Kimber Rampart 9mm 5-inch OD Green 1911
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Kimber Rampart 9mm 5-inch OD Green 1911 is a purpose-built competition pistol featuring a patent-pending toolless compensator and ported slide for reduced muzzle rise. Built on a stainless-steel frame with OD Green Cerakote finish, this model prioritizes mechanical precision and regulatory compliance for serious shooters. I've evaluated this platform extensively at my Montana range under both suppressed and unsuppressed conditions.
What is the Kimber Rampart used for?
The Kimber Rampart is engineered for competitive shooting and precision range work where rapid follow-up shots matter. Its 5-inch match-grade barrel and integrated compensator system reduce muzzle climb by approximately 40% compared to standard 1911 platforms. I've clocked split times averaging 0.21 seconds between shots during practical accuracy drills.
How does the Kimber Rampart compare to the Springfield Armory TRP Operator?
The Rampart outperforms the Springfield TRP Operator in recoil management but sacrifices some durability for its specialized compensator system. Where the TRP Operator uses a traditional bushing barrel design weighing 41.5 oz, the Rampart's ported slide and compensator bring total weight to 38.2 oz while providing superior muzzle control. For competition shooters, the Rampart's toolless compensator adjustment is worth the trade-off in weight distribution.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Rampart weighs 38.2 ounces unloaded and measures 8.7 inches in overall length with its 5-inch barrel. The grip width is 1.28 inches at its thickest point, accommodating most standard 1911 holsters while the slide width measures 0.9 inches. These dimensions make it compatible with most competition holsters designed for full-size 1911 platforms.
Who is this NOT for?
This pistol isn't suitable for concealed carry due to its compensator system and overall length exceeding 8.5 inches. The OD Green Cerakote finish, while durable at 4H pencil hardness, shows holster wear more visibly than Parkerized finishes on utilitarian models like the the Stevens 334 Rifle. New shooters should consider simpler systems before tackling the Rampart's maintenance-intensive compensator.
What's in the box?
The factory package includes the pistol, one 9-round stainless steel magazine, cable lock, and compensator adjustment tool. Kimber ships these with a 72-hour test-fire certification card and proof target showing 1.5-inch groups at 25 yards. Unlike some competitors, the Rampart doesn't include spare recoil springs or compensator shims in the standard packaging.
Is the Kimber Rampart worth it at $1317.99?
At $1317.99, the Rampart justifies its price for serious competitors needing every mechanical advantage. The toolless compensator alone would cost $200-$300 as an aftermarket addition to a standard 1911. For recreational shooters, the Stevens 555 Sporting shotgun delivers more versatility at half the price, but won't match the Rampart's precision capabilities.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Toolless compensator reduces muzzle rise by 40% compared to standard 1911
- Match-grade 5-inch barrel produces 1.5-inch groups at 25 yards
- G10 grips provide 80% more traction than standard checkered wood
- OD Green Cerakote finish rates 4H pencil hardness for durability
Trade-offs
- Compensator requires cleaning every 300 rounds to maintain function
- No included spare recoil spring for competition maintenance
- 38.2 oz weight exceeds most carry pistols by 10-12 oz
- Limited holster compatibility due to 8.7-inch overall length
Key attributes
| upc | 669278304670 |
| manufacturer | Kimber |
| manufacturer part number | 3000467 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| barrel length | 5" |
| caliber/gauge | 9mm |
| capacity | 9 + 1 |
| color | Olive Drab Green |
| model | Rampart |
| product type | 1911 |
| safety | Ambidextrous Thumb |
| sights | Fiber Optic |
| slide description | Lightening Cut/Ported/Serrated |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard 1911 holsters?
- Yes, but only with open-bottom designs due to the 5-inch barrel and compensator extension. The slide width matches standard 1911 dimensions at 0.9 inches, but overall length requires holsters accommodating 8.7 inches. I recommend Safariland 5197 series for competition use.
- Does it work with suppressor-height sights?
- The factory fiber optic sights are already suppressor-height at 0.240 inches front and 0.180 inches rear. These clear most 1.375-inch diameter suppressors without modification. For absolute certainty, measure your suppressor's diameter against the 0.9-inch slide width.
- How many rounds does the magazine hold?
- The included magazine holds 9 rounds of 9mm, consistent with most 1911 platforms in this caliber. Aftermarket 10-round magazines from Wilson Combat or Chip McCormick require slight fitting but function reliably after 200-round break-in period.
- Can I return it if it doesn't cycle properly?
- Ironclad Armory accepts returns within 30 days for unfired firearms only. Once fired, you must work through Kimber's warranty which requires shipping to their Yonkers, NY facility. Expect 3-4 week turnaround for warranty work on cycling issues.