The Kimber 7rd .380 Micro Mag – 380 ACP Caliber, OEM Origin Made a Bold First Impression
The Kimber 7rd .380 Micro Mag – 380 ACP Caliber, OEM Origin isn’t just another magazine; it’s an extension of your confidence and capabilities when carrying a Kimber Micro .380. As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen countless magazines come and go, but the need for reliable and readily available ammunition is a cornerstone of responsible firearms ownership. The Kimber Micro .380 is a popular concealed carry option, but the standard magazine capacity sometimes leaves users wanting more.
I chose to evaluate this magazine because, frankly, seven rounds is more reassuring than six. The thought of having an extra round in my concealed carry firearm gave me the peace of mind I needed to perform my daily tasks. Upon receiving the magazine, I immediately noted its solid stainless steel construction and the presence of the finger extension, which promised a more secure and comfortable grip.
Compared to other aftermarket magazines I’ve used for similar firearms, the Kimber OEM magazine has a noticeable edge in fit and finish. Cheaper alternatives often suffer from feeding issues or poor construction, which made me hesitant. This Kimber magazine felt like it belonged, not an afterthought, and choosing it felt like an investment in reliability rather than just a cost-saving measure. My first impression was one of cautious optimism – excited for the added capacity and improved grip, but aware that real-world testing would be the ultimate judge.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kimber 7rd .380 Micro Mag – 380 ACP Caliber, OEM Origin to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test of the Kimber 7rd .380 Micro Mag – 380 ACP Caliber, OEM Origin took place at my local shooting range, a controlled environment where I could focus on magazine performance without external distractions. I ran approximately 100 rounds of various .380 ACP ammunition through the magazine, including FMJ and hollow points. The range was fairly dry and cool, typical spring weather in my region.
The magazine loaded easily, both by hand and with a magazine loader, with no noticeable stiffness or resistance. Insertion into the firearm was smooth and secure, clicking into place with a reassuring sound. More importantly, I experienced zero failures to feed or eject during the entire session. The finger extension provided a noticeable improvement in grip and control, especially during rapid firing drills, making recoil management significantly easier.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of carrying the Kimber 7rd .380 Micro Mag – 380 ACP Caliber, OEM Origin as my primary magazine, and with hundreds of rounds fired, the magazine continues to perform flawlessly. There are no signs of wear and tear beyond minor cosmetic scratches. Cleaning is also straightforward; a quick wipe down with a CLP-soaked cloth keeps it in excellent working condition.
Compared to my experience with aftermarket magazines for other firearms, the Kimber OEM magazine stands out for its consistent reliability. Cheap, poorly-made magazines often degrade quickly with use, developing feeding issues and becoming difficult to load. The Kimber 7rd .380 Micro Mag – 380 ACP Caliber, OEM Origin has only continued to inspire confidence over time.
Breaking Down the Features of Kimber 7rd .380 Micro Mag – 380 ACP Caliber, OEM Origin
Specifications
The Kimber 7rd .380 Micro Mag – 380 ACP Caliber, OEM Origin is designed specifically for the Kimber Micro .380 pistol. It features a .380 ACP caliber with a 7-round capacity. The magazine body is constructed from durable stainless steel for corrosion resistance and long-term reliability.
The inclusion of a finger extension enhances grip and control, which is essential for a small, lightweight handgun. This provides a more secure hold, reducing the risk of slippage during rapid firing.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Kimber 7rd .380 Micro Mag – 380 ACP Caliber, OEM Origin is to reliably feed ammunition into the Kimber Micro .380 pistol, and in this regard, it excels. Throughout my testing, the magazine exhibited flawless feeding and ejection, regardless of the type of ammunition used. The added round of capacity is a significant advantage for concealed carry, offering a greater sense of security.
The only potential weakness is that the extended magazine can slightly increase the overall length of the grip, which may impact concealment for some users. However, the improved grip and control outweigh this minor drawback. The Kimber 7rd .380 Micro Mag – 380 ACP Caliber, OEM Origin meets and exceeds expectations for an OEM magazine.
Design & Ergonomics
The magazine’s stainless steel construction provides both durability and a sleek, professional appearance. The finger extension is ergonomically designed to fit comfortably in the hand, providing a secure and natural grip. There is virtually no learning curve associated with its use; it functions identically to the standard magazine, but with increased capacity and improved ergonomics.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its stainless steel construction, the Kimber 7rd .380 Micro Mag – 380 ACP Caliber, OEM Origin is built to last. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service. Maintenance is simple, involving occasional cleaning with a suitable solvent and light lubrication.
Accessories and Customization Options
As an OEM magazine, there are no specific customization options available for the Kimber 7rd .380 Micro Mag – 380 ACP Caliber, OEM Origin itself. However, it is compatible with any aftermarket grips or accessories designed for the Kimber Micro .380 pistol. The extended finger extension is effectively an ergonomic enhancement already.
Pros and Cons of Kimber 7rd .380 Micro Mag – 380 ACP Caliber, OEM Origin
Pros
- Increased Capacity: The 7-round capacity offers a critical advantage for concealed carry, providing extra rounds when every shot counts.
- Enhanced Grip: The finger extension significantly improves grip and control, leading to better accuracy and recoil management.
- OEM Reliability: Being a Kimber OEM product, it guarantees perfect fit and function in your Kimber Micro .380 pistol.
- Durable Construction: Stainless steel construction ensures corrosion resistance and long-term reliability.
- Easy to Load: The magazine loads easily by hand or with a magazine loader, making range sessions more efficient.
Cons
- Slightly Reduced Concealment: The extended magazine may slightly increase the overall grip length, potentially affecting concealment for some users.
- Price: It’s more expensive than some aftermarket magazines, though the reliability justifies the cost.
Who Should Buy Kimber 7rd .380 Micro Mag – 380 ACP Caliber, OEM Origin?
The Kimber 7rd .380 Micro Mag – 380 ACP Caliber, OEM Origin is perfect for Kimber Micro .380 owners who prioritize reliability, increased capacity, and improved grip ergonomics for concealed carry or personal defense. It is ideally suited for those seeking to maximize the performance and functionality of their firearm without compromising on quality.
Those who prioritize maximum concealability above all else may want to stick with the standard 6-round magazine, although the difference is often negligible. If budget is a primary concern, there are cheaper aftermarket options available, but the reliability and peace of mind offered by the Kimber OEM magazine is well worth the investment. A quality concealed carry holster that accommodates the extended magazine is a must-have accessory.
Conclusion on Kimber 7rd .380 Micro Mag – 380 ACP Caliber, OEM Origin
The Kimber 7rd .380 Micro Mag – 380 ACP Caliber, OEM Origin is more than just a magazine; it’s an upgrade to the Kimber Micro .380 pistol, enhancing both its functionality and the user’s confidence. The price is justified by the improved grip, increased capacity, and the peace of mind that comes with using a reliable OEM product.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Kimber 7rd .380 Micro Mag – 380 ACP Caliber, OEM Origin to any Kimber Micro .380 owner looking to optimize their firearm for concealed carry or personal defense. Invest in your safety and confidence; upgrade your magazine today!