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I have the XD and two kimbers, but neither is the one you are considering. My two Kimbers are not what I would want to take into the woods. But that is because one is the Grand Raptor and the Ultra Raptor and I would hate to get them scratched up.
But, one can look at it from the perspective of which gun is the best built pistol that I would trust my life to, it would be one of my Kimbers. I don't see where it is written that firing .22 through a .45 is going to put your life at risk. Most people by a .22 conversion kit so they can shoot said gun more often.
You could shoot .45 to get comfortable with the recoil, etc., then shoot .22 and you are still holding the same grip, pulling the same trigger, etc. If you look at it from the perspective of only shooting .45, you will shoot as often as you can afford it versus shooting .22 and therefore shooting the SAME pistol much more often - I say Kimber
I, personally, think I need to change my outlook on my Kimbers. I have my most expensive, best built and hand fitted pistols sitting at home while I trust my life to a DA polymer pistol, when I really prefer SA.
I hadn't heard that Kimber's workman ship has declined in recent years. Mine were purchased quite awhile ago, so that is not something that I have to take into consideration.
I should have looked at your Kimber choice, but the last time I looked (quite awhile ago) Kimber made SA pistols. If so, you have to also decide about SA vs DA. Many consider DA is safer, when in reality, if you pull the trigger - it goes Boom. On most of the SA's I have, if you 'turn' the safety off, then depress the grip safety at the same time the trigger is pulled. then it goes Bang. Which one is the safest to you.
Lastly, if by wearing a Kimber you will constantly worry about scratches, etc., then you are better off with a XD. You also need to consider weight differences, number of rounds, etc
So, this is something that may require a sheet of paper wfere you list each pistol across the top and write all the pros and cons under each one.
It is something that I haven't quite decided for certain yet. So, only you can decide for you. I just wanted to give you some things to consider. I'll go look at the Kimber, that you are considering, and contact you if I see anything major to consider - if you would like.
But my decision, right now, would be for the Kimber based on having the .22 conversion allowing more practice time.