Understanding the Kimber Ultra Carry II
Specifications
The Kimber Ultra Carry II is a semi-automatic pistol, typically chambered in .45 ACP, a caliber known for its stopping power. The “Ultra Carry II” designation signifies its compact dimensions, often featuring a barrel length shorter than a standard 1911. This makes it ideal for concealed carry, allowing for discreet and comfortable daily wear.
Advantages of the Ultra Carry II
This firearm is known for its classic 1911 design elements, including a single-action trigger, a grip safety, and a thumb safety. The frame is often made of aluminum alloy, contributing to its reduced weight, while the slide is typically constructed from steel. It’s a pistol that prioritizes both performance and aesthetics, often finished with appealing features like high-visibility sights and distinct grips.
Why Discuss Problems?
While the Kimber Ultra Carry II boasts several advantages, including its manageable size, inherent accuracy potential, and the reliability of the 1911 platform when properly maintained, it’s critical to be aware of potential challenges. The goal isn’t to discourage potential buyers, but to arm owners and future owners with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions and, if needed, address any issues that may arise. Understanding the common issues and their solutions is essential for ensuring optimal performance and enjoyment of this fine firearm.
Challenges in Feeding
Potential Causes
One of the most frequently reported problems with the Kimber Ultra Carry II, or any 1911 style pistol, is a failure to feed. This is when the pistol fails to chamber a round from the magazine into the barrel. This malfunction can be frustrating and, in a defensive situation, can be critical.
Several factors can contribute to feeding issues. The magazine itself is a primary suspect. The magazine lips, the small metal pieces that hold the rounds in place, can be out of specification, dented, or worn. The follower, the part that pushes the rounds up into the chamber, can also malfunction. A weak magazine spring can fail to push the rounds up with sufficient force. Checking the magazine is one of the first things to do. The magazine should be properly cleaned and any faulty parts should be replaced. It’s a good idea to test your pistol with multiple magazines to see if the issue persists across all of them.
The feed ramp, the angled surface at the bottom of the barrel that guides the bullet into the chamber, can also be the culprit. If the ramp is rough or has sharp edges, it can impede the feeding process. Polishing the feed ramp can sometimes solve this problem. If you aren’t comfortable doing this, a gunsmith can do it for you.
Lubrication plays a crucial role in the smooth operation of any firearm. Insufficient lubrication or the use of the wrong type of lubricant can cause feeding problems. The slide needs to move smoothly against the frame. The parts within the slide need to operate efficiently. Using the correct type of lubricant, in the right amount, is paramount to making sure all of the mechanical parts operate properly.
Recoil spring condition can also cause feeding issues. A worn recoil spring won’t have the proper force to push the slide forward to strip a round from the magazine. The recoil spring is an important piece in ensuring the pistol functions correctly. The spring should be changed regularly.
The ammunition itself can also be the source of the problem. Ammunition dimensions can vary slightly between manufacturers. Using the wrong type of ammunition can cause feeding problems. Experimenting with different brands and bullet profiles might resolve the issue. Some Kimber Ultra Carry II owners have found that round-nose bullets work better than flat-nose bullets. Additionally, be sure to use high-quality, reliable ammunition from a reputable manufacturer.
Finally, the shooter’s grip can contribute to feeding problems. A “limp wrist” grip, where the shooter doesn’t hold the firearm firmly, can cause the frame to absorb some of the recoil energy, which can interfere with the slide’s cycling. Ensuring a firm grip and proper shooting stance is a fundamental part of resolving issues.
Ejection Problems
Potential Causes
Another common malfunction that can plague the Kimber Ultra Carry II is a failure to eject. This occurs when the spent casing doesn’t leave the firearm after firing, potentially leading to a jam.
The extractor, a small part located in the slide, is responsible for grabbing the spent casing and pulling it out of the chamber. An extractor with insufficient tension, or an extractor that’s damaged, worn, or broken, can fail to do its job.
