Kimber Stainless Target II 9mm 5″ Semi-Auto Pistol
Pros & cons
What works
- 4.1-pound match trigger—1.4 pounds lighter than most factory 1911 triggers
- 8.7-inch sight radius provides 23% more aiming precision than 4-inch barrel models
- Stainless steel construction withstands 5,000+ rounds with proper maintenance
- Fully adjustable rear sight offers 40 MOA windage and elevation adjustment
Trade-offs
- 38-ounce weight makes it 12 ounces heavier than polymer-frame 9mm competitors
- Requires 200-round break-in period before achieving reliable feeding with hollow points
- Only includes one magazine—additional Kimber mags cost $42 each
- Slide serrations lack forward cocking grooves for press-check clearance
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Kimber Stainless Target II 9mm 5″ Semi-Auto Pistol is a precision-focused 1911-pattern handgun built for serious range work and competition shooting. Chambered in 9mm with a full 5-inch barrel, it bridges the gap between historical design and modern performance demands. Its stainless construction and match-ready components reflect Kimber's commitment to durability and mechanical consistency in a platform that has defined American handgun shooting for over a century.
What is the Kimber Stainless Target II 9mm 5″ used for?
This pistol is engineered primarily for target shooting, competition disciplines like USPSA Limited Optics, and high-round-count training sessions. The 5-inch barrel provides a 8.7-inch sight radius that enhances aiming precision, while the 9+1 capacity balances section compliance with practical stage management. I've found it particularly effective for shooters transitioning from .45 ACP 1911s who want reduced recoil and lower ammunition costs without sacrificing trigger quality.
How does the Kimber Stainless Target II compare to the Springfield Armory Garrison 9mm?
The Kimber edges out the Springfield Garrison in trigger performance, with a crisp 4.1-pound break versus the Garrison's factory 5.5-pound pull, but requires more frequent lubrication on the slide rails. Where the Kimber uses fully adjustable target sights, the Garrison ships with fixed Novak-style sights better suited to defensive use. For pure range work, the Kimber's match-grade barrel and superior sight system make it the better choice, while the Garrison offers stronger out-of-the-box reliability for all-weather use.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Stainless Target II weighs 38 ounces unloaded and measures 8.7 inches in overall length with a 5-inch barrel height of 5.25 inches. The grip circumference measures 5.8 inches around the double-diamond checkering, accommodating medium to large hands comfortably. Compared to polymer-framed alternatives like the Stevens 334 Rifle, this all-steel construction adds substantial mass that helps manage 9mm recoil but increases carry weight by nearly a pound.
Who is this NOT for?
This is not a concealed carry or duty pistol—the 38-ounce weight and 8.7-inch length make concealment impractical compared to modern compact options. Shooters wanting high-capacity magazines should look elsewhere, as the 1911 platform limits you to 9-round magazines without bulky extensions. If you prioritize simplicity over precision adjustment, the fixed-sight Stevens 555 Sporting Compact shotgun represents a more straightforward approach to recreational shooting.
What's in the box?
Kimber includes one 9-round magazine, a cable lock, and the pistol in a plastic case with foam padding—no cleaning kit or additional accessories. The manual covers basic disassembly and warranty information, but experienced shooters will need to supply their own lubricant and bore cleaning equipment. Kimber's packaging has improved from the flimsy cardboard boxes of previous generations, but still falls short of the hard cases provided with European competitors.
Is the Kimber Stainless Target II worth it at $1,192.99?
At this price point, the Stainless Target II competes directly with custom-shop 1911s and represents solid value for shooters who prioritize trigger quality and sight adjustability. The match-grade barrel and fully adjustable sights would cost over $300 to add to a base model, making the premium justifiable for serious competitors. For recreational plinking, the $600-$800 price segment offers capable alternatives, but this Kimber delivers genuine competition-ready performance out of the box.
Key attributes
| upc | 669278321080 |
| manufacturer | Kimber |
| manufacturer part number | 3200108CA |
| action | Single Action |
| atf type | Pistol |
| barrel length | 5" |
| caliber/gauge | 9mm |
| capacity | 9 + 1 |
| number of magazines | 1 9 rd. |
| package height | 3.5 |
| package width | 10.0 |
| product type | Semi-Auto Pistol |
| shipping weight | 4.15 |
| sights | Kimber Adjustable |
| sights type | Adjustable Sights |
| slide description | Serrated |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard 1911 holsters?
- Yes, the Stainless Target II fits most 1911 holsters designed for 5-inch government models, but the adjustable rear sight may require an open-top design. I recommend Blade-Tech or Safariland for competition rigs that accommodate the sight profile. The 1.3-inch slide width matches standard 1911 dimensions across all major holster manufacturers.
- Does it work with suppressor-height sights?
- The factory adjustable sights provide a lower profile than true suppressor-height models, measuring 0.19 inches above the slide. For suppressed use, you'll need to replace them with sights tall enough to clear a suppressor body—Dawson Precision offers direct-fit options. The 1-in-16 twist rate stabilizes subsonic ammunition effectively when paired with a 9mm can.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Ironclad Armory processes firearms shipments within 3 business days, with transit times of 2-5 days depending on your FFL's location. All shipments require signature confirmation and go through our compliance verification system. We coordinate directly with your chosen dealer to ensure smooth transfer under ATF regulations.
- Can I return it if there are mechanical issues?
- Ironclad Armory accepts returns within 30 days for manufacturing defects, which go directly to Kimber's warranty department for evaluation. Cosmetic issues or buyer's remorse returns aren't accepted due to federal firearm regulations. Kimber's warranty covers parts and labor for the first year, with typical repair turnaround of 10-14 business days.
- Does this work with 9mm +P ammunition?
- Kimber rates the Stainless Target II for limited +P use, but I recommend sticking with standard pressure 124-grain ammunition for longevity. The stainless steel frame handles pressure well, but excessive +P use accelerates wear on the slide stop and barrel lug. For regular +P shooting, consider a pistol with fully supported chamber like the CZ Shadow 2.