A casual observer of the Kimber Carbon Compact pistol could be forgiven for thinking that the name refers to the gun's carbon-black aesthetics. Although those are cool indeed, the gun's actually named for the carbon-fiber infused matrix that's used to build its polymer frame. It offers a superior strength ratio that withstands over double the impact force of standard firearms. Plus, the Carbon Fiber frame features a forward “Gas Pedal” or thumb rest for a thumb-forward shooting grip style.
The Carbon Compact is actually a redesign of its popular R7 Mako, upsized just a bit and feature-rich. With a slightly longer barrel than the R7 Mako (just under 4”, as compared to the 3.37” barrel on the original), the Carbon Compact's frame has also been extended a little to accept a 15-round extended magazine in a new flush-fit configuration. This results in an overall length of 7" and (unloaded) weight of 24.4 ozs, which is still well within the realm of easy concealed carry (CCW).
The pistol is also fully ambidextrous. It comes complete with four interchangeable backstraps so you can customize the fit to your hand, as well as two magazines. In this great video review from our friends at American Rifleman, you'll learn more from our expert testers about how the Carbon Compact performed on the range. MSRP $735; KimberAmerica.com.
