Description
The Kimber Amethyst Ultra II 9mm 3-inch is a compact 1911-style semi-automatic pistol that pairs a satin silver aluminum frame with an Amethyst Purple PVD slide. Chambered in 9mm, this single-action handgun delivers a three-inch stainless match-grade barrel, fixed tritium 3-dot sights, and thin ball-milled G-10 grips, all built for everyday carry and close-range defense.
| Manufacturer | Kimber (per manufacturer specs) |
|---|---|
| Model | Amethyst Ultra II |
| Material | Aluminum frame, stainless steel barrel, G-10 grips |
| Compatibility | 9mm Luger ammunition |
| Finish | Amethyst Purple PVD slide, Satin Silver frame with scroll engraving |
| Weight | Approx. 25 oz (unloaded, per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Amethyst Purple PVD Slide Finish — This corrosion-resistant coating not only turns heads at the range but also stands up to daily carry sweat and humidity, so your pistol looks sharp for years.
- Three-Inch Stainless Match-Grade Barrel — The shorter barrel keeps the gun compact for concealed carry while maintaining the accuracy you expect from a match-grade barrel, giving you tight groups at self-defense distances.
- Fixed Tritium 3-Dot Sights — These self-luminous sights let you acquire your target quickly in low light, whether you’re checking a strange noise at dusk or hunting hogs in early morning fog.
- Thin Ball-Milled G-10 Grips — The aggressive texture gives you a secure hold even with sweaty hands, and the slim profile reduces printing under a cover garment.
- Satin Silver Aluminum Frame — The lightweight frame cuts down on carry fatigue without sacrificing the classic 1911 feel, and the satin finish resists scratches better than high-gloss options.
Who It’s For
The Kimber Amethyst Ultra II 9mm 3-inch is built for the southern shooter who values both tradition and personal style. Whether you’re a dove hunter who wants a dependable backup for the walk back to the truck, or a concealed carrier who appreciates the 1911 platform’s slim profile, this pistol fits your hand and your wardrobe. It’s also a fine choice for collectors who want something that stands out at the gun club without sacrificing functionality.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Lightweight aluminum frame for all-day carry; match-grade barrel for reliable accuracy; tritium sights for low-light use; distinctive finish that sparks conversation; traditional 1911 ergonomics that shooters trust.
- Cons: The single-action trigger requires a manual safety and a cocked-and-locked carry method, which takes practice for new shooters accustomed to striker-fired pistols. Also, the 3-inch barrel gives up some velocity compared to a 4- or 5-inch model, though it’s plenty for self-defense ranges under 25 yards.
Comparison
| Feature | Kimber Amethyst Ultra II | Zev Technologies OZ9 Compact | Geissele Duty 1911 Commander |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | 9mm | 9mm | 9mm |
| Barrel Length | 3 inches | 4.25 inches | 4.25 inches |
| Frame Material | Aluminum, Satin Silver | Polymer with steel chassis | Aluminum |
| Weight (unloaded) | ~25 oz | ~26 oz | ~30 oz |
| MSRP | $1,632.57 | $1,799.00 | $1,995.00 |
| Best For | Concealed carry with style | Competition and modularity | Duty use and full-size reliability |
FAQ
Is the Kimber Amethyst Ultra II 9mm 3-inch reliable for everyday carry?
Yes, Kimber has a reputation for tight tolerances and reliable function in their Ultra series. According to Kimber specs, the match-grade barrel and extractor are tuned for consistent feeding with quality 9mm ammunition. I’d recommend a 200-round break-in period before carrying it daily.
What holsters are compatible with this pistol?
Most holsters designed for a 3-inch 1911 in 9mm will work, but you’ll want to check that the Amethyst Purple PVD finish doesn’t get marred by rough Kydex edges. Leather holsters from quality makers like Milt Sparks or simply rugged kydex options from CrossBreed are good choices.
Can I swap the grips on the Kimber Amethyst Ultra II?
Yes, the thin ball-milled G-10 grips are held by standard 1911 bushings and screws, so you can swap them for wood, rubber, or other G-10 patterns. Just watch out that the amethyst slide finish is unique, so you might want to keep the factory grips to preserve the set’s value.
Does the Amethyst Purple PVD finish wear off over time?
PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) is one of the most durable finishes available. It will resist holster wear better than bluing or cerakote, but no finish is indestructible. With regular cleaning and proper storage, it should look great for years.
Trust & Delivery
- ✅ Nationwide delivery to all 50 states
- ✅ Ships within 1-2 business days
- ✅ 30-day return policy
- ✅ Secure checkout with encrypted payment
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Last updated: April 2026
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