Despite being a nice-looking gun, I have found some Kel-Tec PMR-30 problems in several forum discussions.
Users have complained about the pistol regarding feeding, extraction, firing, and keyholing. These are the common issues worth mentioning.
In this article, I have tried to provide possible solutions to the problems. So, don’t skip any part, and let’s get started.
Features & Specifications of Kel-Tec PMR-30
Barrel Length | 4.3” |
Magazine Capacity | 10/30 rounds |
Overall Length | 7.9” |
Rear Sight | Non-adjustable Fiber |
Front Sight | Fiber |
Safety | Ambidextrous Safety Lever |
Dimensions | 5.8” H; 1.3” W |
Weight | 14 ounces (unloaded) |
Trigger Pull | 3-5 pounds |
Common Kel-Tec PMR-30 Problems and Solutions
Quick Overview of the Problems and Solutions
Problems | Solutions |
Feeding Failure | Clean the gun, try different ammo, polish the feed ramp, and load the magazine properly. |
Ejection Problem | Avoid limp wristing, look for any burrs, bends, or irregularities, check the springs and correctly load the mag. |
Not Firing | Clean factory grease or contact Kel Tec for help. |
Keyholing Problem | Call Kel-Tec to replace the old barrel; the new ones don’t have the issue. |
1. Feeding Failure
While trying to find the problems with PMR-30 firearms, I found that the feeding issue is more frequent than other problems of it.
According to one user, his newly bought PMR-30 wouldn’t feed and jam often.
Even when he manually tried to jack a round or shoot, it jammed possibly because of the rim getting caught on the extractor.
Another possible cause is binding the spring of the extractor or magazine.
After some trying, the user became frustrated because the feeding problem was occurring only when he was loading a 30-round magazine.
The Fix
Many users mistake while loading the magazine causing a feeding issue or jamming.
Here, you can watch this helpful video explaining the loading process.
Other possible solutions include cleaning the gun and trying different brands of ammunition.
For more information, you can read the owner manual for PMR-30.
Furthermore, you can try polishing the feed ramp to make the process smoother.
2. Ejection Problem
Another common problem of PMR-30 pistols is the extraction or ejection problem.
Hearing about the problems, you may wonder whether it is an engineering failure or not.
Using unsupported ammo or not loading the magazine properly can be the cause of this issue.
For newbies, limp wristing is also a strong possibility for ejection problems.
The Fix
First of all, you can start using recommended ammunition, load the magazine correctly, and avoid limp wristing at any cost.
If the problem persists, you will have to disassemble the gun and check for burrs or irregularities on the slide rail or extractor.
Sometimes, the springs become faulty. So, replace extraction or magazine spring if necessary.
Additionally, some users mentioned that bent magazine lips can cause this kind of extraction problem in Kel-Tec guns. So, inspect the lips too.
The last suggestion is that you should contact Kel-Tec if the gun is still under warranty before trying something by yourself.
3. Not Firing
I have seen a few users complaining about their PMR-30 not firing all of a sudden.
Some of them are facing this issue right out of the box. And, some are facing it after shooting 200 or 300 rounds.
There can be many reasons behind the problem. Based on a thorough diagnosis of the symptoms, one can pinpoint where the fault is.
The Fix
As the reason is unknown, I am telling you some basic things to do while handling a brand new PMR-30.
After taking it out of the box, you have to disassemble it, clean it thoroughly, and reassemble the gun without the factory grease or oil except for slide contacts.
It will solve the firing issues almost immediately.
But the same treatment may not be fruitful for older units. In such cases, you have to either contact Kel Tec or a gunsmith.
4. Keyholing Issue
According to this blog post, Kel Tec stopped the production of their PMR-30 pistols due to keyholing issues.
You have seen that every firearm has a twist rate which ensures stabilization of the bullet.
But the keyholing issue means that the barrel’s twist rate can’t stabilize the bullet in flight. This problem results in poor accuracy.
The Fix
This is a manufacturing or design fault which needs to be addressed by Kel Tec.
Luckily, the company took some action and upgraded the barrel solving this issue permanently.
Those who still own a PMR-30 with accuracy issues should contact Kel-Tec for a barrel replacement.
If you are wondering whether they still manufacture the gun, you will be relieved to know that PMR-30 is still in production.
The new units don’t have the same problem as the earlier ones.
At the time of writing, the official price of the gun is $545. Check the link for the latest price and updates.
User Feedback on Kel-Tec PMR-30
When it comes to a powerful self-defense gun that has user-friendly features, PMR-30 is the first choice for lots of people.
I have seen a few negative comments and complaints about some issues with the gun.
But overall, it is a great piece to carry around. One thing you should keep in mind is that.22 Mag ammo can be expensive for some people.
Despite the issues, I have seen all online reviewers recommending this gun.
The question of whether I recommend PMR-30 summarizes the user feedback on the pistol.
The answer is, yes, I recommend KT PMR-30 to certain people.
It includes those who don’t have much physical strength to operate other .22 Magnum pistols, and are looking for a gun to carry while hiking or camping.
According to user feedback, and analyzing the features, I think that PMR-30 won’t disappoint you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the Kel-Tec PMR-30 a good gun?
Yes
What is a PMR-30 good for?
Backpacking, camping, and target practicing
What does PMR-30 stand for?
The number 30 represents its magazine capacity.
Is the Kel-Tec PMR-30 still in production?
Yes; fixed the keyholing issue
What caliber is a Kel-Tec PMR-30?
0.224
Conclusion
Except for a few Kel-Tec PMR-30 problems, it is a great pistol with lots of benefits.
The gun is powerful and has enough accuracy in a self-defense scenario. Due to its reliable performance and user-friendly features, users love it.
If you can fix small issues along the journey, you will enjoy shooting a PMR-30.
Related Posts