I'll tell ya, I have both an RIA (box marked Twin Pines, pistol stamped RIA) and a series 1 Kimber classic custom and from a performance point of view, I'd actually give the nod to my RIA.
However, fit and finish goes to the Kimber. As I would hope since it cost me $700 from a LGS (and $175 for the aftermarket electroless nickel) in '96 or so whereas I paid $299 for my RIA from CDNN in 2004.
I shoot my RIA more often than my Kimber as it handles my 200gr SWC reloads like a dream and is nearly as accurate. The Kimber has had around 1K rounds through it. The RIA is closer the 7K. Neither have experienced any breakage... yet.
I like both plenty and though I'm not certain about the Kimber, I suspect both feature MIM parts.
