Kahr PM9

Larry Potterfield • January 03, 2018

It's a powerhouse of a pocket pistol. While similar in size to many of the popular 380s dominating today's market, the small, polymer-framed Kahr PM9 semi-auto weighs less than 16 ounces and features a six-round magazine. I've taken it to the range to see how it rates in three important areas.

There are three factors I take into consideration when evaluating a concealed carry handgun; Time to First Hit, Accuracy and Knockdown Factor. Each one of these is of vital importance if you find yourself in a defensive situation. MidwayUSA has created a scoring system that helps shooters compare concealed carry handguns based on these three factors.

First, how long does it take to fire the first shot on target using only one hand?

Kahr PM9 Time to First Hit Score: 420
Kahr PM9 Time to First Hit Score: 420

Next, how important is accuracy? Extremely. I'm shooting a paper plate at 20 feet. After the first hit, how many additional hits can I put on target using only one hand? Only hits will increase the score.

Kahr PM9 Accuracy Score: 60
Kahr PM9 Accuracy Score: 60

The third criteria is knockdown factor. Knockdown factor is the ability of the cartridge to knock down an assailant with one well-placed shot. So how does the Kahr PM9 rate in knockdown factor? Not too bad.

Kahr PM9 Knockdown Factor Score: 288
Kahr PM9 Knockdown Factor Score: 288

So, there you have it, the Kahr PM9. It rates pretty well as a concealed carry handgun in three important areas.

Kahr PM9 Personal Defense Score: 768/1000
Kahr PM9 Personal Defense Score: 768/1000

--Larry Potterfield