Overview and Range Performance
The Kimber DS Warrior, a new double stack 1911 made entirely in the USA, hits the market at under $1,000, addressing demands from enthusiasts for domestic production. Reviewer from Tactical Considerations put the pistol through 630 rounds, primarily 124-grain ball ammo, with positive results. ‘That’s [__] fast. I wasn’t expecting this thing to like feel like some of the nicer 2K11 Pros,’ the host noted after the first bill drill. The gun ran smoothly, felt flat and fast, and handled standard double stack 1911 magazines from Kimber and other brands without proprietary issues. It shares the same grip module as Kimber’s 2K11 series, praised for its texture and flare accommodating magazine extensions.
Controls include an ambidextrous safety that’s positive and easy to manipulate, paired with a crisp 1911-style trigger measuring 2.9 lbs, 3 lb 8 oz, and 2 lb 11 oz on the gauge—averaging 2.5 to 3.5 lbs. The slide and action were ‘acceptably tight’ and ultra-smooth. One failure to feed occurred, captured on camera, where the casing caught during feeding despite the ramped barrel, but the pistol recovered and finished the session without further malfunctions.
Key Specs and Features
- Price: Under $1,000 MSRP
- Magazines: One 17-round flush-fit, one 20-round extended
- Optic Ready: Includes CH Precision plate for RMR footprint (replaces rear sight); bold white front night sight
- Barrel: Ramped, deeply crowned, flush with barrel bushing design
- Grip: Textured module with squared trigger guard, pinky ledge, knurled steel mag release; three Picatinny slots
- In the Box: Cardboard box, carrying bag, lock, sticker, optic plate
Pros and Cons
Pros: Excellent value, reliable feeding with various ammo and mags, smooth operation exceeding price expectations, non-proprietary magazines, solid trigger. ‘I kind of feel it actually runs and feels above its price point,’ the host said.
Cons: Single failure to feed noted; no factory magwell (compatible aftermarket available); optic plate removes rear sight. Suggestions include future options retaining the rear sight or adding a magwell, though these could raise the price. The reviewer, a long-time Kimber fan, called it ‘uncharted territory’ for US-made double stacks and encouraged community feedback on long-term performance.