet proof" springs, sear and disconnector and polished things up just a little. I ALWAYS use their KimPro mags and generally load Remington UMC 230 gr factory hard ball ammo. That pistol is the absolute most accurate and pleasurable thing to shoot I've ever had . . .period! Approaching 50,000 rounds now. That one is a KEEPER!
I have a number of 1911’s. I think my favorites are my Kimber Pro TLE RL II in .45 ACP and my Dan Wesson Pointman Carry in .38 Super. Both have and many rounds through them.
I have a kimber custom ghost. 5 inch. 45. I love it. The really only thing I had a problem with was the factory mag would feed jam. And I had to put though 500 rounds through it and now it is flawless. I love it.
A 1911 was my first handgun. Parkerized Springfield loaded in 45. Ive only had guns for about 15 years now(im 45) so to start i more or less went based off what felt good to me. I still have that 1911 and shoot it as often as i can. Its hot a little bit of battle rattle, and a lot of finish wear, but shoots beautifully. The only time i ever had any malfunction with it was using cheap mags i got off ebay. Long as i use wilsons, or chips, it eats everything i feed it, which all but 200 rounds has been jacketed hollow points. Its one of the few that i will never trade or sell. I usually carry a cz p10 model now, buy I wont hesitate to carry that springfield 1911 and would absolutely bet my life on that gun. Hell, i love the 1911 enough that i went and got a full rail trp a couple months back. The cz may be taking a break once i find a holster for that trp that works with my light.
I have a 4 digit Clackamas Oregon Kimber. Only thing done was a trip to ROBAR for a stippled front strap with NP-3 on frame and Roguard on the slide. Probably around 25k through it. Still a tack driver. Shooting it currently in local target league. Love that gun.
I carry a full size kimber custom ll .45 acp, have for 2 years, put 4k rounds through her, 1k of hollows, wouldn't trade it for the world. Only thing I did was put night sights on and got wilson combat mags.
Finally someone on here not bashing my favorite 1911 brand. I have the Kimber Eclipse Custom 10mm and carry it with great regularity. I bought 3 Ed Brown mags for it and had to tweak the extractor slightly but it's 100% with hollow points and flat nose fmj since I adjusted the extractor tension. Great shooting guns
Just change the recoil spring about every 5,000 rounds. I prefer upping thr spring to 18-18.5 pound springs. Adds a bit more recoil absorption and increases th3 forward momentum to slam thr round into battery. Change the hammer spring probably every 10,000 rounds of so.
Would love to know the velocity difference between that wore out barrel vs the new Barstow barrel. I find it hard to believe that it still spits them out at 850 fps.
Hey David, I am waiting to see as well. Having replaced any number of 1911 barrels...best I can say is .....most times the old barrel is slightly faster then the new ...smoother, larger diameter, etc. Every so often, the new barrel is faster...They need to get busy up there....the FANS are waiting! Bar Sto barrels are usually very accurate.
I know people harp on Kimber's quality, but I have had only positive experiences. I own three, a 9mm Evo, a Pro Carry II in .45 ACP and a Camp Guard in 10MM. All shoot well and are extremely reliable.
My dad bought a Custom CDP II in the early 00s, department armorer swapped in a bunch of ed brown parts. Had it on duty for ten years and has been teaching with it since. Probably north of 20k rounds. Now I'm running a Sig 1911 on patrol, bought after becoming an NCO in 2012. Well made 1911s last forever. Round count is getting up there, but the ammo crunches have tempered it somewhat.
I’m guessing my Kimber Custom II is around 10 yrs old. It’s the first semi auto I ever owned. It was a tack driver right out of the box. I don’t recall any real break-in period. It eats anything. I’ve had lots of friends shoot it and they’re always amazed at how tight it shoots. I’d be amazed if I ever find a pistol that matches this Kimber. And for 800 something bucks. This video made me smile.
I ordered and received the Teslong bore camera. Thanks for the suggestion! I have 2 Kimbers. One is an early Kimber custom and have shot many USPSA matches with it.
I own multiple 1911s in multiple calibers. The one that I have put the most rounds through would be my Springfield EMP 9. It is chambered in 9x19, has a 3" bull barrel, and because it is a single stack 9x19 has a very slim profile making it a great carry option. I have always loved 1911s, but living in a warmer climate where lighter clothing is recommended most of the year, a bulky firearm is less than ideal for EDC. The EMP has everything I love about 1911s, in a slimmer, lighter, package. I haven't kept track of the number very precisely, but best guess I orobbably have about 12k rounds through it at this point.
Mine is an older one, 1947 civilian model. Used some reloads that someone else made up and burst the barrel at an indoor range. Too loud and too many distractions otherwise I may have caught the malfunction. A new barrel and bushing possible link too and it's better than when I bought it. It goes with me to the outdoors ranges when ever I get to go.
My Kimber Custom 2 is was born about the same time. It was sent to Kimber and got a mag well and a set of target sights I put a short trigger on it later as I have short fingers. Other than recoil springs and hammer springs I have put one mainspring in it. Other than that it is all original parts.I shot it in IDPA and training classes ,probably has 35 - 40 thousand rounds through it. I like it so much I sold a Les Bare premier 2 and kept the Kimber. The older ones are fantastic.Shoot mostly 230 cast round nose and Tight group powder.
My Kimber Stainless Gold Match 45ACP from 1999 (70 model) is still my favorite. Had some problems in the beginning that was due to extractor having to little tension. Fixed that and it’s been running flawlessly since. Still very accurate and beautiful gun.
The only thing I’ve done to it is to swap out the plastic mainspring housing to straight stainless one from Wilson Combat. I then swapped that mainspring housing out for a curved stainless mainspring housing from Ed Brown. There wasn’t anything functionality wrong with the original mainspring housing but I didn’t want anything plastic on my gun. It wasn’t hard or expensive.
