Kimber Rapide Black Ice is a full-size Model 1911 pistol that offers unparalleled performance and a sleek, stylish design. In this article, I will delve into the features, specifications, performance, and reliability of the Kimber Rapide Black Ice, providing you with a comprehensive overview of why this pistol is a must-have for any firearms enthusiast.

Features and Specifications of the Kimber Rapide Black Ice

The Kimber Rapide Black Ice stands out with its unique and stylish touches. It features a black DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) coating on the slide and frame, giving it a distinct and eye-catching appearance.

The G10 grips are textured and provide a secure and comfortable hold. The pistol also boasts an extended magazine well, allowing for quick and easy magazine changes.

In terms of specifications, the Kimber Rapide Black Ice is chambered in .45 ACP, although variants in 9mm and 10mm have now been added to the lineup.

The pistol has a capacity of 8 rounds and features a match-grade barrel for improved accuracy. The trigger is crisp and clean, breaking at around 4-5 pounds.

Overall, the Kimber Rapide Black Ice is a well-crafted firearm that combines style and performance seamlessly.

Performance and Reliability of the Kimber Rapide Black Ice

When it comes to performance, the Kimber Rapide Black Ice truly shines. The match-grade barrel and crisp trigger contribute to its exceptional accuracy.

During my range sessions, I found the Kimber Rapide Black Ice to consistently deliver tight groups, even at extended distances. The pistol cycles smoothly, and the recoil is manageable, allowing for quick follow-up shots.

In terms of reliability, the Kimber Rapide Black Ice is a rock-solid performer. It feeds, fires, and ejects without any hiccups, providing a hassle-free shooting experience.

The high-quality materials and precision manufacturing ensure that this pistol will withstand the test of time. Whether you’re using it for competition or self-defense, the Kimber Rapide Black Ice will not let you down.

Common Problems and Troubleshooting Tips for the Kimber Rapide Black Ice

While the Kimber Rapide Black Ice is a reliable firearm, like any mechanical device, it may encounter issues from time to time. One common problem that some users have reported is failure to feed or extract.

This can often be attributed to a dirty or improperly lubricated pistol. Regular cleaning and maintenance, as recommended by the manufacturer, can help prevent such issues.

Another issue that some users have experienced is light primer strikes. This can be caused by weak ammunition or a worn firing pin spring. If you encounter this problem, try using high-quality ammunition and consider replacing the firing pin spring if the issue persists.

It is important to note that these problems are relatively rare, and most users will never encounter them. However, it’s always good to be prepared and knowledgeable about potential issues that may arise.

Availability and Pricing of the Kimber Rapide Black Ice

The Kimber Rapide Black Ice is a highly sought-after pistol, and its availability can sometimes be limited. However, with some patience and diligence, you can find this exceptional firearm at reputable firearms dealers and online retailers.

As for pricing, the Kimber Rapide Black Ice typically falls in the higher end of the price range for 1911 pistols. The exact price may vary depending on factors such as location and demand.

Alternatives to the Kimber Rapide Black Ice

While the Kimber Rapide Black Ice is undoubtedly an impressive firearm, it may not be the perfect fit for everyone. Fortunately, there are several alternatives available that offer similar features and performance.

One such alternative is the Springfield Armory TRP Operator, which also boasts a match-grade barrel and a sleek design. Another option to consider is the Wilson Combat CQB, known for its exceptional reliability and accuracy.

Where to Buy the Kimber Rapide Black Ice

If you’re ready to add the Kimber Rapide Black Ice to your collection, there are several reputable retailers where you can purchase this firearm.

Online retailers such as Globalarmshop and Cabela’s often have the Kimber Rapide Black Ice in stock. Additionally, local firearms dealers may also carry this model or be able to order it for you. It’s always a good idea to call ahead and check for availability before making a trip to a store.

Collectibility and Resale Value of the Kimber Rapide Black Ice

The Kimber Rapide Black Ice is not only a fantastic firearm to own and shoot but also holds excellent collectible value. Its unique design and limited availability make it highly desirable among firearms enthusiasts.

As with any collectible item, the resale value of the Kimber Rapide Black Ice can fluctuate over time. However, due to its reputation and popularity, it is likely to hold its value well.

Customer Reviews and Feedback on the Kimber Rapide Black Ice

The Kimber Rapide Black Ice has received overwhelmingly positive reviews from customers and firearms enthusiasts alike. Users praise its accuracy, reliability, and eye-catching design.

