My thoughts on the CM9
So, I FINALLY got my new CM9...I also purchased the LCP at the same time. The other night I was able to take it to a local range, and here are my impressions of both. This isn't an "expert" review by any means, just some of my thoughts.
KAHR CM9:
I LOVE the trigger and recoil on this gun! The trigger is a little longer but it didn't feel gritty, in fact, it felt buttery smooth. I've never fired a striker action pistol before, and it was a good experience. I happened to double-tap twice out of 100rds which happened in the beginning.
For the most part the gun felt natural to hold, but I don't like the fact that my pinky was hanging over the side...it felt a little awkward. I since got the extended magazine with pinky extension and it feels perfect!
I wish it was easier to take down...it would be perfect if it were like a Glock or Sig. It's not bad by any means, and it's certainly better than the LC9. Another thing I didn't like is the guide rod and springs when trying to reassemble. Maybe it's just me but it was frustrating trying to get it to line up, and push it far enough to catch without worrying about it slipping and spending the rest of the night looking for them.
I LOVE the machining and the looks of the gun, I might try polishing up the barrel a bit though. It's purely cosmetic, but the little scratches on the matte stainless just barely bug me enough to do something about it.
I was bothered at first by having to physically pull the magazine out, but I read there are fixes for that. I haven't shot it with the new magazine yet, which was my only "real" gripe about the gun. Overall my impressions are good!
By the way, out of the 100rds of el-cheapo Walmart FMJ I put down the pipe, this KAHR functioned flawlessly. Of course I read the prep and lube forums before firing...but I'm impressed!
RUGER LC9:
This isn't a Ruger forum, so I'm not going to discuss it too much. As much as I like this gun, I think I'm going to maybe trade it in for a decent wheel gun. I like the way it feels in my hand and that's about it. It's a decent shooter, but compared to the Kahr it "feels" snappier and less quality. The grips had a tendency to "dig" into my hand.
I like the sights a little better than the CM9's and I like that you don't need a "tool" to remove/adjust them.
I don't like the safety's at all! They can keep the internal locking mechanism but get rid of the rest! The magazine disconnect and thumb safety shouldn't be there!
I also don't like the way it breaks down...it's a hassle trying to get the thing apart. I like the design of the guide rod and springs better than Kahr's CM9 though.
Even though it was a little snappier the gun was spot on and 100% reliable out of the box. I wouldn't have a problem keeping it, in fact, it seems like a "utility" gun. A good firearm to have while working outside or construction...or any place its a little rough. The Kahr feels like a "dress" gun, I would wear going out to eat or maybe a professional/casual gathering.
I was equally accurate with both, but I think KAHR has a certain quality that's hard to explain. I never even thought twice about KAHR before this purchase, but they definitely have my vote in my next purchase!
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Originally Posted by mfldmike
