KIMBER Stainless II .38 Super 5 in. 9+1 1911
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About this product
The KIMBER Stainless II .38 Super 5 in. 9+1 1911 is a high-polish stainless steel semi-auto pistol built for shooters who want a flat-shooting, high-velocity round in a classic 1911 platform. Chambered in .38 Super Auto, this full-size handgun delivers a match-grade barrel and a crisp aluminum trigger right out of the box. It's a reliable, accurate choice for target shooting, competition, or personal defense.
| Manufacturer | Kimber (per manufacturer specs) |
|---|---|
| Model | Stainless II |
| Material | Stainless steel frame and slide |
| Compatibility | .38 Super Auto ammunition; accepts standard 1911 .38 Super magazines |
| Finish | High-polish stainless steel |
| Weight | Approximately 39 oz (unloaded, per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Match-grade 5-inch barrel — Why it matters: A precisely fitted barrel improves accuracy, giving you tighter groups at the range or in competition. The extra length also helps stabilize the .38 Super round for consistent performance.
- High-polish stainless steel frame and slide — Why it matters: Stainless resists rust and corrosion, and the polish gives this pistol a clean, classic look that stands out in any collection. It also makes cleaning easier.
- Match-grade aluminum trigger — Why it matters: Tuned for a crisp break, this trigger reduces creep and overtravel, so you can shoot more precisely without fighting the trigger pull. It's set at around 4-5 pounds from the factory.
- White-dot front and rear sights — Why it matters: The high-visibility dots make target acquisition faster in low light or against dark backgrounds. They're easy to align for quick follow-up shots.
- Bonded smooth ivory grips — Why it matters: These grips provide a secure hold without being too aggressive, and they add a touch of elegance to the stainless finish. They're comfortable for extended shooting sessions.
Who It's For
This pistol is for the shooter who appreciates the 1911 platform but wants a caliber that offers less recoil than .45 ACP while still delivering good velocity. It's ideal for target shooters, competition shooters in USPSA or Steel Challenge, and anyone who wants a reliable, accurate semi-auto for home defense. New gun owners who are comfortable with manual safeties will find it easy to learn on, thanks to its crisp trigger and visible sights.
Pros & Cons
- Pro: Flat-shooting .38 Super round with lower recoil than .45 ACP, making it easier to stay on target for fast follow-up shots.
- Pro: High-polish stainless finish is both durable and visually striking — it's a looker at the range.
- Pro: Match-grade barrel and trigger deliver out-of-the-box accuracy that many shooters would expect from a custom build.
- Con: .38 Super ammunition can be harder to find and more expensive than 9mm or .45 ACP, especially in rural areas.
- Con: The high-polish finish shows fingerprints and smudges more readily than a brushed or matte finish.
Comparison vs. Competitors
| Feature | KIMBER Stainless II .38 Super | Zev Technologies OZ9 | Lone Wolf Distributors Timberwolf |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .38 Super Auto | 9mm | 9mm |
| Barrel Length | 5 inches (match-grade) | 5.12 inches (match-grade) | 4.6 inches |
| Frame Material | Stainless steel | Stainless steel grip module | Polymer |
| Trigger | Match-grade aluminum, ~4.5 lbs | Flat-face aluminum, ~4 lbs | Factory Glock-style trigger |
| Magazine Capacity | 9+1 | 17+1 | 15+1 |
| Price | $1,028.29 | $1,299+ | $599+ |
| Best For | Classic 1911 shooters, .38 Super fans | Competition shooters, high-cap users | Budget-conscious DIY builders |
If you want a traditional single-action 1911 with a proven reputation, the KIMBER Stainless II is a strong choice. The Zev OZ9 offers higher capacity and modularity but costs more. The Lone Wolf Timberwolf is a budget-friendly alternative, but it lacks the fit and finish of a factory-built 1911. According to Kimber specs, the Stainless II's barrel is hand-fitted for accuracy, which is a step above most production pistols.
FAQ
Is the .38 Super round hard to find?
It can be less common than 9mm or .45 ACP, but most larger gun stores and online retailers carry it. Expect to pay around $0.40–$0.60 per round for quality factory loads. Some shooters reload their own to keep costs down.
Does this pistol have a firing pin block safety?
Yes, the KIMBER Stainless II includes a firing pin block safety, which prevents the pistol from firing if dropped or if the trigger is not fully depressed. This adds an extra layer of safety for everyday carry or home defense.
Can I use standard 1911 magazines for .38 Super?
Yes, this pistol accepts standard 1911 magazines chambered in .38 Super. Kimber includes one 9-round magazine with the pistol. You can also use aftermarket magazines from brands like Wilson Combat or Chip McCormick.
Is this pistol suitable for concealed carry?
At 5 inches and 39 ounces, it's a full-size 1911, so it's better suited for open carry, range use, or home defense. For concealed carry, many shooters prefer a compact or commander-size 1911. That said, with a good holster and belt, some do carry it.
What is the warranty on this KIMBER pistol?
Kimber offers a limited lifetime warranty to the original owner. It covers defects in materials and workmanship. You can register your pistol on Kimber's website for full warranty details.
Ready to Buy?
Add the KIMBER Stainless II .38 Super 5 in. 9+1 1911 to your cart and get a reliable, accurate pistol that's ready to shoot. We ship to all 50 states with fast, secure delivery. Check out our other Semi Auto Handguns or browse 1911 Pistols for more options. Need extra mags? See our Handgun Magazines.
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Last updated: April 2026