The Kimber Ultra Carry II (UCII) is a popular compact 1911 pistol known for its sleek design and powerful performance. However, like any firearm, it's not without its potential issues. This article delves into common Kimber Ultra Carry II problems, offering insights into troubleshooting and preventative maintenance. Understanding these potential problems can help you ensure the reliability and safety of your UCII.
Common Kimber Ultra Carry II Issues
Many Kimber Ultra Carry II owners report similar issues. These often stem from the gun's compact size and tight tolerances. Let's explore some of the most frequently cited problems:
Reliability Issues: Failure to Feed/Eject
One of the most prevalent complaints revolves around reliability. Some users experience failure to feed or failure to eject spent casings. This can be attributed to several factors:
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Weak Magazine Springs: Over time, magazine springs can weaken, leading to inconsistent feeding. Replacing the magazine springs is a relatively simple fix, and many owners recommend doing this proactively as preventative maintenance.
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Tight tolerances: The compact design of the UCII means components are tightly fitted. This can cause malfunctions, especially with ammunition that doesn't meet exacting specifications. Using high-quality, properly lubricated ammunition can mitigate this.
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Improper Break-in: A new Kimber Ultra Carry II needs a proper break-in period. Failing to break it in correctly by firing several hundred rounds can contribute to reliability problems. This allows the gun's components to wear in smoothly.
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Dirty Gun: Like any firearm, a dirty UCII is more prone to malfunctions. Regular cleaning and lubrication are crucial for maintaining reliability.
Magazine Problems
Magazine-related issues are also common with the UCII:
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Magazine Drop: Some users report issues with the magazine dropping unexpectedly. This might be due to wear and tear on the magazine catch or a poorly fitted magazine.
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Overly Tight Magazines: Similar to the tight tolerances of the gun, magazines can sometimes be difficult to insert or remove. This can be addressed with minor adjustments or replacement if necessary.
Accuracy Concerns
While generally accurate, some users report less-than-stellar accuracy with their UCII. Factors influencing accuracy can include:
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Poor Trigger Control: This is a common shooter issue, not necessarily a flaw of the firearm. Proper training and practice are essential for improving accuracy.
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Ammunition Selection: Different ammunition types can impact accuracy. Experimenting with different brands and grain weights can help determine what your specific UCII prefers.
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Sight Alignment: Improper sight alignment can drastically affect accuracy. Professional gunsmith adjustment might be necessary to address this.
Extractor Problems
The extractor is a crucial part of the firearm's reliability. Problems with the extractor can include:
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Broken Extractor: In rare instances, the extractor itself can break or become damaged, causing extraction failures. This requires repair or replacement by a qualified gunsmith.
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Weak Extractor Tension: Over time the extractor tension might weaken and fail to fully extract cartridges, causing stoppages.
Troubleshooting and Preventative Maintenance
Addressing many of these issues can be managed through routine maintenance and careful attention to detail:
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Regular Cleaning: Clean your Kimber Ultra Carry II after every range session to prevent fouling from affecting function.
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Lubrication: Use a high-quality gun lubricant to reduce friction and ensure smooth operation.
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Ammunition Selection: Use high-quality, reliable ammunition designed for use in 1911 pistols.
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Magazine Maintenance: Regularly inspect your magazines for wear and tear and replace springs as needed.
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Professional Inspection: If you experience persistent problems, take your UCII to a qualified gunsmith for inspection and repair.
Conclusion: Owning a Kimber Ultra Carry II
The Kimber Ultra Carry II remains a popular choice for concealed carry, but understanding potential issues is key to reliable operation. Proactive maintenance, proper cleaning, and the use of quality ammunition can significantly reduce the likelihood of encountering problems. Remember, when dealing with firearms, safety always comes first. If you experience recurring malfunctions that you cannot resolve, seek professional help from a qualified gunsmith.