The Kel Tec PMR-30 is a lightweight and unique semi-automatic pistol chambered in .22 Magnum. The PMR-30 has gained its fair share of fans because of its impressive firepower, slim design, lightweight construction, and 30-round magazine capacity. This handgun has a distinctive look, which is primarily because of its mostly polymer construction and sleek design.
However, like any firearm, the Kel Tec PMR-30 has its share of problems and issues that owners or potential buyers should be aware of. In this blog post, we will discuss the common problems faced by PMR-30 users, along with solutions and fixes to mitigate them. This comprehensive guide is designed to provide you with all the information you need to understand, troubleshoot, and maintain your PMR-30 firearm.
Problem 1: Firing Pin Issues
Firing Pin Breakage
One widely-reported complaint about the PMR-30 is the issue of firing pin breakage. Due to its thin and seemingly fragile design, the firing pin may break after prolonged use or if it is subjected to stress caused by dry firing—firing the gun without a round in the chamber.
Solutions and Fixes for Firing Pin Breakage
- Replace the Firing Pin: If you already have a broken firing pin, the only viable solution is to replace it with a new one. Contact Kel Tec or an authorized dealer for replacement parts and information on how to replace a broken firing pin.
- Avoid Dry Firing: To prevent future firing pin breakages, avoid dry firing your PMR-30. If you need to practice your trigger control without live ammunition, consider using snap caps that are designed to absorb the impact of the firing pin and prevent damage.
Firing Pin Retention Pin Issues
Another issue related to the firing pin is the firing pin retention pin. This steel pin is designed to hold the firing pin assembly within the slide. Some users have reported that their retention pin has worn out or broken, leading to the firing pin assembly falling out of the slide.
Solutions and Fixes for Firing Pin Retention Pin Issues
- Replace the Retention Pin: If your retention pin has become worn out or broken, replace it with a new one. As with other replacement parts, contact Kel Tec or an authorized dealer for the correct component.
- Regularly Inspect the Retention Pin: To prevent this issue from happening unexpectedly, inspect the firing pin retention pin regularly for signs of wear or damage. If you notice any issues, replace it immediately.
- Maintain Proper Lubrication: Lubrication can help reduce wear on the retention pin. Make sure to keep your firearm properly lubricated according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Problem 2: Ammunition Sensitivity and Feeding Issues
Ammunition Sensitivity
Like many firearms, the PMR-30 can be sensitive to the type of ammunition used. Some users have reported problems with certain brands or types of .22 Magnum rounds, which can lead to cycling and feeding issues.
Solutions and Fixes for Ammunition Sensitivity
- Test Various Ammunition Types: To find the best ammo for your PMR-30, test various brands and types of .22 Magnum rounds. Pay attention to bullet shape, weight, and velocity specs, as these factors can affect the cycling and feeding of the firearm. Many users have reported success with high-velocity ammo and rounds with rounded, hollow point bullets.
- Follow the Manufacturer’s Recommendations: Kel Tec provides a list of recommended ammo for the PMR-30 in the owner’s manual. Using the suggested ammunition can help ensure proper cycling and feeding of the firearm.
Feeding Issues
Following from the issue of ammunition sensitivity, some users have encountered feeding problems such as failure to feed and magazine-related issues.
Solutions and Fixes for Feeding Issues
- Proper Magazine Loading: Loading the magazine correctly is crucial for the reliable feeding of the PMR-30. Make sure to stack the rounds one by one in a staggered pattern, as shown in the owner’s manual. Overloading or incorrectly loading the magazine can result in feeding problems.
- Inspect and Clean the Magazine: Dirt, debris, or damaged components within the magazine can cause feeding issues. Regularly inspect and clean your magazine to ensure proper functioning.
- Try a Different Magazine: If feeding issues persist, try using a different magazine to determine if the problem is related to a specific magazine or the gun itself.
Problem 3: Ejection Issues
Some PMR-30 users have reported ejection problems, such as failure to eject spent casings, which can lead to jams and other malfunctions.
Solutions and Fixes for Ejection Issues
- Inspect and Clean the Ejector and Extractor: Dirty or damaged ejector and extractor components can lead to ejection problems. Regularly inspect and clean these parts to ensure they are functioning correctly.
