P380 disappointed

[Alroadking]

I purchased a p380. First time at the range I had feeding problems every 4 or 5 rounds. I read on the website about the 200 round break-in period. So I endured the time, expense, and frustration of putting 270 rounds through a pistol that jammed every 4 or 5 rounds. No improvement. I didn't get through a single magazine without a hang up. What's worse is that Kahr is entirely unsympathetic and shockingly unembarassed. This is a back-up personal protection weapon that I'm not sure I'll ever feel comfortable carrying. I explained it all to their customer service person and he said "we do care or we wouldn't fix it". Thats not correct, they took the pistol back to repair because its under warranty. They didn't even offer any type of explanation or even act like it mattered to them. I'm sorry but there is a lot more to a weapon like this thats demonstrated unreliability, than just "fixing it". Also the only information they offered about when I will receive a repaired pistol back is that repairs are running about a month or so. I won't buy another Kahr product and I recommend anyone thinking about it to avoid it.

[b4uqzme]

Sorry about your frustration but you are preaching to the wrong group here. We kinda like 'em.

I bet if you give Kahr the chance and a little understanding they will make it right. Then it will be up to you to decide how to go forward.

I realize you were probably just venting. We see that a lot.

Best wishes.

[gun papa]

Yikes. Bad testaments to poor service is a death knell in the days of the internet.

[Alroadking]

I get this might be the wrong place, I posted here half hoping they would see it and make an effort, but I've traded a number of emails and spoken to their customer service guy and basically they care enough to honor their warranty and that's all. It's sort of a shame because, except for the reliability issues, I love the pistol. The size, weight, and feel for a pocket gun is terrific. When it fires it shoots great. Unfortunately that's like saying "except for that Mrs Lincoln, how was the play". If it ends up the way it looks as if it will, I'll keep the gun for fun, but I'll definitely post my story on a lot of forums. Btw, if you do a search, there are a number of posts on a variety of forums about feeding issues on the P380.

[TeaDub]

I assume that you followed the "prep" and "lube" threads that are on the forum? There appear to be some guns that still have issues. Perhaps it will be an easy fix for the service guys at Kahr.

When you get it back, I'd suggest you you "prep" it again, lube it correctly and focus on proper technique. Not saying you were not before. Worry about accuracy after reliability is 100%. I sure hope that your P380 gets up to speed. My CW380 has turned into one of my favorite guns.

[shlike]

I purchased a p380. First time at the range I had feeding problems every 4 or 5 rounds. I read on the website about the 200 round break-in period. So I endured the time, expense, and frustration of putting 270 rounds through a pistol that jammed every 4 or 5 rounds. No improvement. I didn't get through a single magazine without a hang up. What's worse is that Kahr is entirely unsympathetic and shockingly unembarassed. This is a back-up personal protection weapon that I'm not sure I'll ever feel comfortable carrying. I explained it all to their customer service person and he said "we do care or we wouldn't fix it". Thats not correct, they took the pistol back to repair because its under warranty. They didn't even offer any type of explanation or even act like it mattered to them. I'm sorry but there is a lot more to a weapon like this thats demonstrated unreliability, than just "fixing it". Also the only information they offered about when I will receive a repaired pistol back is that repairs are running about a month or so. I won't buy another Kahr product and I recommend anyone thinking about it to avoid it.

Sorry you are having these problems. You don't say in your post what type of feeding problems you are having or what type of ammo you are using.

Also, have you eliminated human error as a cause? I'm referring to things like limp-wristing or your thumb interfering with the slide stop. These types of problems are amplified in a very small, tightly-made gun.

If you could provide more information about the specifics of the problems you are having, there are people on this forum who are very knowledgeable and may be able to offer solutions.

In my case I have a CW380, which is essentially a less expensive version of your P380 but is identical mechanically. After a few failures to go fully into battery during the break-in period, my gun has been flawless after 1000+ rounds and will eat virtually any ammo I feed it (WWB, Blazer, Fiocchi, Federal, etc.) My main carry ammo is Hornady Critical Duty. I do not, however, use any re-loads in this gun.

