Kahr’s lightweight compact 9mm PM9-series pistols borrow their heritage from Kahr’s other successful polymer pistols, a collection of single-strike, DAO (Double-Action Only), recoil operated semi-autos chambered for various cartridges
The Kahr action is a Browning locked-breech design featuring a striker-operated firing pin with a passive firing pin safety, making it a true hammerless action. It is similar in principle to the action design of Glock pistols, though very different in execution. It also allows the firing pin block to be located further to the rear of the slide and therefore further from possible contamination by combustion gases and powder fouling. For this innovation, company owner Justin Moon received of of the five patents he owns on the Kahr pistol design. This system is employed on all Kahr pistols, regardless of frame material, size or caliber.
The PM9193 has a magazine capacity of seven rounds, for a total capacity of eight with the extended magazine, or one less round with the magazine that is flush with the bottom of the magazine well. It weighs 17.1 ounces unloaded, and 20 ounces with the 7-round magazine fully loaded. It measures 4.75 inches tall with the 7-round magazine, or almost 3/4-inch smaller with the optional 6-round magazine in place. Its trim 1-inch width and 5 1/2-inch length house a 2.9-inch barrel. The barrel incorporates 1:10 right-hand twist polygonal rifling. As with the PM9 models, the PM 9193’s Nylon frame mates well with its steel slide, and corners are radiused to prevent snags during use.
Frame Details
Kahr pistol frame design positions the shooting hand as close to the center line of the bore as possible, which provides greater control and a perceived reduction in recoil. Two steel inserts located in the top rear of the frame act as guides for the slide. Two thinner inner rails run along the inside of the frame to act as guides for the slide as it recoils.
The front strap and back strap employ molded checkering, and grip faces feature molded stippling, like other PM9s. The trigger transfer bar lies in a channel along the inside left of the frame.
Even carried without a holster, the PM9’s compact size easily fits in a jeans pocket. As with many firearms, after putting a few hundred rounds down range to break it in, this weapon’s size and firepower make it a recommendable carry gun.