Kimber recently introduced its newest handgun, the R7 Mako. The new pistol is a micro-compact 9 mm with 13+1 or 11+1 capacity, depending on flush fit or extended magazine.
The new R7 Mako features a slim, 1-inch profile with a crisp, flat-faced trigger and fully ambidextrous controls. The new handgun comes in two variants: the R7 Mako OR (optics ready) and the OI (optics installed). The optics-ready version comes with a pre-cut slide with cover plate, while the optics-installed version (featured in this review) comes with a Crimson Trace micro red dot. Either footprint fits either the CT-1500 or Shield RMSc red-dot optics.
The Crimson Trace red dot, as reviewed, features a 3-MOA dot with auto brightness adjustments and runs off a 2032 battery. The expected battery life is 20,000 hours, with movement-based auto on/off. The handgun also features Tru-Glo tritium Pro U-Notch sights and comes with two magazines (11 and 13 rounds).
The R7 Mako features a low-tilt barrel that is said to reduce felt recoil, while a generous trigger guard allows for gloved operation. The trigger is rated at 5-6.75 pounds from the factory. MSRP on the R7 Mako is $599 for the optics-ready version and $799 for the optics-installed version.
