I own a Springfield 9mm 1911, took a lot of work to get it right. Loose as a baby toy, internals, thumb safety that wouldn't stay together (ambi, I'm left handed with pistols) and lots of sharp edges.

I replaced all internals, upgraded the bushing, got rid of the sharp edges, and it's nice enough now. Shoots great, but doesn't feel like a $1,000.00 gunj.

I've shot several 9mm Kimbers and owned two .45s. All Kimbers I've shot have felt like quality guns. Fit and finish was and is good.. Kind of pricey, but what are you going to do about that?

If I was doing it over again, I'd buy a Kimber 9mm vs. the Springfield. Just feels like a better gun. I would not hesitate to buy a full size Kimber 9mm as long as it had a steel frame and adjustable sights.