Detective Hieronymus “Harry” Bosch, portrayed by Titus Welliver in the TV series adaptation of Michael Connelly’s novels, carries a Kimber Custom TLE II as his service weapon. This specific handgun is the one that Connelly specifies as Bosch’s LAPD sidearm in his later novels.
The Kimber Custom TLE II is a reliable and popular choice among law enforcement officers and civilians alike. It is a semi-automatic pistol that is chambered in .45 ACP, which is known for its stopping power. The TLE II variant features a 5-inch barrel and a steel frame, making it a sturdy and durable firearm.
The Kimber Custom TLE II is equipped with several features that make it well-suited for law enforcement use. It has an ambidextrous thumb safety, allowing for easy and quick manipulation of the safety mechanism by both right-handed and left-handed users. This is an important feature for a detective like Bosch, who needs to be able to handle his weapon effectively in high-pressure situations.
The pistol also has a fixed tactical wedge night sight, which enhances accuracy and visibility in low-light conditions. This is particularly important for a detective who often finds himself working late nights or in dimly lit environments. The night sights enable Bosch to acquire his target quickly and accurately, ensuring that he can neutralize any potential threats effectively.
The Kimber Custom TLE II has a capacity of 7+1 rounds, meaning it can hold seven rounds in the magazine and one in the chamber. While some may argue that this capacity is relatively low compared to other modern pistols, it is important to note that Bosch’s primary role as a detective is not to engage in prolonged shootouts but rather to investigate and solve crimes. Therefore, the TLE II provides him with sufficient firepower for his needs.
In terms of ergonomics, the Kimber Custom TLE II features checkered grip panels, providing a secure and comfortable grip for the user. This is crucial for Bosch, as a firm grip ensures better control and accuracy when firing the weapon. Additionally, the pistol has a beavertail grip safety, which helps prevent accidental discharges by ensuring that the weapon can only be fired when held properly.
Having a consistent and reliable sidearm is essential for a detective like Bosch, who often finds himself in dangerous and unpredictable situations. The Kimber Custom TLE II offers him a combination of power, accuracy, and reliability, making it a suitable choice for his line of work.
It is worth noting that the choice of firearm for a fictional character like Bosch is ultimately determined by the author’s vision and narrative. Connelly specifically chose the Kimber Custom TLE II as Bosch’s sidearm, and it has become an iconic element of the character’s persona in the novels and TV series.
Detective Hieronymus “Harry” Bosch carries a Kimber Custom TLE II as his service weapon. This handgun, specified by author Michael Connelly in his later novels, provides Bosch with the necessary tools to navigate the dangerous world of crime-solving. Its reliability, accuracy, and features make it a suitable choice for a detective like Bosch, ensuring he can effectively carry out his duties and protect himself when necessary.