The Kimber Ultra Carry II is a popular choice for concealed carry, and a crucial component of its performance is the magazine. This article delves into the specifics of the Kimber Ultra Carry II magazine chambered in .45 ACP, exploring its features, capacity, reliability, and common user experiences. We'll also touch upon potential issues and aftermarket options.
Understanding the Kimber Ultra Carry II .45 ACP Magazine
The Kimber Ultra Carry II .45 ACP magazine is designed for a compact yet powerful pistol. Its key features directly address the needs of concealed carry users prioritizing reliability and ease of use in a high-pressure cartridge. While the exact specifications might vary slightly depending on manufacturing runs, certain consistent elements define these magazines.
Capacity and Dimensions:
The standard Kimber Ultra Carry II .45 ACP magazine typically holds six rounds. This capacity balances concealability with sufficient firepower for self-defense situations. The compact dimensions are crucial for seamless integration with the pistol's slim profile, ensuring comfortable carry without excessive printing.
Construction and Materials:
Kimber utilizes high-quality materials in its magazine construction. Typically, these magazines feature a stainless steel body for durability and resistance to wear and tear. The follower and spring are designed for reliable feeding, even under stressful conditions. This robustness is essential for a .45 ACP cartridge known for its powerful recoil.
Reliability and Performance:
The reliability of the Kimber Ultra Carry II .45 ACP magazine is a frequently discussed topic amongst users. While many report positive experiences with reliable feeding and function, some users have encountered issues. These issues often relate to the magazine spring weakening over time or problems with the follower. Regular cleaning and maintenance, along with replacing the spring periodically, are crucial for maintaining optimal performance.
Common User Experiences and Potential Issues:
Online forums and reviews provide valuable insights into the real-world performance of these magazines. While many users praise the magazine's reliability and ease of use, certain recurring issues are noted:
- Spring Fatigue: Like any magazine spring, the Kimber Ultra Carry II spring can weaken over time, leading to feeding problems. This is especially true with heavier use.
- Follower Issues: Occasionally, the follower can bind or malfunction, causing feeding issues.
- Magazine Wear: Consistent use can lead to wear and tear on the magazine body, potentially affecting its reliability.
Aftermarket Options and Upgrades:
Several aftermarket companies offer enhanced magazines or upgrade parts for the Kimber Ultra Carry II .45 ACP. These options often focus on addressing potential issues highlighted above:
- Upgraded Springs: Replacing the factory spring with a stronger, more durable aftermarket spring is a common upgrade to combat spring fatigue.
- Enhanced Followers: Some aftermarket followers are designed for smoother operation and improved reliability.
- Base Pads: Adding a base pad can increase magazine capacity, although this might impact the overall concealability of the pistol.
Maintenance and Care:
Proper maintenance is crucial for extending the lifespan and reliability of your Kimber Ultra Carry II .45 ACP magazines. Regular cleaning, using a suitable gun cleaning kit and lubricant, helps prevent malfunctions and ensures smooth operation. Inspecting the magazine spring and follower for wear and tear is also recommended. Consider replacing the spring periodically as preventative maintenance.
Conclusion:
The Kimber Ultra Carry II .45 ACP magazine is an integral part of this popular concealed carry pistol. While generally reliable, understanding potential issues and practicing proper maintenance are vital for ensuring consistent performance. For users experiencing problems, exploring aftermarket upgrades might be a viable solution. Regular cleaning and awareness of the magazine's limitations contribute to a safe and enjoyable shooting experience.
