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Interesting comparison.

Some folks balk at the idea of carrying a high capacity pistol (Para’s in particular).. citing the increased width of the frame in the grip area.

Admittedly…Hi-Caps do NOT lay as flat as some single stacks…but in some cases they compare favorably.

One such example is a comparison of my Para P-13 (13 shot .45acp) to a Kimber Ultra Carry II ( 7+1 .45acp).



Look at the overall width of the two weapons (1-1/4� for both) at their greatest spread. This is owing largely to the very thick factory grips on the Kimber, (something that could be changed). Still…in terms of conceal-ability (in factory form), there is little difference and certainly not enough to quibble over.




If we compare the frames, we find that both are the exact same height (basically officers model).




The overall length of the slide/barrel combination on the Para (Commander length) is one
inch greater than the Kimber. No real down side to that.



The “girth� of the frame (in the grip area) is larger on the Para by 1/2�, so this may present a problem for folks with small hands. The Kimber “tapers� in this area and has a somewhat smaller grip in terms of girth, but no real advantage in overall width.



The extra 5 rounds of the Para do not come at such a high price when compared to this particular pistol (Ultra Carry II). Slimmer grips on the Kimber would swing things back it’s way though.

Just thought I’d share this…in case you have a Kimber UCII with factory grips.

Not sure if it just a result of the angle of the photo but in picture #2, it looks like the width of the guide rod shroud is actually thinner in the Para than on the Kimber. If that carries all the way to the width of the slide (although it doesn't look like it), the advantage goes to the Para for IWB carry IMO.

B

bpet wrote:Not sure if it just a result of the angle of the photo but in picture #2, it looks like the width of the guide rod shroud is actually thinner in the Para than on the Kimber. If that carries all the way to the width of the slide (although it doesn't look like it), the advantage goes to the Para for IWB carry IMO.

B

Its the lighting and camera angle. They are virtually identical in frame dimensions most places. I didn't try it, but I am sure I could put my Para slide on the kimber. Only in the grip (mag. well) area and just above and behind the trigger....is the Para wider.

Flint, did you have some extra time on your hands today? Nice thread...

nedmoore wrote:Flint, did you have some extra time on your hands today? Nice thread...

Yes.........

I'd have to take the Kimber (oh, I did). My short fat fingers just don't like double stacks. Besides, If I can't do it with 8, I need more firepower anyway!

mr surveyor wrote:I'd have to take the Kimber (oh, I did). My short fat fingers just don't like double stacks. Besides, If I can't do it with 8, I need more firepower anyway!

That could be a dangerous presumption.

Its your choice of course.

Great thread. As you might have read, I am looking for a compact or commander sized 1911. I dont have a problem with the size of double stack grips, and the idea of having the extra rounds appeals to me. Looks like you could feed a new magazine faster as well with larger well. How do the two compare as far as quality of build and price? I had my heart set on the Kimber Ultra Carry stainless, but the more research I do, the more open I am to something else. The Paras for example. Thanks for the pics.

asleepatthereel wrote:Great thread. As you might have read, I am looking for a compact or commander sized 1911. I dont have a problem with the size of double stack grips, and the idea of having the extra rounds appeals to me.

Me too!

Looks like you could feed a new magazine faster as well with larger well.

For me, it is easier to "hit"...but I know folks with better dexterity than I.... that have no problem making mag. changes as fast (or faster) with a single stack.

How do the two compare as far as quality of build and price?

My Para is over 12 yrs. old, so comparing it to a modern Kimber is no contest (the Kimber wins). Even with the newer Para models....I would give the nod to the Kimber in terms of overall quality. Price is about the same. Kimbers and Para's are both noted for their accuracy....so no difference there IMO.

I had my heart set on the Kimber Ultra Carry stainless, but the more research I do, the more open I am to something else. The Paras for example. Thanks for the pics.

A double stack will add noticeable weight to the package, do be aware of that. If that doesn't bother you (it doesn't me)...then you might at least look at a Para. I prefer a Hi-Cap when available, but I don't get the heebie jeebies carrying just 6-7 rounds in something else.

Maybe you can find some place that has both in stock. That way you could compare side by side.

Good luck to you. Post pics of whatever you get.

Flint.

Yeah Flint, thats the word I was looking for-'hit'. As in not fumbling for the hole.(No offense intended).
Not too worried about the weight, just the concealability. I know there are plenty of folks that carry full sized 1911s daily, and to tell the truth, I would rather carry one too. My problem is I do alot of night fishing and with all the casting involved, I think I might get uncomfortable with it unless its in a shoulder holster, and then it might get in the way.

A compact would be easier to carry ITW in the small of the back.

asleepatthereel wrote:Yeah Flint, thats the word I was looking for-'hit'. As in not fumbling for the hole.(No offense intended).
Not too worried about the weight, just the concealability. I know there are plenty of folks that carry full sized 1911s daily, and to tell the truth, I would rather carry one too. My problem is I do alot of night fishing and with all the casting involved, I think I might get uncomfortable with it unless its in a shoulder holster, and then it might get in the way.

A compact would be easier to carry ITW in the small of the back.

Theres your answer right there!

Except for pocket carry, I can't think of another place that would be as comfortable and of the way... when fishing.

BTW, Fayette County Lake is excellent at night. 10" Berkley power worm (Texas rigged) thrown up in the Rip Rap has worked well for us. Don't be surprised if you catch a few "Op's" out there too. Anywhere along the Dam back toward the Power Plant.

Plan on using good braided line and "breaking off" every once in a while, just the way it is....fishing among the rocks.

Don't think you can take your pistol with you there IIRC.

I fish on the Texas City Dike at night. Thus the need for my plastic

Anyway, I bit the bullet today so to speak, and picked up a Kimber Ultra Carry Stainless. Havent had a chance to see how it runs yet, because once again, work called and here I sit.

asleepatthereel wrote:I fish on the Texas City Dike at night. Thus the need for my plastic

Anyway, I bit the bullet today so to speak, and picked up a Kimber Ultra Carry Stainless. Havent had a chance to see how it runs yet, because once again, work called and here I sit.

Excellent choice Sir!

I am sure it will serve you well. I am going to shoot the one I polished up...tomorrow some time. So we will see how accurate and reliable it is. Hopefully, all will go well.

I know its hard to have a brand new pistol and be stuck at work, I feel for you.

But...at least you have a new pistol, and a good one at that.

Take care,

Flint.

Don't wanta hijack but there were times in the revolver days when LEO's in a shootout would be pulling the trigger after hearing a click not realising they had already shot 6 times,I don't ever wanta be in a position where i needed more ammo.I carry a 1911 7+1 with at least 1 extra mag,but as flint pointed out even a 1/2 " wider weapon with the right clothes and holster can conceal today since a lot of people wear their shirts untucked,and to tell you the truth in the future i will be looking at a doublestack 45