Excuse my ignorance, but does Kimber make the Stainless Compact with an aluminmum frame without going into the CDP series?  I was looking at the 2004 catalog today and I didn't see this as an option.  I am looking at a new carry piece and would appreciate the weight savings.

Looks like they do - Pro Carry's come in steel or alloy frames.  Not sure if this is still being offered as an option though.

http://www.kimberamerica.com/compact.php

I looked at the Pro-carry, but it has the full length grip.  I was looking for the short grip and a 4" barrel with an aluminum frame similar to the Compact CDP but without the CDP price tag.

Ultra Carry. It has an officers size grip but only a 3" barrel.

Quoted:  Excuse my ignorance, but does Kimber make the Stainless Compact with an aluminmum frame without going into the CDP series?  I was looking at the 2004 catalog today and I didn't see this as an option.  I am looking at a new carry piece and would appreciate the weight savings.

No. The Pro Carry comes with either steel or aluminum frame, but the Compact is only available in steel (without bumping up to the CDP, as you addressed).

They made one when I bought my Compact CDPII a few years ago.  Bought the CDP because I wanted tritium sights and the carry melt didn't hurt either.  My only regret is the slide is brushed stainless, rather than flat black.  That isn't a real complaint.....As far as a defense gun goes, they are nearly perfect right out of the box!

If it is a budget thing, when you add the cost of the night sights,  you are over what you would put into a compact.   If you need any other help rationalizing a CDP purchase, let me know.h
Oh yeah, forgot to mention chaged the grips to a set of McCormick smooth thin grips.........another almost complaint....