Description
If you are looking for a 1911 that carries easy and shoots straight, the Kimber Custom LW OR 45ACP 5.5″ 8+1 TB is a solid choice. This lightweight model gives you a 5.5-inch barrel and 8+1 capacity in a package that weighs noticeably less than a steel frame. It is an optics-ready pistol that runs right out of the box, built for shooters who want a reliable .45 without the extra heft.
| Manufacturer | Kimber |
|---|---|
| Model | Custom LW OR 45ACP 5.5″ 8+1 TB |
| Material | Aluminum frame, stainless steel slide (per manufacturer specs) |
| Compatibility | Standard 1911 holsters and magazines; optics-ready mounting plate system |
| Finish | Kimber Gray/Black Armor Coat |
| Weight | Approximately 31 ounces (empty, per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Lightweight Aluminum Frame: Shaves off nearly half a pound compared to steel, so you can carry it all day without your belt sagging.
- Optics Ready Slide: You can mount a red dot without sending the slide to a machine shop. That means faster target acquisition and better accuracy for aging eyes.
- 5.5-inch Match Grade Barrel: Gives you a longer sight radius and a bit more velocity than a standard 5-inch 1911, which helps tighten your groups at the range.
- 8+1 Capacity: You get one extra round over a standard 7-round 1911, which can make a difference in a defensive situation.
- Thumb Safety and Beavertail Grip Safety: Both are standard Kimber parts, giving you positive control and preventing hammer bite right from the first shot.
Who It’s For
This pistol fits the new gun owner who wants a classic .45 but doesn’t want to lug around a heavy steel frame. It also works for experienced shooters who want an optics-ready platform without spending $2,000. If you are a left-handed shooter, note that the thumb safety is ambidextrous, so you are covered. This is not a competition race gun, but it will hold its own in IDPA or casual matches.
Pros and Cons
- Pro: Light enough for daily carry, yet still shoots like a full-size 1911.
- Pro: Optics-ready from the factory, saving you time and gunsmithing costs.
- Con: The aluminum frame may show holster wear faster than a steel frame, and it can feel a bit snappier with hot loads. That said, it still handles standard .45 ACP ammo fine.
Comparison
| Feature | Kimber Custom LW OR 45ACP 5.5″ 8+1 TB | Zev Technologies OZ9 | Geissele Automatics 1911 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .45 ACP | 9mm | .45 ACP |
| Frame Material | Aluminum | Polymer with steel chassis | Steel |
| Barrel Length | 5.5 inches | 4.5 inches | 5 inches |
| Optics Ready | Yes | Yes | No |
| Weight (empty) | ~31 oz | ~28 oz | ~39 oz |
| Price | $810.57 | $1,600 | $2,500 |
The Kimber comes in at a price point that undercuts both competitors while still offering an optics-ready .45. The Zev OZ9 is a modern striker-fired 9mm with a modular chassis, but it costs nearly double. The Geissele 1911 is a premium steel gun with no optic cut, and it is three times the price. If you want a lightweight, optics-ready 1911 without breaking the bank, the Kimber is the practical pick.
FAQ
Does this pistol come with an optic mounting plate?
Yes, the Kimber Custom LW OR includes a mounting plate system. You will need to buy the specific plate for your red dot model, but Kimber offers plates for most common optics like the Trijicon RMR, Holosun 407C/507C, and Leupold DeltaPoint Pro.
Is the 5.5-inch barrel hard to find holsters for?
Not really. Many 1911 holsters that fit a 5-inch barrel also work with the 5.5-inch barrel because the extra half-inch sticks out the muzzle end. Just check the holster description to confirm it is open-ended or made for a 5.5-inch barrel.
Can I use standard 1911 magazines with this gun?
Yes, any standard 1911 magazine in .45 ACP will work. The 8-round magazines that ship with the gun are Kimber-branded, but you can also use Wilson Combat, Chip McCormick, or other aftermarket mags without issues.
How is the trigger pull weight?
Per Kimber specs, the trigger is set at 4 to 5 pounds from the factory. It is a clean, crisp break with minimal creep, typical of their custom shop models.
Is this gun safe for a left-handed shooter?
Yes, the thumb safety is ambidextrous, so left-handed shooters can engage it easily. The slide stop and magazine release are on the left side, but many left-handed shooters adapt quickly.
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Last updated: April 2026
According to industry data, the 1911 platform still holds roughly 15% of the US handgun market, with Kimber being one of the top-selling brands in the lightweight 1911 segment.
Browse related categories: 1911 Pistols, Optics-Ready Handguns, .45 ACP Handguns
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