Kimber Eclipse Custom II
Bottomline
The Kimber Eclipse Custom II is a slick-looking 1911 that backs up its style with serious performance, making it perfect for range days or competitive shooting where accuracy and looks both matters.
The Kimber Eclipse Custom II turns heads the moment it leaves the holster. With its sleek black-and-silver finish and stainless steel construction, it’s hard not to admire its good looks. But don’t be fooled by its style, this 1911 also performs well at the range. Kimber didn’t skimp on the details, packing this beauty with match-grade components and top-tier accuracy. But before making any big decision, it’s always smart to review a pistol properly. Does the Eclipse Custom II live up to its reputation, or is it more show than go? Let’s dive in and find out!
Table of Contents
Bottomline
The Kimber Eclipse Custom II is a slick-looking 1911 that backs up its style with serious performance, making it perfect for range days or competitive shooting where accuracy and looks both matters.
Pros
- Full-length guide rod
- Custom-fit barrel bushing
- Comfortable grip
- Stainless steel frame and slide
- Skeletonized competition trigger
- Beavertail grip safety
Cons
- Requires a break-in period
- Heavy
- Pricey
What Customers Say
When I received it from my FFL I was taken back for a moment on the beauty of this weapon. The picture on here does not do it any justice. I immediately took it to a firing range where the pistol performed flawlessly! First shot was dead on, I could not believe how accurate this baby was. I was only able to get 100 rounds through it but never had any problems. I will say the only hiccup I had was it would not feed with 8 rounds in the magazine, but I think this is due to a tight spring in the mag. If you are considering this gun, Do It! It is well worth the money.
Chris C.
Kimber Eclipse Custom II Specs
- Height (inches) 90° to barrel: 5.25
- Weight (ounces) with empty magazine: 38
- Length (inches): 8.7
- Magazine capacity: 8
- Recoil spring (pounds): 16.0
- Full length guide rod
Frame
- Material: Stainless steel
- Finish: Brush polished (flats)
- Width (inches): 1.28
- Front strap checkering
Slide
- Material: Stainless steel
- Finish: Brush polished (flats)
- Front serrations
Barrel
- Length (inches): 5
- Material: Steel, match grade
- Stainless steel match grade bushing
- Twist rate (left hand): 16
Sights
- Meprolight Tritium 3-dot night sight, fixed
- Radius (inches): 6.8
Grips
- Laminated
- Double diamond
Trigger
- Premium Aluminum Match Grade
- Factory setting (appx. pounds): 4.0 – 5.0
Kimber Eclipse Custom II First Impression
Out of the box, you can see that the Eclipse Custom II is well-made. We like how solid it feels in our hands. You really get a sense of its durability and peace of mind knowing it’s built to last. Plus, the sleek black finish and those G10 grips add a stylish touch that’s hard to ignore. What we love most is the attention to detail. It’s the kind of craftsmanship you can actually appreciate every time you pick it up.
Kimber Eclipse Custom II Features
Full-length guide rod and custom-fit barrel bushing
The full-length guide rod and custom-fit barrel bushing on the Kimber Eclipse Custom II work together to enhance overall precision. The guide rod ensures smoother cycling and reduced muzzle flip, while the precisely machined barrel bushing provides a secure barrel lockup, minimizing play for more consistent shot placement. These features help improve accuracy for both precision target shooting and reliable self-defense applications.
Grip and Safety Features
We’ve got to say, the checkering on the front strap and mainspring housing of the Kimber Eclipse Custom II makes a world of difference when you’re gripping it. That textured surface gives you a solid, non-slip hold, which is exactly what you need when managing recoil, especially after a few rounds at the range. And let’s not forget the beavertail grip safety. It’s not just about safety, but comfort, too. It lets your hand sit higher on the pistol, helping absorb the recoil while keeping things comfortable during extended shooting sessions. It’s the kind of thoughtful design that really enhances the shooting experience.
Skeletonized Competition Trigger
The Eclipse comes with a skeletonized competition trigger that’s designed for a super clean, crisp break. This feature is a favorite among shooters because it makes the trigger pull feel smooth and precise, helping to improve both the shooting experience and accuracy. It’s the kind of detail that can make all the difference when you’re aiming for an awesome range day.
Summary
To sum it up, the Eclipse Custom II is an excellent 1911 pistol that’s got a few quirks. It’s hard not to appreciate the stainless steel frame and the sharp black finish paired with those G10 grips, they make it a real looker. On the performance side, the crisp trigger and solid feel in hand make it a pleasure to shoot. However, the price can be a bit steep for those on a budget, and the weight of the stainless steel construction might feel a little heavy for some shooters, especially if you’re carrying it for long periods. Additionally, while the looks are impressive, some may prefer a less flashy finish. But overall, if you’re after a reliable, eye-catching 1911, the Eclipse Custom II delivers where it counts. Just be prepared for a few trade-offs along the way.
Kimber Eclipse Custom II Score Card
Ergonomics | The beavertail grip safety helps absorb the recoil while keeping things comfortable. | 1.1 |
Trigger | The skeletonized trigger has a super clean, crisp break. | 4.55 |
Accuracy | Its features put together help improve accuracy. | 4.5 |
Quality | It looks good and very durable but a little too flashy for some. | 4.5 |
Value | Need to bring out the big bucks. | 1 |
Overall | The Eclipse Custom II is perfect for range days or competitive shooting where accuracy and looks both matters. | 3.13 |