Kimber Classic vs. Target

[David Ramsey]

I've decided to buy a Kimber, but I'm wondering if I need the adjustable sights on the target model? The classic looks like the ticket, but will I eventually want the adjustable sights? I don't intend to carry the Kimber, but I would like to use it in IDPA matches.

 

[railroader]

Hi, I have an older classic custom. When I got the pistol it shot way low. I called kimber to inquire about target sights. To have them installed was about $165. At the time the target model was only about $75 more than the custom. Also I pretty sure the kimber rear sight cut is unique so that can limit what adjustables you can add on later. If you really want adjustables it might just be easier to go with the target model. By the way I adjusted my front sight with a file now it shoots right on the money. Mark

 

[yci]

Greetings,

When I was looking at Kimbers, I had the same question you did. I wanted the adjustable sights for target shooting and inquired about the possibility of putting adjustable sights onto a Classic later down the line. Going through the Brownell's catalog at the gun shop, we were unable to come up with any that could be ordered and would work in the Kimber without having to do major work on the slide. It was decided the only way to do it would be to send it back to Kimber and have them put factory sights on it.

I ultimately decided on the Target model for that reason, plus, the tolerances on the Target model were tighter than on the Classic. For example, looking at the rear of the barrel when the slide is forward, I could see a gap between the slide and the rear of the barrel (back of the chamber). That gap is not there on the Target model, or, if it is, it is not nearly as pronounced.

I have been very happy with the Target model. I have not done any competing with it, but I plan to in time.

 

[Barn Dog]

I had the same question a long time ago. Bought the standard classsic custom and not the target model. Then I had MMC (Miniature Machine Corp in Ft. Worth) install adjustable sights (screw adjust for elevation - for windage you gotta tap'em with a brass punch) and they are absolutely great, nice big dots for my old eyes and well under $100. No machining was necessary and the last time I looked they were in the Brownells catalog. Regards, Barn.

 

[blades67]

If you want to shoot IDPA, go for the fixed sights and spend the savings on practice ammo.

 

[Ghibli]

Kimber's rear adjustable sight blade become loose and falls off easily (search on the archives and you'll find many complaints). BoMar makes a special model which fits in Kimbers nicely.

I have a Stainless Target; only less than 500 rounds through it. I am sure sooner or later my rear sight blade is going to fall off. I'll replace it with BoMar.

I'd say go for the Classic and should you decide to have adj. sight, replace it with MMC or BoMar.

 

[John Forsyth]

I have both the Classic Stainless and the Classic Stainless Target. They both have excellent triggers, function perfectly, and are more accurate than me. CS has Heinie Straight 8's, and the CST has a S&A magwell and a fibre optic FS. I carry the CS and the CST is my competition pistol. Still using the original Kimber rear on the CST, several thousand through it.

Like someone said above, MMC makes an adjustable rear for the Kimber fixed sight rear cut. And Bomar makes one for the Kimber adjustable rear sight cut. I did not like the factory original fixed sights and replaced them right out of the box.

Get the one you want, both have their advantages and disadvantages.