As a professional shooter, I’ve had the privilege of testing out some of the most renowned firearms in the field.
Today, I’m diving into a comparison: SIG 1911 Vs Kimber 1911. My aim is to sift through the specs, put these guns through their paces, and ultimately decide which one takes the crown. Let’s cut through the chase and get into the nitty-gritty of these two iconic firearms.
| Feature | SIG 1911 | Kimber 1911 |
| Caliber | .45 Auto | .45 Auto |
| Capacity | 8 rounds | 7 rounds |
| Action | Single Action Only (SAO) | Single Action Only (SAO) |
| Sights | SIGLITE night sights | Fiber optic front sight |
| Overall Length | 8.7 inches | 8.7 inches |
| Barrel Length | 5 inches | 5 inches |
| Slide Finish | Black Nitron | Satin Silver |
| Slide Material | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel |
| Weight | 41.60 ounces | 38 ounces |
Overview: SIG 1911
The SIG 1911 is a testament to modern engineering meeting classic design. It’s a firearm that blends tradition with innovation.
Specs
- Caliber: .45 Auto
- Capacity: 8 rounds
- Action: Single Action Only (SAO)
- Sights: SIGLITE night sights
- Overall Length: 8.7 inches
- Barrel Length: 5 inches
- Slide Finish: Black Nitron
- Slide Material: Stainless Steel
- Weight: 41.60 ounces
Overview: Kimber 1911
The Kimber 1911, a symbol of elegance and performance, offers a refined experience for shooters who appreciate both aesthetics and functionality.
Specs
- Weight: 38 ounces (with empty magazine)
- Overall Length: 8.7 inches
- Magazine Capacity: 7 rounds
- Finish: Satin Silver
- Width: 1.28 inches
- Material: Stainless steel
- Barrel Length: 5 inches
- Sights: Fiber optic front sight
Features Comparison: SIG 1911 VS Kimber 1911
1. Ergonomics and Handling
SIG 1911
The SIG 1911 stands out with its unique slide design, reminiscent of the P226 series. This design contributes to a robust and solid feel in the hand.
The grip is ergonomically shaped, ensuring a comfortable hold. Its weight distribution is notably balanced, providing a stable platform for shooting.
The heft of the gun, while slightly more than the Kimber, adds to its stability, reducing recoil and allowing for more controlled shots. During rapid-fire tests, this stability was evident in the consistent shot placement.
Kimber 1911
Kimber’s take on the 1911 offers a more traditional grip contour, appealing to purists of the 1911 design. The grip fits naturally in the hand, with its slightly lighter weight making it more maneuverable.
This advantage was particularly noticeable in quick-draw and rapid movement scenarios. The Kimber’s sleek design and lighter frame contribute to a more fluid handling experience. During testing, this translated into quicker target reacquisition and ease of movement.
Winner
The Kimber 1911 edges out the SIG in ergonomics and handling. Its traditional design and lighter frame provide a more user-friendly experience, particularly for those accustomed to classic 1911 models.
The ease of handling and maneuverability make it a top choice in this category.
2. Sight and Accuracy
SIG 1911
The SIG 1911 is equipped with SIGLITE night sights, which are a game-changer in low-light conditions. These sights were invaluable during night-time target practice, offering clear and bright sight pictures.
The accuracy of the SIG 1911 is commendable, with tight groupings consistently achieved at various distances. This accuracy is maintained across different lighting conditions, though the sights truly shine in darker environments.
Kimber 1911
Kimber’s fiber optic front sight stands out in well-lit conditions, offering a bright and easily discernible aiming point.
This feature greatly aids in rapid target acquisition under bright daylight. Accuracy-wise, the Kimber matches the SIG, delivering tight groupings. The sight’s performance in outdoor, sunny conditions was particularly impressive, making it a strong contender in this category.
Winner
The SIG 1911 slightly outperforms the Kimber in sight and accuracy. Its SIGLITE night sights provide an advantage in low-light conditions, offering versatility that the Kimber’s fiber optic sight doesn’t quite match.
