You can't base build quality strictly on a $ sign! Does $5000 in cash trump $1000 and a man with skills? Nope!
Yes it does, every single time.
Unless you are one of the greatest 1911 smiths on the planet. Because $5k would get you a 1911 built from scratch by the best on the planet.
Even then, parts quality becomes an issue fast, like you discovered with your safety.
And kimbers aren't exactly great, so hoping to surpass one is like building a hotrod with the goal of beating a honda civic.