Seeing the price, buying a P32 is almost irresistible. But impulse-buying may not be a happy experience after facing issues. After some research, I found 5 Kel-Tec P32 problems that you should know.
According to user feedback, jamming, faulty firing pin, locked slide, improper cycling, and loosely attached magazine are the common issues.
Here, the good thing is that I have also discussed the possible fixes for your convenience. So, read till the end without skipping any part.
Features & Specifications of Kel-Tec P32
| Kel-Tec P32 | |
| Barrel Length | 2.7” |
| Magazine Capacity | 7 |
| Overall Length | 5.1” |
| Rear Sight | P-Sight |
| Front Sight | Blade |
| Safety | Long double-action trigger pull; Internal hammer block |
| Dimensions | 3.5” H; 0.75” W |
| Weight | 7 ounces (unloaded) |
| Trigger Pull | 5 pounds |
Common Kel-Tec P32 Problems and Solutions
Kel Tec P32 is not free from problems, and you have got an idea about it. Now, let’s discuss them with solutions in detail here.
Quick Overview of the Problems and Solutions
| Problems | Solutions |
| Not feeding the ammo due to jamming | Try different brands of ammunition, clean the gun regularly, apply lubricant, or replace the faulty magazine. |
| Stuck firing pin preventing rounds from getting in the chamber | Take the metal piece out that is causing obstruction, trim the peening, and clean the gun. |
| Not being able to unlock the slide | Replace the faulty spring and magazine catch in the system. |
| Not being able to cycle properly | Keep your wrist firm while shooting, clean the gun regularly, and use the right kind of ammo. |
| Getting loose magazine sometimes | Replace the magazine catch and spring if necessary. |
1. Feeding Problem
Some new Kel Tec P32 users complain that the ammo gets stuck sometimes.
When it happens, the bullet gets stuck between the magazine lip and the feed ramp.
It jams the magazine from getting out.
The user mentioned that he had to push down the round for getting the magazine and round in the chamber out.
There are several possible reasons for this kind of problem.
Not cleaning regularly, using the wrong kind of ammunition, and faulty magazine are the leading causes of the P32 feeding issue.
The Fix
From the reasons, you have probably guessed the solution already.
But you don’t know which solution you should try first.
According to the users who have solved the issue, the feeding problem indicates rim-lock. And, it gets solved by trying a different brand of ammunition.
Furthermore, you must keep the gun clean regularly. Also, don’t forget to apply the right kind of lubrication.
Lastly, if the problem still persists, you can try replacing the magazine.
2. Firing Pin Stuck Forward
I have seen several complaints of a round not getting in the chamber regarding P32.
One user faced this issue; did a little inspection, and noticed that the firing pin was stuck in a forward position.
Usually, it is a reliable gun but this kind of problem can occur sometimes.
A probable reason for this peening and firing pin getting stuck problems can be worn springs.
Also, it is possible that the hammer has peened the firing pin’s back so severely that it hangs up inside the channel.
The Fix
First of all, you have to keep the gun regularly cleaned and maintained. Check the health of the springs regularly, and take action accordingly.
Also, there are some immediate solutions to make the firing pin work properly.
You can take off the metal piece that is causing this issue of not chambering the round.
Also, the gun can be operational immediately using a Dremel bit to clean the peening.
3. Can’t Unlock the Slide
Here, the problem is that the slide would open locked, and it becomes almost impossible to unlock.
One possible reason for the problem is that the spring becomes so weak that it can’t push down the lock at the right time.
Another probable cause is oil and gunk getting inside the slide making it sticky.
The Fix
The replacement spring doesn’t cost a lot. Visit the official website of Kel Tec, and order one.
And, remember to keep the gun clean all the time. Assembling and disassembling the gun for replacing the spring can take 5 to 10 minutes.
There are tons of YouTube videos showing how to do it.
Even after doing all those things, you may experience small issues regarding the magazine catch. The plastic part wears down easily.
To solve this, you can either buy several replacement parts or you can search for a metal magazine catch.
4. Not Cycling Properly
Proper cycling ends with extracting the empty shell after shooting. But some new users of the P32 firearm face the problem of not cycling properly.
According to a forum thread, the user was facing this problem in 2 out of every 3 shots. The casings failed to extract the shell.
It happens due to two reasons. Either the user can’t lock the wrist while shooting or the gun is not being cleaned properly.
The Fix
I am assuming that you take care of your small caliber P32 and clean it regularly.
As a beginner, it is highly likely that you have a limp wrist during the shots.
While firing small firearms, if you don’t keep your wrist firm throughout the shot, the handgun fails to eject the spent shell.
Another possibility is that you are not using the right kind of ammunition for the gun.
5. Loose Magazine
Have you noticed that your P32 magazine is getting loose sometimes? Not all but lots of these small handgun users mention the same problem.
As Kel-Tec uses plastic magazine catch it is likely that the part becomes faulty over time.
Also, the spring may not have the necessary tension to keep it in place.
The Fix
Try to find a metal magazine catch in the aftermarket parts selling platforms.
If you can’t find one, replacing it with a new plastic magazine catch will do the work for a while.
At the same time, inspect the spring of the magazine, and replace it if necessary.
User Feedback on Kel-Tec P32
Kel Tec has a reputation for offering affordable pistols and other firearms like no other competitors.
But that kind of reputation comes with a price which is a poor-quality control system.
I have seen lots of users complaining about different problems that have got solved by simply disassembling and assembling the gun.
So, it is possible that the company can take care of those problems before delivering them to the customers and building a strong reputation.
Another cut is made in the component quality to keep the guns affordable. That is why lots of parts fail quicker than competitors.
Now, don’t only think about bad things about P32 here because it has lots of benefits that other carry guns can’t provide.
The DAO trigger safety feature, easy reloading, larger magazine capacity, easy maintenance, etc. are some of the many pros of this gun.
Indeed, there are more expensive and better alternatives to Kel-Tec P32. But if it meets your requirements, you won’t have to hesitate before buying it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the Kel Tec P32 reliable?
Yes
What kind of bullets does a Kel Tec P32 take?
32 auto cartridges
Is the Kel-Tec P32 still made?
Yes
Does Kel-Tec have a lifetime warranty?
Yes
Where are Kel-Tec guns made?
Cocoa, Florida
Conclusion
After reading all about Kel-Tec P32 problems, what do you think about the firearm?
Overall, its performance may not impress you but it is suitable for carrying. Keeping it as a backup gun would increase your confidence.
Because of low-quality components, you should lubricate the gun every 50 rounds. And, don’t forget to do regular inspections.
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