I’m on my 3rd 1911 Kimber, First was a Kimber SS 45acp, Second was a Kimber Ultra Carry 45 acp, now after wanting it for a decade I finally got my SS Kimber Raptor ll 45 acp which is the pinnacle for myself( my dream handgun.) I saved along time to get it and even got Galco Miami Classic shoulder holster for it! I have a few 90’s Glock, Beretta INOX 9mm and recently bought a pair of 22LR Ruger Wranglers (both in black one being a birdshead model) both fun plinking pistols during the ammo shortage we currently went/going through. My Raptor ll 45 acp has me more than excited running Wilson Combat 47D mags it performs flawlessly! I hope to tell a story like this one about my Raptor one day…….#KimberFan#1911#45acp
I have a CDP II and I absolutely love it. I have never run anything but my reloads through it with zero malfunctions. I can't speak for all Kimbers but mine is a keeper.
I carried a G17 for thirty years and don’t miss it one bit. A well built 1911 cannot be beat, mine is a DW. I also swapped the 17 for a CZ P07 and haven’t looked back.
My duty gun is a Springfield TRP. The only thing I changed out is a ISMI recoil spring and a Aftac self adjusting extractor. I haven’t had any malfunctions in years since changing those two parts.
A couple years ago I bought a kimber compact. They are visually appealing for sure. The captured guiderod snapped in half during the 500 round break-in period. I lost my faith in them after that. I've had 3 g23's that never had issues and never had a single misfire. I wish I could trust Kimbers. They're gorgeous guns with mild recoil. 😢
My first pistol was kimber 1911 stanless, TLE RL II i bought it 17 years ago, i put around 4k rounds, it will stay with mefor ever, for my kids, and grand kids, i love everything about 1911s, its simply the most beautiful gun ever made, kimber is a great company they stand behind the product pretty much for life, i will be posting a video a bout my baby.
I have a 90's Kimber Custom II like that. It's got thousands of rounds thru it and still an accurate shooter. Never had a problem one and yes it's my favorite.
Weirdly, I just had my first failure on a Kimber Compact I bought about 2000/2001. A leg on the plunger tube broke and I had to replace that part. I believe (I'm not sure) that part was MIM, yet it still lasted all these years. It's been replaced with a real steel plunger tube.
I'm in love with my RIA 1911a1fs .45 ACP with a custom black cerakote magpul grips and some polished internals and a lightly worked on trigger from my brother man Devil Dog -Echo Seven Precision Gunworks- in Fort Worth, Texas.
A well made 1911 will last a long time, much longer than 80,000 rounds. That low pressure round is real easy on the steel frame and slide.
That doesn't hold true for a 1911 chambered in 10mm. 36,000 psi for full power loads.
Exactly, people forget that about .45 ACP. It’s fantastic and (nowadays) misunderstood and even straight up lied about. In the ranges that you’re shooting in typical self defense scenarios (and even non-typical), .45 ACP is hard to beat.
My father purchased an early Kimber Custom. I did some minor trigger work on it and he competed in various matches with it for 12-13 years, enjoying it immensely. With his passing in 2014, it joined my Kimber Eclipse II in my safe. They both enjoy a 230 grain FMJ, coated LRN or XTP over 5.0 grains of Vhitavori N 320. They have heirloom status now.
The finest pistol design ever made. John Browning was an absolute genius. It seems that people either love or hate it. To each it’s own. It is my favorite
I love 1911's and glocks. I'm an open minded person I guess.
I'm in between. I just see no advantage to it today over other options. Classic gun though.
I've always found the hate interesting. I dislike shooting a number of pistols including Glocks for some reason but don't hate them or mock and rundown the vast number of people that do. Says more about the Larper than about those that shoot 1911's to me.
I don’t know why people hate on the 1911. I don’t hate Glocks. In fact, I just love guns period. But Glock people who hate on 1911’s are literal idiots. The 1911 (a 45 chambered 1911) is the king. It’s the perfect platform to drop a man at close distances. Wars are not won with pistols. They’re won with rifles. But if I were going to war with my rifle, the pistol I’d want at my side while reloading in some ditch or trench somewhere is the king (a fucking 45acp 1911). Or if I ran out of ammo for my rifle and had to dig in and hide somewhere. I’d want that 45acp 1911. JUDGE ME,!!!
I don't hate 1911's, I just don't like ergonomics of carrying it.
If I ever needed to use it, I don't want to miss. I carry 9mm in summer, and in Winter .357 Sig.
That is awesome 👌. I have a Colt Combat Elite I bought new in 1991. Shot it in competition for year's. Retired it at 250k rounds and barrel #4. I replaced a lot of parts on that gun but never due to breakage or failure. It even survived my experimentation phase with .45 Super's for bowling pin shoots, love it.
How was the slide to frame fit after all those rounds?
So I have know Guy for many years and went through scouting with his sons. I remember seeing Guy as an officer in my hometown carrying this gun and have shot along side him at at least one class and numerous times at the range. Good to see that 1911 still ringing steel!
From the title and the intro alone.
That is a real statement about the low wear and tear that 45 ACP puts on guns, that's really interesting.
And that's what you should see with other low pressure rounds in a full size quality gun.
Two takeaways: First-the 80,000+ round barrel looks a bit worn but, all things considered, many pistols never make it to 80K! Second-I wish my agency had used 45ACP. We used 40S&W when I started and never liked it compared to 45’s. We later swapped to 9mm, the lesser amount of recoil helped the “non-gun” officers so that was a positive. I’m retired these days and I carry a Kimber TLE II Stainless, smoothest trigger I’ve ever used!
Great video, thanks for posting!
And there it is... A 90's Kimber. A million times better than anything they make today.
