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  4. Kahr PM9 Review [2024]
Kahr PM9 Review [2024] preview image
Jan 04 2024
8 min read

Kahr PM9 Review [2024]

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KAHR ARMS PM9Kahr PM9

This is a Kahr PM9 review, one of our favorite concealed carry pistols. 

Over the years, I’ve tried my fair share of concealed carry pistols. Now, it’s not always easy to find a quality concealed carry weapon. You may lose out on accuracy, and power, and it may have a harsh recoil. However, even I have to admit that sometimes having a weapon you can conceal carry is a necessity.

Because of that, I’ve struggled to find a conceal carry pistol that hits all my criteria: it needs to be easy to carry and hold, have limited recoil, and remain true when firing. It sounds simple enough, but it’s taken me quite some time to find a model I can actually say hits the mark, if you’ll excuse the pun.

I found the Kahr PM9 pistol to be compact, easy to carry, high-quality, and natural to hold. With comfortable ergonomics for all-day holding, aggressive texturing for added grip, two sights for ample versatility, and lightweight construction, this pistol is a smart choice for those who want a portable and reliable option for handheld use. However, the lack of safety mechanisms, controls, and different triggers may make this a poor choice for beginners who are looking for their first compact weapon. 

Kahr PM9 review sights

This review of the Kahr PM9 pistol will provide potential buyers and current gun owners with information regarding the Kahr PM9’s features, reliability, characteristics, price point, and overall rating in the industry. 

We will go over the main features of the Kahr PM9 pistol and how it compares to other similar handgun options on the market, evaluating characteristics like ammunition, magazines, triggers, ergonomics, construction, weight, and price point. 

Keep reading to analyze the characteristics of the Kahr PM9 pistol that can influence your decision to purchase the handgun and why it is one of the most common compact weapons on the market today. 

Kahr PM9 Review

Kahr PM9 For Sale

KAHR Arms PM9 Compact 9mm, 3.1" Barrel, Night Sights, Stainless/Black, 6 & 7-Round, CA Compliant Semi-Automatic Pistol
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Specifications

Caliber9mm
ActionDouble-action
Capacity6+1 rounds 
Overall length5.3”
Barrel length3” 
Width0.9”
Overall weight14 oz
Height4.0”
Trigger Pull7 lbs 
Carrier FinishSemi-gloss polish
SightsWhite bar/dot combat, rear notch
Additional featuresCrimson Trace laser sights, tritium night sights  

Pros/Cons

Pros
  • Extremely light
  • Easily concealable
  • Double-trigger increases accuracy
  •  
Cons
  • Expensive
  • No safety
  • The magazine can be hard to use 

Kahr PM9 Features 

The Kahr PM9 is a highly-concealable and light-weight option that can be easily carried while on the go. Although the gun is slightly more difficult to use than a “beginner” pistol, the Kahr PM9’s recoil makes this an easy-to-use option for experienced gun-wielders. 

The frame shape and the smooth action increases the accuracy and reliability of the gun while shooting. This concealed carry option is extremely accurate, durable, and easily concealed, making this one of the most desirable pistols on the market today. 

Kahr PM9 review

The Kahr PM9 is a good option for those who want a pistol to use specifically for concealed carry purposes. Since the pistol is very lightweight, ergonomic, and compact, it is at the top of its class in terms of ease of carry. 

In addition, the smooth double-action trigger increases the consistency and accuracy of the gun while shooting. The balance of recoil management, heavy-duty material, and low muzzle rise makes this an accurate and favorable option to purchase.

Concealability 

Kahr PM9 review holstered

The Kahr PM9 is a small, compact, and lightweight handheld pistol, making it one of the best choices for those who want to easily carry their weapon with them in their waistband while on the go. 

The small size and the functional design make this gun conducive to holding in the waistband without annoying the holder or causing a lack of mobility. The Kahr PM9 can be easily carried in a holster belt without any protruding bulges in clothes or pants. The small size of the Kahr PM9 makes this an ideal concealed carry weapon. 

Grip and Texturing

kahr pm9 grip

The Kahr PM9 features a unique grip and texturing that enhance user-friendliness and confidence while holding the gun. The grip helps keep the shooter’s wrist at a neutral angle compared to other handheld guns. Although this is different from what most users may be used to, the grip and the ergonomics of the pistol soon feel quite natural.

Plus, the texturing of the pistol is aggressive, helping avoid any slips and mistakes while holding the weapon. The embedded “K” on the lower portion of the side panels does not interfere with the grip, but solely enhances the style and aesthetic of the gun. Lastly, the added grip on the sides and rear of the handle increases confidence while holding the gun for prolonged periods. 

Magazines and Ammunition

The Kahr PM9 features two options to use for a magazine — either the flush mag inserted into the gun or an extended magazine. The flush magazine is a single stack metal magazine that helps reduce the overall weight of the pistol and limits the size of the compact weapon.

On the other hand, the extended magazine increases the firing capacity and the ammunition hold but makes the weapon slightly bigger to carry during all-day use. For users who want the ability to hold more ammunition, the extended length and weight may not be a deterrent. However, the two different magazine choices increase the versatility of using the Kahr PM9 when compared to other handheld pistol options on the market. 

