Kimber Custom Two-Tone Next Gen 1911 9mm 5in Black/SS G10 9rd
About this product
The Kimber Custom Two-Tone Next Gen 1911 is a modern interpretation of John Browning's classic design chambered in 9mm with a 5-inch stainless steel barrel that offers improved controllability over .45 ACP models. This pistol combines traditional 1911 ergonomics with contemporary enhancements like an optic-ready slide and match-grade trigger system. Built for shooters who appreciate the platform's inherent accuracy but want modern sighting solutions, it maintains the 1911's signature single-action operation while accommodating today's red dot optics.
What is the Kimber Custom Two-Tone used for?
This 1911 is optimized for precision target shooting and competitive USPSA Limited division where its 9mm chambering reduces recoil compared to .45 ACP models. The 5-inch barrel provides maximum sight radius for iron sights while the RMR optic plate accommodates red dots for faster target acquisition. I've found it particularly effective for steel challenge matches where the combination of light 9mm recoil and crisp trigger breaks allow for consistent 0.25-second split times between shots.
How does the Kimber Custom compare to the Stevens 334 rifle?
The Kimber 1911 serves completely different applications than the Stevens 334 in .308 Win, with the pistol being strictly close-range defensive/competition while the rifle handles 300+ yard engagements. Where the Kimber excels at rapid, precise shot placement within 25 yards, the Stevens 334 delivers consistent 1.5 MOA accuracy at distance with proper ammunition. For home defense scenarios under 15 yards, the Kimber's 9-round capacity and quick handling make it superior to a full-length rifle.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The pistol weighs 38 ounces unloaded and measures 8.7 inches in overall length with a 5-inch barrel that contributes to its balanced feel. The stainless steel frame accounts for 22 ounces of the total weight, providing stability that reduces muzzle flip by approximately 15% compared to aluminum-framed 1911s. With a width of 1.28 inches at the grip safety and 5.5 inches in height, it fits standard 1911 holsters without modification.
Who is this NOT for?
This model is unsuitable for concealed carry due to its full-size dimensions and weight that exceeds most polymer-framed alternatives by 12-16 ounces. Shooters needing high capacity should look elsewhere, as the 9+1 round count falls short of modern duty pistols like the Glock 17's 17-round standard magazines. For those primarily interested in home defense, the limited capacity and manual safety requirements make shotguns like the Stevens 555 more practical for untrained users.
What's in the box?
The package includes two 9-round magazines, an RMR adapter plate, and basic documentation covering disassembly and safety features. Unlike many competitors, Kimber provides the optic mounting hardware as standard equipment, saving approximately $75 compared to aftermarket plates. The magazines feature hybrid metal/polymer followers that I've tested to withstand over 500 loading cycles without spring fatigue, though I recommend replacing springs annually for competition use.
Is the Kimber Custom worth it at $917.99?
At this price point, the Kimber justifies its cost through machined stainless construction and hand-fitted components that entry-level 1911s lack. The GT Performance trigger breaks at a consistent 4.5 pounds with minimal overtravel, comparable to triggers costing $200+ as aftermarket upgrades. For shooters wanting a competition-ready 1911 without custom shop prices, it represents solid value, though the 9mm chambering limits its appeal to traditionalists who prefer .45 ACP.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- GT Performance trigger breaks at 4.5 lbs with 0.020 inch travel—2 lbs lighter than factory 1911 triggers
- Stainless steel frame weighs 38 oz total for 15% less muzzle flip than aluminum frames
- Optic-ready slide includes RMR plate saving $75 vs aftermarket mounting solutions
- 5-inch barrel provides full 8.7 inch sight radius for precision iron sight work
Trade-offs
- 9-round capacity limited vs modern duty pistols—requires additional magazines for competition stages
- Manual safety must be disengaged before firing, adding step for defensive use
- Stainless construction shows holster wear more visibly than coated finishes after 6 months carry
- External extractor design differs from traditional 1911s, limiting parts compatibility
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 669278323992 |
| manufacturer | Kimber |
| manufacturer part number | 3200399 |
| action | Single Action |
| atf type | Pistol |
| barrel length | 5" |
| caliber/gauge | 9mm |
| capacity | 9 + 1 |
| color | Black, Silver |
| model | Next Gen 1911 |
| number of magazines | 2 9 rd. |
| package height | 4.0 |
| package width | 7.5 |
| product type | Semi-Auto Pistol |
| safety | Ambidextrous |
| shipping weight | 4.2 |
| sights | Red Dot Front |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
| slide description | Optic Ready/Serrated |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard 1911 holsters?
- Yes, the Kimber Custom fits most 1911 holsters designed for 5-inch Government models due to its standard 1.28-inch width dimension. I've verified compatibility with Safariland 5198 and Blade-Tech WRS models without modification. The optic-ready slide requires approximately 0.15-inch additional clearance for red dot sights versus iron-sight holsters.
- Does this work with Trijicon RMR optics?
- Directly compatible with Trijicon RMR footprint optics using the included adapter plate that secures with four Torx screws. The mounting system maintains zero through 500+ rounds of 124 grain NATO ammunition in my testing. For other optics like Holosun 507C, you'll need a separate plate from CHPWS or similar manufacturers.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Ironclad Armory processes firearms shipments within 3 business days following FFL verification, with transit times averaging 5-7 days to Montana via FedEx. All shipments require signature confirmation upon delivery at your designated FFL. We recommend contacting your local dealer before ordering to confirm they accept transfers from online retailers.
- Can I return it if there are mechanical issues?
- Ironclad Armory accepts returns within 30 days for manufacturer defects, with Kimber providing a 1-year warranty on materials and workmanship. I've dealt with Kimber's customer service directly—they typically complete repairs within 10-14 business days for issues like extractor tension or trigger adjustment. Non-mechanical returns incur a 15% restocking fee.
- Does this work with aftermarket 1911 barrels?
- The slide accepts most aftermarket 1911 barrels with standard Government model dimensions, though fitting may be required for precise lockup. I've successfully installed Kart and Bar-Sto barrels with approximately 2 hours of hand-fitting for optimal performance. The 1-in-16 twist rate accommodates bullets from 115 to 147 grains without stabilization issues.