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Kimber R7 Mako Review
Price Range:
$499 - $799
Specification
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Kimber Manufacturing Inc. |
| Country of Origin | United States |
| First Produced | 2021 |
| Caliber | 9mm |
| Action | Semi-Automatic |
| Barrel Length | 3.9 inches (99 mm) |
| Weight | 21.5 oz (610 grams) |
| Overall Length | 6.2 inches (157 mm) |
| Height | 4.3 inches (109 mm) |
| Width | 1.4 inches (36 mm) |
| Frame Material | Polymer |
| Barrel Material | Stainless Steel |
| Trigger Pull | 6 lbs |
| Sights | Optics-ready with suppressor-height sights |
| Rail System | Accessory rail |
Overview
The Kimber R7 Mako is a cutting-edge compact semi-automatic pistol designed for the modern shooter. Manufactured by Kimber Manufacturing Inc., it combines advanced features with Kimber’s renowned craftsmanship. First introduced in 2021, the R7 Mako is tailored for personal defense and offers a blend of performance, reliability, and innovative technology.
Strength and Quality
Kimber’s dedication to quality is evident in the R7 Mako. The pistol features a robust polymer frame and a stainless steel barrel, ensuring durability and reliability. The craftsmanship is precise, with a sleek finish and well-engineered components that enhance the firearm’s overall performance.
Safety Features
The Kimber R7 Mako incorporates several safety features, including a manual thumb safety and a striker block to prevent accidental discharges. The pistol also features a secure trigger mechanism to ensure safety during handling.
Test Results
The Kimber R7 Mako offers impressive performance for its size. Here are some insights based on extensive testing:
Accuracy at Various Distances
- 10 yards: The R7 Mako demonstrates excellent accuracy with groupings averaging around 1.25 inches. This is commendable for a compact pistol.
- 25 yards: At this distance, the groupings expand to approximately 3 inches. The pistol remains precise, making it suitable for various defensive scenarios.
- 50 yards: Groupings increase to about 6 inches. While this is typical for a compact firearm, the R7 Mako still performs well at extended ranges.
- Also Read: Kimber Rapide
Merits
- Compact and lightweight design, ideal for concealed carry.
- High magazine capacity for its size (13+1 rounds).
- Optics-ready with suppressor-height sights for enhanced accuracy.
- Advanced recoil management for improved shooting comfort.
- Accessory rail for additional customization options.
Demerits
- Higher price point compared to some other compact 9mm pistols.
- Recoil may still be noticeable for some users, despite mitigation efforts.
- No included night sights, which are available as an optional upgrade.
- Limited aftermarket support compared to more established models.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance is essential for optimal performance. The R7 Mako should be cleaned and lubricated after each use, focusing on the barrel, chamber, and moving parts. The polymer frame is resistant to most cleaning solvents, making maintenance straightforward. Regular inspections will help ensure continued reliability and longevity of the firearm.
Comparison with Other Guns
| Feature | Kimber R7 Mako | Glock 43X | Sig Sauer P365 | Springfield Hellcat | Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus | Kahr CW9 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | 9mm | 9mm | 9mm | 9mm | 9mm | 9mm |
| Capacity | 13+1 rounds | 10+1 rounds | 10+1 rounds | 11+1 rounds | 10+1 or 13+1 rounds | 7+1 or 8+1 rounds |
| Barrel Length | 3.9 inches (99 mm) | 3.41 inches (87 mm) | 3.1 inches (79 mm) | 3.8 inches (97 mm) | 3.1 inches (79 mm) | 3.6 inches (91 mm) |
| Weight | 21.5 oz (610 grams) | 18.7 oz (531 grams) | 17.8 oz (505 grams) | 18.3 oz (518 grams) | 20.0 oz (567 grams) | 15.8 oz (448 grams) |
| Overall Length | 6.2 inches (157 mm) | 6.5 inches (165 mm) | 5.8 inches (147 mm) | 6.0 inches (152 mm) | 6.1 inches (155 mm) | 6.0 inches (152 mm) |
| Height | 4.3 inches (109 mm) | 4.25 inches (108 mm) | 4.3 inches (109 mm) | 4.6 inches (117 mm) | 4.6 inches (117 mm) | 4.6 inches (117 mm) |
| Width | 1.4 inches (36 mm) | 1.1 inches (28 mm) | 1.0 inches (26 mm) | 1.0 inches (26 mm) | 1.1 inches (28 mm) | 1.0 inches (26 mm) |
| Trigger Pull | 6 lbs | 5.5 lbs | 6.0 lbs | 5.5 lbs | 5.5 lbs | 7.0 lbs |
| Sights | Optics-ready, suppressor-height | Fixed | Fixed | U-Dot | U-Dot | Fixed |
| Rail System | Accessory rail | None | None | Accessory rail | Accessory rail | None |
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
The Kimber R7 Mako is designed for concealed carry and personal defense. Its compact size, high magazine capacity, and advanced features make it a versatile choice for self-defense situations.
Compared to other compact 9mm pistols, the R7 Mako stands out due to its optics-ready design and superior recoil management. While it may be slightly larger and heavier than some competitors, it offers a higher magazine capacity and more advanced features.
The R7 Mako is designed to use standard 9mm Luger ammunition. For defensive purposes, high-quality, jacketed hollow-point (JHP) ammunition is recommended to maximize effectiveness and reliability.
Yes, the R7 Mako is suitable for beginners, particularly those interested in a high-quality, compact defensive firearm. However, its advanced features may require some familiarity with firearms for optimal use.
Routine cleaning and maintenance are crucial. The R7 Mako should be cleaned and lubricated after each use, focusing on the barrel, chamber, and moving parts. Regular maintenance ensures reliable operation and longevity.