The ejector, a small piece located in the frame, is what knocks the spent casing from the extractor, ejecting it from the gun. If the ejector is damaged, or the ejection is too slow, ejection problems are possible.
As with feeding problems, the recoil spring can also contribute to ejection issues. The recoil spring must cycle the slide far enough to the rear for the ejector to function.
A dirty chamber can also make it difficult for the spent casing to extract from the chamber. If the chamber is filled with carbon, or debris, it can slow the ejection process. Regular cleaning of the chamber is a good maintenance habit.
Ammunition issues, as mentioned before, are possible contributors to an ejection issue.
Slide Problems
Potential Causes
Slide issues are a common source of frustration for Kimber Ultra Carry II owners. The slide may fail to lock back after the last round is fired, prematurely lock back during firing, or be difficult to rack.
The slide stop lever is the piece responsible for locking the slide back after the last round. Sometimes it can be interfered with during firing. The thumb of the shooter can accidentally touch the lever during firing, locking the slide back prematurely.
A weak recoil spring can also contribute. The spring must have enough tension to push the slide back and make it easier to rack.
Grip plays a significant role in the operation. A poor grip might cause the slide stop lever to interfere, again causing premature locking.
Defective slide stops can cause several malfunctions. They can be worn, out of specification, or simply damaged. Inspecting the slide stop and replacing it if damaged is often a fix.
Accuracy Issues
Potential Causes
Accuracy problems can be another concern for Kimber Ultra Carry II owners. These can be attributed to several factors.
Shooter error is the most frequent cause of accuracy issues. Trigger control, grip, and stance all can make significant differences in the way a shooter hits a target. Consistent practice and good shooting fundamentals are critical.
Sights can come loose over time, or become misaligned, impacting the user’s ability to hit their intended target. Ensuring that the sights are properly secured is an important maintenance item.
The barrel can also lead to accuracy problems. A worn or damaged barrel can make accurate shooting impossible.
Maintenance and Prevention
Regular maintenance is vital to keep your Kimber Ultra Carry II operating smoothly.
A proper cleaning routine involves disassembling the firearm, cleaning all components, and lubricating them correctly. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for disassembly. Use the correct cleaning supplies to remove carbon and debris. Use lubricants designed for firearms, and apply them sparingly to moving parts.
Regular inspection of the firearm is critical. Look for any signs of wear, damage, or unusual conditions. Pay close attention to the recoil spring, the extractor, and the ejector.
Using high-quality ammunition is important. Good ammunition increases the chances of avoiding problems.
The recoil spring should be replaced regularly. The amount of time between replacements depends on the frequency of shooting and the ammunition used. The spring must be replaced on a regular basis to maintain proper function.
Seeking Professional Help
Even with careful maintenance, problems can arise that require professional attention. When a gunsmith is needed, don’t hesitate to take your pistol to someone who is experienced.
If you are unable to clear a malfunction, seek help from a gunsmith. If you are not comfortable working on the pistol, a gunsmith is a good choice. If you can’t seem to diagnose the source of a malfunction, a gunsmith can help.
Look for a gunsmith with experience in working on 1911s.
Conclusion
The Kimber Ultra Carry II, like any firearm, has the potential for problems. Failure to feed and failure to eject are two common issues that owners can experience. Problems with the slide, and accuracy, are also possible. A combination of the reasons mentioned in this article can be the root cause of any malfunction.
By understanding the potential causes and solutions, owners can troubleshoot effectively. Correct maintenance and good shooting practices can help to minimize problems.
The Kimber Ultra Carry II can be a reliable and accurate firearm. Proper care is what makes it function correctly.
In conclusion, the Kimber Ultra Carry II is a powerful, concealable firearm. By learning how to diagnose and solve the potential problems, you can own it with confidence. Understanding the issues will allow you to have many enjoyable years of shooting this excellent pistol.
