Kel Tec PF-9 Review

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Kel Tec PF-9

What comes to mind thinking of someone combining a P-11 and a P-3AT? Surely not some ghastly images of a mad firearm engineer at work!? Well Kel Tec had been at work and came up with the PF-9 that retains the best features from the P-11 and P-3AT pistols. The result is the flattest and lightest single stack 9mm configuration ever made.

What has been adopted? Well, from the P-11, the barrel, the locking system, the slide stop, the assembly pin, front sight, recoil springs and guide rod. Furthermore, the PF-9 has the same length and height as well as shared exterior controls. But, wait, doesn't that make the new PF-9 nearly identical to the P-11?

Well, Yes and No..

No, because the PF-9 adopts the shorter trigger system with integral hammer block and the extraction system are from the P-3AT. This means that just like the P-11, the PF-9 will accept the almighty +P ammunition.

Anything really new in there? Since you asked, Kel Tec thought there was a need for some further Kal Tec innovation and so.. The rear sight has a new design and is adjustable for windage as well as elevation. Under the muzzle and at the frame's forefront is the MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny one point rail for rapid deployment of tactical equipment and other aftermarket accessories.

In more traditional terms, the PF-9 is s a polymer-frame, hammer-fired DAO auto. The trigger is a true DAO that operates an exposed hammer. The PF-9's trigger has a long, smooth stroke that reminds one of a J-frame revolver but without the stacking and trigger weight.

The PF-9 is devoid of any external safeties, except if you consider the slide catch locks the slide open when the last shot is fired. The lone internal safety is there to prevent accidental discharge- until and unless the trigger is completely pulled nothing is leaving that chamber.

Ergonomically, the slim grip frame of the PF-9 is textured for positive traction and is long enough to provide a true two-finger grip. The slide has beveled corners making it fit for a snag free conceal carry weapon.

In the end choosing a concealed-carry pistol always involves reaching the right balance between its size against its caliber. The PF-9 does just that. Chambered for the popular +P 9mm cartridge, the PF-9 is capable of harnessing enough power to cause a malfunction in an adversary's heart valves, and follow it with an explosive rapid fire session, a job well done. PF-9's thin profile and light weight make it compact enough for pocket, inside-the-waistband (IWB) and ankle carry. The trigger and sights are excellent for a pocket gun, and it's priced to fit most budgets.

Even though a competitive variety of 9mm pocket rockets are available these days, the PF-9 proves itself to be amongst the top contenders on the list.

Model: PF-9
Action: DAO
Caliber: 9mm
Overall Length: 5.85"
Overall Height: 4.30"
Overall Width: 0.88"
Barrel Length: 3.10"
Sights: 3-Dot
Capacity: 7 + 1
Weight: 12.70 oz.