- Test Different Ammunition Types: As mentioned earlier, the PMR-30 can be sensitive to different types of ammunition, which can affect ejection. Try various brands and types of .22 Magnum rounds to find the one that works best with your firearm.
- Inspect and Clean the Chamber: A dirty or damaged chamber can affect ejection. Inspect and clean the chamber regularly to ensure optimal performance.
In conclusion, while the Kel Tec PMR-30 offers many advantages to firearms enthusiasts, it has its fair share of issues that need attention. Being aware of these problems and taking the proper steps to troubleshoot and maintain your PMR-30 will ensure that your pistol remains reliable and accurate for years to come. Regular maintenance, proper ammunition use, and attention to detail can address most of the problems faced by the PMR-30 users.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the quality issues with Kel-Tec?
Some of the quality issues that have been reported in Kel-Tec guns include reliability issues, such as failures to feed, eject, or extract. Additionally, some users have experienced issues with the fit and finish, such as loose parts or poor craftsmanship. However, it’s important to remember that not all Kel-Tec firearms will experience these issues, and many users find them to be reliable and well-built.
What ammo works best in a Kel-Tec PMR-30?
The Kel-Tec PMR-30 is designed to work with .22 Magnum (WMR) ammunition. It’s recommended to use high-quality, clean-burning ammunition to ensure the best performance and reliability in your PMR-30. Some of the preferred brands by PMR-30 owners include CCI Maxi-Mag, Hornady Critical Defense, and Winchester Super-X, among others. However, it’s always a good idea to test different types of ammunition to see which works best for your specific firearm.
Is Kel-Tec a good brand?
Kel-Tec is a polarizing brand, as some shooters have great experiences with their firearms while others encounter various issues. Overall, they are known for producing innovative and unique designs at a budget-friendly price point. While they may not have the same reputation for quality as some other established firearm manufacturers, many users still find their products to be reliable and enjoyable to shoot.
Is PMR-30 good for self-defense?
The PMR-30, chambered in .22 Magnum, can be sufficient for self-defense, especially considering its high magazine capacity of 30 rounds. Although the .22 Magnum is not considered the most optimal round for self-defense, it is still capable of causing significant damage with proper shot placement. The PMR-30’s light weight and low recoil make it easy to handle and shoot accurately, which can be an asset in a self-defense situation. However, it’s essential to make sure you are comfortable and proficient with your firearm before depending on it for self-defense.
What are the common problems with the PMR-30’s magazines?
Some users have reported issues with the PMR-30’s magazines, such as difficult loading, double-feeding, or failure to feed properly. To mitigate these issues, it’s essential to load the magazines correctly by tapping the back of the magazine every few rounds to ensure proper alignment. Additionally, keeping the magazines clean and well-maintained can help avoid any feeding problems.
How can I improve the accuracy of my PMR-30?
To improve the accuracy of your PMR-30, try using different types of ammunition to find one that works best with your firearm. Additionally, regular cleaning and proper maintenance can improve the overall performance and accuracy of your PMR-30. Upgrades, such as a high-quality optic or proper iron sight adjustments, can also help improve accuracy.
Do PMR-30’s have problems with extraction or ejection?
Some PMR-30 users have reported issues with extraction or ejection. However, this does not affect all PMR-30 firearms. If you are experiencing this issue, it could be due to low-quality or dirty ammunition. Switching to a different, higher-quality brand of ammo may help alleviate any extraction or ejection issues.
Are there any aftermarket parts or upgrades available for the PMR-30?
Yes, there is a selection of aftermarket parts and upgrades available for the PMR-30, such as different grips, extended magazines, thread adapters for suppressors, and various optic mounts. These upgrades can help improve the comfort, usability, and performance of your PMR-30.
Can I use a suppressor with my PMR-30?
Yes, you can use a suppressor with your PMR-30. However, you will need a thread adapter for the barrel, as the PMR-30 does not come with suppressor-ready threads from the factory. Once you have a compatible thread adapter, you can attach a .22 Magnum-rated suppressor to your PMR-30.
Is it safe to dry fire a PMR-30?
It is generally considered safe to dry fire a PMR-30. Kel-Tec designed the PMR-30 to withstand dry firing without causing damage to the firing pin. However, it is always a good idea to use snap caps or a similar device to protect the firing pin when dry firing any firearm, regardless of the manufacturer’s recommendations.