Kimber Grand Raptor II

Could a 1911 pistol really blend style and performance without compromise? The Kimber Grand Raptor II certainly tries to, with its striking design, match-grade barrel, and aggressive grips that demand attention. But beyond its sharp looks, does it live up to the hype when it counts? Some shooters praise its precision, while others question if it’s more show than substance. Is it worth the premium price, or could this be one of those guns that dazzle at first glance but leave you wanting more? Let’s dive in and see what this bold 1911 is really all about.

Bottomline

The Kimber Grand Raptor II is a stunning 1911 with serious performance, but its bold design and hefty price might not be for everyone.

What Customers Say

They are so well made. Their finishing is just excellent. As far as a carry pistol, it is all stainless, so it does have some weight to it. It is limited to 8 rounds and it is a fairly large pistol compared to a lot of striker-fired semi-automatics out there.

Sootch00

Kimber Grand Raptor II Specs

• Height (inches) 90° to barrel: 5.25
• Weight (ounces) with empty magazine: 38
• Length (inches): 8.7
• Magazine capacity: 8
• Ambidextrous thumb safety
• Recoil spring (pounds): 16.0
• Full length guide rod
• MSRP: $1,587

Frame

• Material: Stainless steel
• Finish: Highly polished stainless steel (flats)
• Width (inches): 1.28

Slide

• Material: 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 bar-dot night sight, adjustable
• Radius (inches): 6.8

Grips

• Rosewood, scale pattern
• Kimber logo

Trigger

• Aluminum Match Grade
• Factory setting (appx. pounds): 4.0 – 5.0

Kimber Grand Raptor II First Impressions

Upon getting your hands on the Kimber Grand Raptor II, the design will immediately catch your attention. The blued slide paired with the stainless frame is undeniably sharp. At the range, you’ll appreciate the accuracy it delivers. But you might encounter a few feeding issues during the break-in period, though they seemed to smooth out with use. While it’s a beautiful and capable gun, the reliability question does linger for some users.

Further reading: Gun Reviews

Kimber Grand Raptor II Features

Consistent Trigger Pull

The Grand Raptor II has a smooth, consistent trigger pull that breaks around 4.4 pounds. There’s barely any overtravel or creep, making it great for accuracy and control.

Unique Firing-Pin Lockout System

This system makes sure the gun won’t fire unless you’ve got a proper grip, thanks to the grip safety. It’s a nice safety feature that doesn’t mess with the trigger pull.

Ambidextrous Safety

With safeties on both sides, the Grand Raptor II works well for both righties and lefties, and it’s designed so it won’t get in the way of your grip.

Lowered Ejection Port

The ejection port is lowered to make ejecting spent casings smoother, which helps cut down on jams and keeps things running reliably.

Beavertail Grip Safety

The beavertail lets you grip the gun higher for better control and comfort, and it adds an extra layer of safety since the gun won’t fire unless you’ve got a solid grip.

Summary

The Kimber Grand Raptor II is one of those guns that you just can’t help but admire every time you pick it up. The mix of aggressive slide serrations and custom wood grips gives it a unique look, but it’s the performance that really wins you over. After spending some time with it at the range, you start to appreciate the crisp trigger and how effortlessly it handles. That said, it’s not all perfect. Some might find the price a bit steep, and its aggressive design may not be for everyone. Plus, the tight tolerances can mean a longer break-in period. But if you’re someone who appreciates both craftsmanship and performance, these quirks are worth overlooking.