KELTEC PMR-30
Posted Jun 16, 2023
KELTEC PMR-30: A Comprehensive Review
The KelTec PMR-30 is a cutting-edge polymer-frame pistol chambered in .22 Magnum (also known as .22 WMR). It is a semi-automatic pistol with a unique combination of features and performance made possible by KelTec’s modern engineering. Since its release in 2011, it has become a go-to choice for the casual shooter, tight budgeteers, and preppers alike.
The physical features of the KelTec PMR-30 are certainly eye-catching and innovative. It features a polymer frame with a black finish, an integrated Picatinny rail for mounting accessories, an adjustable white-dot front sight, and an adjustable rear sight. It measures 6.6” in length, and its unloaded weight is just 18.3 ounces. This makes the PMR-30 an ideal handgun for traveling and carrying. The pistol also has an ambidextrous magazine release and a bolt hold-open device that makes reloading more efficient.
The PMR-30's barrel employs a rake to the rear bottom cut design, which helps tame the otherwise snappy .22 WMR round. This also makes the gun more pleasant to shoot since the felt recoil isn’t as severe as it would be with some other .22 Magnums. The 4.3” barrel length is long enough to maximize the performance of the .22 WMR, yet it is also short enough to facilitate easy and natural pointing in close quarters.
The trigger pull of the PMR-30 was something of a surprise. Despite being a semi-auto, the trigger pull is surprisingly short and crisp. This gives the shooter great feedback and accuracy when shooting. There is also minimal creep and no obvious stacking at the end of the pull. All in all, the trigger is a pleasant surprise, and a great asset for the PMR-30.
The PMR-30 comes with two double stack magazines. The extended 30-round magazine features a removable base pad, which allows the magazine to sit flush with the base of the gun when loaded with 25 rounds or less. This is a great feature for shooters who must carry extra ammo and want to keep their weapon as compact and snag-free as possible. Alternatively, the standard 15-round magazine can be used with the provided steel magazine extension in order to provide a more solid grip and longer sight radius.
When it comes to reliability, the PMR-30 performs admirably. The magazine feed lips are some of the most reliable we’ve seen on a semi-auto, and the gun cycled even the cheapest ammunition without any problems. We also tested the gun with several different types of optics, including a red dot sight and a tactical light, and we achieved a very high degree of accuracy with each one.
The KelTec PMR-30 is an excellent and reliable pistol that is quickly becoming a favorite among shooters. Its light weight and slender frame make it an ideal choice for the casual shooter, while its innovative features make it a must-have for shooters who need a reliable and accurate handgun. Add to this the low price tag of the PMG-30, and there’s no doubt that this firearm is a great deal for the shooter on a budget.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
• Ergonomic design—the gun feels very comfortable when shooting.
• Lightweight—it weighs just over one pound, making it easy to carry.
• High capacity magazine—it holds 30 rounds, giving you plenty of ammo for self-defense or plinking.
• Accurate—the PMR-30 is accurate at close and medium range.
• Versatile—it can be used for self-defense, target shooting, or hunting.
Cons:
• High cost—the PMR-30 is one of the more expensive guns on the market.
• Recoil—the .22 WMR cartridge has higher than average recoil, making it difficult for beginners to learn how to shoot accurately.
• Limited availability—the PMR-30 is not widely available, especially in certain states.
• Usability—the PMR-30 has a manual safety and magazine release, which some shooters find cumbersome.
Who Should Buy
KELTEC PMR-30 is a handgun designed for recreational and target shooting purposes and should only be used by those with sufficient experience and training in the use of firearms. Those under the age of 18 or without the proper firearms training and experience should not purchase the KELTEC PMR-30. It is important to note that this handgun should not be used for self-defense.
Comparisons
| KELTEC PMR-30 | SMITH & WESSON PERFORMANCE CENTER PC1911 | WILSON COMBAT CQB TACTICAL LE | HECKLER & KOCH HK 416 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .22 Magnum | .45ACP | .45ACP | .223Rem |
| Capacity | 30 Rounds | 8 Rounds | 8 Rounds | 30 Rounds |
| Barrel Length | 4.3 in | 5 in | 5 in | 14.5 in |
| Weight | 14.4 oz | 38.4 oz | 41.6 oz | 6.5 lb |
| Sight Radius | 11.2 in | 7.5 in | 7.3 in | 12.3 in |
| Trigger Pull | 6.5 lbs | 4.5-5.5 lbs | 4-5 lbs | 6.05-7.5 lbs |
Features / Specs
• Caliber: .22 WMR (Winchester Magnum Rimfire)
• Action: Blowback operated Semi-Automatic
• Magazine capacity: 30 rounds
• Barrel length: 4.3"
• Overall length: 8"
• Capacity: Single Stack
• Weight unloaded: 13.6 oz.
• Sights: Fixed front and adjustable rear
• Finish: Black Zytel Polymer Frame, Blued Steel Slide
Popular Accessories
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- Holsters – KELTEC PMR-30 holsters are popular because they provide easy access and secure carry of the pistol.
- Magazines – Magazines for the KELTEC PMR-30 are available in both factory and aftermarket options.
- Sights – Aftermarket sights are available for the KELTEC PMR-30 that allow for easier target shooting and customized aim.
- Flashlights/Lasers – Lights and lasers are available for the KELTEC PMR-30 that can be used for visibility in low light or for quick target acquisition.
- Grips – Adding a grip to the KELTEC PMR-30 can help to improve accuracy and stability while shooting.
- Slings – A sling is a popular accessory for the KELTEC PMR-30 that can help you to carry the gun more comfortably.
Accuracy
KELTEC PMR-30 pistols are well-known to be extremely accurate, with a precision rating of up to 2" groups at 50 yards. Upon initial testing, the PMR-30 routinely demonstrated a high level of precision with most ammunition types. These 30 round capacity semi-automatic pistols have a very light trigger pull of only 3.3-5 lbs and a hard-hitting 4.3 inch 30 carbine barrel which makes it ideal for the shooter who is looking for accuracy from both short and medium range distances. This pistol is also equipped with a full-length picatinny top rail allowing for easy accessorization with optics or target aids such as lasers and lights. All these factors contribute to the PMR-30's exceptional accuracy and make it an excellent choice for anyone looking for an accurate, reliable handgun.
