The opinion on Kimber pistols span greatly across both sides of the spectrum. From people praising them a top tier brand to others saying they are overpriced guns using that have gone downhill using MIM parts and plastic mainspring housings. I personally don't have a problem with MIM parts...when was the last time you sheared your safety lever? What I do have an issue with is paying upper tier 1911 price when there are mid-tier 1911s that use stronger parts, but hey I digress. This overview is on the Kimber Micro 380 and how it is in general.
The Kimber Micro 380 I have today is the stainless version with rosewood grips. With an aluminum frame, it weighs in at 13.4 ounces (Empty Mag). While there are a ton of lighter 380 options out there, it's not too terribly bad for an all metal gun. I'm not big on shiny guns but there's no denying that the Micro 380 is a gorgeous gun. It's clean, fit & finish is on point, and the grips are on the level of an aftermarket purchase. While the slide is made of stainless steel, Kimber coats it in a satin silver giving it a very uniform look.
The slide to frame fitment is on par with any other new Kimber. It's tight and will require a break-in period before you should consider it carry worthy. Almost all Kimbers may experiencing a failure in the first 300-500 rounds as the side and frame complete their fitting together. A well broken in Kimber gives a very snug and buttery smooth action.
The sights on the Micro 380 are excellent. Most base level Kimbers include black on black sights with no dots. Not only does the Micro have traditional 3 dot sights, they use HUGE white dots that are very easy to pick up and may even negate the need for night sights...unless you like to shoot in pitch black darkness I guess. The rear sight is pretty snag resistant while the front sight might bite a holster on removal but no more than any other pistol with a similar front sight.
Shooting the Kimber Micro 380 is snappy as any gun this size would be but, it is much more of a pleasure to shoot verses a S&W Bodyguard or Ruger LCP due to it's increased weight and included extended basepad. Shooting 102gr Remington Golden Saber proved to be pretty muzzle happy but more than controllable to be used in a self defense situation.
Carrying the Micro 380 concealed is fairly comfortable. You do know that you are carrying a full metal gun though. Compared to the lighter polymer options available, you do notice the heft but it's a trade-off you accept when you purchase this gun for carry. Still very doable though, there are guys who conceal full size 1911's after all.
Official Specs