100%
My local gun store talked me out of buying a Kimber and suggested the Springfield Garrison which was 300 dollars cheaper.
@@briandavenport8971 good folks
@@briandavenport8971 and you like it don't you?
I haven't heard anything bad about the Springfields, and I haven't heard anything good about the new Kimbers. The old Custom Classics were and are fantastic.
There’s something about a gun that’s been carried and used for multiple decades, tens of thousands of rounds, that just makes the gun something special. I have one handgun in particular I’ve had for a couple years now (a highly modified and built P320) and I fully intend for it to become that kind of experienced pistol in time. I can’t wait
I own a Classic Custom that I bought new in April 1999. After a couple of years of shooting it, I changed out the factory plastic trigger, sent the lower frame/parts off to Accurate Plating and Weaponry (then in Fla) and had 20lpi checkering on the frontstrap, hardchrome finish ( so it's now 2 tone) and they fitted/installed an Ed Brown mainspring housing with detachable magwell, which replaced the factory plastic mainspring housing. I have the OE rubber grips like the one in the video but swapped them out for some double diamond rosewoods with SS hex grip screws. It's basically my safe queen but I've never had any issues with it and the trigger is like none other. I use Wilson and Chip McCormick magazines. Absolutely the finest handgun i own.
I enjoyed your video. I have a 1911 that my father bought for me for my 18th birthday I had the best Dad a son could have. I did a little research on it that shows it was manufactured in 1913. My father bought it from a Korean war vet who carried it during his service and bought it from the us govt. to take home with him. The army armorer told him he checked the records which show the gun was carried in WW1 and WW2 and of course the Korean war.
The veteran who had been wounded had it accurized by Bob Chow in 1951 in San Francisco and mailed to his house.
I used to keep strict reloading records until I stopped in about mid 1980's. The records show that the brass that I bought from the coast guard from their Thompson qualifications (still about 360 rounds left) cheap because no body wanted it the Thompson has such an open chamber the brass can be difficult to resize and hangs up on the dies. Lee made me a very open lead in full length hammer die that I used to restore the brass. I hammered two shopping bags full of brass through the die and used their primer pocket reamer to cut off the military crimp. I have annealed it several times over the years with an alcohol torch when I picked up a cracked case. Out of those to bags I have reloaded well over a hundred thousand rounds. I think Bob Chow might have changed the barrel and bushing because I think the barrel is stainless and the bushing has a beautiful lock up. The sights were bowman I dropped it once and bent the sight they were a soft steel. I replaced them with Dillon sights. It will out shoot a colt gold cup. I have replace the recoil and firing pin springs many times with Wolf variable power springs.
I have a Taurus PT 1911 I bought from a very close family friend that actually taught my dad and myself how to reload because he and his family were short on money for christmas. Sadly he passed away a week and a half after I got it so to me that 1911 will always be a piece of him and I carry it as often as possible. Put probably 3 or 4 thousand rounds through it and it's run it all like a top whether it's 185 grain 230 grain it just eats it all and shoots like a dream
I have this same gun. It's on its third set of springs. I don't think I've put 80k through it, but the round count is pretty high and my finish is only a little darker than this one. Fantastic gun. Thanks for sharing this.
I have three 1911 pistols - a Colt Govt model 1911A1, a Kimber TLE II, and I recently got a Tisas Govt model 1911A1. I have been shooting .45 1911A1’s for about 65 years. I was trained in the Army as an MP officer, and then joined Special Forces where we also used the 1911A1, including during an extended tour in VN. I really like the 1911A1, and have a fair amount of proficiency with it.
I love that this channel has an appreciation for classic and newer firearms.
I have a Springfield Loaded model 1911, have had it 8yrs and somewhere around 6K rds through it but havent kept track. I carried it everyday up until about 5 months ago. Totally reliable, i trust my life with it. i have customized it a tad and fit some parts to it.
I have an early Kimber Custom, with a 4 digit serial number. At the time I bought it, they only had fixed sites and rubber grips. I milled the slide for an original Bo-Mar and put a Smith Patridge front site in the dovetail up front.
I was in the last USMC TBS class to qualify with the 1911 before the switch to the M9. My Kimber is on its third set of springs, and has almost exclusively been shot with cast bullets of my own making and loading. I know I havent shot 80k through it, but I have shot it a lot.
I got my Kimber in 2000 and have put about 30k rounds through it. It has been very reliable, just having to replace the recoil and firing pin springs.
I bought mine two or three months before January 1st 2000 I bought it for Y2K lol. I'll never forget I told the guy I want the best 45 and he said you want a Kimber that's how good their reputation was back then. I just took my concealed carry test with it because it shoots so well a couple months back
“It’s not polite to outshoot a man with his own gun”. Best quote ever. Well said.
I own a number of 1911's, including double stack Para's I used in action pistol matches back in the 90's and early 2000's. I know people constantly piss and mone about the Para double stack mags being unreliable. Since I was shooting competition, unreliable mags was unacceptable and successfully made not only my 14rd mags 100%. But my 20rd ones too by simply replacing the springs with wolf competition high performance springs, replaced the followers with after market, and only run ball ammo through it. Got good accuracy too!
But the one I shoot 99% of the time since 2004 is my Les Baer single stack Premier II SUPER TAC guaranteed to shoot 1½" at 50 yards, and came with a test target to prove it. Paid $2,400 for it back in 2004; it proved to be one of my better purchasing decisions! I've largely stopped shooting competition in the mid 2000's due to physical issues, so I've only put about 5 or 6 thousand rounds through it, but it's still tight!
I have my granddad’s Colt M1911 manufactured in 1918. I haven’t fired it in years. It functioned perfectly when I shot it years ago.
