Review: Kimber K6 .357 Magnum Revolver

    Since Kimber announced it’s first foray into the world of revolvers I’ve been trying to get one shipped to me for a review. After a long wait I received one a few weeks ago. This was The standard K6 stainless model. It shipped with some extras namely a belt holster as well as a cnc machined stainless desk ornament for lack of a better term. This desk ornament was machined to hold two Kimber stainless speedloaders. One stainless speedloader was also included.

    After waiting for some time I was ready to get to the range and try this little revolver out. I took a sampling of 38 special, 38 special +P as well as a favorite carry load of the Federal 357 125 grn JHP. During my testing I fond all of the 38 and 38+P loads to be pleasant to shoot with follow up shots quick and easy. On the other end of the spectrum the Federal 357, known to be a hot load even for a 357, was not terribly enjoyable to shoot from the Kimber. After firing forty or so rounds of 357 I started getting a blister on the web of my right hand. I wouldn’t call it painful to shoot but not something I’d want to do all the time. I would prefer to practice with 38+P and leave the 357 for carry.

    Even though the Kimber K6 is very close in size to a S&W J frame the K6 holds six rounds. The cylinder lockup is stout with a dual lockup both front and back. The most outstanding feature of the K6 is the trigger pull. It just has a wonderful trigger pull. There is no stacking just a consistent pull all the way through the stroke. The trigger pull measured 9.9 pounds on my gauge which surprised me since it actually felt lighter than that. The trigger pull is just very smooth start to finish. It’s the best trigger I’ve felt on a stock revolver in many years.

    Accuracy was about what you would expect for a revolver with a 1.9 inch barrel. From the distances the K6 would be used from hitting your target is not a problem at all. I seldom used the sights but should you be a shooter who always uses the sights they are large enough to be very effective.

    The MSRP for this model is right at $900.00. I would imagine the street price will be around $830–$850. To sum things up this is a well made very nice concealed carry or backup revolver for any shooter. Recently Kimber added four additional models of the K6. These can be viewed here.

    The Kimber K6 has started shipping in quantity now so you should start seeing them in your local gunshop pretty soon.

    From Kimber:

    KIMBER HAS EVOLVED THE REVOLVER

    The K6s™ revolver brings an unmatched level of performance and shootability to concealed carry.

    With the smallest cylinder capable of holding 6 rounds of .357 Magnum (also compatible with .38 Special), K6s compact revolvers are ideal for back-up, concealed carry and home defense.

    The Kimber K6s’ small frame, two-inch barrel and 1.39 inch diameter cylinder are machined from the finest stainless steel for superior integrity, strength, and resistance to the elements. The Kimber K6s offers other important design features, such as: a smooth match-grade trigger that creates confidence while helps ensure accuracy; an internal hammer and edges that are rounded and blended to help prevent a hang up when the revolver is removed from concealment; superior ergonomics and grip design that creates an extremely shooter-friendly experience; and an all stainless steel construction weighing in at 23 ounces.

    For those who require a small package with mild recoil, K6s provides the power needed for concealed carry, home protection and many other applications. Best of all, they offer unequaled Kimber quality, dependability and performance.

    Let Kimber re-introduce you to the revolver.

    Phil White

    Retired police officer with 30 years of service. Firearms instructor and SRU team member. I still instruct with local agencies. My daily carry pistol is the tried and true 1911. I’m retired as associate editor since December 14th 2017. My replacement is my friend Pete M email: pete.m@staff.thefirearmblog.com you can reach Pete for product reviews etc.


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