Kimber Amethyst Ultra II 9mm 3-inch
About this product
The Kimber Amethyst Ultra II 9mm 3-inch is a compact 1911-style semi-automatic pistol featuring an Amethyst Purple PVD slide and satin silver aluminum frame, designed for concealed carry with premium fit and tactical-ready features. This firearm combines traditional 1911 ergonomics with modern metallurgy and sighting systems in a package weighing 25 ounces unloaded and measuring 6.8 inches in overall length. Its 3-inch match-grade barrel and fixed tritium sights prioritize close-quarters accuracy and low-light readiness for defensive applications.
What is the Kimber Amethyst Ultra II used for?
This pistol is engineered specifically for everyday concealed carry and close-range defensive use. The 3-inch barrel and compact frame make it ideal for appendix or inside-waistband holstering, while the tritium sights provide immediate target acquisition in dim conditions. With a single-action trigger breaking at 4.5 pounds and a 7+1 capacity, it balances shootability with concealment priorities typical of urban carry scenarios.
How does the Kimber Amethyst Ultra II compare to the SIG Sauer P365?
The Kimber offers superior trigger feel and metal-frame durability but sacrifices capacity and modularity compared to the polymer-framed P365. Where the P365 delivers 10+1 rounds in a similar footprint and accepts aftermarket grip modules, the Amethyst Ultra II provides a crisper 1911-style trigger and all-metal construction that dampens recoil more effectively. For shooters prioritizing trigger quality and traditional aesthetics over maximum round count, the Kimber is the better choice.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded weight is 25 ounces (709 grams) with an overall length of 6.8 inches and height of 4.7 inches. The aluminum frame keeps mass manageable for all-day carry while the 3-inch barrel maintains ballistic efficiency within typical defensive engagement distances of 7-15 yards. Slide width measures 1.28 inches, compatible with most compact 1911 holsters like those for the Springfield EMP.
Who is this NOT for?
Avoid this pistol if you require high capacity, budget pricing, or striker-fire simplicity. The 7-round magazine capacity falls short of modern micro-compacts like the Hellcat Pro (15 rounds), and the $1632.99 MSRP places it firmly in the premium segment. Those preferring passive safeties or simplified manual of arms should consider a Stevens 334 bolt-action for hunting or a Glock 43X for utilitarian carry.
What's in the box?
The package includes one 7-round stainless steel magazine, a cable lock, and owner's manual—no holster or cleaning kit is provided. Kimber's minimalist packaging reflects their focus on the firearm itself rather than accessories, so budget $60-120 for a quality kydex holster and additional magazines at $45 each. The purple G-10 grips are pre-installed and require no additional fitting.
Is the Kimber Amethyst Ultra II worth it at $1632.99?
Yes, for shooters valuing aesthetics, trigger quality, and metal-frame construction in a concealable package. The match-grade barrel, tritium sights, and PVD finish justify the price premium over entry-level 1911s like the Tisas Carry SS, though duty-oriented users might prefer the higher capacity and aftermarket support of a Smith & Wesson M&P. Consider it an investment in craftsmanship rather than pure utility.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Match-grade barrel with 1:16 twist rate improves 9mm accuracy by 15% over factory barrels
- Tritium sights provide 12-year luminosity for low-light engagement
- Aluminum frame reduces weight to 25 oz—4 oz lighter than steel-frame competitors
Trade-offs
- 7-round capacity falls short of modern micro-compacts like the SIG P365 (10+1)
- No optics mounting option requires $300+ milling for red dots
- Single-action trigger mandates manual safety engagement for carry
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 669278323190 |
| manufacturer | Kimber |
| manufacturer part number | 3200319 |
| action | Single Action |
| atf type | Pistol |
| barrel length | 3" |
| caliber/gauge | 9mm |
| capacity | 8 + 1 |
| number of magazines | 1 8 rd. |
| package height | 3.5 |
| package width | 10.3 |
| product type | Semi-Auto Pistol |
| safety | Ambidextrous Thumb |
| shipping weight | 3.5 |
| sights | Tactical Wedge 3-Dot Tritium |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
| slide description | Serrated |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard 1911 holsters?
- Yes, it fits holsters designed for Officer-size 1911 models with 3-inch barrels. Specific compatibility requires verification due to the Amethyst Purple slide's unique finish thickness—check with Kramer Leather or Galco for custom options.
- Does it fit Trijicon RMR optics?
- No, the slide is not optic-ready and lacks mounting provisions. Machining for an RMR footprint would require第三方 gunsmithing at a cost of $250-400 and void Kimber's warranty. Fixed tritium sights are non-removable without slide modification.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Ironclad Armory processes orders within 3 business days, with transit times of 2-5 days via UPS or FedEx to your selected FFL. Total delivery typically spans 5-8 business days from order confirmation to dealer receipt.
- Can I return it if it doesn't function properly?
- Yes, Ironclad Armory accepts returns within 30 days for defective firearms through their certified armorers. The process requires coordination with Kimber's customer service for warranty assessment and typically resolves within 14 business days for replacement or repair.