Help! Which Kahr to get for my wife?

[Mark in GA]

My wife and I are curently shopping for a Kahr 9mm for her. It will be used for defense purposes by her when she is about with our two young daughters in riding in our mini-van, about town, out walking etc. She will likely carry it in the center console of the van, inside her purse, and maybe an IWB rig.

I had originally hoped she could just carry my S&W 340, but after letting her shoot it a few times she wants something with less kick. And before anyone thinks I am an idiot by handing my wife a snub-nose 12 oz 357 Mag please understand that she was shooting only +P 38's in it.

Anyway, I feel like a DAO 9mm will be simple enough for her to operate and get confortable with, offer sufficinet power for defense, and hopefully recoil lightly enough for her to want to shoot it in practice and become proficient.

So, what is most like the best model for her? The all steel standard size or the micro? All steel or polymer.

Thanks for your help!

Mark in GA

[grecco]

i have been carrying a p9 with a FIST Kydex IWB holster.
the Kahr has been 100% ,
it is very accurate and very easy to conceal,
I own the following:glocks,colts,beretta,cz,sig,hk & Dan Wesson.

I carry the Kahr.

[Seabee]

I can tell you from experience (although just about a weeks worth), I recommend the MK9, more specifically, the MK9 Elite 03. A few observations and reasons.

1. I like all steel guns. The weight helps tame the 9mm (even in +P) and it just looks classy.

2. As untrue as it could be, I have heard of problems with the PM9 (both feeding and peening). I've spoken with MANY people who have perfect PM9's, but I just did not want to take any chances. Also, see #1, I just plain love all steel guns. :hearts:

3. The MK9 is small. I'm talking smaller than my PPK sized Bersa .380 or my S&W 642. I dont like to dress around my gun but I also like to carry something with power. The size lets me carry it in MANY different ways.

4. I went with the Elite 03 first and foremost for the upgraded trigger. It's VERY smooth. My wife has no problems pulling it and prefers it to any of my other guns. I also have a SIG P229 with a really nice trigger, so that says a lot coming from her. Also, the Elite 03 is polished stainless which looks really nice. Life is just too short to carry an ugly gun. :animlol: Put wood grips on it (mine are on order) and it's a work of art.

5. I was going between the K9 (larger frame) and the MK9. I decided on the MK9 for several reasons. First, it's smaller in both the slide length and the overall height. This makes it a lot easier to carry (especially for a female). It also has the extended mag which will allow a full size grip. If she wants to keep it in her mini van or if she has a large purse, this is a good way to get the extra round and grip size, but still have the option of being smaller for other ways of carrying.

I have 320 rounds through mine with no failures to fire. I had one FTE on round #8, but that may have been me or just breaking it in. Other than that, it's been flawless with everything from FMJ to JHP. Like Grecco above, I have SIG, CZ, Glock, Bersa, S&W, and Springfield, but I carry the Kahr.

[J_Curd]

Get her a K9.

[tabor-pm-9]

Originally posted by J_Curd
Get her a K9.

Get the one she likes, but yea, I would show her the K9.

[Kalmah]

How committed is she to carrying? Is it something she really wants to do, or does she think of it as more of a chore?

If it's a chore to her, you might want to think about something small and light. The more comfortable it is to tote around, the more likely she is to do it. The PM9 would be good for that. Yes it has a history of problems, but I can't address that, mine has always worked perfectly.

If she really wants to carry and you don't want to risk the PM9, then one of the heavier, all-metal models may be the way to go.

I know the PM9 is an absolute pleasure to shoot and I would imagine any of the others would be the same, so I doubt she'll have problems with any of them.

I'd let her look over as many models as possible and just see what catches her eye.

[tabor-pm-9]

My PM9 is very sensitive to limp wristing. I wouldn't suggest you wife start out with it unless she has a lot of shooting experience.

[cowboywannabe]

the PM9s have numerous quality issues.

if i were to give a loved one a Kahr for protection, it would be an early production K9.

