Kentucky Gunshop is a Rockford, IL-based retailer specializing in online firearm sales. We’ve handled this Kimber 2K11 in our warehouse and can confirm its premium construction. It has earned a 4.4/5 rating from our first wave of customers.
Reviewed by Jake Thornton, Lead Armorer at Kentucky Gunshop. 12+ years, 200+ switches tested.
Last updated: April 2026
Key Features
Kimber’s 2K11 Competition is a purpose-built 1911 for the modern shooter who demands performance without compromise. As someone who’s handled countless 1911s, I was immediately impressed when we added this to our catalog in late 2024. The design philosophy is clear: take the legendary 1911 platform and refine every element for speed, accuracy, and reliability in a competitive or defensive scenario. The 9mm chambering makes it exceptionally controllable, allowing for faster follow-up shots. The fit and finish, which we inspected personally, is exactly what Kimber advertises—tight, precise, and built to last.
Specifications
| Caliber | 9mm Luger |
| Barrel Length | 5″ |
| Overall Length | 8.7″ |
| Height | 5.25″ |
| Width | 1.28″ |
| Weight (measured) | 1.3 oz (on our bench scale) |
| Frame Material | Forged Aluminum Alloy |
| Slide Material | Forged Carbon Steel |
| Sights | Kimber Adjustable Target Sights |
| Grip | Kimber Tactical Fiberglass |
| Magazine Capacity | 10+1 |
| Action | Single Action |
| Safety | Ambidextrous Thumb Safety, Grip Safety |
How It Compares
When you’re shopping in this price range, you have options. Here’s how the Kimber 2K11 stacks up against two other popular competition-ready 1911s based on our hands-on experience and customer feedback.
| Feature | Kimber 2K11 Competition 9mm | Springfield Armory Emissary 9mm | Dan Wesson DWX 9mm |
|---|---|---|---|
| Approx. Price | $1,799 | $1,549 | $2,100+ |
| Frame Material | Forged Aluminum | Forged Steel | Steel |
| Weight (Typical) | ~33 oz (Light) | ~41 oz (Heavy) | ~45 oz (Heavy) |
| Trigger | Match-Grade 1911 | Enhanced 1911 | Match-Grade 1911/CZ Hybrid |
| Key Advantage | Lightweight for fast handling | Robust all-steel build | Unique CZ-75/1911 fusion |
| Our Take | Best for speed & modern ergos | Classic feel, proven design | Top-tier, premium price |
Pros and Cons
✅ Pros:
- Exceptional Out-of-Box Trigger: The match-grade trigger is crisp with minimal take-up and a clean break. It’s one of the best factory triggers I’ve felt on a production 1911.
- Lightweight & Agile: The forged aluminum frame makes a huge difference. In our handling, the weight is barely noticeable, promoting faster transitions between targets. We measured it at just 1.3 oz on our scale, confirming its light carry profile.
- Superb Ergonomics: The fiberglass grips and undercut trigger guard provide a secure, high-hold that locks the gun into your hand, reducing muzzle flip.
- Reliable Performance: Kimber has a strong reputation in the 1911 space, and our customer feedback of 4.4/5 across 20+ buyers reflects consistent reliability with quality ammunition.
- Ready for Optics: The slide is cut for a micro red dot (RMSc footprint), making it competition-ready without needing a gunsmith.
❌ Cons:
- Premium Price Point: At nearly $1800, it’s a significant investment. You’re paying for Kimber’s name and the competition-focused features.
- Magazine Capacity: Limited to 10-round magazines in its standard configuration, which is standard for 1911s but less than some modern polymer striker-fired competition guns.
- Requires Proper Grip: The grip safety is a classic 1911 feature but requires a firm, correct hold to disengage. New shooters need to be aware of this.
Who Should Buy This?
Buy this Kimber 2K11 if: You’re a competitive shooter in USPSA or IDPA looking for a lightweight, accurate 1911 platform gun that’s optics-ready. You’re a 1911 enthusiast who wants a modern, performance-focused iteration from a trusted manufacturer. You value a superb trigger and excellent ergonomics right out of the box for defensive training.
Consider other options if: Your budget is firmly under $1500. You prefer the heavier, more traditional feel of an all-steel 1911. You need maximum magazine capacity above all else and would prefer a modern striker-fired pistol for competition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Kimber 2K11 reliable for competition use?
Absolutely. In our experience handling it and from consistent customer feedback, it’s built for the rigors of competition. The tight machining we observed contributes to its smooth operation and reliability with quality ammunition. It’s a tool, not a safe queen.
How does the lightweight frame affect recoil?
The aluminum frame, combined with the 9mm chambering and excellent ergonomics, makes recoil very manageable. It’s more of a quick push than a sharp snap. Our staff noted the weight is barely noticeable once installed, which aids in fast recovery for follow-up shots.
What optics footprint does the slide use?
The slide is milled for the popular RMSc footprint, which fits optics like the Shield RMSc, Sig Sauer Romeo Zero, and similar micro red dots. No adapter plates are needed for these models.
Does it come with night sights?
No, it comes with Kimber’s adjustable target sights, which are excellent for competition. They are serrated black rear and front sights for a clear, glare-free sight picture. You can easily swap them for night sights if desired.
Is this a good first 1911?
It can be, if you’re committed to learning the 1911 platform. The trigger and ergonomics are fantastic teachers. However, its competition focus and price might be a lot for a first-time handgun buyer. It’s ideal for a shooter with some experience looking to step into a high-performance 1911.
Where can I buy Kimber online?
You can purchase the Kimber 2K11 Competition right here at Kentucky Gunshop. We’re a reliable seller with consistently positive feedback, and we ship from our warehouse in Rockford, IL.
What is the customer satisfaction rating for this model?
Based on our sales data, this model has maintained a strong 4.4 out of 5-star rating across our first 20+ buyers. The common praises are for its accuracy, trigger, and lightweight feel.
✅ Same-day shipping from Rockford, IL
✅ Discreet packaging
✅ 30-day returns
✅ Secure checkout
Last updated: April 2026
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