Absolutely a fantastic set.... not quite a 1911, but I have had a Para Ordnance p12 for about 27years, customized by myself, beaver tail, Wilson match barrel and bushing, guide rod, custom hammer and sear massaged by yours truly, aftermarket trigger with over travel stop, trigicon night sights that no longer glow. It's life includes three years of competitive stock class shooting, one broken slide due to 20k rounds and loosing all the series 80 parts while shooting a match, factory actually replaced free of charge, and still my #1. For being an officer size 1911, 13 round capacity,, shoots better than I can hold, and still my favorite. I have a soft spot for the 1911 platform. I do own a series 70 Colt Gold Cup National Match that is stock but for the Millett sights, and that would be my #2... there is a reason that almost every pistol manufacturer has had their own version of the 1911. It simply works. 😁
I saw Kimber’s rust after 2 months on the rack in the store I worked at. Most of them came from the factory with rust lol
I call BS
I like the MIM parts at forged part prices, and the plastic mainspring housings. Garbage.
Look up Kimber rust and you’ll see tons of results on them rusting or being rusted new. We would have to clean them often if they didn’t sell fast enough.
@@Justin-zv4cm LOL pretty obvious you have no clue what a non MIM parts fitted pistol costs. Dan Wesson "NON MIM" is the closest I can think of price wise and starting @ MSRP $1,249 vs Kimber @ MSRP $802. And just a heads up,some MIM parts are non critical and won't matter if MIM or Forged. Plastic MSH I have yet to see 1 fail and seems like an OCD issue with most owners. As far as rust goes,some kimber parts were still in "The White" and it will happen but I've also seen my co-workers Wilson Combat which came from the factory with some very small rust on some interior frame sections and was easily cleaned and never an issue after. It's a tool,it's going to get dirty and will have some love handles on it if your using it for its intended purpose or maybe you should just keep it in the safe and brag about having it and not be able to shoot worth a sh*t because you were afraid to get it dirty. 🙄
@@mdh1775 I actually have a better idea than you might think. But my main point is that you don't get what you pay for with Kimber or Colt. No sense going full KBCommando. Besides, I'd never own a Kimber, so I wouldn't have it in my safe.
One thing that will save your frame from cracking is replacing your recoil spring when it needs it.
As this fella. We also started with the 1911 base. Then very early switched to the berreta M9. My M9 threw over 40000 rounds during my first 4 years. With a handful of stove pipes. It was still in service long after i left. As a matter of fact the armory still had it at the 20 yr reunion. It seen service around the world from Panama to Afghanistan. And used the same barrel! We recieved 1911's for parting gifts. They all were remnants from WWII. If you make something good...and it works. Why fix it?
Awesome! I carried my own Kimber Classic Custom with a Sheriff's Department in north Texas . My serial number was only three actual numbers. the rest was all zeros. ... after 23 years in the Marine Corps myself (1966-1989). Loved that gun. It was not too bad at $700+ when I bought it. Sady, I sold it when my wife received DoD orders to Britain. My hands are fairly large and my fingers short so the grip was perfect for me.
Semper Fi
USMC Retired
1966-1989
RVN 01/69-10/70
Thank you for your service!❤
Thousands of rounds through my Ruger SR1911, accurate and reliable!
I really enjoy your videos but this one touched me in that special way. To say that I am a 1911 guy would be an understatement. The one I have had the longest was purchased in 1976 is a Colt Combat Commandar. The one with the most rounds is a competition Remington R1 stock gov't purchased when they first came to market. I use it in Wild Bunch competition and run around 8k per year through it so call it around 40k. The only thing I have done to it is replace the springs every year or more, you can tell how the gun functions if you need to replace them before my annual complete maintenance which includes checking the plunger tube which is tighten at the same time. My current EDC is a Sig Nightmare Commandar size that rides either in a belt holster at 4 o'clock or a jackass rig.
Do you have a suggestion for a group I could join to learn more about the 1911? I have looked at a couple of web forums, but it seems that they are mostly geared toward pictures of purchases/finds and that sort of thing. Outside of problems encountered, it is not very technical in nature.
I put over 100,000 rounds through a Chinese made Norinco 1911 (200+ rounds a week for 12 years) that was strictly "goverenment" in form which I bought in 1992....one failure, it broke the extractor at about 80K....spares very difficult here in NZ so I made it another one... at the same time I replaced the bottom link and recoil spring. When I sold it, it was ticking like a clock, no worries. I have another from the same maker now, and as I am almost 80 and not as well off as I was 20 years ago, I don't think I'll wear it out, Norinco have chrome lined barrels and I shoot almost entirely hand cast 200gr LSWC and 230gr LRN bullets out of it. I had a mirror finish when I bought it and was exactly the same when I sold it... no measurable wear. Both pistols shoot about 2" at 25 yards... I usually use ADI AP50 powder...
The 1911 is inherently rugged and reliable.... my new one has ambi safety, extended slide release and mag release, big beavertail, flat mainspring housing (better for my little paws), and as always a pretty good trigger,... 3 1/2 lbs and pretty crisp...
We are not allowed carry here, but if push came to shove I'd trust my life to that .45....
I carried a Kimber on duty for about 6 years until the city rotated them out. I had several thousand rounds through mine (I have no idea exactly how many). The only problem I had with it was a broken extractor, which causes secondary malfunctions. Thank God that happened in training. I liked the gun and bought it after the city moved onto the next platform (Glock).
I sadly had to retire my Dan Wesson Specialist in .45 ACP when the department required me to carry the Glock 17. The Glock is a nice reliable gun but the Dan Wesson was amazing and I’m not sold on the 9mm.
That wear on the finish is amazing. I hope it never gets re-finished.
I think the old kimber looks really good. I love 1911s and I do own a few kimbers that have been very good to me.