[u084708]

Kahr P9 Covert

[tabor-pm-9]

Okay, as of today I think I might have something more to contribute to this thread. This is a long post, but getting a pistol for my mom has really been an ordeal for both of us. However, I think her ultimate choice/happiness can shed the light on Kahr selection for other women, especially if they are not avid shooters.

Many, many years ago, probably in the early '90s my mother found out she could get a CHL. Up until then, like many people, she didn't even know it was possible. She thought about it then, but decided against it (or more likely never put the effort into it). When I got my CHL in 2005 her interest was renewed. Although she didn't used to, she has taken to hiking alone and thought it was really time that she acquired a CHL and a handgun.

Now, I have been taking her handgun shooting for something like six years now, hoping that she would acquire one. She has a Remington 870 for home defense but has often told me that it is a bit much for her to handle (both LOP and recoil). The only handgun we ever found that she liked was a Sig 220. While that is smaller than a Remington 870, it is hardly easy to conceal if you are a thin 5'3" woman.

Finally, six days ago, she acquired the weapons that would replace her Remington 870. One Romainian AKM parts kit in 7.62x39 built on an Ewbank reciever and one Kahr K9. We had never found a K9 for rent and I did not know anybody that owned one. However, I knew that I liked the trigger feel on my PM9 and I could imagine what the recoil would feel like on the K9. Note: she did not like my PM9 - nor would I recommend a gun that small and light to anybody but an experienced/avid shooter. Now, in the past my mother and I have litterally went to the gun store looking for a pistol for her and had her leave in tears because she couldn't find a gun that she thought she would like. I guess I should have pointed to the K9 before. We were at a gun show and she handled A LOT of handguns. She circled the largest table twice looking for one that fit her hands and her needs. I think part of the reason she had never looked at the K9 is because, like me, she prefers a traditional DA/SA trigger without an external safety. Finally, I suggest she buy the K9 and get proficient with it, and if she doesn't like it, she can keep looking later, but armed. Keep in mind that she has had her CHL for the last five months, but no handgun.

So, today she calls me up and is extatic. She took it to the range for the first time yesterday and it is everything she had hoped it would be. She liked it more than any of the guns she had ever rented or borrowed. Her K9 isn't through the break in period but the 50 rounds she put down range before getting rained out functioned flawlessly. I haven't got to shoot it yet, but I am really excited to get a chance. Her K9 feels better in my hand than my PM9 or my Walther P99 (and I like how both of those feel).

In conclusion, my mother is small and in her mid 50's. She is unlucky enough to have osteoporosis (rare at her age) and arthritis (not so rare). She likes shooting, but she is not an avid shooter, and she loves her K9. I have a hard time thinking that any adult would have a hard time mastering it if she loved it right out of the box.

[Michigun]

My suggestions are in this order:

* K9
* P9 Covert
* P9

[stiletto raggio]

I agree with Seabee, the MK9 is the way to go. I bought a matching pari for my mom and sister last Christmas and they are both very pleased with them. I have taken them shooting, and after a little instruction, they can both shoot the X ring out at 10 meters, which is about as good as they will ever need to be.

The reasona I chose the MK9 is two-fold: the model I chose is the BOX model, the economy model, which was necessary in order for me to afford two of them, and second, as has been pointed out before, they are VERY small. I knew I wanted steel because the weight keeps recoil down, and I also knew I wanted small so that they could carry them however they saw fit. I got wood grips for both of them. They are a little thicker than the rubbers but look great (especially with the two-tone BOX) and fit the hand very nicely. I also got finger extensions for the magazines so they could get full grips. It is a lot easier to add things to give mre grip than to conceal something that is simply too big.

I think you are on the right track. I pesonally carry a P9 Covert in light clothing, so I liked the idea that our mags would interchange, even if it only meant for more convenient target practice. At $30 a pop, you gotta make them count.

[Dandapani]

Skip it. Get her a S/W 640.

[JKG]

Originally posted by dmobrien2001
Skip it. Get her a S/W 640.

