Description
The Kimber Ultra CDP II .45 ACP 3″ 7+1 is a compact 1911 built for daily carry, blending a lightweight aluminum frame with a stainless steel slide and tritium night sights. This pistol delivers proven .45 ACP stopping power in a package that conceals easily and runs reliably at the range.
| Manufacturer | Kimber |
|---|---|
| Model | Ultra CDP II |
| Material | Aluminum frame, stainless steel slide |
| Compatibility | .45 ACP ammunition |
| Finish | KimPro II black frame, satin silver slide |
| Weight | 25 oz (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- 3″ Match-Grade Barrel – Why it matters: A shorter barrel reduces overall length for concealment, while match-grade rifling maintains accuracy for defensive and target shooting.
- Lightweight Aluminum Frame – Why it matters: Drops carry weight without sacrificing durability, making the Ultra CDP II comfortable for all-day appendix or IWB carry.
- Meprolight Tritium Night Sights – Why it matters: Three-dot tritium vials glow in low light, giving you a clear sight picture in dark environments without batteries.
- Ambidextrous Thumb Safety – Why it matters: Left- and right-handed shooters can engage the safety quickly under stress, a must for carry guns.
- Front Strap Checkering – Why it matters: 20 LPI checkering locks your grip in place during rapid fire, reducing muzzle flip and improving follow-up shots.
Who It’s For
This pistol is for the shooter who demands a true 1911 in .45 ACP but needs a compact frame for concealed carry. It suits experienced 1911 owners upgrading from a full-size, or anyone wanting a reliable defensive handgun with tritium sights out of the box. Beginners should note the 3″ barrel requires a firm grip for reliable cycling.
Pros & Cons
- Pro: Light enough (25 oz) for comfortable all-day carry.
- Pro: Tritium night sights standard – no aftermarket upgrade needed.
- Pro: Ambidextrous safety fits lefties and righties.
- Con: The 3″ barrel can be sensitive to limp-wristing; a solid grip is essential for flawless feeding.
Comparison: Kimber Ultra CDP II vs. Agency Arms 419 vs. Zev Technologies OZ9c
| Feature | Kimber Ultra CDP II | Agency Arms 419 | Zev Technologies OZ9c |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .45 ACP | 9mm | 9mm |
| Barrel Length | 3″ | 4.17″ | 4.02″ |
| Capacity | 7+1 | 17+1 | 15+1 |
| Weight | 25 oz | 24 oz | 23 oz |
| Frame Material | Aluminum | Steel | Polymer/aluminum |
| Night Sights | Meprolight Tritium | Optional | Optional |
| MSRP | $1,422.51 | ~$2,500 | ~$1,800 |
The Kimber offers the lowest cost and .45 ACP power, while the Agency and Zev provide higher capacity in 9mm. For a dedicated .45 carry gun, the Ultra CDP II is hard to beat at this price.
FAQ
What is the Kimber Ultra CDP II .45 ACP 3″ 7+1 best used for?
It’s designed for concealed carry and self-defense. The compact size and tritium sights make it effective for everyday carry, and the .45 ACP round provides reliable stopping power.
Does the Kimber Ultra CDP II feed hollow points reliably?
Yes, with quality factory ammunition and a proper grip. The match-grade barrel and feed ramp are cut for hollow points, but limp-wristing can cause failures. Test your carry ammo at the range.
What holsters fit the Kimber Ultra CDP II?
Most 1911 holsters designed for a 3″ barrel work, but check for models specifically listed for the Ultra CDP II. Kydex IWB and leather pancake holsters are common choices.
Is the Kimber Ultra CDP II California compliant?
No, this model is not on the California Roster of Handguns Certified for Sale as of April 2026. Check your state laws before ordering.
How does the recoil compare to a full-size 1911?
Recoil is snappier due to the shorter barrel and lighter frame, but manageable. The front strap checkering and grip design help control muzzle rise.
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Last updated: April 2026
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