P9 Cover or PM9?

[TMann]

I currently own two Kahrs: a P9 and a K9. Both of them are great shooters, and both have been very reliable. However, as the summer months are coming up, I've been thinking seriously of getting a PM9. I carry my gun at around 3:30 in an IWB holster, and the shorter grip of the PM9 will be somewhat easier to conceal under a light (possibly tucked) shirt.

So here's my dilemma: Do I sell the P9, and buy a PM9? Or should I get simply shorten the grip on the P9 to make it into a "P9 Covert?"

I've seen the directions for shortening a polymer Kahr grip and it shouldn't be that difficult if you measure carefully, go slow and shorten the grip only a bit at a time. From a cost point of view, it would be cheaper to shorten the grip on my P9 and buy a 6 round mag or two. If I sold the P9 to fund a new PM9, I'd probably want to spring for one of the newest batch with the "IAOXX" serial numbers. So I'd end up paying a couple hundred more for a new PM9. (At this moment, I don't have enough funds to go out and buy a new PM9 without selling the P9.)

The other issue is the handling and "shootability" of the two guns. Does the longer barrel and sight radius of the P9 Covert, out weigh the smaller size/weight of the PM9?

Any thoughts from you folks in the club? Is the PM9 really that much easier to conceal? Or should I just keep the P9 and enjoy it the way it is?

TMann

[natchezz]

Since you have the K9 too, I'd recommend you leave the P9 alone. Practicing with either retains the same grip feel. The PM9 is better than the P9 for pocket carry as it comes out faster. When carried IWB at 3:30 and driving, the PM9 is less noticible as the grip doesn't push into the seat as much (or any). I don't think carried IWB at 3:30 there is much concealibility difference. Because of the longer grip, I think the P9 is slightly easier to shoot - definately feels better in the hand and there is more to grab onto while drawing quickly from the IWB.

These are just the opinions of someone who owns both.

[Rick Poage]

i have a friend who has a covert that i sold him back when i could get them. ive shot the gun and i have a pm9 that has over 4000 rds through it that i shoot all the time. i really cant tell any difference in shooting the guns. ive shortened the grip for customers and thats easy to do. the shorter the grip, the more, in my opinon, you need to practice drawing from how ever you carry, theres just less to get hold of. i wouldnt, if i were you sell the p9.......regards rick

[user]

If you can afford to keep two, then sell the P9 and get a PM9; it is a whole lot easier - I call mine my "party gun", my kid calls it my "james bond gun". But if you can only afford to keep one, then I'd sell the K9 and keep the P9.

[natchezz]

I will add that I prefer to carry my poly Kahrs at 3:30 in my C.T.A.C. I bought the new PM9 first and later acquired the used P9. Had I bought the P9 first, I doubt I would have wanted a PM9. The reasons the P9 is my favorite are 1) allows for a full grip and more secure draw from concealment 2) I feel the barrel/slide/recoil spring setup on the P9 is more robust than the PM9.

On the other hand, I would probably trade my PM9 for a P9 Covert and be happy as a cat with a clean litterbox. :supergrin:

[mini14jac]

Don't know how your market is, but around here, the P9 would only be worth 300-400 where the PM9 would cost $600+.
So, if you can afford the difference, go for it.

If cash is a little tight, go for the grip shortening.
I've been thinking about doing it to my CW9, but don't have the nerve yet.

[p95loser]

Put that P9 on gunbroker and you will get more than 3-400... problably closer to 450-500.