As you may have read from previous articles, I prefer full sized pistols. Who wouldn't? The accuracy, hand feel, and reduction in recoil is unmatched. I found myself delving into the compact/micro side of things when I purchased my G48. That was as small as I could ever see myself carrying. That was until I found a Kimber Micro 9 on sale. I sure am a sucker for an all black 1911!
The first impressions were, "Damn, this is pretty small." It still holds true, this sure is a micro gun. I was hesitant about purchasing this gun because I know micro 9's are snappy little bitches but I felt this could be different as it is a 1911 and the brand is synonymous with well built guns. I sure am glad I took a chance!
The Micro 9 was wanting in terms of grip, so a Hogue over-molded grip is coming to the rescue. I have to say, even without the grip, the gun is easy to hang on to and it is not near as snappy as I believed it would be. My girlfriend weights all of 106 lbs and she thought this gun was not only manageable but very fun to shoot. I would have to agree. This gun shoots way above its category. It could almost pass as a midsize if it didn't look so damn small in your hands. (bet you've heard that one other time) The accuracy was incredible for a 3 inch barrel. I could stretch this gun out to 25 yards without feeling like I was struggling to stay on target.
The capacity is the only downside I can find with this gun. 7+1 isn't anything to write home about. There are higher capacity options in terms of aftermarket magazines and extension plates but I do not care much for modifying an OEM magazine, risking reliability just for a few extra rounds. 10 rounds is great but if it continuously jams then you might as well have a 3 round mag. The grip was fine but I opted to get a Hogue grip to add some width as well as finger grooves.
All in all, I am glad I made this purchase. I think this would make a great carry option if you need something you can conceal easily, maybe even a backup carry gun to carry on the ankle. I will continue to shoot this gun to see if I find any points of failure. I have an upgraded recoil spring on the way which should reduce the felt recoil even more. Video review and updates on that will be coming shortly. In the meantime, get out and shoot.