Kimber 9rd 9mm Full Size Mag – 9mm Caliber, OEM Origin Review

First Thoughts on the Kimber 9rd 9mm Full Size Mag – 9mm Caliber, OEM Origin

The Kimber 9rd 9mm Full Size Mag – 9mm Caliber, OEM Origin promises enhanced reliability and capacity for 1911-style pistols chambered in 9mm. Knowing that magazine malfunctions are a primary cause of firearm failures, I was keen to examine if this OEM magazine lived up to the Kimber name. My initial assessment was to improve the reliability of my aging 1911 and extend my magazine capacity for range use.

I’ve been experiencing some feeding issues with aftermarket magazines in my custom 1911, so I needed a reliable magazine to solve this problem. The allure of an OEM magazine, manufactured by Kimber themselves, gave me hope for a more consistent and dependable performance. My initial unboxing experience confirmed that Kimber appeared to prioritize quality.

Compared to generic 9mm 1911 magazines I’ve used from ProMag and Mec-Gar, the Kimber magazine felt more robust in hand. The stainless steel construction seemed more substantial than the blued steel of the ProMag, giving me confidence in its durability. I chose this magazine hoping to avoid the common pitfalls of aftermarket options like inconsistent feeding and premature wear.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism; the magazine felt solid and well-made, hinting at improved reliability. Only time and live-fire testing would reveal if it lived up to the Kimber reputation and solved the feeding issues I was experiencing. The $33.99 price point felt justified if it delivered on its promise of consistent performance.

Real-World Testing: Putting Kimber 9rd 9mm Full Size Mag – 9mm Caliber, OEM Origin to the Test

First Use Experience

My first range trip with the Kimber 9rd 9mm Full Size Mag – 9mm Caliber, OEM Origin took place at my local indoor range. I tested it with 115-grain FMJ ammunition from Winchester and Federal. The magazine loaded smoothly and seated positively in my 1911.

Throughout the first 100 rounds, the Kimber magazine performed flawlessly, exhibiting no feeding issues or failures to eject. The positive seating gave me confidence, unlike some aftermarket options that require an extra firm tap. I was pleasantly surprised by the smooth and consistent feeding right out of the box.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months and approximately 500 rounds, the Kimber 9rd 9mm Full Size Mag – 9mm Caliber, OEM Origin continues to perform reliably. There are no signs of wear or tear on the stainless-steel body, and the spring tension remains consistent. I clean the magazine after each range session, which involves disassembling it and wiping down the internal components.

The stainless-steel construction makes cleaning straightforward, and the magazine has shown no signs of rust or corrosion. Compared to my experience with cheaper magazines, the Kimber has significantly outperformed them in terms of reliability and durability. My confidence in carrying my 1911 with this magazine has grown substantially.

Breaking Down the Features of Kimber 9rd 9mm Full Size Mag – 9mm Caliber, OEM Origin

Specifications

• Caliber: 9mm. This is designed specifically for 9mm 1911 platforms, ensuring proper feeding and function.
• Capacity: 9 rounds. A single additional round compared to the standard 8 round capacity, offering a slight increase in firepower.
• Origin: OEM (Kimber). This guarantees compatibility with Kimber 1911 pistols and a higher standard of manufacturing.
• Material: Stainless Steel. The stainless-steel construction provides excellent corrosion resistance and durability for prolonged use.

These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the magazine’s reliability and lifespan. The 9mm caliber specificity ensures proper feeding, preventing malfunctions, while the stainless steel build guarantees longevity. The Kimber OEM origin offers peace of mind, knowing it’s designed to work seamlessly with Kimber firearms.

Performance & Functionality

The Kimber 9rd 9mm Full Size Mag – 9mm Caliber, OEM Origin excels in its primary function: reliably feeding 9mm rounds into my 1911. It eliminates the feeding issues I experienced with aftermarket magazines, and it boosts my confidence. The magazine’s spring tension is perfectly calibrated, ensuring consistent feeding without being too stiff to load.

The only area for improvement would be offering a 10-round variant for increased capacity. However, the current 9-round capacity is a good balance of size and firepower, and performs as designed. It certainly meets, and to a degree, exceeds expectations given the problems with third-party magazines.

Design & Ergonomics

The magazine’s design is simple and functional, prioritizing reliability over aesthetics. The stainless-steel finish provides a clean and professional look, and the build quality feels robust. The weight is appropriate for a full-size 1911 magazine, contributing to the overall balance of the firearm.

There’s minimal learning curve involved; it functions like any standard 1911 magazine. Its ease of use makes it suitable for both experienced shooters and those new to the 1911 platform.

Durability & Maintenance

The stainless-steel construction ensures the Kimber 9rd 9mm Full Size Mag – 9mm Caliber, OEM Origin is built to last. With proper maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service. Disassembly for cleaning is straightforward, requiring only a punch or similar tool to depress the baseplate retainer.

The stainless steel body is resistant to corrosion, making it suitable for use in various environments. This resistance reduces the risk of malfunctions caused by rust or degradation, increasing the lifespan.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kimber 9rd 9mm Full Size Mag – 9mm Caliber, OEM Origin does not come with any accessories, nor does it require any customization. It is designed as a direct replacement for standard 1911 9mm magazines. Aftermarket base pads can be added for easier handling and faster magazine changes.

The magazine is compatible with most 1911 magazine pouches designed for full-size frames. While there aren’t extensive customization options, it integrates seamlessly with existing 1911 accessories, making it a versatile addition.

Pros and Cons of Kimber 9rd 9mm Full Size Mag – 9mm Caliber, OEM Origin