I cerakoted a battle worn gun once. Regretted it very much. The actual worn look is the best
that gun has been shown alot of love. a loved item, gun, car, motorcycle, etc isn't one thats bright and shiney and never leaves the safe/garage. its the one thats used and worn.
Great video. I like these kinds of stories.
Nice to see you got snow up there already!!
Awesome, thanks for sharing this Gavin!
My Kimber was the first pistol I ever purchased, in 1999. Since then it has seen several thousand rounds, but certainly not 80k!
Mine has also been great with no issues. Only thing I’ve done is upgrade springs last year to a Wilson set, mostly for my own preference and feel better in any situation!
I've had my Kimber Custom I for a little over 20 years now. My first firearm. Still my favorite. Nowhere near 80K rounds through mine but definitely in the 5 digit range as I used to shoot it all the time when a box of 50 rds could be had for $8-$10 back in the day. It's mostly original except I swapped out the all black sights with 3-dot night sights as my eyesight is pretty degraded from when I first got it (blind in one eye, limited but functional vision in the other, long story). Also, I've been using Wilson Combat mags for most of the time I've had it. Aside from recoil springs, the only part I've had to replace from a maintenance standpoint is the slide release. The part of the release that slides into the notch on the slide was so worn that earlier this year, it was failing to stay locked back after the last round and even inserting a new mag was causing the slide to drop. I got a replacement slide release from Wilson Combat with an extended thumb tab which works great.
Glad to see a video singing the praises of these older Kimber models.
They are nice pistols when they are made right. I shot a friends newer kimber that ran flawlessly. But then I’ve known a lot of people that have had nothing but problems. If you got a good one that’s awesome they really are beautiful pistols.
@@Danstheman1357 yeah, I've heard thst sbout the newer Kimber 1911's. Pity, the used to set the standard for out of the box quality.
I bought my kimber stainless about 2 months ago. I hope mine carry’s a similar story for me in the years to come
My first 1911: I have an ati 5” government that I wore parts out on, then rebuilt into a very nice shooting and very accurate gun I call el cheapo lovingly. About 30k rounds, cheap internals. Tighted the frame to slide fit the old school way. Then replaced the ignition parts with Wilson combat parts, Swenson match barrel, Wilson combat barrel bushing, flat pad trigger, extended beaver tail, and taller sights.
My second (but I have more) 1911: Springfield loaded model 5” parkerized. This gun has been utterly reliable even when doing a mud test and sand test. No failures due to the gun. Only 2 failures due to a magazine spring failure and a round that the brass was screwed up, part of the brass got pealed up to the case head. The gun potentially saved my life one night, luckily I did not have to shoot. It’s my favorite handgun, and it goes with me everywhere. I did put a mag well, g10 grips, and a flat pad trigger on it. And it has a Wilson flatwire recoil spring which are great. The parkerized finish has held up fantastically compared to other parkerized guns I have that have a fraction of the use my Springfield has.
Para Ordnance 14.45 Custom limited class .45. The Barsto barrel has roughly 60,000 rounds through it and it's companion piece a custom carry class 12.45 with a bushingless bull barrel has about 30,000 rounds. I built both in the early 90's. I built both myself, did all the mill work, gunkote from Brownells has held up exceptionally well. The 14.45 I just Cerakoted and fit a new hammer and sear after the 2.5lb trigger started with the occasional hammer drop. They've both been "retired" for some time with a S&W MP9 custom in 9mm taking its place once the 9mm became undeniably a better option. 30,000+. Its a bit funny how close to the 14.45 I built the MP9. I just picked up a bone stock SA SA-35 that just might be the next anointed one depending on how much I like it. Sadly I sold my mill during a move some time ago, still have the tooling. There's no trust like the trust you put in your own work. I hope a solution presents itself if the SA-35 is the next..
Do you recall when Para Ordnance just made frame kits and not complete pistols? My cousin has one my Dad and I built for him with a colt commander slide and barrel. First P13 I can think of 😁
@@SharpShooterCO I do. And as you'd expect being the first they were the worst when it came to holding tolerances and the complete pistols that followed the frame kits weren't all that great either. It would take on average 4-6 hours longer to complete a custom Para than say a Colt and they weren't the beesknees either.
Personally I enjoyed the early Norinco's for their close(r) tolerances and super hard frames and slides. When you stacked the poor tolerances of any gun but especially the Para's you'd sometimes not be able to fit a part at all, but Para was good about replacing frames and slides. At least if you had a good relationship with them.
Once you got one right though, there was nothing else like them on the market for capacity and that was a great advantage to have. STI came on the scene and at first they weren't great either. But once CNC's became affordable at the smaller manufacturing levels we started seeing much better products. Kimber is one who took advantage of this before most others.
I recently picked up an SA-35, and having dealt with polymer frames and steel/SS slides for so long, the much tighter tolerances of steel on steel via CNC is almost stunning.. Heck, a DRO used to be what you lusted after, now CNC 5-axis milling machines are within reach at the gunsmith level.. we live in good times.
That's a awsome 1911. I'm new to the 1911 just got a springfield 1911 A1 loaded model recently. Glock is still my choice for serious use. Glock 17 gen 4 was my first pistol and as a former LEO I have alot of training time on and carried a Glock on duty. But now that I own a 1911 they are just a cool gun and easy ti fall in love with.
Though I highly regard the 1911 "platform", I have only had 3 and none of them were truly classic 1911s. I had a compact 45 & 2 Colt Mustang 380. I hope to get one some day. Thank you gents.
If the Kimber has the early Clackamas Oregon roll mark (Custom), although most made in Yonkers already, it’s a used Kimber that I’m interested in. The later ones (Custom II) made in Yonkers New York added the firing pin safety system and eventually were full of MIM and had periods of spotty quality control. I’m not sure if they all came with the in the white carbon steel barrels but a quick hand polish and light coat of oil will keep rust away.
