I just made my first post on the site to a Kahr thread. Thought I'd add it here too for what it's worth:
New member here. As a matter of fact, this is my 1st post. I've been shooting since I was a young kid growing up in rural Mississippi. Served in the U.S. Army & Coast Guard. I've had my CCW permit for 5+ years but have never felt need to carry outside of the home or automobile.
A recent incident convinced me to carry ALL THE TIME. (See rule #1 of a gunfight - HAVE A GUN)
I wanted something that I would carry without excuse. Holsters and changing the way I dress was just not an option as I knew it could get old, fast. I wanted a gun I could put in my pocket, period.
After a ton of research, mainly on this site, I narrowed it down between a Kahr PM9 and S&W J Frame. I've always been a revolver fan but I do own several semi-autos and count on a "Plastic" gun for HD (HK USP 45 Full Size). After over a thousand rounds with little cleaning, I really trust the HK to do it's job.
Anyway, back on topic, I wanted a Kahr but chose a S&W after shooting a Kahr PM at my local gun range recently. A stranger walked in while I was in the midst of my dilemma and he was carrying a Kahr PM9. I asked if I could shoot it and he said no problem.
He told me that if I did decide to buy one, to expect problems during the first 200 or so rounds but that after that, it should be fine (like his was supposed to be). What a jam-o-matic. He blamed it on the ammo. After shooting his PM9, I borrowed a range rental that was filthy. Probably had not been cleaned in well over a thousand rounds. (S&W / Walther 99 I think)
Same ammo. 50 rounds. Not a hiccup. Made up my mind right away. Told the range to order me a S&W 638 that night. Got it. Put a set of Crimson Trace laser grips on it and couldn't be more tickled!
Never used lasers before. First trip to the range, thought they may be more of a hindrance than a help. Found out later that aiming at a bullseye vs. a point on a silhouette is two totally different things. Must be mental. When aiming the bullseye, you want to hit dead center. When aiming at a part of the body, you just want to get close.
At 21 feet, 5 rounds, rapid fire as fast as I could pull the IMO heavy S&W trigger, all double action...5 out of 5 in the head. Same for center mass. Same for the gut region.
Nothing against the Kahr. Pined over them again at a local gun show today as a matter of fact but, when it's truly a matter of life or death for me and / or others, it's gotta go bang EVERY time PERIOD.
Although I can shoot very well, after all my time in the service I am very aware that when the SHTF everything changes and I'll take any advantage I can get. Besides the reliability, the laser option and actual proving of the concept sealed the deal for me.
Still want a Kahr PM9 and to be a member of yall's club but, just couldn't choose it first over the S&W J Frame and glad I didn't.
Only one humble man's opinion. Take it with a pound of salt as you have no way of knowing what it's worth since you don't know ME.
