Although I suspect that many of the 1,000 Kimber Target Match pistols will be treated as fine investments rather than shooters, I fired No. KTM0315 extensively. All mechanical functions including disassembly were as smooth and crisp as the finest custom M1911, and the gun’s trigger broke crisp at a hair over 3.5 pounds.

In addition to being pleasing to look at, the slide cocking grooves proved very easy to grasp. The magazines were inserted quickly and easily and were ejected from the pistol when the release was depressed. Three magazines come with the gun in addition to a polymer bushing wrench and a gunlock, all in a Kimber lockable hard case.

In testing the Target Match with several types of .45 ACP ammunition, the pistol functioned flawlessly and smoothly, feeding, firing and ejecting the empty brass without incident. In the accuracy department, the pistol produced hand-held groups under 2 inches from the bench at 25 yards. Firing the pistol off-hand at 25 yards, I was able to achieve five-shot groups hovering about 3.5 inches.

For those in the market for as fine a target M1911 style pistol as those costing twice the price, the Kimber Target Match is hard to beat. However, the growing number of Kimber collectors consumed most of these limited-edition pistols not long after their release in 2006. But they are out there, and if you can find one, it will be well worth money. If you can’t the are plenty of other models to choose from in the firm’s current catalog.

Kimber Target Match Specs

Caliber: .45 ACP

Muzzle Velocity: 850 f.p.s.

Barrel Length: 5" stainless Match Grade

Overall Length: 8.7"

Weight: 38 ozs.

Accessories: eight-round magazine

Safety: ambidextrous thumb safety and grip safety device

Sights: (front) fixed serrated blade. (rear) Kimber Adjustable

Grips: fancy checkered walnut.

Finish: high polished and matte blue

Price: $1,427 (last suggested retail)