Need help - difference in Kimber models

[viiiball]

I was in a store over the holidays and in their case they had 2 different Kimber models that looked identical to me. They were quite busy so I was not able to get anyone to assist me and I had to move on.

The two models were the Kimber Stainless II and the Kimber Stainless LAPD SWAT. On the Kimber site I can find the info on the first but no model specifically referenced as the second. The SWAT version had night sights and was $180 more expensive.

Is this SWAT model the Stainless TLE II?

[OakRidgeStars]

As you've probably already seen for yourself, Kimber has more flavors of 1911's then Baskin-Robins has Ice Cream. Just look for the features that you want (or need) in a handgun. I doubt that the SWAT version is a better gun, but it probably does have a rail. Which is handy if you need a weapon-mounted light.

Kimber has the SIS, the Tactical Pro, the Tactical Entry, etc, etc, etc. All are excellent versions of the venerable old 1911. But you are going to pay a premium for that "tactical" name. The TLE, or TLE/RL is just another flavor of the same Kimber 1911.

I say, just go with the cheaper one. I think you'll be very happy you saved the $180.
But be careful with the stainless... they are heavy!. My Pro Carry II doubles as a nutcracker when I'm not lugging it around.

If you want to go light, check out the Ultra Raptor II

[viiiball]

My Pro Carry II doubles as a nutcracker ...

Where do you carry it?

If you want to go light, check out the Ultra Raptor II

I actually have my eye on the Tactical Custom II or the Custom CDP II. I am looking for a 5" barrel. This probably won't be a carry gun for me.

[OakRidgeStars]

My Pro Carry II doubles as a nutcracker ...

Where do you carry it?

If you want to go light, check out the Ultra Raptor II

I actually have my eye on the Tactical Custom II or the Custom CDP II. I am looking for a 5" barrel. This probably won't be a carry gun for me.

Good one... I might need to look at a different carry position

I looked at the Ultra CDP II and compared it to the Raptor, but the only difference were the "melted" edges on the CDP as Kimber called it. That and about $300.

[zephyp]

Kimbers are nice pistols. I looked over the entire line and settled on a cheapie. Kimber Custom II for about $750. It handles, points, and shoots great. The only thing it doesnt have that someone might want (but dont really need) is improved sights.

[allingeneral]

My Pro Carry II doubles as a nutcracker ...

Where do you carry it?

LOL hahahahaha

[OakRidgeStars]

My Pro Carry II doubles as a nutcracker ...

Where do you carry it?

LOL hahahahaha

Looks like we have our first entry for quote of the year

[derek141]

From where I sit, a Kimber is a Kimber is a Kimber.

You've got your three sizes, alloy or steel, and differences in what they stick on the gun (sights, finish, etc.) but the core gun is... a Kimber. I sure do like the way the Tactical Pro carries and shoots, but damn the dissasembly is a PITA compared to the non-guide rod Sig 1911 that I also really like. I am not a 1911 junkie, BTW, so don't have a big problem with not using the full-length guide rod that God and John Moses Browning felt necessary. My $0.02.