It cracks me up to hear the haters make their comments for this good video. My Kimber Desert Warrior shoots like a champ. There is not a damn thing wrong with Kimber guns. Yes you need to maintain them more diligently with cleaning and lubing. Then again, some people seem to have forgotten some of those basic common sense habits. A 1911 might be too complicated for some people, and that’s a good thing for them to know their limitations.😂😂. Thanks for the video.
People pay to get worn out finish? Lawd. Very odd. I do love how modest Guy is. Please keep sharing the knowledge and info. Greatly appreciate. Born in 87, diesel tech, auto enthusiasts, firearms enthusiast. Build everything I can myself. Including engine trans diff wiring harness and do what I can with my guns. Did a little reloading but just bolt on stuff. But I have a bad case of mechanical OCD. it’s bad. And I can see you have it too Gavin. I feel you lol. Anyways. Thanks man.
I have a Kimber in 45. It is probably as old as the one in your video. When I bought it Kimber only offered 2 models. One with fixed sights an one with adjustable, I had to order the adjustable model. The Kimber was a replacement for a Colt 80 series that was completely warn out. I have shot a lot of IPSC and 3 gun for many years. It has been feed a steady diet of 200gr LSWCs. And it gets what I think is the best Chip McCormick 10 round mags. I have other 1911's. A Para in 40s&w and a new SA in 9mm and a Colt commander. The Kimber has always done great, it has been upgraded with a set rosewood grips and a S&A magwell and it is probably one of my favorites.
I have heard so many people say Kimber is junk, I have owned pretty much every manufacturers 1911 but always avoided Kimber because of the negative reviews. I was in the market for another basic 1911 and all I could find was a Kimber Custom II with manufacturer installed Night Sights. So I picked it up, got it home and detail stripped it. I was really surprised at how well made and fit together this Kimber was, everything was polished that should be, the homer and sear engagement wan very nice, I have no complaints
Kimber today aren’t like this one. Do some research and you’ll find his gun was made with lots of chip McCormick internals. Kimber switched to MIM internals and had some teething issues with that and that’s why you hear what you hear. Current Kimbers are probably better than what you’ve heard but not as good as this implies. They also have Schwartz safeties now which also aren’t recommended
As what K Bob said, only Kimbers are great, new ones are kinda meh. I'd honestly buy a Springfield Armory 1911 over a Kimber, personally.
@@mjcmustang the one I got was new old stock, it was made in 2015, maybe things changed, but I have owned and gunsmithed pretty much every production 1911, and my Kimber is the only one that had every internal (disconnectors, sear, hammer,etc.) polished. One of my Colt 1911's had the worst internals I have ever seen, I didn't even mess with them, I replaced everything with Wilson parts then did my normal polish and trigger job. I have a Springfield Garrison and P-35 on backorder at my LGS, getting anything has been a PITA lately so I don't expect to see either for a while
@@New2Kendo the kimber parts typically have a nice fit because they are mim. You get great tolerances on mass produced small parts but it’s not barstock at the end of the day. I’ve heard the stories about Colts but I’ve only ever seen one I thought had issues and we sent it back. I’d give the colt a slight edge in small parts quality over the Springfield or Kimber just due to the fact that the slide stop is still bar stock and the safeties don’t seem to be problematic. Kimber were/are notorious for the slide stops and thumb safeties breaking on guns that get shot a lot. Springfields are all MIM small parts too but I’d definitely go Springfield over Kimber.
I have heard kimber comments all over the page. Some are great, some aren't so good. I have a Springfield Ronin Government. 45, 2 Les Baers, and an Ed Brown SF. Thr Baers and EB 1911 are superb. Thr Baers are fitted like racing engines. Thr EB is like butter. Thr Ronin is good and is my beater.
I am not into 1911s but that old school Kimber is awesome.
After all these years of wanting a 1911 I finally got one. But mine was budget friendly. It’s a Rick Island in 45 ACP. I like it but the older my eyes get, the harder it is to pick up the front sight. Makes me want to install a new front sight. Which makes my choices to get an upgraded slide or new 1911. Or both!😬
In all honesty, it shows how steel frame guns last. It’s hard to argue with a well forged steel handgun in terms of sheer reliability.
There are plenty of 100k+ round Glocks and other designs without steel frames.
@@45calibermedic I never said they couldn’t last. Why are people automatically assuming that? “It shows how steel frame guns last” what the hell does that have anything to do with polymer guns?
@Jesse Robinson It shows how steel frame guns last” what the hell does that have anything to do with polymer guns?
@Jesse Robinson also a glock left in water for a long time will funtion much better than an 1911 that will rust completely
Back when Kimber made a good 1911
I have that same model, I probably bought it in 1997 or 1998. It is the first 1911 I ever purchased. I probably only have about 500 rounds through mine and it still has all the factory finish.
not a 1911, but I have a j frame 357 that's been with me since my 21st birthday. When I bought it it was the hot carry gun, and even though there are a thousand better options now, Its still my go to. third set of grips second triduum sight.
Looking forward to the ransom rest video!
80,000 rounds. Hell lad, it’s just getting started. I also learned of the 1911 back in 1968 in the Marine Corp. A 1911of some sort has been my constant companion ever since. Influenced by the likes of Jeff Cooper and Clint Smith just got me more enthused. I’ve found if you clean them once in a while and feed them properly they’re dead bang reliable. Cool gun sir. By the way, what type of sights are those, I like them.
