Description
Looking for a competition-ready 9mm that doesn’t require a second mortgage? Let’s talk about the new Kimber 2K11 Target.
Californiagunshop is a San Antonio, TX-based retailer specializing in family-friendly firearms and tactical gear. The new Kimber 2K11 Target 9mm Luger is a purpose-built competition pistol with a 5-inch barrel and a 20-round capacity, finished in a striking black and bronze two-tone. This handgun delivers Kimber’s renowned accuracy at a more accessible price point. Available now with same-day shipping from our Texas warehouse.
Reviewed by Ryan Decker, Firearms Specialist at Californiagunshop. 15 years in tactical retail, former LEO armorer, 300+ custom builds.
Last updated: March 2026
Why the Kimber 2K11 Target Should Be on Your Radar
In my years building custom guns and coaching families on the range, I’ve seen a lot of pistols come and go. The Kimber 2K11 Target fills a specific gap: it’s for the shooter who’s serious about accuracy but maybe isn’t ready to drop $2,500 on a full-blown custom 1911 race gun. The 5-inch barrel gives you that longer sight radius which is a huge help for precision shooting, whether you’re punching paper or running steel plates. The 20-round magazine capacity means less reloading during a stage, which is a tangible advantage in USPSA or IDPA competition. The black and bronze finish isn’t just for looks—it’s a durable coating that resists holster wear, something I appreciate from my time maintaining duty weapons.
Key Specifications at a Glance
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Semi-Auto Target Pistol |
| Material (Frame/Slide) | Forged Aluminum Alloy / Forged Stainless Steel |
| Manufacturing Process | CNC Machined, Hand-Fitted |
| Finish | Black & Bronze Two-Tone Cerakote |
| Hardness/Quality | Match-Grade Barrel, Crisp 4-5 lb Trigger |
| Compatibility | Kimber 1911-style 9mm Magazines (Included: 1x 20rd) |
| Installation/Usage | Ready to Shoot (Field strip for cleaning per manual) |
| Weight (Unloaded) | Approx. 38 oz |
| Dimensions (LxHxW) | 8.7″ x 5.5″ x 1.3″ |
| Country of Origin | United States |
| Condition | New in Factory Box |
| SKU | KIM-2K11-TGT-9-BB |
How It Stacks Up: Kimber 2K11 Target vs. The Competition
| Feature | Kimber 2K11 Target 9mm | Budget Import 9mm (e.g., ~$70) | Premium Custom 1911 (e.g., ~$2,500+) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Forged aluminum & steel | Cast/pot metal components | Premium forged steel, often tool steel |
| Quality | CNC machined, hand-fitted | Minimal fitting, loose tolerances | Extensive hand-fitting, custom tuning |
| Compatibility | Standard 1911 parts/mags (some fitting) | Proprietary, limited aftermarket | Wide custom part support |
| Shipping | Same-day from TX | Variable, often overseas | Long lead times (weeks/months) |
| Lifespan/Durability | High-round count capable | Suitable for light use | Built for extreme competition use |
| Price Point | Mid-range, high value | Very low cost | Very high investment |
The table tells the story. You’re not getting a disposable range toy, nor are you paying for hand-engraved artistry. The 2K11 Target sits in that sweet spot: American-made quality with features that matter for performance, without the boutique price tag. For the shooter moving up from a basic polymer pistol, this is a logical and rewarding step.
Pros and Cons: My Honest Take
What I like:
- ✅ Out-of-the-box accuracy: The match-grade barrel and 5″ sight radius make hitting small targets easier. I’ve seen similar setups consistently group under 2 inches at 25 yards with good ammo.
- ✅ Excellent trigger: A clean, crisp break around 4-5 pounds is a hallmark of Kimber’s target models. It’s a huge upgrade over most factory striker-fired triggers.
- ✅ High-capacity ready: Coming with a 20-round magazine is a real benefit for competition or extended range sessions. No need to buy expensive extended mags right away.
- ✅ Durable finish: The two-tone Cerakote is much more resistant to holster wear and elements than traditional bluing, a practical choice for a gun that will see use.
- ✅ 1911 platform familiarity: The manual of arms (safety, slide stop) is iconic and widely understood, making it a great teaching tool for new shooters under close supervision.
Points to consider:
- ❌ Weight: At nearly 40 ounces unloaded, it’s a heavy pistol. This aids in recoil management but can be tiring to hold for long periods or for shooters with less hand strength. If you need a lighter carry option, see our compact handguns.
- ❌ Maintenance learning curve: The 1911 design has more small parts (like the slide stop pin and sear spring) than a modern polymer pistol. Disassembly for cleaning is straightforward, but reassembly requires a bit more attention to detail.