Many have commented on the smooth trigger pull and comfortable grip, making it a pleasure to shoot. The Kimber Rapide Black Ice has quickly gained a reputation as a top-tier 1911 pistol, and the customer feedback reflects this.

Kimber’s newest entry in the Micro 9 series brings some functional enhancements along with aesthetics from the Model 1911 Rapide (Black Ice).

Originally introduced in 2017, the Micro 9 family of pistols has been a winner for Kimber. Although they look like 1911-style pistols externally, they’re actually quite different. For a tiny pistol, that’s a good thing.

There’s simply not much you can do to shrink a true-to-form M1911 smaller than an “Officer” size with a 3- to 3 1/2-inch barrel and a shortened frame capable of carrying a six-round magazine.

In a full-size pistol, the grip size and angle to the bore’s centerline axis, as well as the reach to the trigger and controls, work to make a well-tuned 9mm M1911 a thing of beauty.

Those advantages, however, don’t carry over to the sub­compact realm. Officer-sized Model 1911s are generally picky with ammo, prone to malfunctions, uncomfortable to shoot, and gobble up recoil springs. Sure, some run great, but we’ve watched hundreds of micro-frame Model 1911’s come through an armory of a large department and they don’t compare well to modern pistols on the average.

Springfield Armory re-engineered the 1911 around the 9mm cartridge before announcing the Enhanced Micro Pistol (EMP) platform in 2007. (Those pistols start at $1,104 for black and $1,249 for two-tone with a stainless-steel slide over an aluminum-alloy frame.)

Kimber chose a different route with the Micro 9. The new pistol is smaller and more reliable than most Officer-sized 1911s pistols, yet it still feels like the classic single stack, and it doesn’t sacrifice anything in terms of the accuracy and shootability.

Still, close inspection of the Micro 9 revealed that several defining M1911 features have been changed: The grip safety has been deleted; the plunger tube on the left side of the pistol is gone; and the Micro 9’s manual safety works differently.

There is still a bilateral ­safety lever at the rear of the frame, similar to those on ambidextrous M1911s, but the safety works as a true trigger safety, which does not lock the slide. The simplified mechanics of the safety allows it to move smoothly through its arc, locking positively in and out of position.

Kimber is a name synonymous with 1911 pistols of all sizes, like its Micro 9 Rapide. But unfortunately, that name hasn’t always been associated with quality or value. But as a lifelong fan of both 9mm pocket pistols and 1911s, I wanted to give the Kimber Micro 9 Rapide Black Ice pistol a fair shake. How did it hold up? Let’s take a closer look and find out.

Kimber Micro 9 Rapide Black Ice Pistol

The Kimber Micro 9 Rapide Black Ice pistol is a single-stack, swinging-link, locked-breech semi-automatic miniature 1911 chambered in 9mm parabellum. It feeds from single-stack, 7-round magazines and includes two in the box. The Micro 9 functions almost identically to a standard 1911, and as such, is single-action only and is designed to be carried in condition one: round in the chamber, hammer back, safety on.

This might make some shooters uneasy to carry, but to me, it’s perfect for concealed carry. The frame-mounted thumb safety is totally unobtrusive, and white some naysayers will tell you that having a safety on a pistol is a liability and that you won’t remember to toggle it off in a gunfight; their claims fail to take into account training.

As someone who grew up carrying a full-sized 1911, flipping the safety off with my thumb quickly becomes a natural part of your draw, to the point where you’ll miss it on guns lacking a thumb safety. As a father with young kids, I like the added peace of mind that if I have to quickly pick up my kids and run with one of them in my arms, their feet aren’t going to find their way inside the trigger guard and touch a round off into my thigh.

Conclusion: Is the Kimber Rapide Black Ice Worth It?

In conclusion, the Kimber Rapide Black Ice is a must-have for firearms enthusiasts. Its unparalleled performance, stylish design, and reliability make it a standout choice for both competition and self-defense.

While it may come with a higher price tag than some other 1911 pistols, the Kimber Rapide Black Ice is worth every penny. If you’re looking to add a top-tier firearm to your collection, the Kimber Rapide Black Ice should be at the top of your list.

CTA: Kimber Rapide pistols were full-size Model 1911s in .45 ACP (9mm and 10mm have now been added). They are built for speed and feature a lot of unique and stylish touches.

The first Kimber Micro pistols were small .380 ACP pocket pistols. They are built for easy carrying. Later, the Micro 9 was introduced, and as its name implies, it is chambered for 9mm. But it is still built for easy carrying and concealment.