Low prices on the Kimber Custom II 5" Rapide Heat Optic Ready in .45ACP start at Champion Firearms-

MADE in the U.S.A. Kimber builds some of the world's finest pistols, right here in America--- something that makes sense as few things are as American as the 1911. The venerable 1911, on its own merit, is an engineering masterpiece. The simple fact that shooters still marvel today over a design that is over 100-years-old speaks volumes about the gun that has stood the test of time.

Virtually every critical component on each pistol is manufactured inside the Kimber factory. Only the finest raw materials come through the front gate, and Kimber takes care of the rest. This ensures every component meets unequaled standards.

The Kimber Rapide Heat .45ACP is a full- size, 5" barrel 45ACP 1911 that includes an all satin stainless steel construction. Kimber workmanship and quality are easy to see, even down to the smallest detail. The melded forged steel slide and frame fit together with tight tolerances and function perfectly.

Recoil on the Kimber Rapide Heat .45ACP feels significantly less than that of competing designs. This is due in part to this pistol�s lower center of gravity, which is slightly below the slide, and very close to where the shooter's hand grips the gun. Although the single-stack magazine puts the Kimber's capacity at only nine rounds, the relatively small diameter of the 1911's frame still allow the shooter to create a secure two-handed grip.

A match grade barrel and bushing deliver tack driving accuracy. For added reliability, Kimber includes a full- length guide rod, as the shorter G.I. style guide rods have a tendency to bind or break over time. Snag-free, low profile sights sit on top of the slide and provide a consistent target presentation. The rear sight is blacked out for easier acquisition of the red fiber optic front sight.

The checkering on the mainspring housing and the partial checkering of the rosewood grip feels secure. The knurled extended magazine release of the Kimber Custom II is a huge improvement over releases seen on other pistols. Performing tactical reloads is quick, simple and efficient.

The Kimber Rapide Heat .45ACP single stage, match grade aluminum trigger is a joy to pull, especially over the mushy triggers seen on most double action pistols. The 4 � 5 lbs pull is steady and smooth, while the reset is short and crisp. This is a gun that fires naturally, even for beginner's that have �low and left� trigger slap tendencies.

In fact, the Rapide Heat .45ACP has one of the smoothest trigger pulls of any production1911 on the market. Other features include a clean, single sided thumb safety. Many shooters actually prefer this style over the bulkier ambidextrous paddles. To further minimize felt recoil, the grip safety is a high-ride designed beavertail that quickly establishes a positive grip for maximum control in stress fire situations.

For service or repair, the pistol is backed by a manufacturers Lifetime warranty. Overall, the Kimber Rapide Heat .45ACP is a low recoil, high quality, well-built, incredibly accurate self-defense handgun designed for many years of reliable service.