Some technical solutions sometimes arise for aesthetic needs and vice versa. Among the novelties seen at SHOT Show 2019, the Kimber Rapide is a 1911 semi-automatic pistol in .45 APC caliber with a very marked personality, highlighted by a series of cuts on the front of the slide that allow a glimpse of the golden finish of the barrel. This is an aesthetic solution already seen recently on the Kimber Micro 9 sub-compact defense model introduced at the SHOT Show in Las Vegas. The cuts have an essentially aesthetic function, even if they help to considerably lighten the slide and therefore –in theory, at least – to speed up lock time.
Kimber Rapide: a constantly evolving classic
Over the years Kimber has been introducing standard and special versions of the classic 1911 pistol as well as original models. One of the latest innovations offered by the Yonkers-based company is the Rapide model, a classic 1911 with a 5-inch (127 mm) barrel.
A peculiarity of the Rapide is the stainless steel barrel with titanium nitride golden finish that can be glimpsed through the slide lightening cuts, which creates an interesting aesthetic effect. Frame and slide are stainless steel with Kim Pro II black finish. The slide also features front serrations. Even the match type bushing is stainless steel. Sights are Tru-Glo TFX Pro Day/Night with green optical fiber inserts. The particularity of this set is the contrasting red-colored ring around the front sight green dot for faster focus. The black/gray G10 grips offer a firm purchase.
The aluminum trigger is of the V-Cut variety. Pull is factory set at about 4.0-5.0 lb (around 2 kg). The single-stack magazine has a capacity of 8 cartridges in .45 ACP.
The Rapide is yet another incarnation of John Moses Browning’s design, but manufactured with the usual maniacal care by Kimber.
Find all the news from SHOT Show 2019 on all4shooters.com.
