KIMBER CUSTOM TLE/RL II
Posted May 25, 2023
KIMBER CUSTOM TLE/RL II is a pistol from recognized leader in firearms Kimber. The firearm is part of their popular TLE/RL II line. It is especially notable for its excellent ergonomics, accuracy, and
reliability.
Since they first appeared on the scene in 1997 Kimber has consistently produced high-quality firearms which appeal to both tactical and defensive shooters as well as competitive shooters. The Kimber Custom TLE/RL II is no exception. From its distinctive looks to the fine attention to detail in its construction and function, the TLE/RL II is an exceptional firearm.
The TLE/RL II (Tactical Law Enforcement/Rio Line II) is a version of the classic .45 ACP 1911 design that has been upgraded for modern applications. It has a full-length aluminum alloy frame and a stainless steel slide. The slide has been carefully milled with a special pattern to give it a unique look and excellent grip when handling the firearm. The slide also features large forward serrations for cocking the hammer and serrations at the rear of the slide for press checking.
The barrel on the TLE/RL II is match grade, made from stainless steel with a standard 5” twist and a full dustcover length. It is threaded to accept suppressors or compensators and a stock barrel bushing is included. The barrel is also highly polished for an optimum blend of durability and performance.
The TLE/RL II features a standard recoil spring and a full-length recoil rod and guide. The recoil system is designed to help reduce felt recoil, a great feature for anyone shooting defensive ammunition. The accuracy of the TLE/RL II is enhanced by the beavertail grip safety which is designed to not interfere with hand placement when shooting.
The single-action trigger on the TLE/RL II is short and crisp, meaning that it easily transitions from a resting position to a fired position with a minimal amount of travel. The reset on the trigger is short with a quick break, while the overtravel is minimal. It has a very low poundage (around 3.5 lbs) that most users find comfortable.
The gun is highly regarded for its ergonomics, specifically its custom rosewood grips which give it a luxurious feel. The grips are swirled giving them a unique style that catches your eye. The pistol also features an extended thumb safety, an extended magazine release, and a beveled magazine well forfast reloads.
The TLE/RL II comes standard with Kimber’s world renowned Tangent Night Sights. These custom sights are designed to provide a bright and wide field of view in low light. They are a vast improvement over the traditional three dot sights and contribute to the pistol’s accuracy in a variety of lighting situations.
In terms of reliability the TLE/RL II is at the top of its class. It has a stainless steel frame and slide, as well as a full length recoil spring, extractor, and firing pin retainer that all help to ensure reliable operation with a wide variety of ammunition. It has a full length guide rod, which allows for quick and easy disassembly and reassembly.
Test firing of the TLE/RL II reveals it's exceptional accuracy and reliability in all conditions. The 5” long barrel helps to make the most out of the .45 ACP round, ensuring that itreaches its intended target. It features a sound effective single-action trigger and excellent sights that make it a pleasure to shoot. With its extended magazine release, beveled magazine well, and enhanced ergonomics it is well suited for tactical or defensive use.
The Kimber Custom TLE/RL II is an impressive package of features in a very attractive package. From its looks to its excellent ergonomics and accuracy, the TLE/RL II is one of the best .45 ACP pistols on the market today. It features modern upgrades in the form of a crisp, low poundage single-action trigger, easy disassembly, and enhanced combat features. A great choice for anyone looking for a reliable and accurate .45 ACP pistol.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
-Very accurate handgun
-All-steel construction provides durability
-Wide range of calibers available
-Very attractive overall design and finish
-Solid trigger with good reset
-Standard 1911 manual of arms
-Most attachments and accessories compatible
Cons:
-Price can be quite expensive
-Slide is quite heavy
-Not the most beginner friendly handgun
-No choice of rear sights included
Who Should Buy
Any skilled shooter who is looking for a dependable and accurate performance in their pistol should consider the KIMBER CUSTOM TLE/RL II. It's perfect for home defense, competition, duty, and concealed carry. It offers a crisp and clean trigger, ambidextrous safeties and exceptional accuracy.
Anyone who is looking for a low-cost or entry level handgun should not buy the KIMBER CUSTOM TLE/RL II. This pistol comes at a higher price. Additionally, shooters who have very large hands should consider other options, as the grip may be too small for some users.
Comparisons
| Features | KIMBER CUSTOM TLE/RL II | Product 1 | Product 2 | Product 3 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 8 Round Magazine | 8 Round Magazine | 10 Round Magazine | 10 Round Magazine |
| Caliber | .45 ACP | .45 ACP | .45 ACP | .40 S&W |
| Barrel Length | 5" | 5" | 4" | 4.25" |
| Overall Length | 8.7" | 8.7" | 7.7" | 7.9" |
| Weight | 39 oz. | 39 oz. | 35.2 oz. | 37.2 oz. |
Features / Specs
• Caliber: .45 ACP
• Type: Semi-Automatic Pistol
• Action: Single Action
• Capacity: 7+1
• Barrel Length: 5"
• Front Sight: Fixed Night Sight
• Rear Sight: Fixed Night Sight
• Stock: Black Synthetic or Rosewood Grips
• Weight: 38 oz.
• Length: 8.7"
• Width: 1.28"
• Height: 5.25"
• Twist: 1 in 16" RH
• Finish: Black KimPro II
Popular Accessories
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- Kimber Soft Carry Case
- Kimber Recoil Spring and Guide Rod Assembly
- Kimber Full-Length Guide Rod
- Kimber Fiber Optic Front Sights
- Kimber Ambidextrous Thumb Safety
- Kimber Tritium Night Sights
- Hogue G-10 Grips
- Kimber 8-Round Magazine
- Kimber Magazine Base Pad
- Kimber Extended Mag Release
Accuracy
The Kimber Custom TLE/RL II is a highly accurate pistol for shooting at close and medium range targets. Its 5" barrel ensures the most accurate trajectories, and its short reset trigger makes follow-up shots fast and precise. Many experienced shooters praise the pistol’s accuracy, saying that it is accurate to 40 yards or more. Its tight tolerances and quality parts also make for a more accurate gun than other carry pistols. With practice, you can use this gun to consistently put rounds within one or two inches from the bullseye at center-mass distances.
