Kimber Model SIS Pro .45 ACP 4″ 1911 1911A1 Semi-Automatic Pistol 2008-2009
SOLD FOR: $2330
LSB#: 210205MS42
Make: Kimber
Model: SIS Pro
Serial Number: KR77437
Year of Manufacture: 2008-2009
Caliber: .45 ACP
Action Type: Single Action SA Semi-Automatic Pistol with Detachable Magazine
Markings: The right side of the slide is marked “SIS PRO”. The right side of the frame is marked “KIMBER. YONKERS. NY U.S.A. / KR77437” behind the slide stop pin. The top of the chamber visible through the ejection port is marked “.45 ACP”. The left side of the slide is marked “Kimber”. There are stylized rear slide serrations that read “SIS”.
Barrel Length: 4”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade with a tritium lamp and is dovetailed to the front of the slide. The rear sight is a square notch with a serrated rear face and two tritium lamps and is dovetailed into the slide and it has a set screw. The lamps have dimmed slightly but are still easily acquired in low light environments.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are gray G-10 panels with dimples along with the front 1/3 and diagonal serrations along the rear 2/3. There is no notable wear or damage to the grips, only light handling marks. There are no chips or cracks. The grips rate in Excellent overall condition.
Type of Finish: Gray KimPro II
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion but there is stubborn fouling in the grooves.
Overall Condition: This gun retains about 98% of its metal finish. There are a few little marks through the finish on the slide, most noticeable on the front on the left and bottom. The front strap checkers have a few lightly flattened peaks. The grip screws are undamaged. The markings are clear. Overall, this pistol rates in about Fine Plus condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The slide to frame fit is snug. The trigger is light and crisp. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your standards.
Box & Accessories: Included are a serial matching black hard case, factory paperwork including a manual, and three 8-round magazines. Two mags are Kim-Pro the other is Chip McCormick. The magazines have light wear and rate in about Fine condition.
Our Assessment: For 40 years, Kimber has been producing some of the finest 1911-style pistols in America and this is no exception. The SIS Custom was designed for the Los Angeles Police Special Investigation Section which dates back to 1965. The unit was tasked with shadowing the most dangerous criminals and stepping in when they committed acts of violence. As of 2008 the unit had only suffered one casualty and had a hit rate of 90%. In the early 2000s they trained extensively with SWAT and liked their 1911s so much that they wanted to adopt them after stints with various .45 auto pistols including S&W metal frames and Glocks. While these guns were good, they needed something precise enough to hit targets while not injuring bystanders, say in dynamic situations such as a robbery in progress. The crisp single action trigger, naturally pointing frame, and track record of success made it their choice. Work was soon started on designing the pistol, but unlike many it was designed by members of the units instead of Kimber, they simply built it. Serious thought went into the pistols and advice was even given by Larry Vickers and Hilton Yam, two very accomplished ‘smiths and it is said their insights greatly influenced the outcome. The pistol has an ambidextrous safety as the standard wastes precious time, the rear sight is slightly squared so it can be racked one handed, and this 4″ model has a bushingless barrel and full-length guide rod. As of 2008 SIS had approximately 22 detectives on the street, 17 of them carried a variant of the SIS. The pistol was also spoken highly of by IDPA Five-Gun Master Jon Strayer who said it was one of the best feeling 1911s, high praise for sure. As with all good things, they must come to an end, and due to many news articles that were released with all sorts of outlandish headlines talking about what a “killer” the gun was simply because it was used by an elite unit. Representatives soon got on their soapboxes about safety and SIS members had to pay out of pocket for their SIS pistols because the department didn’t want the PR headaches, furthermore Kimber was mandated to implement more safety features. The civilian guns were not updated with firing pin block safeties which make this one a little nicer. There were four models a 3”, 4”, and two 5”; one railed and one not. This one is a 4” model and with its limited production, use by a special unit, and high condition, this would make a great addition to a collection, especially if the winner is a Los Angeles resident. Please see our photos and good luck!