In July last year, Kimber released the KDS9c double-stack 1911, offering a 15-round capacity in 9mm (below). The model received tremendous response from Kimber fans and contained features designed to enhance the overall shooting experience. Although the pistol included an optic cut, it wasn’t capable of accepting any other accessories. However, due to popular demand, Kimber has changed that with its latest upgrade—the KDS9c Rail. A full review of the new KDS9c Rail will be available tomorrow.
Kimber Adds Picatinny Rail and Ambi-Safety to the KDS9c 1911
Based on customer feedback, Kimber introduced the KDS9c Rail. Building on a 7075 aluminum frame with KimPro black or black/gray finish, the new Rail model expands on the original. However, in its new configuration, the KDS9c Rail continues the shift toward optic and light-bearing firearms.
Mimicking the legacy KDS9c, the new Rail model features an optic cut slide with mounting plates for Trijicon RMR, Holosun K, and Vortex Venom footprints. Likewise, the pistol features a skeletonized trigger with a crisp 3.5-4.5 pound pull. However, where the original shipped with two 15-round magazines, the Rail includes one 15-round and one 18-round magazine. But the company plans to offer the 18-round magazines with the original in the coming future as well.
Where the two differ is in the addition of a four-slot Picatinny rail just forward of the trigger guard. As a result, shooters can include a light or laser to their pistol. Likewise, the new KDS9c Rail also includes a new ambidextrous thumb safety to accommodate left-handed shooters.
“When we started shipping the KDS9c in July of 2023, the most requested addition was for a rail and ambidextrous safety, and we listened to those requests. This line extension is a testament to providing the features and attributes that Kimber customers expect, and modern firearms owners are looking for.
“The KDS9c Rail delivers on all of these latest concealed carry attributes and is machined, assembled, and finished by American workers in Troy, Alabama,” said Everett Deger, Director of Kimber Marketing.
Availability
The Kimber KDS9c Rail will be available at the end of January 2023 with an MSRP of $1,903.00. For more info, please visit KimberAmerica.com.
On July 18, 2023, Personal Defense World reported:
Earlier this year, Kimber teased its anticipated new double stack 1911, the KDS9c, and they’re finally rolling out the door. With a 15-round capacity in 9mm, the pistol boasts features designed to enhance personal protection and the overall shooting experience. With a fluted, crowned, and ramped bull barrel, along with a 3.5-4.5-pound trigger, the KDS9c promises improved accuracy and low recoil.
The Kimber KDS9c 1911
Designed with concealed carry in mind, the KDS9c features a 7075 aluminum frame with KimPro black or silver finish. Additionally, the frame features a fully integrated crosshatch textured design on the front and back straps. Likewise, crosshatch texturing on the G-10 grip panels matches the checkering on the frame and aids in retention while firing.
Riding atop the frame is the chamfered stainless-steel slide with forward and rear cocking serrations. Adding to the aesthetics and slide manipulation, the cocking serrations continue up the sides of the chamfered angles. The serrations angle to the rear, producing an almost chevron appearance. Like the frame, the slide is available in a matching KimPro black or silver finish.
Running along the top of the slide are the proprietary serrated adjustable rear sight and green fiber optic front sight. However, the slide also comes with an optic cut, so you can attach the red dot sight of your choice. Correspondingly, the KDS9c includes three different mounting plates compatible with Trijicon, Holosun, and Vortex red dot optics.
Chambered in 9mm, the match-grade 4.09-inch fluted bull barrel features a 20° Flush-cut deep crown and 1:10 LH twist rate. Rounds are sent downrange via the factory set 3.5-4.5-pound trigger, with a crisp break.
The KDS9c is currently shipping with two 15-round magazines. However, 10-round and 18-round magazines will be available in the near future. Finally, the 1911 utilizes a longer button for the magazine release, which is reversible for left-handed shooters.
Ron Dudzic, Director of Product Development for Kimber, stated, “The KDS9c is a performance-driven 9mm. The grip and balance are class-leading, making this pistol comfortable to shoot with low recoil. A bull barrel and adjustable sights ensure shots on target every time. This is a great-looking pistol that delivers what every serious shooter wants and needs!”
Availability
The Kimber KDS9c 1911 is available now with an MSRP of $1,499.00. For more info, please visit KimberAmerica.com.
Kimber KDS9c Specs
Height: 5.35 inches
Weight with Empty Magazine: 25.3 ounces
Length: 7.75 inches
Width: 1.33 inches
Magazine capacity: 15 (2 included)
Hammer: Skeletonized squared serrated hammer
Recoil Spring: 16.9 pounds
Frame Material: 7075 Aluminum KimPro Black or KimPro Silver
Slide: Stainless steel, Front and rear cocking serrations, KimPro Black or KimPro Silver
Barrel Length: 4.09 inches
Barrel Material: Stainless Steel
Twist rate: 1:10 LH
Barrel Details: 20° Flush-cut deep crown
Sights: Proprietary serrated adjustable rear sight, Green fiber optic front sight
Optics Ready: Optic ready w/ removable cover plate, Micro optic (RMSC/ Holosun-K) mounting plates available
Grips: Gray and black G10 Crosshatch
Trigger: Factory setting: 3.5-4.5 lbs
MSRP: $1,499.00
