"Up" or "down," it has a place. Depends on your goals. If you want rock-solid performance and don't mind the heavier weight, the K9 is great. The "P" series changes the ergonomics a bit, and they're lighter. The PM9 is quite a bit smaller. I've loved the shape of the K9's grip for years, have had a PM9, and have a CW9. I think the PM9 is the package to beat, in terms of overall features for a concealable, pocket-sized 9mm.Slightly off topic... what do you guys think of the Kahr CW? It's a lot cheaper than the P or PM series, do you wish you upgraded? I was considering getting one.
The CW series uses conventional rifling instead of polygonal, front sight isn't dovetailed, there's a little less machining on the slide, and the lettering isn't as nicely done. For the intended purpose of this gun, I consider the savings worth it. If I had the extra money, sure, I'd spring for the P9, but I'm quite happy with the CW9.Slightly off topic... what do you guys think of the Kahr CW? It's a lot cheaper than the P or PM series, do you wish you upgraded? I was considering getting one.
There is no compromise on quality here at all, the CW series just does not have as many features like polygonal rifling, front sight is pinned not dovetailed, and less machining on the slide and it has a MIM slide stop. The quality is exactly the same as with other Kahr handguns just a few less featuers, hince the lower price. I love my CW Kahr just like I love my PM9.Sounds like you guys think the CW9 is a good compromise between quality and price. My local gun shop dosen't have one for me to look at, let alone shoot, so your input is greatly appreciated. I do love the small package of the Kahar.
I approached my first Kahr exactly the same way. Had no worries about the polymer side of it, I have owned a Glock 23 for years, but The pistol just felt tight as Hell and wasn't sure about the function. After my first range session, I would recommend this pistol to any experienced shooter. I say that only because, due to the tight tolerances associated with the design, it can be a little finicky during the break-in. As a first pistol for SD, some might find it a little difficult to operate during the break-in period. Best $400 and change I have spent on a pistol ever.:hand10:I have a CW9 and really like it... I bought mine as a experiment, I wasn't sure if I'd like the Kahr's so I didn't want to spend alot of money. It has become one of my favorites.
In practical terms, the polygonal barrel offers a better bullet to barrel seal, therefore allowing less propellant gas blow by. This means higher pressures pushing the bullet... this translates to higher bullet velocity, and more velocity equals more power/ penetration for the any given round.By the way, what good is the polygonal rifling over standard?
My CW9 experience was not great. After about 1000 rounds and several attempts to correct problems said:Ouch, that stinks, happens with all ammo? What is the expected service life of these guns, anyone know? I like to shoot my ccw often (shouldn't everybody?). I have heard some cc guns are pathetically low, like extremely light S&W revolvers in .357