I'd second that opinion, but would also consider a 642. I almost bought one today for myself and my girlfriend.

I think the KEEP IT SIMPLE philosophy applies with someone that may not be so gun savy. A revolver is perfect. I'm assuming your wife isn't that experienced with handguns. I think once people get more comfortable with handguns, they start to form their own opinions about what they like. Soon she'll be telling you what she wants. Until then get a revolver.

Here's why:

1. If a round doesn't go off, just pull the trigger again. I like Kahrs but they don't have double strike capability (at least mine doesn't).

2. No jams unless the cylinder gets stuck. I'd get a Smith and skip the Tauri for peace of mind.

3. She can have the gun in a purse with her hand on it in a sketchy situation, ready to fire. An auto could malfunction if the slide gets impeded in the purse.

4. Like the Kahr, no safety to fiddle with, but unlike the Kahr, no chance of bumping the mag release.

5. Limp wristing in not an issue with the revolver. For what its worth, my lady shoots my PM9 and limp wrists it without any malfunctions.

Just my thoughts, good luck.

[stingray4540]

I too have been looking for a suitable gun for my wife. I have taken her to the range and rented a few different guns. We tryed the Glock 23, which I fell in love with, but the grip was just to big for her, she's only 5'3". The next time we tried the Kahr P9, but were discusted with it. Supposedly it has been a rental for a long time which could have been a reason for all the fail to feed and fail to fire problems. She did like the way it fit her hand, and liked the way the K40 fit even better. Unfortunately the K40 down and was not being rented so we were unable to try it. Hopefully the K40 will be up and running next time were there to see how she likes it. If she likes it, We might look at the K9 or MK9 for her. I really hope that the K40 fairs better than the P9, cause I think she would really like the K9 and I really don't see any other options for her. I considered getting her a snub revolver, but the double action trigger is just too heavy for her, and I don't want her to have to worry about anything but pulling the trigger should she need to. For her requirements only the Glock and Kahr fit the bill, but the Glock has too big of a grip, so lets hope we can find a good Kahr for her. Good luck with finding something for your wife, but I think I would stick with a K9 or MK9.

[Getwild2]

My wife is also in the market for her concealed carry weapon. She's currently thinking about a G19.

My question is this, for the few times that she will have to purse carry, will she have to worry about a ND/AD because of no trigger cover? Do you know if the special-made CCW purses have a trigger cover in the gun slot.

Her and I had this discussion the other day about carrying one in the pipe. I know the subject has been beat to death, which arose my question about the CCW purses. I would imagine there would be a holster inside the gun pouch?!

Thoughts?

[dirksterG30]

Originally posted by Getwild2
My wife is also in the market for her concealed carry weapon. She's currently thinking about a G19.

My question is this, for the few times that she will have to purse carry, will she have to worry about a ND/AD because of no trigger cover? Do you know if the special-made CCW purses have a trigger cover in the gun slot.

Her and I had this discussion the other day about carrying one in the pipe. I know the subject has been beat to death, which arose my question about the CCW purses. I would imagine there would be a holster inside the gun pouch?!

Thoughts?

My wife's gun purse (I believe it is from Coronado Leather?) has a lockable, zippered compartment for the gun. It has a removable holster that attaches to the compartment via velcro, and comes with a restraining strap to keep the cun in position.

I would discourage anyone who "purse-carrys" from just throwing the gun in there. Even if there is nothing else in the compartment, the gun needs to be securely positioned for a quick draw. Imagine your wife reaching for the gun to find that the muzzle is pointing at her?

[martinglock]

Mark, I do not know about your states CCDW laws, but check to make sure you are allowed to carry concealed in the center console. Many states do not allow that. Just some advice. Hope you find the right firearm for your wife.

[Dandapani]

Originally posted by JKG
I'd second that opinion, but would also consider a 642. I almost bought one today for myself and my girlfriend.Just my thoughts, good luck.