This makes the SIG 1911 more adaptable to varying lighting scenarios.
3. Finish and Durability
SIG 1911
The Black Nitron slide finish on the SIG 1911 is not only aesthetically pleasing but also exceptionally durable. It effectively resists corrosion and wear, maintaining its appearance even after rigorous use.
The stainless steel body adds to its resilience, ensuring longevity. This durability was evident during field tests, where the SIG 1911 sustained minimal wear despite exposure to various elements and extensive firing.
Kimber 1911
Kimber’s Satin Silver finish gives it a distinguished and sophisticated appearance. While also durable, this finish is somewhat more prone to showing smudges and fingerprints, requiring regular maintenance to keep its pristine look.
However, like the SIG, its stainless steel construction guarantees long-term durability. The Kimber maintained its structural integrity throughout the testing process, demonstrating resilience comparable to the SIG.
Winner
The SIG 1911 wins in finish and durability. Its Black Nitron finish offers superior resistance to wear and corrosion, making it more suitable for shooters who prioritize longevity and ease of maintenance.
4. Customization Options
SIG 1911
The SIG 1911, while it doesn’t have a broad architecture like Kimber, offers significant customization in terms of finishes, grips, and some models with railed options. Its individual model approach means each variant has distinct characteristics, catering to specific preferences.
Kimber 1911
Kimber’s customization is more extensive, with three frame sizes and a wide array of features like lasers, different calibers, and various finishes. The options range from tactical models to competition guns, making Kimber a more versatile choice for personal customization.
Winner
Kimber 1911 is the clear winner here. Its extensive range of options caters to a wider variety of shooters’ needs and preferences compared to the SIG 1911.
Pros & Cons: SIG 1911
Pros
- Robust build quality.
- Precision engineering.
- Durable Black Nitron finish.
- Reliable performance.
Cons
- Limited customization options.
- Higher entry price point.
Pros & Cons: Kimber 1911
Pros
- Wide range of customization options.
- Elegant design and finishes.
- Models with advanced features like Crimson Trace lasers.
- Generally lower starting price.
Cons
- Finish prone to smudges.
Similarities Between SIG 1911 & Kimber 1911
- Both have a minimum overall length of 8.7 inches.
- Each has a barrel length of 5 inches.
- Both made with stainless steel material.
- Each available in .45 Auto caliber.
Differences Between SIG 1911 & Kimber 1911
- SIG has a weight of 41.60 ounces, Kimber is lighter at 38 ounces.
- SIG uses SIGLITE night sights, Kimber uses fiber optic front sight.
- SIG’s slide finish is Black Nitron, Kimber’s is Satin Silver.
- SIG’s customization is more focused on finishes and grips, Kimber offers more extensive options including frame sizes.
- SIG’s models have a distinct slide design, different from traditional 1911s.
- Price range of SIG is generally higher than Kimber’s entry models.
Final Verdict
After thorough testing and consideration, the Kimber 1911 emerges as the winner in most comparisons. While both the SIG 1911 and Kimber 1911 are exceptional firearms, each with their unique strengths, the Kimber 1911 stands out as my preferred choice.
This decision stems from its superior ergonomics, extensive customization options, and overall versatility.
FAQ’s
What is better, a SIG or a Kimber?
Kimber tends to have a broader product range, appealing to a wider audience. However, those specifically seeking a SIG 1911 are often drawn to its unique characteristics.
Is Kimber 1911 better than the Sig 1911?
Kimber 1911 offers more variety in its product line, making it more likely to meet diverse preferences. It excels in customization and ergonomics, appealing to a wider audience.
Is a Sig 1911 a real 1911?
Yes, the Sig Sauer 1911 Match Elite is a true 1911, albeit with some unique features like an extended slide-release and a distinct grip safety design.
What is so special about a Kimber 1911?
Kimber 1911s are renowned for their quality, dependability, and accuracy, making them a top choice among enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Is Kimber high quality?
Kimber is known for producing high-quality firearms, particularly their rifles, which are acclaimed for their precision and craftsmanship.