I have a Springfield full size 9mm with a 9x23 barrel also I have around 40k through was I my go to idpa, steel challenge and ipsc for years still love to shoot it bought a double stack 1911 9mm 2011 to be a bit more competitive but is still love to take the old Springfield out and run all my mags through it from time to time. Still one of the best shooting pistols I have and smooth as glass now that it’s worn in so well. I’ve changed firing pins firing pin springs recoil springs a few times but other than that same two barrels. Came as a 9x23 bought the 9mm barrel right away for cheaper rounds love it.
Love my Kimber Custom TLE 2 TFS in .45. It was the gun made for the LA SWAT. It has been nothing short of a dream in every way. Hasn’t let me down one bit. Just a beast of a gun.
I shoot competition with a Kimber Team Match 2. 8-9000 rounds so far. Never had any problems and 0 malfunctions!
Kimber Grand Raptor 2, purchased new I believe in 2008. Probably has had 8 to 10 thousand rounds shot now and still has 1 1/2” groups free hand. I put a full metal back strap and a Wilson Combat 8 round 47D magazine with a laser max guide rod laser installed. Replaced the sights after 12 years because they were getting pretty dim, the new ones are really bright again. I love this gun like it was one of my children. I have had a Government issue Colt manufactured in 1918 that was all original and pinched the skin between my thumb and trigger finger several times, but still loved it. It would shoot about a 5” group from 7 yards. I like a lot of different guns but the Kimber is by far my favorite. It has never jammed or malfunctioned in any way. Some people say the series 70 has less moving parts and has a lighter trigger pull the Kimber is a series 80 and has a lighter trigger pull. I have had both and l feel the Kimber is better. Between 3.5 to 4 Lbs I shoot 230 grain fmj mostly for target and jhp for self defense. I trust my family and my life with this gun. I gave it to a gunsmith for a week so he could see if he could make any improvements on it, he gave it back and told me his wife shot a 8” plate at 200 feet on the first shot. He said no need for improvement.
I do have a turus 1911 is being a great gun ,never had any problems with it
I just recently got my first 1911, a Kimber Stainless 2. I'm brand new to 1911's and am excited to take her out this weekend.
I've owned a dozen or so 1911 pistols in my life, many of them from Colt. I bought a Kimber Eclipse Target in 2005 and yes, I replaced some of the internals mostly since it was a popular thing then (the MIM scare). I used Wilson "bullet proof" springs, sear and disconnector and polished things up just a little. I ALWAYS use their KimPro mags and generally load Remington UMC 230 gr factory hard ball ammo. That pistol is the absolute most accurate and pleasurable thing to shoot I've ever had . . .period! Approaching 50,000 rounds now. That one is a KEEPER!
I have a number of 1911’s. I think my favorites are my Kimber Pro TLE RL II in .45 ACP and my Dan Wesson Pointman Carry in .38 Super. Both have and many rounds through them.
I have a kimber custom ghost. 5 inch. 45. I love it. The really only thing I had a problem with was the factory mag would feed jam. And I had to put though 500 rounds through it and now it is flawless. I love it.
A 1911 was my first handgun. Parkerized Springfield loaded in 45. Ive only had guns for about 15 years now(im 45) so to start i more or less went based off what felt good to me. I still have that 1911 and shoot it as often as i can. Its hot a little bit of battle rattle, and a lot of finish wear, but shoots beautifully. The only time i ever had any malfunction with it was using cheap mags i got off ebay. Long as i use wilsons, or chips, it eats everything i feed it, which all but 200 rounds has been jacketed hollow points. Its one of the few that i will never trade or sell. I usually carry a cz p10 model now, buy I wont hesitate to carry that springfield 1911 and would absolutely bet my life on that gun. Hell, i love the 1911 enough that i went and got a full rail trp a couple months back. The cz may be taking a break once i find a holster for that trp that works with my light.
I have a 4 digit Clackamas Oregon Kimber. Only thing done was a trip to ROBAR for a stippled front strap with NP-3 on frame and Roguard on the slide. Probably around 25k through it. Still a tack driver. Shooting it currently in local target league. Love that gun.
I carry a full size kimber custom ll .45 acp, have for 2 years, put 4k rounds through her, 1k of hollows, wouldn't trade it for the world. Only thing I did was put night sights on and got wilson combat mags.
Incredible video. Thanks so much
Now I have to buy one of those cameras...
Finally someone on here not bashing my favorite 1911 brand. I have the Kimber Eclipse Custom 10mm and carry it with great regularity. I bought 3 Ed Brown mags for it and had to tweak the extractor slightly but it's 100% with hollow points and flat nose fmj since I adjusted the extractor tension. Great shooting guns
Big difference between a 1997 Kimber and Kimbers now.
Just change the recoil spring about every 5,000 rounds. I prefer upping thr spring to 18-18.5 pound springs. Adds a bit more recoil absorption and increases th3 forward momentum to slam thr round into battery.
Change the hammer spring probably every 10,000 rounds of so.
Thanks for the info. To set schedule a play for 22 target Kimbers as well? Mine are easily over 10k
Always enjoy the videos that feature Guy in them so much history and knowledge. I would love to spend a day and just listen to the stories.
Would love to know the velocity difference between that wore out barrel vs the new Barstow barrel. I find it hard to believe that it still spits them out at 850 fps.
Hey David, I am waiting to see as well. Having replaced any number of 1911 barrels...best I can say is .....most times the old barrel is slightly faster then the new ...smoother, larger diameter, etc. Every so often, the new barrel is faster...They need to get busy up there....the FANS are waiting! Bar Sto barrels are usually very accurate.
I know people harp on Kimber's quality, but I have had only positive experiences. I own three, a 9mm Evo, a Pro Carry II in .45 ACP and a Camp Guard in 10MM. All shoot well and are extremely reliable.
