Extractors: Internal VS. External/Kimber Folks

idsman75

I've been eyeballing Kimbers lately. It's always a huge process of elimination when tax return season approaches.

Is it pure voodoo (like barrel break-in) or is an external extractor really better or more reliable than an internal extractor or is it purely theoretical?

I've never had any extractor problems with any of my semi-auto pistols that have internal extractors.

If external is better, which full-size model should I look at?

Pearyw

Everybody seems to be headed that way. The new S&W, SIG, Kimbers, and some Wilson's have them. They don't have to be adjusted as much as the internal ones. Even John Browning went that way when he made the Hi-Power years after the origonal 1911.

knucklehead14

I don`t like the externals just because of the look.


Bad spellers of the world

"UNTIE!"

idsman75

Which full-size Kimber would folks recommend if I want one with an external extractor?

Xracer

I personally, prefer the internal extractor.....easier to "tweak" if necessary. However, I wouldn't select a gun on whether it had an internal or external extractor....probably six of one, half-a-dozen of another.

Kimber is a fine choice.....as to which model, guess it depends on what kind of shooting you plan to do, how many "bells & whistles" you want or need...and maybe just your mood on the day you go to buy one.

You probably can't go too wrong with any Kimber you buy.

http://www.kimberamerica.com/index2.php

Warbirds

The external extractor isn't exactly a new concept. New for the 1911 but if you pull out that other trusty John Browning design, the Hi-power (pat. 1928) You'll see an external extractor. My Hi-power in .40 S&W is the only semi auto I own that has never once failed me. And like everyone's been saying, if you're buying a Kimber, you won't be disappointed. I don't care for their mags, but that's an easy fix, with a couple wilson combat mags.

R/

Dave


How different the world would be if we could consult the veteran instead of the politician. - Henry Miller

Spring Creek

REG: FN/Browning High Power extractors. 1935-1962 / Internal
1962-present / External.
The visible (External) extractor went into production in Late 1962.
The "Simplified" extractor provided much more positive and reliable action.
AND, it was a "Cheaper" manufacturing process; which is what actually
mandated the change.
The "Old" internal extractor of the High Power was MORE of a problem when the shooter "Placed" the cartridge into the chamber and allowed the slide to "Slam" home against the cartridge case. This was "Sure" to cause damage to the extractor in the (Internal Extractor) High Power (And in most other semi-auto pistols).
The problem could be avoided by "Properly" allowing the slide to feed
the cartridge from the magazine.

idsman75

I knew that there was nothing "new" about external extractors. I never noticed but have Glocks always had external extractors or is this a new thing?

I've had people tell me that this is an "upgrade". I've been leaning towards the Kimber Tactical Custom II.

bambihunter

My Kimber Stainless Target II in 10mm has performed flawlessly. I have fed it several different types of ammo and no hickups.