I've had several 1911 pistols, also had the Colt Combat Target model, could kick myself for selling that flat top model, had nice all steel adjustable sights to.
As the years went by, I kind of went from the 1911 models with all the bells and whistles, back to the basics.
The gun I use most, and have with me most now is just a simple Springfield Armoury Milspec model, that just happens to shoot well, and is very reliable. The nice thing about any 1911 pistol, is any quirks they might have can be fixed easily. The 1911 is a simple design that is still with us today and well proven. Got this SA Milspec for 500 bucks out the door, and am going to pick up a GI model soon, if I can find one in OD green.
The only thing I did to my SA was to have a smith tweak the extractor, it did not jam, but the brass a bit lazy coming out and sometimes would plop on my head while shooting. 30 bucks later, problem solved.
Dealers will put a hrd sell on you to buy what they have, and certainly nothing wrong with Kimbers. There are lots of 1911 styles to choose from out there, some plain, and some decked out, you have lots to choose from.
Have fun shopping, it's almost the best part...the best part is getting one home and playing with it.
Jimster