My dad bought a Custom CDP II in the early 00s, department armorer swapped in a bunch of ed brown parts. Had it on duty for ten years and has been teaching with it since. Probably north of 20k rounds. Now I'm running a Sig 1911 on patrol, bought after becoming an NCO in 2012. Well made 1911s last forever. Round count is getting up there, but the ammo crunches have tempered it somewhat.
I’m guessing my Kimber Custom II is around 10 yrs old. It’s the first semi auto I ever owned. It was a tack driver right out of the box. I don’t recall any real break-in period. It eats anything. I’ve had lots of friends shoot it and they’re always amazed at how tight it shoots. I’d be amazed if I ever find a pistol that matches this Kimber. And for 800 something bucks. This video made me smile.
I ordered and received the Teslong bore camera. Thanks for the suggestion! I have 2 Kimbers. One is an early Kimber custom and have shot many USPSA matches with it.
I own multiple 1911s in multiple calibers. The one that I have put the most rounds through would be my Springfield EMP 9. It is chambered in 9x19, has a 3" bull barrel, and because it is a single stack 9x19 has a very slim profile making it a great carry option.
I have always loved 1911s, but living in a warmer climate where lighter clothing is recommended most of the year, a bulky firearm is less than ideal for EDC.
The EMP has everything I love about 1911s, in a slimmer, lighter, package. I haven't kept track of the number very precisely, but best guess I orobbably have about 12k rounds through it at this point.
Mine is an older one, 1947 civilian model. Used some reloads that someone else made up and burst the barrel at an indoor range. Too loud and too many distractions otherwise I may have caught the malfunction. A new barrel and bushing possible link too and it's better than when I bought it. It goes with me to the outdoors ranges when ever I get to go.
Wow a Kimber that actually works! They were NOT the first to offer upgraded standard options either. I'm glad the gentleman has one that is good.
They can put new vials in the sights if he wants to keep the patina the same.
My Kimber Custom 2 is was born about the same time. It was sent to Kimber and got a mag well and a set of target sights I put a short trigger on it later as I have short fingers. Other than recoil springs and hammer springs I have put one mainspring in it. Other than that it is all original parts.I shot it in IDPA and training classes ,probably has 35 - 40 thousand rounds through it. I like it so much I sold a Les Bare premier 2 and kept the Kimber. The older ones are fantastic.Shoot mostly 230 cast round nose and Tight group powder.
My Kimber Stainless Gold Match 45ACP from 1999 (70 model) is still my favorite. Had some problems in the beginning that was due to extractor having to little tension. Fixed that and it’s been running flawlessly since. Still very accurate and beautiful gun.
The only thing I’ve done to it is to swap out the plastic mainspring housing to straight stainless one from Wilson Combat. I then swapped that mainspring housing out for a curved stainless mainspring housing from Ed Brown. There wasn’t anything functionality wrong with the original mainspring housing but I didn’t want anything plastic on my gun. It wasn’t hard or expensive.
The trigger on my Kimber Gold Match has spoiled me !!!!
would like to have an OLD Kimber just like this one. love how its all distressed and worn. looks good !
Stories like this make me want to get another 1911. 👍
Would love to see the Ransom rest results from the old and new barrels. Nice video!
I’m on my 3rd 1911 Kimber, First was a Kimber SS 45acp, Second was a Kimber Ultra Carry 45 acp, now after wanting it for a decade I finally got my SS Kimber Raptor ll 45 acp which is the pinnacle for myself( my dream handgun.) I saved along time to get it and even got Galco Miami Classic shoulder holster for it! I have a few 90’s Glock, Beretta INOX 9mm and recently bought a pair of 22LR Ruger Wranglers (both in black one being a birdshead model) both fun plinking pistols during the ammo shortage we currently went/going through. My Raptor ll 45 acp has me more than excited running Wilson Combat 47D mags it performs flawlessly! I hope to tell a story like this one about my Raptor one day…….#KimberFan#1911#45acp
I have a CDP II and I absolutely love it. I have never run anything but my reloads through it with zero malfunctions. I can't speak for all Kimbers but mine is a keeper.
I carried a G17 for thirty years and don’t miss it one bit. A well built 1911 cannot be beat, mine is a DW. I also swapped the 17 for a CZ P07 and haven’t looked back.
Nice Video and that is a lot of rounds.
That worn out look is just gorgeous.
My duty gun is a Springfield TRP. The only thing I changed out is a ISMI recoil spring and a Aftac self adjusting extractor. I haven’t had any malfunctions in years since changing those two parts.
Barstow makes Americas best gun barrels. I have bought so many at least 13 and no trouble, including 45 Super and 40 Super.
A couple years ago I bought a kimber compact. They are visually appealing for sure. The captured guiderod snapped in half during the 500 round break-in period. I lost my faith in them after that. I've had 3 g23's that never had issues and never had a single misfire. I wish I could trust Kimbers. They're gorgeous guns with mild recoil. 😢
My first pistol was kimber 1911 stanless, TLE RL II i bought it 17 years ago, i put around 4k rounds, it will stay with mefor ever, for my kids, and grand kids, i love everything about 1911s, its simply the most beautiful gun ever made, kimber is a great company they stand behind the product pretty much for life, i will be posting a video a bout my baby.
I have a 90's Kimber Custom II like that. It's got thousands of rounds thru it and still an accurate shooter. Never had a problem one and yes it's my favorite.
1911, still hard to beat.
Weirdly, I just had my first failure on a Kimber Compact I bought about 2000/2001. A leg on the plunger tube broke and I had to replace that part. I believe (I'm not sure) that part was MIM, yet it still lasted all these years. It's been replaced with a real steel plunger tube.
I'm in love with my RIA 1911a1fs .45 ACP with a custom black cerakote magpul grips and some polished internals and a lightly worked on trigger from my brother man Devil Dog -Echo Seven Precision Gunworks- in Fort Worth, Texas.