I plan on picking up a Kimber at my LGS in the next couple of weeks. I had a couple questions, this is my first FULL sized 1911 purchase.

First: I plan on using this as a Range gun, maybe competition shooting in the future. I'm looking at the Kimber Target, TLE II, and Custom II.  Of the three, the target sights seems to be a good feature for the range, however is it a good feature for handgun competitions? Also, are there options if I don't like the Target sights to switch out to? I know if i was to choose the other two, I would have to have a smith mill off the end to have target sights fit.

Second: I know the kimber magazines issues, so i plan on purchasing some. I have heard a couple different things 1. If i use one style of magazine, such as a Chip magazines, I should just use that configuration of magazine compared to say a Wilson magazine with a polymer.
Any truth to that?

Third: Anything specific I should look for while looking at kimbers before purchase? I know about fitment most of all, rust etc. Are there any other "specific" things i should keep an eye out?

Fourth: Any specific tools I should pick up for maintenance? I would consider myself pretty new to 1911s, I've shot them, but never truly owned one. So upkeep is new to me other than the basics.

Fifth: Is 829.00 a good price for a All black Kimber Custom Target II? I don't have a price on the other two, but I believe the Custom II was 729.00.

Thanks for any and all help in advance, and any tips!

I have a Custom II TLE Stainless and an Ultra II TLE Stainless.

I'm afraid I can't advise you with sights except to say that the Meprolight sights I have are really nice and I have a very good sight picture with them.

I run WC 7 round magazines with the Custom and McCormacks with the Ultra. Both have performed flawlessly. On the other hand, I still use the OEM mags at the range and have had no issues.

For the full sized pistols, no special tools are needed, though the bushing wrench at http://1911ultratool.com/Home might be handy. I have launched the spring plug a few times and it could smack you in the eye if not careful.

$829 seems a little high. Gunbroker has one for $729 http://www.gunbroker.com/item/578166779 and several others for $779. http://www.gunbroker.com/item/579882262.  Of course you will pay extra for shipping and FFL transfer. Consider that vs additional sales tax if you buy locally.

BTW Osage County Guns ( the $779 link) is where I bought my Ultra. Good store with good people and fast shipping.

Thanks for all the help, I appreciate it. I might end up snagging one off there then, save some money to go towards ammo.

Glad I could help a bit. Please post pics and the new shooter and let us know how you like it.

BTW, the guys over at Kimbertalk.com are very helpful and knowledgeable. You might also post there before buying.

Will do! I'll check it out, thanks again.