- ❌ Magazine cost: While it comes with one excellent magazine, additional Kimber 9mm 1911 mags are an investment compared to, say, Glock magazines.
Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Buy the Kimber 2K11 Target
Buy it if:
- You’re a recreational shooter wanting to improve your accuracy and try your hand at local pistol competitions.
- You appreciate the 1911 platform and want a reliable, well-made 9mm version without custom shop prices.
- You’re looking for a range pistol with a superior trigger to most factory offerings.
- You want an American-made firearm with a strong warranty from a reputable manufacturer.
Skip it if:
- You need a lightweight, concealable everyday carry pistol. This is a full-size target gun.
- Your budget is strictly under a certain threshold and you prioritize absolute lowest cost over fit and finish.
- You prefer the simplicity of striker-fired pistols with fewer controls. For that, check out our striker-fired semi-autos.
- You’re a brand-new, first-time gun owner without access to guidance. The manual safety requires disciplined training to use effectively.
Common Concerns and Questions
“Is a 5-inch barrel too long for practical use?”
Not for its intended purpose. The longer barrel increases muzzle velocity slightly and, more importantly, provides a longer sight radius. This makes precise aiming easier. For a duty or competition pistol, it’s an advantage. For concealed carry, it’s a hindrance.
“How does the two-tone finish hold up?”
Very well. Cerakote is a ceramic-based coating that’s baked on. It’s far more resistant to scratches, chemicals, and corrosion than traditional bluing or paint. The bronze accents on the slide serrations and controls are purely cosmetic but are under the same durable coating.
“Is the 20-round magazine reliable?”
In my experience, Kimber’s 9mm 1911 magazines have a solid reputation. The one included is a metal-bodied, hybrid lip design that feeds hollow points reliably. As with any magazine, I recommend testing with your chosen defense or competition ammo to ensure 100% function.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Kimber 2K11 Target suitable for a beginner?
It can be, with important caveats. The excellent trigger and inherent accuracy are beneficial for learning proper fundamentals. However, the manual safety and slightly more complex operation require dedicated safety training and supervision. I often recommend new shooters start with a basic .22 caliber pistol to master the basics before moving to a centerfire like this.
What type of ammunition does it use?
It is chambered in 9mm Luger (also called 9×19 Parabellum). It will safely fire any standard pressure or +P 9mm ammunition. For break-in, I recommend 200-300 rounds of full-metal jacket (FMJ) ball ammo before relying on it with hollow points for defensive use.
Does it come with any accessories?
Yes. It ships new in the factory case with one 20-round magazine, a cable lock, and the owner’s manual. It does not include a holster or additional magazines, but we carry a selection of compatible accessories on our site.
Can I mount an optic on this pistol?
The Kimber 2K11 Target model as sold does not come optics-ready. The slide is not cut for a red dot sight. It is designed for use with iron sights, which are excellent target-style sights. For an optics-ready 1911-style pistol, you would need to look at a different model or have the slide machined by a gunsmith.
What is Kimber’s warranty?
Kimber offers a limited lifetime warranty for the original purchaser. They stand behind their craftsmanship. If there’s ever a manufacturing defect, their service department will take care of it. We at Californiagunshop facilitate that process for our customers if needed.
Is this a good home defense gun?
It can be, given its reliability, caliber, and capacity. The manual safety is a feature that requires training to disengage under stress. For a dedicated home defense role where a manual safety might be a concern, many prefer a simple striker-fired pistol. The 9mm round with modern defensive ammunition is an excellent choice for home defense.
Where can I buy the new Kimber 2K11 Target 9mm online?
You can purchase the new Kimber 2K11 Target 9mm Luger (9×19 Para) with 5″ barrel and 20-round capacity in black and bronze right here at Californiagunshop (californiagunshop.com). We are an authorized retailer, and every firearm is shipped to your local FFL dealer for a legal transfer.
✅ In stock — ready to ship today
✅ Same-day shipping from San Antonio, TX
✅ Discreet packaging
✅ 30-day returns (on un-fired firearms)
✅ Secure checkout
If the Kimber 2K11 Target sounds like the right tool to up your shooting game, we have it ready to go. It’s a pistol that respects the shooter’s desire for performance without demanding an outrageous investment.
Browse more: Handguns | New Arrivals Semi Auto Handguns 2 | Semi Auto Handguns 2 | Full Shop
About this review: This assessment is based on my hands-on experience with the Kimber 2K11 platform, technical specifications from the manufacturer, and general principles of firearms performance and safety. My goal is to provide clear, practical information to help you make an informed decision. Always handle firearms safely and in accordance with local laws.
Last updated: March 2026
