Originally Posted by mrsnipy

does kimber make a basic 1911 pistol similar to the milspec springfield?
seems custom II is the basic which is nice but just checking my options.
Bob

You would be correct, the Custom II is Kimber's base model, but still has some nice features.

Exactly, the point of Kimber's is that there are no basic 1911's. They all have some nice custom features on them.

The Springfield milspec is just what it says. It is rugged, reliable, has a somewhat loose slide and is an outstanding combat pistol. It requires no break in period and has been flawless from the first shot. I have had one for 14 years, and it is my self defense handgun of choice. For what a 1911 is supposed to do, I think you cannot get a better one. The only change I have made to my milspec is night sights so it would be an even better weapon.

The Kimber has a much tighter slide, a crisper trigger and other embellishments, including night sights; but it is not a better combat weapon. I have an Eclipse Pro II, and I enjoy it. But it is not the pistol in my nightstand. It is the pistol I take target shooting.