Introduction
The world of firearms holds a unique blend of history, engineering, and a deeply personal connection for many. Among the many iconic platforms, the 1911 pistol stands as a testament to enduring design and timeless appeal. Its sleek lines, comfortable ergonomics, and inherent accuracy have made it a favorite among enthusiasts for over a century. The very essence of the 1911 design, the smooth trigger pull, the instinctive pointability, and the satisfying weight, have fostered a dedicated following. And within the realm of 1911s, few names resonate with quality and precision quite like Kimber.
This article explores the Kimber Target II Stainless, a firearm that embodies these qualities. We’ll delve into its construction, features, performance, and suitability for various users, offering a comprehensive look at what makes this pistol a standout choice. Whether you’re a seasoned target shooter, a competitive enthusiast, or simply someone drawn to the elegance and performance of a finely crafted firearm, this in-depth review aims to provide valuable insights.
Kimber and the 1911 Platform
Kimber’s story is one of commitment to excellence. The company has cultivated a reputation for producing high-quality firearms that prioritize accuracy, reliability, and aesthetic appeal. From the meticulously fitted parts to the careful attention to detail, Kimber guns are known for their craftsmanship. Their dedication to innovation and their constant pursuit of improved performance have solidified their position as a leading manufacturer in the industry.
The 1911 platform itself is a marvel of engineering. Conceived by John Browning, this design revolutionized handgun technology. Its single-action operation, robust construction, and user-friendly design quickly made it a military and law enforcement favorite. Over time, the 1911 has found a home with civilian shooters, who appreciate its ergonomic design, its crisp trigger, and its inherent accuracy potential. The platform offers a customizable experience, allowing users to personalize their weapons. This platform’s enduring popularity stems from the combination of its inherent qualities and the vast array of accessories and customization options available.
Features and Specifications
Let’s examine the key elements of the Kimber Target II Stainless. This model distinguishes itself with its robust stainless steel construction, resulting in an appealing aesthetic while also providing long-lasting durability and resistance to corrosion.
Material and Construction
The frame of the pistol is meticulously crafted from stainless steel. The inherent properties of this material offer several advantages. Stainless steel is naturally resistant to rust and corrosion, making the pistol a durable option, able to withstand the elements. Beyond that, the sleek, silvery appearance of stainless steel adds a touch of elegance to the firearm. The smooth surfaces and the overall solidity contribute to a sense of quality and precision.
The slide mirrors the frame, also crafted from stainless steel. The slide’s smooth, clean lines contribute to the pistol’s aesthetic appeal. The slide’s finish is not only visually striking but also serves a practical purpose. The stainless steel finish aids in protecting the metal from wear and tear, preserving its appearance over time.
Key Features
The heart of any accurate firearm is its barrel. The Kimber Target II Stainless utilizes a match-grade barrel, engineered to deliver exceptional accuracy. Match-grade barrels are manufactured to tighter tolerances than standard barrels. This attention to detail contributes significantly to the firearm’s accuracy.
The sights are a critical element for target shooting, and the Kimber Target II Stainless comes equipped with adjustable target sights. These sights provide the shooter with precise aiming capabilities, which is essential for achieving consistent and accurate shot placement. The adjustability allows the shooter to fine-tune the sights to accommodate different distances and ammunition types. The sights are designed to provide a clear sight picture, allowing for quick target acquisition and accurate shooting.
The trigger is a crucial component in terms of accuracy. The Kimber Target II Stainless boasts a trigger known for its crisp feel and short travel. This design element significantly contributes to precision shooting. The crispness means the trigger breaks cleanly and predictably, which aids in accurate shot placement. The short travel reduces the distance the trigger needs to move to fire the weapon, enhancing the speed and accuracy of the shot.
The grips of the Kimber Target II Stainless contribute to the overall feel and control of the pistol. The grips offer a comfortable and secure hold, allowing the shooter to maintain a firm grip even during rapid firing. Whether they are crafted from fine wood or textured G-10, the grips are integral to the handling experience. Grips enhance the shooter’s ability to control the pistol, contributing to accuracy and comfort.
