Kel-Tec PF-9 for backup HG...

[owenslee]

I normally carry a Mod 17 Glock for a CCW in a SERPA cross draw holster, however, there are times when the social situation or clothing does not allow a full size HG. After looking at a variety of small pocket guns at the SHOT show including the Ruger .380, and Kahr P40 I bought a Kel-Tec PF-9. I wanted something compact but capable of using at least a 9 x 19 round. I did not want a range pistol but rather an up close HG with adequate point and shoot combat accuracy.

In researching this model it appears that early on there were a number of teething problems that apparently have been eliminated with the last production weapons. Replacement of the plastic mag release with a metal one seems to be the only remaining modification left to accomplish. Although the trigger travel is long and not conducive to good target accuracy I consider it a safety measure as this double action pistol does not use an external safety.

Does anyone carry or have personal experience with the PF-9? Any suggestions on how to make this weapon more effective and reliable is appreciated. My choice of carry ammo is Corbon DPX but if there is a better round to consider...please advise.

Also any suggestions for an especially good pocket holster or inside the belt holster for this HG would be helpful.

Thanks.

Kerry

[ron169]

I cant speak of the PF9, but I do have a P3AT. I also did the research too and was glad that I waited to get a later model. The only problem I have had is a couple failure to feeds, but mostly I blame that on a weak grip when I fired. Is the PF-9 small enough to need the mag extension for better grip? Its almost a necessity with the P3AT

[owenslee]

Is the PF-9 small enough to need the mag extension for better grip? Its almost a necessity with the P3AT

Yes...for my size hand the extension is a help. With it the grip is surprisingly comfortable.

Kerry

[TackDriver68]

I do not personally own one, but I have several friends who do and I have put about 300 rounds thru them. One friend, who has one of the early models did have FTF problems that smoothed themselves out with a good trip to the range with 3 or 4 boxes of cheap ammo. The only other problem I know of was with another friends who needed to go back to the factory because of a weak spring not hitting primers hard enough to ignite on a variety of factory ammo. The Kel-Tec factory is less than 5 miles from my house.I cant wait to get my hands on a RFB .308.

I was actually thinking of getting the wife a P-32 for her birthday.

[rmcdermid]

Oops...sorry i didnt read where you said you already bought it.

[paulosantos]

Take a look at a kahr pm9. my buddy with the austin pd just picked one up for a backup and loves it. accurate little gun

That's what I carry off-duty in an ankle holster. Great little gun.

[nsnate02]

Really like the ones I've had. I'm one of those who never had problems with their KT's. They good thing about KT is if there is ever a problem just send it back it will be made right. Very good customer service. Excellent choice.

[owenslee]

Actually, I have been so impressed with this gun I now have four of them...three with lasers. Two with Crimson Trace and one with LaserLyte.

Did a complete fluff and buff on all four and lubricated with Slide Glide..and these little things are SLICK...!

And amazingly accurate with the lasers.

I installed Hogue Handall Jr grip covers trimmed to fit the crimson Trace button and they a GREAT CCW.

Only problems are the trigger is too pointed and has a seam down the center, but a little rework with some jewelers files and they are very comfortable now.

The other is that the length of pull for me is too short. The rear of the grip should be 1/2 further from the trigger for a clean entry of the finger into the trigger guard. But for a compact backup gun...it goes with the territory.

Still...I highly recommend them.

Kerry