Description
Item Description
Bryant Ridge Co. is proud to present a once-in-a-generation offering direct from the legendary Kimber Vault—an extraordinary collection of firearms that have never before been released to the public. These remarkable pieces include Serial Number One examples, rare prototypes, and factory display & salesman samples, ALL of which were retained internally for decades by Kimber's Founder, Owner, & CEO, Leslie Edelman.
Until now, these firearms have remained unseen outside of the company’s inner circle, making this a truly unprecedented opportunity for collectors. Each firearm will be accompanied by an official Kimber Factory Certificate of Authenticity, further solidifying its provenance and historical significance.
As the exclusive outlet entrusted with their release, Bryant Ridge Co. offers collectors a unique chance to acquire historically significant Kimber firearms with unmatched provenance and desirability.
Bryant Ridge Co. is pleased to present this semi-automatic pistol today for a penny-start auction; this is the Kimber Custom II (VFA-14) with Serial Number #VFA1400!
The Kimber Factory Letter identifies this firearm as a Kimber Custom II (VFA-14), bearing the significant serial number VFA1400. This model is chambered in .45 ACP and features a 5-inch barrel, a matte black finish, and wood grips featuring VFA-14 Emblems. The document specifies that this pistol represents Serial Number One of a special edition series, a designation reserved for the inaugural example of a limited production run. Historically, these inaugural pieces were not released to the public but were instead retained within the private collection of Leslie Edelman, the founder and owner of Kimber. Signed by Edelman and dated February 6, 2026, the letter confirms the pistol's release from the Kimber Vault for delivery to Bryant Ridge Co. in Liberty, Kentucky.
Although no official records exist for this specific prototype design, it can reasonably be inferred that this example was produced as a “Mock-Up” for evaluation against military specifications. In our research, we have not found any indications that this particular model was put into production whatsoever.
Model: Custom II (VFA-14) - Strike Fighter Squadron 14
Serial: VFA1400
Caliber: .45 ACP
Finish: Matte Black
Barrel Length: 5"
Optics/Sights: Low Profile Adjustable Rear w/ Dovetailed Front Post
Stock/Grips: Smooth / Checkered Wooden Two-Piece Grips w/ VFA-14 “Top Hat” Emblems
Action: Semi-Automatic
Markings: The left side of the slide is engraved with “BOLDEST” and the right is engraved with “OLDEST”.
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The Kimber Custom II (VFA-14) is a commemorative 1911 honoring Strike Fighter Squadron 14, the famed “Tophatters,” one of the longest continuously serving squadrons in U.S. naval aviation history. Built on Kimber’s proven Custom II platform, this model combines dependable performance with a distinctive aviation-themed presentation, typically incorporating squadron insignia, custom engravings, and design elements that reflect the Tophatters’ storied legacy operating carrier-based fighter aircraft. The result is a pistol that blends modern 1911 function with a strong historical and military identity. Produced as a limited commemorative, VFA-14 examples were not part of Kimber’s standard production catalog and were instead released in relatively small numbers, often through specialized channels or unit-affiliated programs. Firearms tied to specific military squadrons are inherently niche and are rarely encountered outside of collector circles, particularly when preserved in high condition or complete package form. This limited distribution contributes significantly to their scarcity on the secondary market. From a collector’s standpoint, the VFA-14 Custom II holds strong appeal due to its connection to one of the U.S. Navy’s most historic squadrons. The combination of limited production, unit-specific markings, and Kimber’s established 1911 platform makes it both a functional firearm and a meaningful commemorative piece. As these models continue to be absorbed into private collections, well-preserved examples are becoming increasingly difficult to locate, making them a desirable addition for collectors of military-themed or aviation-related firearms.
Contents:
Return Policy:
We gladly offer a 3-day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Shipping Details
Handgun Standard Shipping with Insurance $50.00
Long Gun Standard Shipping with Insurance $70.00
We strive to ship orders within the close of the following business day after payment and documentation is received.
Payment Details
We accept all forms of Payment including Personal Check, Business Check, PO Money Orders, Certified Check, Etc.
Please note we place a 7 business day hold on shipment, for all non-certified payments.
Payment MUST be received within 14 days.
Return Policy
We gladly offer a 3 day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Additional Details
Our #1 priority is customer satisfaction. We want to build a lasting trust in the relationship with our customers, so that you will always look to us for all your firearms needs. If you have any issues with your transactions please contact us, and we will work with you to resolve any issues you may have. We greatly appreciate your trust in us and we look forward to fulfilling all your future firearm needs.
Bryant Ridge also reserves the right to cancel any sales that may occur while gunbroker.com is experiencing technical issues that affects the entire site or a complete site outage, within an hour of the auction ending.
We have an amazing inventory of classic and collector firearms that we are adding to Gunbroker daily. Stay up to date on all of our latest auction by adding us to your favorite sellers list.
About Us
Additional Information
GunbrokerLink: |
https://www.gunbroker.com/item/1174510519 |
BidPrice: |
0.01 |
AuctionEndDate: |
2026-05-31 22:00:00 |
CurrentBid: |
855.05 |
SoldOutTime: |
2026-05-31 18:27:18 |