The Kimber Target II Stainless magazine offers ample ammunition capacity, allowing for multiple shots before needing to reload. The magazines are designed to feed rounds reliably and efficiently. Their robust design ensures smooth operation.
The thumb safety and grip safety are standard features of the 1911 platform. The thumb safety allows the shooter to manually lock the firing mechanism. The grip safety provides an additional layer of security, preventing the pistol from firing unless the grip is properly engaged.
Performance and Accuracy
The experience of shooting the Kimber Target II Stainless is characterized by the smooth operation of the pistol. The balance of the firearm, the weight, and the ergonomic design all contribute to a comfortable shooting experience. The shooter can achieve a comfortable and accurate grip quickly.
The trigger contributes to the overall accuracy. The crisp trigger pull provides a consistent and predictable feel. Recoil is managed effectively. The weight of the pistol and the design of the frame contribute to mitigating felt recoil.
The accuracy of a firearm is a key consideration. The Kimber Target II Stainless has a reputation for exceptional accuracy, and target shooters often measure this by how tight their groupings are. The tight groupings are achieved when a series of shots land very close to each other on the target. The pistol consistently delivers impressive accuracy.
The reliability of a firearm is also very important. A dependable firearm is one that will work every time. A key aspect of reliability is the pistol’s ability to function flawlessly under various conditions. The Kimber Target II Stainless, when well-maintained, is designed to be a highly reliable firearm.
Advantages and Disadvantages
There are advantages and disadvantages to any firearm. The Kimber Target II Stainless excels in several areas. Its precision and accuracy are paramount. The high-quality materials and construction ensure reliability, and the aesthetics make it stand out. The pistol is also very ergonomic and comfortable to use.
The price point is a consideration for some buyers. The initial investment for a Kimber Target II Stainless is higher than some other options. Proper maintenance and care, including regular cleaning and lubrication, are important.
Target Audience and Applications
This firearm is well-suited for a range of users. Its accuracy and reliability make it an excellent choice for target shooters. The design and features make it an attractive option for competitive shooters. The overall craftsmanship and the aesthetic appeal make it a great choice for enthusiasts.
The Kimber Target II Stainless can also be considered for potential self-defense applications.
Comparison
The Kimber Target II Stainless stands out in the world of 1911 pistols. It offers a unique combination of features and performance.
Maintenance and Care
Cleaning the Kimber Target II Stainless is straightforward. Start by ensuring the firearm is unloaded and safe. Disassemble the pistol according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Using a high-quality gun cleaning solvent, thoroughly clean the barrel and other components. Use a brush and patches to remove any carbon build-up or debris. Lubricate all moving parts with a high-quality gun lubricant. Reassemble the pistol and perform a function check.
Proper lubrication is crucial for the optimal performance and longevity of any firearm. Regular lubrication will help keep the parts moving smoothly. Use a high-quality gun oil or grease, applying it to the slide rails, barrel bushing, and other friction points. Excess lubrication can attract debris, so apply it sparingly.
Proper storage is critical. Store the Kimber Target II Stainless in a secure gun safe or storage case. Ensure the firearm is unloaded. Store it in a cool, dry place to prevent corrosion.
Conclusion
In closing, the Kimber Target II Stainless is a high-quality firearm. It’s a pistol that delivers exceptional precision, reliability, and elegance. The combination of match-grade components, a crisp trigger, and a sleek stainless steel finish makes it a standout choice. If you value accuracy, build quality, and aesthetic appeal in a 1911, the Kimber Target II Stainless is definitely worth considering. The craftsmanship is evident. The experience of shooting the pistol is satisfying.
The Kimber Target II Stainless exemplifies the best qualities of the 1911 platform. It offers a blend of classic design, modern features, and exceptional performance.
