by Chad Wallace October 25, 2025
Every once in a while, you run across a handgun that fits a need for you. The Kahr Arms X9 turned out to be one of those handguns for me. I was looking to replace my old Kahr CM9 carry pistol with something newer. The X9, with its higher capacity 10 round magazines, seemed like an obvious choice.
I have known about the new Kahr X9 pistol since 2024. However it was SHOT show 2025 when I was first able to hold one in person. I liked the design. Partially because it is a small sub-compact pistol that has a 10+1 round capacity, and because it has optics capabilities. I recently noticed that the X9’s were shipping, so I phoned a friend to see if I could get one. Now I am here, telling you what I think about the X9.
I had forgotten how small the X9 was. For reference, I carry my Kahr CM9 a bunch. The CM9 is tiny, so I expected the X9 to be larger. It really wasn’t. When you compare it to a Sig P365, the Kahr X9 is essentially the same size. The only exception is that the X9 has a longer slide and barrel, which I actually prefer. The X9’s dimensions are: Length – 6.125”, Height – 4.375” with the flush fit magazine, and a Width of 1”. It also doesn’t weigh much, clocking in at 17.6 ounces unloaded.