Kahr MK-9 vs K-9

H

harrydog

New member
I know there are numerous Kahr threads here but the search function is down, plus I don't remember this exact subject being discussed.
I'm going to buy one of the steel Kahrs for concealed carry but just can't decide between the two models. There isn't a range near me that rents them so I can't try them out first.
Obviously the MK-9 is somewhat more concealable than the K-9, particulatly if you want a pocket carry gun. My main questions are, is there a significant difference in the way they shoot, ie, felt recoil, accuracy, etc.? Is the K-9 just too big for comfortable concealed carry when wearing minimal summer clothing? Finally, and I don't really expect anyone to know the answer to this, is the MK-9 as durable as the K-9? The K-9 was designed first and there is mention in their literature of testing a single example for 10,000 rounds. I wonder if that also applies to the MK-9 or are you giving up something for the size?
Thanks.
 
I just bought a mk9 elite. I have never shot the k9; but after shooting the mk9, I was surpized with its mildness and accuracy. I was worried about the recoil too. I am very happy with my selection;it also feels good in my hand.
good luck
 
I LOVE my K-9. Its accurate, feels good in the hand, and its a powderpuff to shoot. Ive got a Don Hume IWBH and the gun disappears under a XXL t-shirt. I dont think you can go wrong with the K-9 or the MK-9, it boils down to which YOU like best.
 
I have an MK9 Stainless Elite and a K9 Stainless Elite. Both are great guns, but have slightly different applications.

The K9 is too big to fit in a pocket. It's requires a belt holster of some sort. It's about as small and thin a gun as there is, so it conceals fine on your belt. But unless you are using a deep cover holster, you will need a cover garment.

In contrast, the MK9 will fit in a pocket. But it is a heavy little bugger, so you'd best have a good belt on and have a bit of waist (otherwise it'll pull your pants down :D ).

The K9 has very little recoil and is quite accurate. The MK9 has a bit more felt recoil, but is not objectionable. The MK9 has a stiffer recoil spring, so I would not recommend it for a woman because many (most?) of the women that I have taught would not be able to operate the slide. The MK9 is still pretty accurate, but the shorter sight radius does make it a bit tougher. The K9 offers a full grip, whereas the MK9 grip only fits two fingers -- my pinkie wraps under the magazine.

Decide how you want to carry. If you want to use pocket carry, get the MK9. If you are going to use a belt holster, then there's no question, get the K9. Either way, I recommend the Elite model, because of the shorter trigger pull.

M1911
 
M1911, what holsters have you used for them? Many here seem to like the Kramer pocket holster for the MK9. What about the K9? Any recommendations for a good IWB holster that is comfortable and does not print?
 
Harrydog,

I carry a K-40 Elite in a Milt Sparks Versa-Max II IWB holster and couldn't be happier with it.

Tom
 
harrydog:

I use a pocket holster from Rusty Sherrick for my MK9 http://www.c-rusty.com. I also have an IWB holster from him for my K9. I find his IWB holster to be reasonably comfortable. I also have a VersaMax II holster from Milt Sparks. The VersaMax II is nice in that you don't need a cover garment, but I find it be a bit less comfortable than Rusty's. But to be honest, most of the time these days I'm carrying my Kimber Compact in a Gochenour Extreme High Ride holster from Rusty.

All holsters will print if you move the wrong way. Both of the ones I've mentioned are reasonable. Whether or not they are comfortable for you depends upon your build and how tight your pants are.

M1911
 
Ditto M1911. I choose the MK9 over the K9 for concealability reasons. If I were to get a K9 it would be simply for fun. Otherwise, a next step above the MK9 is the Glock 19. That's the bottom line, size. Weight can be managed, but if it don't fit in your pocket, well it is too big and must ride on the belt. Once on the belt, you might as well go for capacity, and the G19, at about the same weight as the K9 will hold a lot more bullets.
 
Kahr will start shipping the new PM9 in May. At 14oz. this little baby is mighty appealing. I have a Kahr K9, one excellent pistol, but would like one smaller and lighter, this may be it.
 
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