The Kimber Kimpro 1911 8rd Mags – 45 ACP Caliber, OEM Origin Made a Bold First Impression
The Kimber Kimpro 1911 8rd Mags – 45 ACP Caliber, OEM Origin promises reliability and enhanced capacity for the classic 1911 platform. As a seasoned user of 1911s in both tactical and recreational settings, I’ve learned that magazine quality is paramount. A subpar magazine can turn even the most finely tuned 1911 into a frustrating single-shot device.
My search for reliable 8-round magazines stemmed from a desire to standardize my 1911 platform. I wanted a consistent capacity across my various 1911s. The promise of Kimber quality at a reasonable price point drew me to the Kimber Kimpro 1911 8rd Mags.
Unboxing the Kimber Kimpro 1911 8rd Mags, I immediately noted the polished stainless steel construction. The magazines felt robust and well-made, radiating a sense of quality that belied their price. Compared to the factory 7-round magazines that came with my 1911s and some aftermarket options from ProMag, the Kimber Kimpro Mags appeared significantly better in terms of build quality and finish.
Initially, I was optimistic about the potential of these magazines. The smooth finish and the promise of improved feeding reliability piqued my interest. The additional round capacity was the icing on the cake.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kimber Kimpro 1911 8rd Mags – 45 ACP Caliber, OEM Origin to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Kimber Kimpro 1911 8rd Mags was at my local outdoor shooting range. I tested them in both my Kimber Custom II and my Colt Government model. The range offered a variety of simulated tactical scenarios and plenty of open space for standard target practice.
The magazines performed admirably in dry conditions, feeding smoothly and locking back the slide consistently after the last round. I even ran drills involving rapid reloading and firing, and the magazines kept up without any malfunctions. The enlarged numbered holes made it easy to quickly check the remaining round count.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Kimber Kimpro 1911 8rd Mags have proven to be quite reliable. I’ve put hundreds of rounds through each magazine, and they continue to function without issue. Minimal signs of wear and tear are visible.
Cleaning is straightforward, with the removable stainless steel base plates allowing for easy access to the internals. Compared to some other magazines I’ve used, the Kimber Kimpro Mags seem less prone to accumulating grime and residue. They outperform the old, standard 7-round magazines and even rival some of my Wilson Combat magazines in terms of overall reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of Kimber Kimpro 1911 8rd Mags – 45 ACP Caliber, OEM Origin
Specifications
- Caliber: .45 ACP, perfectly suited for the classic 1911 platform and offers ample stopping power. This is the only chambering offered by Kimber for these magazines.
- Capacity: 8 rounds, providing an extra round compared to standard 1911 magazines. This increased capacity offers a tactical advantage without significantly impacting concealability.
- Origin: OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer), guaranteeing compatibility with Kimber 1911 pistols. This also ensures a certain level of quality control.
- Material: Polished stainless steel tube, heat-treated for enhanced strength. This robust construction resists corrosion and deformation under stress.
- Follower: Super glide Teflon coated extended follower, ensuring smooth feeding. The coating reduces friction and promotes consistent round presentation.
- Spring: Rocket wire spring, providing consistent pressure for reliable feeding. This high-quality spring maintains its tension even after repeated use.
- Base Plate: Removable stainless steel base plates with two supplied slam pads, offering configuration options. This allows for customization and enhanced durability.
Performance & Functionality
The Kimber Kimpro 1911 8rd Mags perform exceptionally well. The combination of the Teflon-coated follower and the rocket wire spring results in smooth and reliable feeding. The enlarged numbered holes are a thoughtful design touch.
The magazines consistently lock back the slide after the last round. This is essential for quick reloads and tactical efficiency.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Kimber Kimpro Mags is excellent. The polished stainless steel construction feels robust and durable.
The magazines seat firmly and release cleanly from the magazine well. The removable base plates are a great feature for cleaning and maintenance.
Durability & Maintenance
The stainless steel construction ensures that these magazines are highly durable. The heat treatment further enhances their resistance to deformation.
Cleaning and maintenance are simple, and the removable base plates make it easy to access the internals. A quick scrub with a brush and some solvent is all that’s needed to keep them in top condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kimber Kimpro 1911 8rd Mags come with two slam pads. These can be easily attached to the base plates for added impact resistance.
These magazines are designed to be compatible with standard 1911 magazine pouches. They work well with various aftermarket base pads, further enhancing their versatility.
Pros and Cons of Kimber Kimpro 1911 8rd Mags – 45 ACP Caliber, OEM Origin
Pros
- Reliable Feeding: The Teflon-coated follower and rocket wire spring ensure smooth and consistent feeding.
- Enhanced Capacity: 8-round capacity offers an extra round compared to standard 1911 magazines.
- Durable Construction: Heat-treated stainless steel construction provides excellent resistance to wear and corrosion.
- Easy Maintenance: Removable base plates allow for easy cleaning and maintenance.
- Affordable Price: These magazines offer excellent value for the money compared to other premium options.
Cons
- May require slight break-in period for optimal performance in some 1911s.
- Slam pads are a bit bulky.
Who Should Buy Kimber Kimpro 1911 8rd Mags – 45 ACP Caliber, OEM Origin?
The Kimber Kimpro 1911 8rd Mags are perfect for 1911 owners looking for reliable, high-capacity magazines. They are also well-suited for competitive shooters and those who use their 1911s for personal defense.
Someone who prioritizes absolute top-tier magazines like Wilson Combat and is willing to pay a premium may skip this product. Also, those with 1911s chambered in calibers other than .45 ACP cannot use these magazines.
A must-have accessory would be a high-quality magazine pouch. A magazine loader could also be useful for extended range sessions.
Conclusion on Kimber Kimpro 1911 8rd Mags – 45 ACP Caliber, OEM Origin
The Kimber Kimpro 1911 8rd Mags – 45 ACP Caliber, OEM Origin offer an excellent blend of reliability, durability, and value. The increased capacity and robust construction make them a worthwhile upgrade for any 1911 owner.
At a price of $29.49, these magazines are a steal. They offer performance comparable to much more expensive options.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Kimber Kimpro 1911 8rd Mags to anyone looking to enhance the performance of their 1911. Upgrade your magazines today and experience the difference!