I know how frustrating it can be when we don't get the customer service we think we should. I have not had occasion to contact Kahr CS as of yet, but I have had terrific customer service from S&W, Ruger, and Rock Island Armory. Excellent customer service helps make a positive ownership experience and loyal customers.

I hope you can get your issues resolved, because these little Kahrs are beautifully made guns. I liken mine to a little swiss watch with the precision fit and finish.

[muggsy]

The guy didn't come here for answers or suggestions. He came here to complain. Let him.

[downtownv]

The guy didn't come here for answers or suggestions. He came here to complain. Let him.

:hurt::hurt::hurt::blah::31::target:
I can see this is gonna be a good one!

[Jollyrogers]

So what ammo have you shot through it? By the way, I feel exactly the same way about Glock and the G42... I complained a little bit on the Glock forums, but no one cared. Glock is now selling the G42s as a -1 part # on a lot of the parts like the mag, frame etc... My P380 and PM9 run awesome, and so can yours...

[Bill K]

I had a multitude of issues with my P3AT. Went to the Kel-Tec user site (KTOG) and with help from folks there and parts from Kel_tec got it up and running.

I had an issues with my PM9. Went to the Kahr user site (kahrtalk) and with help from folks here and a part from kahr got it up and running.

Try to keep a positive attitude and it'll likely pay big dividends.

[DavidR]

I've been fortunate that both of my Kahrs run fine but I'd be very frustrated if I had persistent problems. I hope Kahr repairs it satisfactorily.

There's one thing I don't understand - given that the OP has not been able to get through a single magazine without a malfunction, how in the world does this get through quality control?

[b4uqzme]

^^^ different mag, different ammo, different shooter.... there are many variables.

[Bill]

basically they care enough to honor their warranty and that's all... worse is that Kahr is entirely unsympathetic and shockingly unembarassed.... customer service person and he said "we do care or we wouldn't fix it". Thats not correct, they took the pistol back to repair because its under warranty. They didn't even offer any type of explanation or even act like it mattered to them. I'm sorry but there is a lot more to a weapon like this thats demonstrated unreliability, than just "fixing it". Also the only information they offered about when I will receive a repaired pistol back was that repairs are running about a month or so...

So, Kahr will repair "fix" the pistol under warranty and return it in about 30 days and you're upset because the service rep didn't break down in tears with you and have a good cry? Kahr makes good on their product but you want them to somehow demonstrate that it's not because they had promised to do so (the warranty) but rather because they had a Kumbaya moment with you on the phone? Uhh, OK.

Sorry to sound so mean but that is how things work when things are working. Right?

[SlowBurn]

It's really hard for a shooter to accept that ftf problems might be pilot error, particularly for those who've shot larger semi autos with no problem. But i'm convinced that 9 times out of 10 that's what it is.

I went to the range last week with some friends, and let a couple of the younger guys try my P380. Neither one was able to get through a magazine without some type of jam. It takes some getting used to, and some practice, to get these pocket rockets under control if you're not used to them.

[The Faux King]

I purchased my P380 back in December and since then I have over a thousand rounds through her without a single hiccup -- sorry to hear you are having problems.

[Pointblank]

There seems to be a pattern on this forum with alleged brand "New" members, "Bitching" about Kahrs. They always seem to have one or two posts. Can you say "Troll"? Nothing ever seems to be mentioned such as cleaning process before first range session, the break in period or what type of ammunition was used.. blah.. blah.. blah..

[DavidR]

^^^ different mag, different ammo, different shooter.... there are many variables.


I agree there are many variables but I'm assuming he's having trouble with the magazine that came with the gun.

[clayflingythingy]

So, Kahr will repair "fix" the pistol under warranty and return it in about 30 days and you're upset because the service rep didn't break down in tears with you and have a good cry? Kahr makes good on their product but you want them to somehow demonstrate that it's not because they had promised to do so (the warranty) but rather because they had a Kumbaya moment with you on the phone? Uhh, OK.

