GOT Carbon Fiber? The Kimber Carbon Compact Does

Published on October 9, 2024
Duration: 19:16

This review of the Kimber R7 Mako Carbon Compact highlights its features as a modern striker-fired pistol. The reviewer, with apparent expertise in firearms, details its carbon fiber reinforced polymer frame, 15+1 capacity, optics-ready slide, and True Glow sights. Emphasis is placed on its ergonomic enhancements like aggressive grip texture, interchangeable backstraps, and recoil reduction ledges, as well as its improved Browning lockup design for reduced barrel tilt and felt recoil. The review concludes with a discussion of its price point relative to aftermarket modifications.

Quick Summary

The Kimber R7 Mako Carbon Compact features a durable carbon fiber reinforced polymer frame, 15+1 capacity, and an optics-ready slide. It includes True Glow iron sights usable with optics, full ambidextrous controls, aggressive grip texture, and a factory magwell. Its improved Browning lockup design aims to reduce barrel tilt and felt recoil, making it a well-rounded modern striker-fired pistol.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Polymer Pistols
  2. 00:09Kimber R7 Mako Carbon Compact Introduction
  3. 00:30Key Features: Capacity, Optics Ready, Frame
  4. 00:49True Glow Sights & Optic Compatibility
  5. 01:00Ambidextrous Controls & Grip Texture
  6. 01:13Interchangeable Backstraps & Trigger Guard
  7. 01:32Recoil Reduction Ledges & Accessory Rail
  8. 01:56Factory Magwell Feature
  9. 02:03Slide to Barrel Interface: Boobits Design
  10. 02:33Benefits of Improved Lockup
  11. 02:56Range Testing & First Impressions
  12. 03:24Optic Height & Iron Sight Co-witness
  13. 03:48Control Placement & Ergonomics
  14. 04:11Trigger Performance
  15. 04:25Feel in Hand & Recoil Management
  16. 04:40Recoil Control Factors
  17. 05:49Importance of Muzzle Rise Reduction
  18. 06:27Close-Up Details & Trigger Gauge
  19. 06:37What's Included: Pistol & Accessories
  20. 07:41Magazine Compatibility
  21. 08:16Finer Details: Magwell, Texture, Undercuts
  22. 09:06Front of Trigger Guard Texture & Recoil Ledges
  23. 09:25Full Ambidextrous Controls
  24. 09:37Accessory Rail & Serrations
  25. 09:42Sights: Bold & Usable with Optic
  26. 10:04Threaded Barrel Option
  27. 10:07Closed Hood Design & Ejection Port
  28. 10:19Trigger Pull Analysis
  29. 10:45Trigger Gauge Measurements
  30. 11:59Average Trigger Pull Weight
  31. 12:09Fit in Hand & Grip Thickness
  32. 12:39Spec Sheet Overview
  33. 12:57Pros and Cons Discussion
  34. 13:06Pros: Feel, Framework, Sights
  35. 14:17Nitpicking: Magwell Stripping Cutouts
  36. 15:24Final Thoughts & Price
  37. 15:58Pricing Breakdown
  38. 16:34Price Comparison to Competitors
  39. 17:17Is It For You?
  40. 17:49Conclusion & Final Advice

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key features of the Kimber R7 Mako Carbon Compact?

The Kimber R7 Mako Carbon Compact boasts a carbon fiber reinforced polymer frame, 15+1 capacity, an optics-ready slide, True Glow iron sights usable with optics, full ambidextrous controls, aggressive grip texture, interchangeable backstraps, and a factory magwell. It also features an improved Browning lockup design for reduced barrel tilt.

How does the Kimber R7 Mako Carbon Compact handle recoil?

Recoil management is enhanced by its carbon fiber reinforced polymer frame, aggressive grip texture, double undercut trigger guard for a higher grip, and recoil reduction ledges on the front of the frame. The improved Browning lockup design also contributes to reduced barrel tilt and potentially less felt recoil.

What is the trigger like on the Kimber R7 Mako Carbon Compact?

The trigger is described as solid with minimal takeup, a firm and consistent break, and a tactile, responsive reset. Trigger pull weight measurements averaged around 4.43 lbs, which is considered good for a factory flat-face trigger on a striker-fired pistol.

What is the price range for the Kimber R7 Mako Carbon Compact?

The standard version of the Kimber R7 Mako Carbon Compact is priced around $735. The version with a tactical threaded barrel and optic is approximately $995. These prices are considered competitive given the factory-included features.

What makes the Kimber R7 Mako Carbon Compact's barrel lockup design unique?

It utilizes an improved Browning lockup design, sometimes called the Boobits design, where the barrel locks to the slide towards the rear of the hood instead of the front. This design aims to reduce barrel tilt during operation, potentially leading to less felt recoil and improved reliability.

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