Kimber Custom Two-Tone Next Gen 1911 .45 ACP 5in
About this product
The Kimber Custom Two-Tone Next Gen 1911 is a full-size semi-automatic pistol chambered in .45 ACP with a modernized 1911 platform featuring an optic-ready slide and match-grade trigger components. This 5-inch barreled handgun bridges the gap between John Browning's original design and contemporary defensive handgun requirements, incorporating external extractors and enhanced slide serrations while maintaining the classic 1911 manual of arms. Built on a stainless steel frame with black KimPro II slide, it represents Kimber's evolution of the platform for both range use and tactical applications.
What is the Kimber Custom Two-Tone Next Gen 1911 used for?
This pistol is optimized for range training and competitive shooting where the .45 ACP cartridge and extended sight radius provide advantages. The 5-inch barrel maintains muzzle velocity for consistent accuracy out to 50 yards, while the GT Performance trigger system allows for precise shot placement during timed drills. At 8.6 inches overall length, it balances well for controlled rapid fire but may be challenging for concealed carry without specialized holster solutions.
How does the Kimber Custom Two-Tone compare to the Stevens 334 rifle platform?
The Kimber 1911 serves entirely different ballistic and tactical purposes than bolt-action rifles like the Stevens 334 in .308 Win. Where the Stevens platform delivers rifle-caliber energy at 200+ yard distances, the Kimber operates as a close-quarters defensive handgun with a maximum effective range approximately one-quarter that of the rifle. For home defense scenarios under 25 yards, the Kimber's semi-automatic operation provides faster follow-up shots, while the Stevens offers superior barrier penetration and long-range precision.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The pistol weighs 38 ounces unloaded with a 5-inch barrel contributing to its balanced handling characteristics. Overall length measures 8.6 inches with a height of 5.25 inches including the optic plate, making it comparable to government model 1911s but slightly heavier than aluminum-framed variants. The slide width measures 1.28 inches at its widest point, accommodating standard 1911 holsters while maintaining clearance for the external extractor mechanism.
Who is this NOT for?
This model presents challenges for shooters with smaller hands due to the traditional 1911 grip circumference measuring approximately 5.3 inches in circumference. New shooters may find the 4.5-pound trigger pull weight too light for safe initial familiarization, and those seeking suppressor compatibility should note the non-threaded barrel requires gunsmith modification. For those prioritizing lightweight carry options, the all-steel construction adds nearly 12 ounces compared to polymer-framed alternatives like the Stevens 555 Sporting shotguns.
What's in the box?
The pistol ships with one 7-round stainless steel magazine and an RMR adapter plate for optic mounting, plus standard Kimber documentation and cable lock. Missing from the package are additional base plates or magazine loading assistance tools that competitors often include, requiring separate purchase for competitive shooters who typically run multiple magazines. The optic plate accommodates Trijicon RMR footprints but requires separate purchase of mounting screws and sealing plate for weatherproof installation.
Is the Kimber Custom Two-Tone worth it at $924.99?
At this price point, the pistol competes directly with custom-shop 1911s offering similar features but without the Kimber brand premium. The investment justifies itself through the GT Performance trigger system that outperforms most factory 1911 triggers by reducing creep by approximately 60% compared to military-spec components. For shooters requiring optic-ready capability without aftermarket machining costs, the included RMR plate represents approximately $150 in saved gunsmithing expenses, though the overall value depends on frequency of use and accessory requirements.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- GT Performance trigger breaks at 4.5 lbs - 2 lbs lighter than military-spec 1911s
- Optic-ready slide saves $150-200 in aftermarket machining costs
- 5-inch barrel maintains 830 fps muzzle velocity with 230gr ammunition
- Stainless steel frame resists corrosion 3x better than carbon steel equivalents
Trade-offs
- Non-threaded barrel requires $200+ gunsmith work for suppressor use
- 38 oz weight makes it 12 oz heavier than polymer-framed duty pistols
- Single 7-round magazine included vs competitors offering 2-3 magazines
- External extractor may require specialized holster modification
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 669278324005 |
| manufacturer | Kimber |
| manufacturer part number | 3200400 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Pistol |
| barrel length | 5" |
| caliber/gauge | .45 ACP |
| capacity | 7 |
| color | Black, Silver |
| model | Next Gen 1911 |
| number of magazines | 2 8 rd. |
| package height | 4.0 |
| package width | 7.5 |
| product type | 1911 |
| safety | Ambidextrous |
| shipping weight | 4.05 |
| sights | Red Dot Front |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
| slide description | Optic Ready/Serrated |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard 1911 holsters?
- The Kimber Custom Two-Tone fits most full-size 1911 holsters designed for 5-inch government models, but the external extractor may require 1/8-inch additional clearance. I recommend checking compatibility with Blackhawk Serpa or Safariland 5197 models specifically.
- Does this work with Trijicon RMR optics?
- Yes, the optic-ready slide includes an RMR adapter plate, though you'll need to purchase separate mounting screws and a sealing plate from Trijicon (part #AC32064) for proper installation. The mounting system adds approximately 0.2 inches to the overall height over bore.
- How many rounds does the magazine hold?
- The pistol ships with one 7-round stainless steel magazine, consistent with traditional 1911 .45 ACP capacity. Extended 8-round magazines from Wilson Combat or Chip McCormick require no modification but may protrude 0.5 inches from the grip frame.
- Can I return it if there are feeding issues?
- Ironclad Armory accepts returns within 30 days for manufacturing defects, but .45 ACP feeding issues often relate to magazine springs or ammunition selection. Kimber's warranty requires direct manufacturer contact after the retailer return window closes.
- Does the slide require breaking in?
- Kimber recommends a 500-round break-in period for the slide-to-frame fit, during which you may experience occasional failure to return to battery. This is normal for hand-fitted 1911s and typically resolves by round count 400-500 with standard pressure ammunition.