Trigger and Recoil

kahr pm9 trigger

Lastly, the trigger and recoil are two very important aspects of a handheld that can influence whether a person feels comfortable using this weapon. The Kahr PM9 contains a double-action trigger totaling at only 14 ounces. When compared to a single-action trigger, the benefits of the double-action trigger include extra safety and accuracy during shooting.

In addition, the recoil of the pistol also lends itself to increased consistency and accuracy — more so than you may find with single-action pistols. The pistol handles recoil better and less aggressively than other handguns on the market, limiting the muzzle rise and muting the recoil. 

Aesthetics

Although the style of the pistol is not as important as the safety and performance qualities, some future gun owners may still choose their handheld weapon with an inclination toward aesthetics. Luckily for future buyers, the style of the Kahr PM9 only increases the value and desirability of this pistol. 

The slide on the PM9 combined with the stainless steel finish increases the style of the gun without hampering the functionality of shooting while in broad daylight. The deep roll marks and the smooth edges contribute to the comfortable handling and the sleek design of the pistol. Overall, the look and feel of the Kahr PM9 make the higher price point understandable and justifiable. 

Alternatives to the Kahr PM9

Beretta PX4 Storm Compact

Beretta PX4 Storm Compact 9mm 3.27" Barrel 15+1 Rounds Semi-Automatic Pistol - Black JXC9F21
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For those who want a reliable and consistent double-action trigger pistol, the Beretta PX4 Storm Compact is one of the best options for those who want a concealable and accurate gun. Featuring a rotating barrel, double-action trigger, lightweight polymer frame, and ergonomic levers and size, this concealed weapon offers a high capacity, accuracy, and ease of carry. If you are looking for an alternative to the Kahr PM9 pistol, the Beretta PX4 Storm Compact is in the running. 

CZ P-01

CZ P-01
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The second alternative to the Kahr PM9 concealed carry pistol is the CZ P-01 option. Featuring a frame-mounted decocker, aluminum alloy frame, and extremely lightweight construction, this handheld pistol is one of the best on the market due to its ease of use, comfortable ergonomics, and accuracy. 

We even reviewed the CZ 75 P-01 if you want to check it out.

Beretta 92X Compact

Beretta 92X RDO Compact 9mm Luger, 4.25" Barrel, 10+1 Rounds, Black Steel, Optic Ready, Decocker Safety
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Although this Beretta alternative is bigger than the Kahr PM9, the larger size lends itself to its bigger capacity, outstanding ergonomics, and fast magazine changes. The extended frame holds 15+1 rounds compared to a typical 7 or 8+1 rounds for a pistol. The straight grip makes it easier to pull the trigger, boosting the user-friendliness of this gun. 

For those who want a larger option than the Kahr PM9, the Beretta 92X offers ample magazine storage and ammunition capacity. If shooters are out on a range all-day-long, the extra capacity may be more desirable than the smaller Kahr PM9 pistol. 

Conclusion

The Kahr PM9 pistol is one of the best hand-held concealed weapons on the market today. With a lightweight construction, ergonomic design, user-friendly design, and high levels of accuracy and reliability, this pistol is the ideal option to store in your belt holder while on the go.

Once users get accustomed to the double-action trigger and the lack of safety and controls, they will enjoy the accuracy and reliability of this gun. The high-quality construction and materials make this a long-lasting and durable product that can withstand the test of time and frequent use. 

Although the price point is at the higher end of the spectrum, the positive features and reliability of this gun outweigh the expense. For beginner and expert gun-wielders alike, the Kahr PM9 pistol is a safe and reliable open-carry weapon for consistent use. 

Are you considering purchasing a new handheld weapon? Try the Kahr PM9 as your new compact pistol for a reliable, consistent, and aesthetic option. 

Brady Kirkpatrick photo Brady Kirkpatrick is the founder of Gun Made, the #1 online gun search engine. Recognizing the challenges of finding the right firearm at the right price, Brady built a platform to simplify the process, comparing prices across hundreds of online dealers and providing valuable content from trustworthy bloggers. His commitment to user-centricity and innovation has shaped Gun Made into a comprehensive resource for gun enthusiasts. In addition to Gun Made, Brady has also lent his firearm expertise to an array of renowned publications, such as The Truth About Guns, CrossBreed Holsters, Cheaper than Dirt, 19FortyFive, We Are The Mighty, and many others.
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Comments

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Bob Wynn Sun, 02 Jul 2023 21:56:57

Informative article. A persuasive summary of the capabilities of the Kahr PM9. I’ve owned a Kahr PM9 for over five years and it has never mis-fired or jammed even once. It’s not finicky about ammunition either. It’s reliable, lightweight, and accurate a very good choice for concealed carry.

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Tony Kuno Fri, 25 Aug 2023 22:33:51

Mr. Kirkpatrick, I’m very interested in knowing where I can buy one of those super-snug, carbon-fiber look kydex holster that’s pictured in the “Concealability” section of your article, thank you.

BTW, my PM9 has Magguts +1 magazine spring sets for both the flush-fit & extended mags, for 7+1 flush carry (which suits my size/weight/capacity/comfort preference) and – although I don’t carry it – a backup 8 round magazine.

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