The Kimber Rapide Ice is a striking blend of precision craftsmanship and high-performance functionality. It was designed for those who seek excellence in their firearms. With its distinctive aesthetics and advanced engineering, this pistol promises not only to meet but exceed the expectations of enthusiasts and professionals alike.
The Kimber Rapide Ice
In this review, we’ll delve into the specifics of the Rapide Ice, exploring its design, features, and performance. We will also see if it lives up to the high standards of Kimber’s renowned reputation. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or a collector looking for a standout piece, the Kimber Rapide Ice offers an intriguing combination of style and substance worth considering.
Available in .45 ACP or 9mm, Kimber’s Rapide Ice is the newest addition to the Rapide line of 1911s. The pistol carries on a legacy of performance, dependability, and classic good looks. While easy on the eyes, the Rapide Ice isn’t your average safe queen—it was built to withstand rigorous use.
To stave off wear and tear, the slide and frame are crafted from high-quality stainless steel with a Diamond-Like Carbon coating, adding to its durability and overall appeal. The 5-inch stainless steel, match-grade barrel is designed for precision, ensuring consistent accuracy and long-lasting performance.
While able to accept an optic, we chose to run the Rapide with its suppressor-height white dot sights. We made this decision because we planned to install a suppressor on range day.
The G-10 grips offer a secure grip on the gun in any environment. This was much appreciated as the temperatures started to rise, and our palms became sweaty in the summer sun. The skeletonized KimPro II trigger added a flash of icy blue to the overall aesthetic. It is light and crisp, adding to the gun’s overall accuracy, with a trigger pull of between four and five pounds.
Weighing approximately 38 ounces, the Kimber Rapide Ice proved to be well-balanced during the firing process. Likewise, it was easy to handle, and the controls were manipulated without a second thought.
Shooting the Rapide Ice
Range day was a hot one, with temperatures hitting the mid-80s before lunchtime and no breeze to speak of. There’s no denying that 9mm is a top caliber of choice for concealed carry and perhaps the most popular option in general, regardless of application.
With that being said, we decided to pay homage to John Moses Browning’s 1911, originally designed in the early 1900s. So, we opted for the .45 ACP chambering in our shiny new Rapide. The ammunition used for our testing included Remington’s UMC 230gr FMJ, Fiocchi’s Defense Dynamics 200gr JHP, and Armscor’s 230gr FMJ.
Testing was completed at 25 yards, with velocity readings courtesy of our Caldwell Ballistic Precision Chronograph. Between each of the three brands tested, we saw a spread in velocity of around 65fps.
When it came to group size, Armscor’s offering took the lead with an average group size of 1.80 inches. Remington and Fiocchi were not too far behind at 2.50 inches and 2.25 inches, respectively. Now, keep in mind those shots were taken at a distance of 25 yards.
If we’re talking defensive distances, I’d happily carry any of the three options in my mags.
The Silencer Central Banish 45 Suppressor
The addition of the Banish 45 Suppressor from Silencer Central made this handgun even more pleasurable to shoot. This suppressor is designed for handguns and pistol-caliber carbines, ranging from rimfire cartridges up to .45 ACP.
Its durable titanium construction also means you can expect a significant decrease in weight. The short 6.7-inch configuration of the can weighs in at 9.6 ounces, while the longer 8.6-inch configuration runs slightly heavier at 11 ounces. Additionally, you can choose between eight or twelve baffles for optimal performance.
When it comes time to clean your equipment, don’t stress. This suppressor is user-serviceable for simple disassembly and maintenance. Once you are ready to reassemble, the keyed and indexed baffles make aligning everything quick and easy.
Making it an even more worthwhile investment, interchangeable pistons are readily available for purchase. They enable it to fit a wide selection of pistols and carbines. All this and more make the Banish 45 a versatile must-have in your collection—not only saving you money but your hearing as well.
Parting Shots
Once our testing was completed, we were impressed with this gun’s blend of refined aesthetics and superior performance. It stands out in the world of 1911s. From its robust construction and high-end features to its classy design and accurate performance, it was quite an enjoyable afternoon sending lead downrange.
The addition of the Banish 45 only served to enhance its versatility and shooting comfort. In this configuration, the pistol is an invaluable companion for any range day. If you love all things 1911, are a .45 ACP junkie, or a collector of anything from Kimber, the Rapide Ice is a worthwhile addition to your collection.
For more information, please visit KimberAmerica.com.
Kimber Rapide Ice Specs
| Height | 5.25 in. |
| Weight (with empty magazine) | 38 oz. |
| Length | 8.7 in. |
| Caliber | .45 ACP, 9mm |
| Magazine Capacity | 8 |
| Frame | Stainless Steel (with 1913 Picatinny rail) |
| Width | 1.28 in. |
| Slide | Stainless Steel |
| Barrel Length | 5 in. |
| Barrel Material | Stainless Steel, Threaded |
| Sights | White dot, suppressor height |
| Grips | Black & blue patterned G10 grips |
| Trigger | KimPro II Blue Aluminum V-Cut trigger |
| MSRP | $1,898.00 |
