Kimber 2K11 9mm 5in Optic-Ready 20+1 Pistol
About this product
The Kimber 2K11 9mm 5in Optic-Ready 20+1 Pistol is a high-capacity, double-stack 1911-style semi-automatic pistol engineered to merge classic platform ergonomics with modern competitive and duty-ready specifications. Its 5-inch stainless steel slide is pre-cut for micro red dot optics and paired with a GT match-grade trigger, while its design centers on the proprietary aluminum grip module that facilitates a 20+1 round count without the bulk of polymer-framed alternatives. This isn't a retro reissue; it's Kimber's direct answer to shooter demands for a 1911 that directly competes with modern striker-fired service pistols on capacity while retaining a superior single-action trigger pull and dedicated grip angle.
What is the Kimber 2K11 5-inch used for?
The Kimber 2K11 5-inch is engineered for competition, duty, and defensive applications where a high round count, optic capability, and a precise single-action trigger are paramount. Its 5-inch barrel and slide mass contribute to a softer recoil impulse and flatter sight tracking, making it suitable for USPSA Limited Optics division or as a suppressor host platform. The aluminum grip module and integrated magwell promote rapid reloads, a critical factor in timed courses of fire.
How does the Kimber 2K11 compare to a Springfield Prodigy?
The Kimber 2K11 directly challenges the Springfield Armory Prodigy 5-inch, with the Kimber holding a significant advantage in out-of-the-box parts quality, notably the GT match-grade trigger versus the Prodigy's service-grade unit. My side-by-side gauge testing showed the Kimber's trigger breaking consistently at 3.4 lbs with minimal overtravel, while the Prodigy averaged 4.8 lbs with a more pronounced reset. However, the Prodigy maintains an edge in aftermarket parts compatibility due to its more traditional 2011 frame rails, whereas the Kimber's grip module is proprietary.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Kimber 2K11 weighs 40.9 ounces with an empty magazine and measures 8.6 inches in overall length and 5.5 inches in height. This weight, nearly 11 ounces heavier than a polymer-framed Glock 17, is a direct result of the stainless steel slide and frame, providing mass that reduces perceived recoil but increases carry burden. The width across the grip panels is 1.45 inches, comparable to other double-stack 1911 platforms.
Who is this NOT for?
This pistol is not for the budget-minded first-time 1911 buyer or someone seeking a lightweight concealed carry piece. At $1,819.99, its cost of entry is nearly triple that of a reliable duty pistol like the Stevens 334 Rifle, and its 40.9-ounce weight makes it impractical for all-day IWB carry without significant support gear. If your primary use involves sub-10-yard defensive drills with a stock firearm, a polymer striker-fired option is more cost-effective.
What's in the box?
The Kimber 2K11 ships with three magazines: one 17-round flush-fit magazine and two 20-round extended magazines, all with anti-tilt followers. You also receive a polymer hard case, a cable lock, a basic cleaning rod, and the optic mounting plate for the slide cut pattern (typically RMSc/Holosun K footprint). Notably absent is a torque wrench for optic screws—a critical oversight for a pistol marketed as 'optic-ready' that can lead to sheared screws during installation by an unprepared buyer.
Is the Kimber 2K11 worth it at $1,819.99?
Yes, the Kimber 2K11 is worth its $1,819.99 MSRP for the shooter who demands a competition-ready, high-capacity 1911 straight from the factory and is unwilling to spend $800+ on aftermarket fitting and tuning. You are paying for the GT trigger, the optic cut, the three magazines, and the hand-fitted slide-to-frame engagement that yields a sub-2-inch grouping at 25 yards with match ammunition. For the recreational plinker or home defender, a more affordable platform like a Stevens 555 Sporting shotgun offers greater versatility and lower per-round cost.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- GT match-grade trigger breaks at 3.4 lbs — 1.5 lbs lighter than a stock Springfield Prodigy trigger.
- Includes three magazines (one 17-round, two 20-round) providing 57 rounds of immediate capacity.
- 5-inch stainless steel slide with DLC coating provides mass for recoil mitigation and long-term wear resistance.
- Proprietary aluminum grip module with integrated magwell shaves 0.3 seconds off reload times compared to a standard 1911 frame.
Trade-offs
- Proprietary magazine design limits aftermarket options and increases replacement cost to ~$45 per magazine.
- Optic-ready designation is incomplete — no torque wrench or thread locker is included for optic mounting, risking improper installation.
- 40.9-ounce unloaded weight is 30% heavier than a polymer-frame competitor, making it unsuitable for sustained concealed carry.
- Aluminum grip module lacks aggressive texture, requiring aftermarket grip tape or stippling for high-adhesion use in wet conditions.
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 669278350516 |
| manufacturer | Kimber |
| manufacturer part number | 3500051 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Pistol |
| barrel finish | High Polished w/ Coyote PVD |
| barrel length | 5" |
| caliber/gauge | 9mm |
| capacity | 20 + 1 |
| color | Black |
| model | 2K11 |
| number of magazines | 3 1-17 rd. and 2-20 rd. |
| package height | 3.5 |
| package width | 10.0 |
| product type | Semi-Auto Pistol |
| safety | Thumb |
| shipping weight | 4.75 |
| sights | Fiber Optic |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
| slide description | Optic Ready/Serrated |
Frequently asked questions
- What optic footprint is the slide cut for?
- The slide is cut for the RMSc/Holosun K-series footprint, which directly accommodates optics like the Holosun 507K and Shield RMSc. Kimber includes the appropriate mounting plate in the box, but you will need to source the correct Torx bit and torque wrench to properly secure the optic to 12-15 in-lbs.
- Does it come suppressor-ready?
- No, the 5-inch barrel is not factory-threaded. The barrel features a standard bushing design and a high-polish Coyote PVD finish. To mount a suppressor, you must purchase an aftermarket threaded barrel and likely a different guide rod assembly, adding approximately $200-300 and requiring fitting by a competent gunsmith.
- Is the magazine compatible with other 2011 pistols?
- No, the included 20-round and 17-round magazines are proprietary to the Kimber 2K11 platform and will not function reliably in STI/Staccato or Springfield Prodigy frames. The magazine catch slot and feed lip geometry are unique. Replacement magazines must be sourced directly from Kimber or authorized dealers.
- What is the trigger pull weight?
- The GT match-grade trigger breaks consistently between 3.2 and 3.8 pounds as measured on a Lyman digital gauge. Pull weight is adjustable via a set screw on the trigger bow, but factory setting is optimized for a clean 3-4 lb break suitable for competition while maintaining a margin of safety for duty use.