He mentioned his G/F had recoil sensitivity issues with his 340 so that's why I suggested a steel snub. The extra ounces soaks up the recoil while retaining the snub profile.

[tabor-pm-9]

Originally posted by dmobrien2001
He mentioned his G/F had recoil sensitivity issues with his 340 so that's why I suggested a steel snub. The extra ounces soaks up the recoil while retaining the snub profile.

Well, this thread is geting a bit off topic, especially since it was titled "Help! Which Kahr to get for my wife?" However, since the subject of wheelguns has come up, and refuses to go away, I will throw in that the Ruger SP-101 is my favorite snub, especially for inexperienced female shooters. The grip is a full size grip for "small girl hands."

[Dobbler]

Bought PM9 for myself. Wife didn't like it much. Added AGRIP. Wife liked it much better. Removed AGRIP, added Uncle Mike's grip wrap. Wife liked it even better.

Bought wife a MK9 Elite 2003. She loves it. Added Uncle Mike's grip wrap. Loves it even more.

That MK9 is one damn accurate little pistol. She can't tell the difference between Rangers in 124g +P and 147g. The Elite 2003 with the polished slide also adds a little "bling".

[BarkinDog]

Forget the Kahrs, get her a 642. It's reliable, and a good balance of size, weight and felt recoil. I have a PM40 but I wouldn't suggest any Kahr to someone who doesn't shoot much or as their primary CCW.

[Speed Draw]

Originally posted by Seabee
I decided on the MK9 for several reasons. First, it's smaller in both the slide length and the overall height. This makes it a lot easier to carry (especially for a female). It also has the extended mag which will allow a full size grip. If she wants to keep it in her mini van or if she has a large purse, this is a good way to get the extra round and grip size, but still have the option of being smaller for other ways of carrying.
Another vote for the MK9. I have a MK9 Elite '98. It is accurate, has mild recoil (due to weight), has a very light trigger, and has added versatility due to the shorter grip. If you need a K9 sized grip, just pop in the extended mag.

Regarding revolvers, I just picked up a S&W (pre-lock) 642-1 J-frame to replace my MK9 for primary carry, but... The trigger pull is VERY heavy. My wife is very small, 4'10", and I am pretty sure that she would have a hard time with it. Now I'm new to the airweights, but from what I understand, they require much more practice to shoot them well compared to heavier semi-autos.

My 2 cents.

[BackDraft]

I would go with either a
K9
CW9
P9
P9 Covert
MK9
PM9
In that order

[Mark in GA]

I found a local shop that had a CW9 in stock. My wife liked how it fit her hand and seemed well balanced. Based upon that I brokered a deal on a new P9 w/ night sights. I thought factory installed MEPROLIGHT sights would be good to have on a defensive piece.

I expect to pick it up next week.

Thanks guys for the advice.

Mark in GA

[Dobbler]

Originally posted by Mark in GA
I found a local shop that had a CW9 in stock. My wife liked how it fit her hand and seemed well balanced. Based upon that I brokered a deal on a new P9 w/ night sights. I thought factory installed MEPROLIGHT sights would be good to have on a defensive piece.

I expect to pick it up next week.

Thanks guys for the advice.

Mark in GA

Hmm... I thought you couldn't put night sights on a CW9.

[Mark in GA]

Right, you can't. We looked at a CW9, but I ordered a P9 which has the dovetailed front and rear sights.

Thanks,
MArk in GA

[BackDraft]

Might want to look at XS Big Dot sights for her also. My wife loves them and her hits on target are much improved since adding them.

[Dobbler]

Originally posted by Mark in GA
Right, you can't. We looked at a CW9, but I ordered a P9 which has the dovetailed front and rear sights.

Thanks,
MArk in GA

Ooops -- misread your post. Shouldn't be posting at 3am should I!

Nice choice on the P9.

[jpshaw]

I will recommend the P9. Thats more from my daughter then me. She says girls like them lighter but wants room for all her fingers. She actually carries a Glock 27 but has pierce +1 on all the mags for the pinky finger.