Kel-Tec PF9 Gun Review

Am Shooting Journal | 2/15/2019 | J Dickson

[w1n1]

Small, lightweight polymer-framed pistols that have only a double-action trigger for a safety have become popular, and I consider the Kel-Tec PF9 to be among the best. It is smaller and lighter than a Walther PPK but more powerful, as it shoots the 9mm Luger cartridge. At 14.5 ounces and .880 inch thick by 5¾ inches long and 4¼ inches high, this gun is a true pocket pistol.
It rides easily inside the pocket of an El Paso Saddlery “Pocket Max” holster, which keeps it in a constant position for fast draw from the pocket, as well as breaks up the outline of the gun and protects it from the dirt and lint that accumulate in pockets. It is noticeably smaller and lighter than the old Colt and Savage pocket pistols that set the standard for pocket automatic pistols in the first part of the 20th Century.

The PF9 was designed by George Kelgren, president and owner of the company. He did a good job creating a gun that is just the right size and weight for pocket carry. Smaller guns tend to get lost in the pocket, while bigger and heavier guns show their outline more, as the weight also makes that pocket want to swing a bit noticeably.

Of course at this size and weight it does have a sharp recoil, but not excessive. My wife Betty had no complaints or problems firing it and I don’t think anyone ever will have a valid one. Guns like this are meant to be fired at muzzle ranges out to about 20 feet.
While this gun gave good results fired off sandbags at 25 yards, the average gunfight is normally within a few yards and this gun is intended to place all its shots in an attacker’s vitals at close range, not make tight groups in paper targets. Read the rest of this Kel Tec PF9 Review.

[sarge83]

I have the PF9 and mine has been flawless but it does have a nice recoil to it and no external safety so rule #4 finger off the trigger until ready to fire is paramount.

I had a friend who had one that the magazine would not stay inserted no matter what and he sold it to me for $100. I researched and found out that the early PF9’s had a plastic magazine catch. I called the company and they sent me a metal one for free. I popped it in and it has ran flawlessly since.

I have carried a P32 with a hard chrome slide for 18 yrs and after an initial fluff and buff it has been 100% reliable. Some people have got lemons with Keltec’s but so far mine have been fine.

[Do_Tar]

I have a P11. For me the “trick” is to add the extended magazine plate with the little hook on it. It ads just enough length to the grip to prevent limp wrist.

[Do_Tar]

> after an initial fluff and buff...

That’s what I found as well. My P11 doesn’t have the fancy touches of some other brands. Things like internal machining marks and lack of spit and polish. However after the fluff and buff, I trust it with my life.

I guess some people should just pay the extra 30% or more and get a work of art.

[TheZMan]

*nod* The larger frames are way more forgiving.

[TheZMan]

I tried the hook attachment briefly, but my hand was too big to comfortably fit within the remaining space. It subsequently made quick pulls more complicated, so I went without it.