Posted: 3/31/2008 2:00:05 PM EDT
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Guys, I have been toying with the idea for some time now about purchasing my first .45 ACP in the 1911 platform. After some research I have decided on the Kimber Tactical series. I really like the 3" (Ultra II) for concealment, but the 4" version is doable. Before I take the plunge, is there some reason why I should be wary of a 3" 1911? Any comments on this specific model? Any other suggestions in something similar? FYI, this pistol will be used primarily as target pistol and some personal defense. Thanks guys! Re, ~WC~ |
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Kimber is an great choice for your first 1911 as it was my first and my only but why a 3" barrel if you going to use it for targets and protection? Maybe if your thinking about carrying it but a longer barrel will be much smoother shooting and more accurate. My 5" Custom TLE II has been perfect so far and I absolutely love it! I think the 3" is more like a saturday night special gun and not a range toy but thats just my opinion, I wouldn't mind having a 4" barrel but no shorter than that. JMHO 
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I carry a full-sized Ed Brown Special Forces everyday and have no problems concealing it. The length of the slide isn't an issue when carrying, IMHO. The grip is more of an issue depending on how you carry (e.g. holster type, holster cant, position on body, etc.). I have zero interest in any 1911 with a 3" barrel. Heck, I don't like any of them shorter than full-sized 5" guns. As they say, YMMV.  Mark |
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If the primary use is not CCW, I would stay away from the shorter barrels. The shorter barrels will give you more muzzle flip and recoil, as well as increasing the chance of unreliability. 3.5" and shorter usually require some work to get running 100%. I say stick with a Commander platform (4-1/4" for a true Commander, 4" for many of the current offerings) if you want a shorter barrel. There's no need to go lower unless you want a really small CCW package. Really, though, there's no reason to not just get a full-size Government if the primary purpose is a range/target pistol. The 5" barrel might be more uncomfortable (but not really less concealable... same size frame) when CCW'ing, but that's about it. |
I myself am finding my new Commander (purchased as a basis for a CCW project) a lot more attractive than my Government, in terms of balance and function as well as asthetics. I'm actually already thinking of buying another Commander. |
| no smaller than a commander length...but thats just my opinion so take it for what it's worth. You'd probably be just as happy with a 5" full size gov as you would be with a 4.XX" commander. Commanders conceal a bit easier from what people have said, no personal experience but I believe them since the muzzle of my 5" will hit my seat before my ass does. How do you plan on carrying, IWB, OWB? |