s&w 1911 vs. kimber custom II

Bearbong · 01-12-2005, 09:02 AM

I was hoping someone has had some experience with the S&W. I have heard nothing but good things about the Kimber, but the smith has a few more bells and whistles than the Kimber custom II.

I am looking to upgrade my colt 1991 A1 to a tighter, smoother gun. Want to stay in that 700 dollar range and these two models fit the bill, but can't get much feedback on the new smith.

01-12-2005, 12:06 PM

The new Smith from the custom shop seems to shoot great. I saw one in action at my club the other day.

But the problem is kimber has started building a solid repuation in the past few years with thier 1911. I would bet better and faster resale.

Bearbong · 01-12-2005, 02:50 PM

Is there a difference in the custom shop or is that just where all there 1911's are made? The only thing that makes me hesitate on the Kimber is the Custom II I was looking into someone said was a new model for them and had some kinks to work out. That is the first I have ever heard negatively about anything from Kimber.

01-12-2005, 03:08 PM

I got a eclipse Target and think they are wonderful. They might have some issurs but I have neve heard of it. I don't think all Smiths 1911's are custom shop.

Bearbong · 01-12-2005, 03:35 PM

I am pretty much sold on the Kimber Custom II. The only negative is possibley the extractor, which if that is true the Wilson Custom shop can replace for very little. I appreciate the advice. Have you had any experience with their 22 conversions?

newguy23 · 01-12-2005, 04:22 PM

I am interested what bells and whistles the S&W has over the Kimber... I think Kimber and Springfield offer the most for the money of any of the 1911 makers out there. The S&W is probably fine, but you have to get over the laser engraved SMITH & WESSON 1911 on the side (quite ugly IMO!)

Bearbong · 01-12-2005, 07:42 PM

Just asthetics that really don't matter to me at all if the quality is not there, and I am with you on the slide/banner they put on there.

headhunter300win · 01-12-2005, 07:52 PM

Ive shot both i prefer the Kimber

T/C fan! · 01-12-2005, 11:08 PM

I've also shot both and would also suggest the Kimber. The Smith I shot was not from the Performance Center, just the standard model. I'm sure the one from the custom shop is a nice pistol, but you can guarantee its going to tack on another $150-200 or so to the price. Now, thats putting you into the $850-900 range and that'll get you one of the better Kimbers. just a thought

Briman · 01-13-2005, 07:20 AM

I priced both out about a year ago, the S&W didn't really seem to offer as much as the Kimbers for the price, and the Kimbers are much nicer looking as well. I woul dgo with the Kimber. Also check out Springfields, I'm pretty happy with my Loaded Model.