Difference between Kimber Custom ii vs. TLE

[Dr. Loomis]

I need a little advice from my brother gun enthusiasts. I just bought a Kimber Custom ii NIB with nite sites and I saw the TLE and like the checkering on the grip. My question for all of you is: Would the TLE be worth trading the Custom ii and paying the difference? The grip feels nice but to me if there is really no noticable difference in the way the weapon fires then I think it could be a waste of time to trade. I have heard quite a few stories of the Custom ii being either a lemon or a jewel, but not so with the TLE. Are there any differences with reliability? Thanks for any help.

 

[Aran]

If the grips are your only gripes, spend a few bucks and replace them. No sense trading in an entire gun because one easily swapped out part isn't to your liking.

 

[andrsnsm]

According to that very accurate source, Wikipedia.....
Custom TLE II

The Kimber Custom TLE II is a model of Kimber Custom. The designation "TLE" stands for "Tactical Law Enforcement". The TLE is identical, except for the markings, to a special model that was designed for use by the LAPD SWAT team.[2] Unlike the standard Custom, it comes with tritium bar-dot night sights and 30 lines per inch frontstrap checkering.[3]

The TLE has been manufactured in the following variations:

* Custom TLE II, the standard variation and the same as the LAPD SWAT model.
* Custom TLE II (LG), with laser grip sights.
* Custom TLE/RL II, with an accessory mounting rail.
* Stainless TLE II, with a stainless steel finish.
* Stainless TLE/RL II, with a stainless steel finish and an accessory mounting rail.

Keep what you have.

 

[possum]

night sights is the biggest difference. I personally would put a set of tan gunner grips on there, and a set of xs 24/7 night sights and forget about the TLE.

 

[railroader]

If you like the feel of the checkering you can use something like skateboard tape on the front strap. It will make your gun more "grippy". (Is that a word?) Mark

 

[Dr. Loomis]

thanks for the help everyone.

 

[msb45]

If it really bugs you ship the gun back to Kimber and have the custom shop add the checkering. You have the night sights and I bet the cost of this is less than the beating you'll take on selling the gun.

 

[silversport]

try the Simonich Gunner Grips...you don't need no stinkin' checkering with those grip plates...your Kimber will be welded to your hand...
Bill