Sorry to sound so mean but that is how things work when things are working. Right?

Agree. The OP seems to be upset that Kahr didn't bend down and kiss his arse.

I have three C series Kahr pistols that have all been 100% out of the box with no break in required.

CW45 and K9 are on the "to get" list. Kahr's are great guns and have replaced my J frame as my EDC piece.

[b4uqzme]

I agree there are many variables but I'm assuming he's having trouble with the magazine that came with the gun.

That doesn't mean that he's using the same mag that was test shot at the factory.

[DavidR]

That doesn't mean that he's using the same mag that was test shot at the factory.

I get that but if they're that magazine sensitive, Kahr should test them with the magazine that comes with the gun. We don't know all the circumstances so none of us can say with certainty what's really going on here.

You guys are pretty tough on the OP but there are numerous accounts on this forum of Kahr guns that are defective right out of the box.

[b4uqzme]

^^^ duly noted. I am certainly no expert. I just try to look at the bigger picture that's all.

[WMac19]

I bought a new Jeep Wrangler back in '91. Despite the poor reviews as per reliability, I wanted one anyway. Mine was perfect, ran great and was one of my favorite rides. A couple of friends got lemons. But I never felt the need to defend Jeep, I'd only remark how mine was excellent.

There's a lot of circling the wagons here and while it's to be expected being that it's a dedicated site, I still can't help but to think that it's a little silly. One having perfect reliability with multiple guns right out of the box does not discount the fact that others haven't enjoyed the same. Another having issues yet patiently wading through them, while commendable, should not render another's voiced frustration as being petty or a senseless attack on a favorite brand.

For me, I'm batting .500. My PM9 was flawless but my PM40 took over 500 rounds to smooth out and that didn't even happen until I opted to swap out the recoil spring assembly. Then miraculously, my flawed out of the box gun has been perfect.

I love them both and carry them proudly but I'd be lying if I said that for future purchases my trust was high at all.

[berettabone]

In my 40 years of shooting, I have never had to do any repairs or send in any firearm for said repairs. NEVER........................Ruger, Beretta, Walther, S & W, Kahr. Semi's, revolvers, never. Besides the follower problem, which I know is legit, I think that most is human error or lack of experience with these types of firearms.

[Bill]

You guys are pretty tough on the OP but there are numerous accounts on this forum of Kahr guns that are defective right out of the box.

Yes, and I apologize for sounding harsh. When I buy an expensive new toy, or perhaps this is more a critical bit of defense equipment, I want it to work right out of the box. But failing that I want the manufacturer to repair/replace the product. Not come to my house with a pot of chicken soup and a coupon good for free a stock certificate. Maybe I was reading too critically and misunderstood.

I myself am 50/50 on 2 Kahr pistols and am awaiting the return of my PM40. But so far the service department has really stepped up with free shipping and an immediate invitation to return the item for service. I wish the gun was right but this is second best and says a lot about the kind of company they are. Flawless performance is king, but I for one, respect a good recovery!

[45stopsemquick]

After prepping my brand new p380 I could hand cycle entire magazines without flaw as often as I want. Upon firing the gun with 3 different brands and types of ammo, the same flawless operation continued. I didn't try loading, cycling, or firing before completing the prep with a few of my own steps added. These included polishing the breech face, dehorning the user interfaced surfaces of the slide stop, and removing some machining marks from the inside of the slide. I'm confident that with the this prep and proper shooting technique, any p380 will work the same.

[rj1]

I had the same FTF 2-3 times per mag. I had the dealer I bought it from send it back to Kahr. Got it back 3 weeks later June 6 and it performs flawlessly. 180 rounds with range and defensive ammo with only 1 FTF and that was with Walmart Winchester blunt nose ammo. Try not to use that stuff. Everything else seemed OK
Give Kahr a chance. They did a lot and got it right. Why it couldn't be that way new?
I love this gun and it will now be my carry gun. You hardly even know you have it on you and it is very accurate within 20 feet