The full-size Kimber 2K11 made quite an impression when it debuted in late 2024. Built around an aluminum grip module paired with a steel subframe, the original featured a 5-inch fluted bull barrel, external extractor, and toolless guide rod system that set it apart from typical production 2011s. The platform’s success led to several variants including the Stainless model with MJD carbon fiber grips, the Independence, and Eclipse editions.
Now Kimber has responded to market demand with the 2K11 Pro series – five commander-length variants that bring the same design philosophy to a more compact platform optimized for EDC and home defense.
SPECS:
- Caliber: 9mm and .45 ACP (depending on the variant)
- Barrel: 4.25 inches, fluted, ramped, stainless steel with black DLC finish
- Overall Length: 7.79 inches
- Height: 5.76 inches (90° to barrel)
- Width: 1.53 inches
- Weight: 35 or 40.9 oz with empty magazine (depending on the variant)
- Trigger: GT Match Grade Trigger, 3-4 lb pull, aluminum
- Sights:
- Front: TAG FiberLok 2
- Rear: Fixed sight cover plate (co-witnessing not available with optics)
- Optics Mounting: C&H Precision RMR adapter plate
- Magazines:
- 9mm: Two 19-round Checkmate UHD magazines
- .45 ACP: One 11-round flush-fit and one 13-round extended magazine
- Recoil Spring: 12 lbs
- Frame: Stainless steel
- Safety: Ambidextrous
- Grip Options:
- Aluminum grip module
- MJD carbon fiber/Kevlar grip module
- Accessory Rail: Four-slot Picatinny rail
- Finish Options: Coyote, Eclipse, Minotaur, Royal, and Stainless
- MSRP: $2,245 to $2,799 depending on model and finish
What Sets the 2K11 Pro Apart
The 2K11 Pro maintains the core engineering principles that made the full-size version successful while adapting to the commander format. Here’s a list of features that make the new Kimber 2K11 carry-optimized pistols unique:
- External extractor design that delivers consistent extraction without the maintenance headaches (found on many advanced 2011 such as Staccato HD)
- Toolless guide rod system with patent-pending compression technology for field stripping without specialized tools
- Subframe geometry specifically engineered to prevent magazine over-insertion and ejector damage
- Individual assembly approach where each pistol is built by a single technician rather than moving down an assembly line
- Checkmate UHD 9mm magazines delivering 19+1 capacity in what appears to be a standard 17-round tube
Five Models, Two Grip Designs
The 2K11 Pro series offers two grip options. The Coyote and Minotaur models feature traditional aluminum grip modules, hitting the scales at 40.9 ounces for the 9mm versions. The Eclipse, Royal, and Stainless variants use MJD Solutions carbon fiber/Kevlar composite grips, shaving approximately 6 ounces from the overall weight. While aluminum provides this rigid feel many traditionalists prefer, the composite grips are super bity without causing discomfort.
The 2K11 Pro Minotaur edition, with its worn-looking sandstone Cerakote finish, is one of the most eye-catching options. The bronze color pairs beautifully with the black DLC barrel.
External Extractor
The internal extractor was one of the classic weak points of traditional 1911s because it needed regular tensioning and tuning. So today, many 2011 pistols (think Dan Wesson’s DWX, Staccato HD, Sig P211) are built with external extractors, and Kimber 2K11 series isn’t an exception.
External extractors handle stress better and are easier to mass-produce with tighter tolerances, requiring less fitting. Internal extractors, however, are easier for users to adjust or replace. Both designs have their strengths, but external extractors are better suited for carry guns and firearms used frequently.
At GRITR Range, we have plenty of cool pistols, rifles and PCCs for rent, including 2011 pistols. Some rentals sport pre-installed optics. Come try these out!
Magazine & Capacity
Kimber’s partnership with Checkmate Industries has brought innovative magazine technology. Despite appearing to hold 17 rounds based on tube length, these magazines actually contain 19 rounds of 9mm through Checkmate’s innovative nested coil spring design.
The spring system allows coils to stack within themselves while an aluminum basepad and lock plate configuration maintains a compact profile. This allows for a slight capacity gain without compromising concealability or adding bulk to the grip frame.
