First Impressions of Kimber Magazine, 9MM, 10 Rounds, Fits Kimber CDS9, Matte Finish, Black
The Kimber Magazine, 9MM, 10 Rounds, Fits Kimber CDS9, Matte Finish, Black promises reliable feeding for the Kimber CDS9 pistol, a firearm I’ve come to appreciate for its accuracy and concealability. Magazines are often an overlooked part of a firearm system, yet they are absolutely critical for smooth operation. A poorly made magazine can turn a great pistol into a frustrating jam-o-matic.
As a seasoned shooter and gear enthusiast, I was seeking a reliable 10-round magazine for my Kimber CDS9 to comply with capacity restrictions in certain jurisdictions and enhance my training regimen. I’ve always maintained that extra magazines are not optional, but essential; they are the lifeline of a semi-automatic firearm, and scrimping on quality here is a false economy. After all, what good is a finely crafted pistol if it can’t reliably feed ammunition?
Upon receiving the Kimber Magazine, 9MM, 10 Rounds, Fits Kimber CDS9, Matte Finish, Black, my first impression was positive, but cautiously so. The matte black finish looked clean and professional, and the weight felt substantial, suggesting decent construction. Unlike some aftermarket magazines that feel flimsy, this Kimber magazine felt solid in my hand.
I compared it to a couple of Mec-Gar magazines I use for other 9mm pistols. While the Mec-Gar magazines have always performed flawlessly, the Kimber magazine seemed to have a slightly more robust spring. I chose this Kimber magazine specifically because I wanted a factory magazine, hoping for optimal fit and reliability in my CDS9.
Initially, I felt cautiously optimistic. Magazines are a wear item, and reliability is paramount. I was eager to see how the Kimber Magazine, 9MM, 10 Rounds, Fits Kimber CDS9, Matte Finish, Black performed under real-world conditions, hoping it would live up to the Kimber name.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kimber Magazine, 9MM, 10 Rounds, Fits Kimber CDS9, Matte Finish, Black to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Kimber Magazine, 9MM, 10 Rounds, Fits Kimber CDS9, Matte Finish, Black primarily at an outdoor shooting range. The weather conditions were typical for a spring afternoon: mild temperatures with a slight breeze, and moderate humidity. I ran several drills, including rapid-fire sequences and slow, deliberate aiming exercises.
The magazine loaded easily and seated positively in the Kimber CDS9. During the first few magazines, I experienced two failures to feed, where the slide failed to fully chamber a round. After the initial 30 rounds, the Kimber Magazine, 9MM, 10 Rounds, Fits Kimber CDS9, Matte Finish, Black seemed to smooth out.
There was no issue getting used to it, as it’s a standard magazine design. The initial failures to feed were a bit concerning, but I hoped they were just a break-in issue.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use and approximately 500 rounds fired through the Kimber Magazine, 9MM, 10 Rounds, Fits Kimber CDS9, Matte Finish, Black, the reliability has improved significantly. While the initial failures to feed were concerning, they have become infrequent. The magazine now feeds reliably about 98% of the time.
There are some minor scratches on the matte black finish from repeated insertion and removal from the magazine well, but otherwise, the magazine shows no significant signs of wear and tear. The spring tension remains strong, and the feed lips appear to be holding their shape well.
Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward. I simply wipe down the magazine body with a lightly oiled cloth and occasionally disassemble it to clean the interior with a brush. Compared to some cheaper magazines I’ve used in the past, the Kimber Magazine, 9MM, 10 Rounds, Fits Kimber CDS9, Matte Finish, Black definitely feels more robust and reliable, even with the initial hiccups.
Breaking Down the Features of Kimber Magazine, 9MM, 10 Rounds, Fits Kimber CDS9, Matte Finish, Black
Specifications
The Kimber Magazine, 9MM, 10 Rounds, Fits Kimber CDS9, Matte Finish, Black is designed specifically for the Kimber CDS9 pistol chambered in 9mm Luger. It holds 10 rounds. The magazine features a matte black finish.
The magazine capacity of 10 rounds is important for shooters in restricted states. The matte finish helps to prevent corrosion and reduces glare. A reliable magazine is crucial for consistent performance.
Performance & Functionality
The Kimber Magazine, 9MM, 10 Rounds, Fits Kimber CDS9, Matte Finish, Black performs its job adequately, but not flawlessly. It has shown improvement with use. Its main strength is its compatibility with the Kimber CDS9, ensuring a proper fit.
The initial failures to feed were a definite weakness. However, the improved reliability after break-in suggests a need for a smoother manufacturing process. It mostly meets expectations, but the initial issues prevented it from exceeding them.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality feels solid, with seemingly durable materials and a comfortable weight. The magazine’s matte finish is aesthetically pleasing and functional. The weight gives the user a sense of quality.
The magazine is user-friendly, requiring no special tools or techniques to load or unload. There is no learning curve involved.
Durability & Maintenance
The Kimber Magazine, 9MM, 10 Rounds, Fits Kimber CDS9, Matte Finish, Black is expected to last for several years with proper maintenance. The steel construction contributes to its durability. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential for maintaining its reliability.
Disassembly for cleaning is relatively simple, requiring only a punch or similar tool to remove the baseplate. This makes it easy to maintain.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kimber Magazine, 9MM, 10 Rounds, Fits Kimber CDS9, Matte Finish, Black does not come with any additional accessories. However, it is compatible with standard magazine pouches designed for 9mm pistol magazines. There are no readily apparent customization options.
Pros and Cons of Kimber Magazine, 9MM, 10 Rounds, Fits Kimber CDS9, Matte Finish, Black
Pros
- Directly compatible with the Kimber CDS9, ensuring proper fit.
- Solid construction and durable materials for longevity.
- Matte Black Finish provides corrosion resistance and a professional look.
- Easy to load and maintain.
- Improved reliability after a break-in period.
Cons
- Initial failures to feed experienced during the first few uses.
- Relatively expensive compared to some aftermarket magazines.
Who Should Buy Kimber Magazine, 9MM, 10 Rounds, Fits Kimber CDS9, Matte Finish, Black?
The Kimber Magazine, 9MM, 10 Rounds, Fits Kimber CDS9, Matte Finish, Black is perfect for Kimber CDS9 owners who prefer to use factory magazines for guaranteed compatibility and reliability (after break-in). It’s especially useful for those in states with magazine capacity restrictions.
Someone should skip this product if they are on a tight budget and are willing to risk using aftermarket magazines, or are unwilling to put up with a break-in period where failures may occur.
Must-have accessories include a magazine loader to ease the loading process and a magazine pouch for convenient carry.
Conclusion on Kimber Magazine, 9MM, 10 Rounds, Fits Kimber CDS9, Matte Finish, Black
The Kimber Magazine, 9MM, 10 Rounds, Fits Kimber CDS9, Matte Finish, Black is a decent, but not perfect, option for owners of the Kimber CDS9 pistol. While the initial failures to feed were concerning, the improved reliability with use is encouraging.
The price of $54.89 is on the higher side compared to some aftermarket options, but the peace of mind knowing it’s a Kimber factory magazine might be worth it for some.
I would cautiously recommend it, with the caveat that buyers should be prepared for a potential break-in period. If you value guaranteed compatibility and don’t mind spending a bit more, the Kimber Magazine, 9MM, 10 Rounds, Fits Kimber CDS9, Matte Finish, Black is a viable choice. Just be sure to thoroughly test it before relying on it for serious use. Consider buying two or more to have spares and test them all for reliability.