Kimber Introduces R7 Mako – Optic-Ready 9mm Micro-Compact
Eve Flanigan 08.24.21
Meet the R7 Mako. It’s a brand new, striker-fired concealment-ready micro-compact from Kimber. In the carry-size 9mm space, this one has all the features the modern gun carrier has come to expect. Jumping onto the bandwagon of making a 9mm that packs healthy capacity, Kimber packs 12 rounds into the flush-fit magazine; and 14 into the extended. Buyers get one of each with purchase, and a 10-rounder is in the works.
The trigger has a safety block, a familiar feature on many striker guns. Its pull is factory-set at 5.0 to 6.75 pounds. Kimber promises that the clean, short pull, break, and reset makes it feel much lighter. Under the trigger is an undercut guard for recoil control. Like many other new pistols, the R7 Mako comes with an optics plate, or buy it already equipped with a motion-activated Crimson Trace CTS 1500. The R7 Mako can be paired with any optic that uses the Shield mounting pattern, common to many micro-compacts today.
The iron sights include tritium for night-time visibility. The rear sight is designed to co-witness through the CTS 1500 in case of battery failure or preference. Kimber chose a Glock-compatible, two dot rear sight so users can change the rear sight if desired. Left-handed shooters were not left out in the cold, either. The ambidextrous magazine release is always in place. Kimber designed the mag release inside a molded area on the frame to prevent unintentional releases.
Kimber states its ejection port design, which is very small and closed at the top, is that way to protect the optic from flying debris. This could potentially hinder malfunction clearances especially in tight quarters. The gun is priced near the top end of the range for its class which is customary for the brand. Without an optic, the R7 Mako MSRP is $599, and factory-equipped with the CTS 1500 the MSRP is $789.
Specifications – Kimber R7 Mako
- Caliber: 9mm
- Height: 4.3″
- Length: 6.2″
- Width: 1.0″
- Weight (unloaded): 19.5 Oz.
- Capacity: 11+1, 13 +1 (2 mags included)
- Frame: Glass-filled Nylon and Stainless Steel Block
- Barrel: 3.37″ Stainless Steel with a 1:10 Twist
- Sights: TruGlo Tritium Pro Night Sights with Orange Front Ring and Rear White Dots (CTS 1500 optional)
- Trigger: 5.0 – 6.75 Lb.
- MSRP: $599 Optic-Ready | $789 Factory-Equipped with CTS 1500
