Kimber Master Carry Pro: A No-Nonsense Look at a Modern 1911

Let’s face it, when you hear “Kimber,” you’re probably thinking about sleek, high-end 1911s that look as good as they shoot. The Kimber Master Carry Pro is no exception—it’s got that custom-shop vibe and enough modern touches to make you feel like you’re carrying something special. But is it all style and no substance? Or does it have the grit to back up its good looks?

If you’re a guy who appreciates a solid 1911 and you’re thinking about dropping serious coin on the Master Carry Pro, stick around. I’m breaking this one down for you—good, bad, and everything in between.

Kimber Master Carry Pro Specs

Caliber	Capacity	BBL	OAL	Width	Height	Weight
.45 ACP	8+1	4″	7.7″	n/a	5.25″	28 oz. w/empty mag

A Quick History Lesson

Kimber didn’t just pop out of nowhere. Since the late ‘70s, they’ve been cranking out premium firearms that aim to hit the sweet spot between form and function. Kimber’s bread and butter? The 1911 platform. They’ve taken John Browning’s iconic design and added modern upgrades without losing what makes the 1911 timeless.

The Master Carry Series is Kimber’s way of creating a 1911 that’s built for business but still has curb appeal. The Pro version gives you a commander-size 4-inch barrel, an aluminum frame to shave off weight, and a few bells and whistles to make it carry-friendly.

First Impressions

The first thing you’ll notice when you crack open the box is just how bad-ass this pistol is. Kimber doesn’t mess around with aesthetics. The two-tone design—matte stainless slide paired with a black aluminum frame—gives it that “tactical with class” look. Then you’ve got those Crimson Trace Lasergrips that scream modern practicality.

Picking it up, it’s clear this isn’t a safe queen. The aluminum frame makes it noticeably lighter than a traditional steel 1911, but it still feels rock-solid in your hands. This gun is built to be carried, plain and simple.

Key Features of the Kimber Master Carry Pro

Here’s what Kimber threw into the Master Carry Pro to set it apart:

Crimson Trace Lasergrips

• Built right into the grip, the laser is activated by your natural grip. It’s a huge plus for low-light situations or fast target acquisition.
• The Good: Quick, instinctive aiming.
• The Bad: Batteries eventually die, and some purists don’t trust lasers.

Aluminum Frame

• You can’t beat the weight savings here. The Kimber Master Carry Pro carries light while still being tough enough for everyday use.
• The Good: Less strain on your hip for all-day carry.
• The Bad: Recoil is a bit sharper compared to a steel frame.

Meprolight Night Sights

Bright, no-fuss sights that get the job done in daylight or darkness. These are built for work, not show.

Match-Grade Barrel

Kimber’s match-grade barrel delivers the kind of accuracy you’d expect from a premium 1911.

Custom Touches

The slide serrations, checkering on the front strap, and the overall fit and finish scream “custom shop” without needing a gunsmith’s bill.

How It Shoots

Here’s the meat of it—how does the Master Carry Pro perform when you put rounds downrange?

Accuracy is this gun’s strongest point. Kimber’s match-grade barrel and crisp trigger make it easy to stay on target, even at longer distances. It’s a smooth shooter once you get used to the aluminum frame’s snappier recoil.

That brings us to the trade-off. The lighter frame means this isn’t the softest shooting 1911 around. If you’re used to a full-steel model, you’ll notice more muzzle flip. Is it uncontrollable? Not at all—but it’s something to consider if you prefer heavier guns.

Reliability? Here’s where some guys split hairs. Out of the box, Kimber 1911s can be a bit picky about ammo. I ran a few different loads through mine, and after the first 200 rounds (a standard break-in for Kimber), the feeding issues disappeared. It’s a small hassle, but once you get through it, the Master Carry Pro runs like a champ.

Pros and Cons

What I Liked:

• Looks and Build: It’s a sharp, modern take on the 1911. Kimber’s fit and finish are top-notch.
• Weight: The aluminum frame makes it a legit carry gun without feeling like a brick.
• Crimson Trace Laser: Fast aiming when time is short.
• Accuracy: Match-grade barrel + smooth trigger = tight groups.

What I Didn’t Like:

• Break-In Period: You’ll need to put a couple hundred rounds through it before it’s flawless.
• Recoil: It’s a bit snappy compared to steel-frame 1911s.
• Price: At over $1,000, this isn’t a budget option.

Is It Worth It?

So, who is the Kimber Master Carry Pro really for?

If you want a 1911 that’s built to carry but still has that custom-shop flair, this pistol nails it. It’s lightweight, easy to conceal, and comes with practical upgrades like the Crimson Trace laser and night sights.

But let’s not sugarcoat it, it’s not perfect. If you’re not into breaking in a gun or prefer a smoother shooting experience right out of the box, this might not be your best option. Plus, for the price, you’ve got other solid contenders to consider.

For me, though? The Kimber Master Carry Pro strikes the right balance. It’s a serious gun that looks damn good doing its job. If you’re a 1911 guy and you want a carry piece that’s lightweight, accurate, and modern, you won’t be disappointed—just be ready to break it in and put in a little range time.

Further reading: Ultimate Gun Reviews

Final Thoughts: Kimber Master Carry Pro

Kimber’s Master Carry Pro isn’t just a pretty face. It’s a solid 1911 with enough modern features to hold its own in today’s carry market. Sure, it has its quirks, but what 1911 doesn’t? If you’re willing to pay the price for looks, accuracy, and a lightweight frame, the Master Carry Pro is worth a serious look.