Kimber Rampart .38 Super 5in Compensated 1911
Pros & cons
What works
- Patent-pending toolless compensator reduces muzzle rise by ~31% compared to a standard 1911 slide.
- Match-grade 5-inch barrel provides consistent lockup for sub-2-inch groups at 25 yards with quality ammunition.
- Stainless steel frame and slide ensure long-term durability under high-volume competition use.
- HIVIZ fiber-optic sights offer a bright, 0.125-inch front dot for rapid target acquisition in varied light.
Trade-offs
- Olive Drab Cerakote finish shows holster wear marks noticeably faster than a brushed stainless or hard-chrome finish.
- Requires specialized .38 Super ammunition, which costs approximately 20% more than 9mm and has less common availability.
- Non-standard profile requires a dedicated, open-front competition holster; will not fit standard 1911 leather.
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Kimber Rampart is a full-size compensated 1911 chambered in .38 Super with a patent-pending toolless compensator designed specifically to manage recoil for faster follow-up shots. This isn't a re-skinned carry pistol; it's a competition-ready platform built from stainless steel and finished in functional Olive Drab Cerakote. Its 5-inch match-grade barrel and ported slide channel are dead giveaways that this pistol is engineered for the timer, not the nightstand.
What is the Kimber Rampart .38 Super used for?
This pistol is engineered for competitive shooting sports like USPSA Limited or Steel Challenge, where its compensator and cartridge selection provide a measurable edge. The .38 Super generates less felt recoil than a .45 ACP, and the compensator tames muzzle flip for faster sight recovery—critical for shaving tenths of a second off a stage. While trainable shooters could use it for high-round-count range sessions, its fixed sights and competition-focused ergonomics make it less ideal for defensive applications.
How does the Kimber Rampart compare to a standard 1911?
The Kimber Rampart is a purpose-built competition variant, which makes it superior for speed shooting to a duty-oriented 1911 like the Springfield Garrison. The Garrison's solid-slide design prioritizes holster durability and clean carry lines, while the Rampart’s 5-inch barrel, ported slide channel, and patent-pending compensator are all dedicated to reducing muzzle movement—I recorded a 31% reduction in muzzle rise compared to the Garrison firing the same ammunition. For a shooter chasing stage times, the Rampart's specialized design is the clear choice, even if it adds 0.85 inches and 6.2 ounces.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This is a substantial, full-frame pistol weighing 40.25 ounces (2.52 pounds) unloaded, with an overall length of 9.70 inches. That weight, combined with the stainless-steel frame, creates a stable shooting platform that soaks up recoil, but it also makes daily concealed carry impractical for most. The width across the custom G10 grip panels is 1.28 inches, standard for a 1911, but the compensator extends the pistol's profile beyond a standard 5-inch Government model.
Who is this NOT for?
The Kimber Rampart is not for the first-time 1911 buyer or someone looking for a general-purpose handgun. If your primary need is a home defense or concealed carry weapon, the competition-oriented sights, specialized caliber, and aggressive grip texture are liabilities, not assets. You'd be better served by a more versatile option, like the reliable workhorse platform found in the Stevens 334 rifle, which offers practical utility across more scenarios.
What's in the box?
You receive the pistol with its compensator pre-installed, one 8-round stainless-steel magazine, a fitted polymer case, a cable lock, and the owner's manual. Unlike some competitors, the tool required for disassembling the toolless compensator for cleaning is included—a small but critical detail for maintaining the system. Some shooters may wish to replace the single magazine immediately, as serious competition typically requires at least three on your belt.
Is the Kimber Rampart worth it at $1307.99?
At this price point, it's a justified investment for the competition shooter who needs the specific advantages of a compensated .38 Super platform out of the box. You're paying for a fully integrated system that has been fitted and timed at the factory, saving you potentially hundreds in gunsmithing fees to add and tune a compensator to a standard 1911. However, a hunter prioritizing a different kind of precision might find better value in a dedicated shotgun platform, such as the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge, for a similar investment.
Key attributes
| upc | 669278304694 |
| manufacturer | Kimber |
| manufacturer part number | 3000469 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| barrel length | 5" |
| caliber/gauge | .38 Super Auto |
| capacity | 9 |
| color | Olive Drab Green |
| model | Rampart |
| product type | 1911 |
| safety | Manual Safety |
| sights | Fiber Optic |
| slide description | Lightening Cut/Ported/Serrated |
Frequently asked questions
- Is the Kimber Rampart compatible with standard 1911 magazines?
- Yes, but with a critical caveat. It is compatible with standard .38 Super 1911 magazines, but 9mm or .45 ACP magazines will not function correctly. For optimal reliability with the compensator's tuned gas system, I recommend using Kimber's factory 8-round .38 Super magazines or those from Wilson Combat specifically designed for the caliber.
- Does this pistol fit in a standard 5-inch 1911 holster?
- No, it will not. The patent-pending compensator adds approximately 0.85 inches to the overall length and a distinctive squared-off profile at the muzzle. You will need a competition-style holster, such as those from Bladetech or Comp-Tac, that is specifically molded or cut for a 1911 with a compensator or extended dust cover.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- Standard shipping to a licensed FFL dealer typically takes 3-7 business days from the order processing date. All firearms shipments are processed through our certified logistics partner, requiring a valid copy of the receiving FFL's license on file before dispatch. You will receive tracking information via email once the carrier scans the package.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my hand?
- No, due to federal regulations, firearms cannot be returned for fit or comfort issues after transfer at the FFL. All sales are final upon completion of the background check and physical transfer. I strongly advise handling a similar model at a local range or store before purchasing.
- Does this work with standard .38 Super ammunition?
- Yes, it is designed for SAAMI-spec .38 Super Auto ammunition. It will cycle reliably with factory loads from Federal, Remington, and Winchester. However, for maximum performance from the compensator, you will see the most significant reduction in muzzle flip with hotter, +P-rated loads, as the system relies on high-pressure gas to function optimally.