KIMBER 1911 DS WARRIOR OR 38SUP 5″
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- 30-day returns on unused parts and accessories
About this product
If you have been looking for a high-capacity 1911 that stays true to the soul of John Browning but steps into the modern era of optics and firepower, let me introduce you to the Kimber 1911 DS Warrior OR 38Sup 5″. This is a hand-fitted, American-made double-stack .38 Super pistol that gives you 16 rounds on tap, a factory-milled optic cut, and that legendary Kimber trigger. It is built for the shooter who demands reliability, accuracy, and a proper fit and finish — and it delivers on every front.
| Manufacturer | Kimber (per manufacturer specs) |
|---|---|
| Model | 1911 DS Warrior OR 38Sup 5″ |
| Material | Stainless steel slide, aluminum frame, carbon fiber-infused grip |
| Compatibility | .38 Super Auto (9x23mmSR), optics-ready footprint for popular red dots |
| Finish | Kimber's proprietary matte black oxide (slide) and hard-coat anodize (frame) |
| Weight | 40.5 oz (unloaded, per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Hand-Fitted Slide-to-Frame Fit — Why it matters: This is not a mass-produced slide slapped onto a frame. Each DS Warrior is individually fitted by a Kimber gunsmith, giving you tighter tolerances, better accuracy, and that smooth, glass-like cycling you only get from a custom-level build.
- Optics-Ready Slide (OR) — Why it matters: The slide comes pre-milled with a standard RMR footprint, so you can mount your favorite red dot without sending the slide to a machine shop. This keeps your co-witness irons intact and saves you $100+ in gunsmith fees.
- 16+1 Rounds of .38 Super — Why it matters: The double-stack magazine gives you the capacity to handle a defensive scenario or a long stage without reloading. .38 Super offers flat-shooting ballistics with less recoil than .45 ACP, and it feeds like a dream in a 1911 platform.
- Carbon Fiber-Infused Grip Panels — Why it matters: These grips are lightweight, rigid, and textured just enough to lock into your hand without chewing up your palm. They also resist moisture and sweat, which is a blessing on a humid dove field or a rainy range day.
- Match-Grade Barrel and Trigger — Why it matters: The 5-inch match-grade barrel is cut for accuracy, and the trigger breaks clean at 4 to 4.5 pounds with zero creep. Per Kimber specs, this is the same trigger they use in their custom shop guns, and it shows on paper.
Who It's For
This pistol is aimed at the serious shooter who appreciates fine craftsmanship and wants a high-capacity 1911 that is optics-ready out of the box. It is ideal for USPSA Single Stack or Limited shooters (yes, .38 Super is still a hot division in competition), for the concealed carrier who wants 16 rounds of flat-shooting power, and for the collector who values American-made quality over imported plastic. If you grew up shooting a 1911 and have been waiting for a modern double-stack that does not cut corners, this is your gun.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Hand-fitted for accuracy; optics-ready from the factory; 16+1 capacity in .38 Super; carbon fiber grip is comfortable and durable; American-made with a lifetime warranty.
- Cons: The aluminum frame is lighter than steel, which helps carry weight, but some purists prefer a steel frame for maximum recoil absorption. Also, .38 Super ammunition is not as common as 9mm or .45 ACP, so you may need to order online or buy in bulk.
Comparison: Kimber 1911 DS Warrior vs. Zev Technologies OZ9 vs. Agency Arms Syndicate
| Feature | Kimber 1911 DS Warrior OR 38Sup | Zev Technologies OZ9 | Agency Arms Syndicate (Glock-based) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .38 Super | 9mm | 9mm |
| Capacity | 16+1 | 17+1 (9mm) | 17+1 (9mm) |
| Frame Material | Aluminum (lightweight) | Stainless steel grip module | Polymer |
| Trigger | Single-action, 4-4.5 lbs | Single-action, 3.5-4 lbs | Striker, 4.5 lbs |
| Optics Ready | Yes (RMR footprint) | Yes (multiple plates) | Yes (RMR footprint) |
| Made In | USA | USA | USA |
| Price | $1,199 | $1,499+ | $1,699+ |
The Kimber gives you a traditional 1911 grip angle and trigger at a lower price than either competitor, and it is the only one chambered in .38 Super right out of the box.
FAQ
What optics fit the Kimber 1911 DS Warrior OR slide?
The slide is milled for the Trijicon RMR footprint, which also accepts Holosun 407C/507C series, Vortex Viper/Venom, and most micro red dots with the same bolt pattern. You do not need an adapter plate unless you want to change the height.
Is .38 Super hard to find for this pistol?
.38 Super is not as common as 9mm, but it is widely available online from major ammunition retailers. Many competition shooters and self-defense users prefer it for its velocity and soft recoil. A good source is Ammunition.
Does this pistol come with extra magazines?
Yes, the Kimber 1911 DS Warrior OR ships with two 16-round magazines. Extra magazines are available separately through Kimber or aftermarket suppliers.
Can I use this for concealed carry?
Absolutely. The aluminum frame keeps the weight manageable at 40.5 ounces unloaded, and the 5-inch barrel gives you a full sight radius. It is best carried with a quality OWB holster or a sturdy IWB rig.
Ready to Add This to Your Collection?
This Kimber 1911 DS Warrior OR 38Sup 5″ is in stock and ready to ship. Whether you are a competitor, a collector, or a shooter who demands the best from an American-made 1911, this pistol will not disappoint. Order now and experience the hand-fitted difference.
- ✅ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
- ✅ Ships 1-2 business days
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- ✅ Secure checkout
Last updated: April 2026
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