The .45 ACP variants include one flush-fit 11-round magazine and one extended 13-round magazine, maintaining classic .45 ACP proportions.
The Kimber 2K11 Pro works with most 2011-pattern magazines, including Checkmate, Atlas (which uses Checkmate tubes), Staccato, and Duramag. However, MBX magazines don’t fit properly due to the Kimber’s magazine well design.
By the way, the new grip frame geometry in the Kimber 2K11 Pro carry pistols prevents over-insertion that can damage the ejector which is a common failure point on 2011 platforms.
Other Design Details
First off, a relief cut in the disconnector that eliminates the typical 1911 resistance when cycling the slide, creating an exceptionally smooth action that rivals custom work.
Also, each Kimber 2K11 Pro ships with Kimber’s patent-pending toolless guide rod system for effortless field stripping. The full-length guide rod compresses forward, and a simple quarter-turn locks or releases the spring assembly.
The pistol series also features a 4.25-inch bull barrel with a deep crown and fluted design. The crown protects accuracy by ensuring consistent bullet release, while the fluting reduces weight without compromising rigidity. The DLC coating provides enhanced durability and corrosion resistance while maintaining visual contrast with the slide finishes.
The undercut trigger guard allows for a high grip, improving control and reducing muzzle flip. The high-rise beavertail grip safety is blended seamlessly into the frame, providing comfort and preventing hammer bite.
All variants feature aggressive front and rear serrations. Also, all variants, except for the Minotaur, have lightning slide cuts.
Optics and Lights
All Pro models feature RMR-pattern optics cuts with included CH Precision mounting plates. Additional plates for RMSc, DPP, ACRO, and 509T footprints are available separately. The suppressor-height serrated rear sights pair with TAG Precision FiberLok 2 front sights. Replacement fibers can be installed using heat activation without specialized tools.
However, one drawback is that co-witnessing isn’t possible when optics are mounted, as the rear sight must be removed to install the optics plate.
The four-slot Picatinny rail supports full-size weapon lights, though the shorter dust cover compared to 5-inch models may limit some mounting options. The rail machining maintains tight tolerances that eliminate the wobble common in aftermarket rail installations.
Performance
Range reports often praise the 2K11 Pro for its excellent recoil control and smooth tracking. The bull barrel’s balanced weight and the grip module work together to provide quick sight recovery and minimal muzzle flip. The gun keeps the sight picture steady, even during rapid fire. The full-length dust cover helps distribute weight evenly, avoiding the front-heavy feel common in some shorter-barreled pistols.
Variant Specs
- Coyote (9mm: $2,699 / .45 ACP: $2,799): Features aluminum grip module with Coyote PVD slide finish.
- Eclipse ($2,345, 9mm only): Stainless slide with MJD composite grips.
- Minotaur ($2,575, 9mm only): Distressed Sandstone Cerakote finish over stainless construction with aluminum grips.
- Royal (9mm: $2,499 / .45 ACP: $2,599): Bronze PVD finish with MJD composite grip module and magwell.
- Stainless ($2,245, 9mm only): KimPro Granite finish with carbon fiber grips.
Pros:
- Balanced, beefy, and bold design with excellent weight distribution
- Smooth slide-to-frame fit with minimal movement
- Aggressive yet comfortable grip texture
- Undercut trigger guard
- Flat, smooth shooting
- Accurate and consistent
- 19+1 round magazine capacity in a flush-fitting design (9mm)
- Optics-ready with included RMR plate.
- Toolless guide rod for easy disassembly and maintenance
- External extractor for improved reliability
- Individually hand-assembled by a single technician for consistency.
- Unique, eye-catching finishes and clean lines.
Cons:
- MSRP ranges from $2,245 to $2,799, making it a mid-to-high-tier investment
- Magazines are priced at $84.99 each, adding to the overall cost
- Heavier than some competitors (around 40 ounces), which may not suit all users for concealed carry.
- Optics plate design removes the rear sight
- Does not accept MBX magazines
2 Responses
Hello Gritr,
I am curious when you might a Kimber 2K11 Pro Royale in stock to look at.
Thanks in advance for a response!
Hey, John! Most variants of the Kimber 2K11 Pro are on the way to our gun store, but it might take some time. The Royal will be available in both 9mm and 45acp.