First Thoughts on the Kimber Kimpro 1911 8rd Mags – 45 ACP Caliber, OEM Origin
The 1911, a design marvel by John Browning, has been my constant companion for over a decade, from competitive shooting to ensuring personal safety in the backcountry. Reliability is paramount, and that starts with the magazine. Enter the Kimber Kimpro 1911 8rd Mags – 45 ACP Caliber, OEM Origin, promising the reliability of Kimber quality at a reasonable price point.
As a seasoned 1911 user, I’ve experienced the frustration of substandard magazines leading to malfunctions, something unacceptable when lives are on the line. My search for dependable magazines led me to the Kimber Kimpro. This seemed like a good addition to my range and self-defense kit.
Upon receiving the Kimber Kimpro magazines, the immediate impression was positive. The stainless steel construction felt solid, and the packaging was clean and professional. Compared to some aftermarket magazines I’ve tried, the Kimber magazines instantly felt like a step up in quality, seeming very durable.
I considered Wilson Combat magazines, renowned for their performance, but the price difference made the Kimber Kimpro magazines an attractive alternative for range use and as backups. Initial handling left me optimistic, hoping these magazines would deliver on their promise of reliability and smooth feeding. This would justify the cost savings.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kimber Kimpro 1911 8rd Mags – 45 ACP Caliber, OEM Origin to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the Kimber Kimpro 1911 8rd Mags – 45 ACP Caliber, OEM Origin took place at my local shooting range, a controlled environment perfect for evaluating magazine performance. I ran them through my Kimber Custom II and a Colt Government model, using various types of .45 ACP ammunition. I also tested the magazines in different weather conditions to get a full overview.
The magazines loaded easily and seated positively in both pistols. During firing, I experienced no feeding issues, and the slide locked back consistently after the last round. The stainless steel construction and Teflon-coated follower ensured smooth operation, even after repeated use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Kimber Kimpro magazines have proven to be exceptionally reliable. I’ve put hundreds of rounds through them, and they continue to function flawlessly. There are no signs of significant wear and tear.
The stainless steel construction has held up well to repeated loading and unloading, and the magazines are easy to disassemble and clean. Compared to some other magazines I’ve used, which started showing signs of corrosion or spring fatigue after a few months, the Kimber Kimpro magazines still feel as good as new. This speaks volumes about the quality of materials and construction.
Breaking Down the Features of Kimber Kimpro 1911 8rd Mags – 45 ACP Caliber, OEM Origin
Specifications
- Caliber: .45 ACP – This ensures compatibility with any standard 1911 pistol chambered in .45 ACP.
- Capacity: 8 rounds – Offering a standard capacity for a 1911 magazine, balancing size and firepower.
- Origin: OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) – Guarantees a proper fit and function in Kimber 1911 pistols, and usually other 1911 brands.
- Material: Highly polished stainless steel, heat-treated – The heat-treated stainless steel provides exceptional strength and corrosion resistance.
- Follower: Super glide Teflon-coated extended follower – This ensures smooth and reliable feeding of ammunition, even after extended use.
- Spring: Rocket wire spring – Providing consistent pressure and reliable feeding.
- Base Plate: Removable stainless steel with two supplied slam pads – Allows for quick configuration changes and enhanced durability.
These specifications combine to provide a reliable and durable magazine that is well-suited for both range use and self-defense. The combination of high-quality materials and thoughtful design ensures consistent performance.
Performance & Functionality
The Kimber Kimpro 1911 8rd Mags – 45 ACP Caliber, OEM Origin perform their primary function flawlessly: feeding ammunition reliably into the chamber. They cycle smoothly and consistently, with no malfunctions encountered during testing. The magazines seat easily and securely in the pistol, and the slide locks back every time after the last round is fired.
The enlarged numbered holes are a practical feature, allowing for quick and easy round recognition. A potential weakness could be the slam pads’ durability under extreme abuse, but they’re easily replaceable. Overall, the Kimber Kimpro exceeds expectations for a magazine in this price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The Kimber Kimpro magazines feature a clean and functional design. The stainless steel finish is attractive and easy to clean, and the magazines are comfortable to handle. The removable base plate is a useful feature, allowing for quick configuration changes.
The magazines seat positively and eject cleanly. While the design is not revolutionary, it is well-executed and provides a good balance of form and function. There is no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
Thanks to the stainless steel construction and heat treatment, these magazines are designed to last. Even after months of regular use, there are no signs of corrosion, bending, or cracking. They are also easy to disassemble and clean, which further extends their lifespan.
The removable base plate simplifies cleaning, and the stainless steel material is resistant to most solvents and cleaning solutions. With proper care, these magazines should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kimber Kimpro 1911 8rd Mags – 45 ACP Caliber, OEM Origin come with two slam pads that can be easily attached to the base plate. This allows for increased grip during magazine changes. While there are no other specific accessories designed solely for these magazines, they are compatible with any standard 1911 magazine pouch.
The slam pads are a nice addition and provide a functional benefit. The compatibility with standard accessories ensures that users can easily customize their setup to meet their individual needs.
Pros and Cons of Kimber Kimpro 1911 8rd Mags – 45 ACP Caliber, OEM Origin
Pros
- Exceptional reliability: Consistent feeding and cycling.
- Durable stainless steel construction: Provides long-lasting performance.
- Removable base plate with slam pads: Allows for quick configuration changes and enhanced grip.
- Affordable price point: Offers excellent value for the money.
- Easy to disassemble and clean: Simplifies maintenance and extends lifespan.
Cons
- Slam pads may not withstand extreme abuse.
- Not as widely available as some other brands.
Who Should Buy Kimber Kimpro 1911 8rd Mags – 45 ACP Caliber, OEM Origin?
The Kimber Kimpro 1911 8rd Mags – 45 ACP Caliber, OEM Origin are perfect for 1911 owners who value reliability, durability, and affordability. They are well-suited for range use, competition, and self-defense. These magazines are a great choice for anyone looking for a dependable magazine at a reasonable price.
Someone focused solely on top-tier competition might opt for Wilson Combat or similar high-end brands, although they come at a premium. A must-have accessory would be a quality magazine pouch for easy access and secure storage.
Conclusion on Kimber Kimpro 1911 8rd Mags – 45 ACP Caliber, OEM Origin
The Kimber Kimpro 1911 8rd Mags – 45 ACP Caliber, OEM Origin are an excellent choice for anyone seeking reliable and durable 1911 magazines without breaking the bank. At $29.49, these magazines offer exceptional value, delivering performance that rivals more expensive options. The quality, construction, and thoughtful design make them a worthwhile investment.
The price is justified. I would absolutely recommend these magazines to fellow 1911 enthusiasts. Upgrade your 1911 today with the Kimber Kimpro and experience the difference that quality magazines can make.