KIMBER R7 MAKO

The R7 MAKO is Kimber’s first polymer-framed, striker-fired, high-capacity, subcompact handgun. Designed to compete with the best, the R7 MAKO is outfitted with today’s most desired features providing superior out-of-the-box performance. The R7 MAKO family comes standard with high contrast TruGlo Tritium Pro night sights, ambidextrous controls, and a flat-faced trigger. The optic ready (OR) model comes with its slide milled to accept micro red dot optics.

CALIBERS

9 mm

SPECIFICATIONS

Height (inches) 90° to barrel: 4.3
Weight (ounces) without magazine: 19.5
Length (inches): 6.20
Magazine capacity: 11 Round Standard, 12 Round Extended and 10 Round Flush
Captured Recoil Spring Assembly

FRAME

Material: Polymer with serialized steel central block
Finish: Molded Stippling
Width (inches): 1.0 at grip

SLIDE

Material: Stainless
Finish: FNC

BARREL

Length (inches): 3.37
Material: Stainless
Twist rate (left hand): 1:10 Left

SIGHTS

Iron Sights: 3-Dot TruGlo Tritium Pro Night Sights w/ Orange front ring and White rear rings

TRIGGER

Trigger Safety
Factory setting (approximate pounds): 5.5 – 6.75

Kimber R7 Mako — High-Capacity Micro-Compact, Precision Built

KIMBER R7 MAKO

The Kimber R7 Mako is Kimber’s modern answer to the micro-compact 9mm category—engineered for concealed carry with high capacity, excellent ergonomics, and optics-ready capability in a remarkably small footprint. It blends Kimber’s reputation for precision with contemporary carry features: aggressive grip texture, crisp striker trigger, and an RMSc-pattern optic cut from the factory.

If you’re researching whether the Kimber R7 Mako is a good gun, whether it has a safety, when it came out, where it’s made, and whether Kimber pistols are worth the money, this guide delivers a

What Is the Kimber R7 Mako?

Micro-compact, striker-fired 9mm pistol
Optics-ready slide (RMSc footprint)
High-capacity flush and extended magazines
Deeply textured grip for control in a small frame
Designed specifically for concealed carry performance

The R7 Mako is not a scaled-down duty pistol—it was purpose-built for the micro-compact class from the start.

When Did the Kimber R7 Mako Come Out?

The Kimber R7 Mako was introduced in 2022, marking Kimber’s entry into the modern micro-compact, optics-ready market segment.

Is the Kimber R7 Mako a Good Gun?

For its intended role—concealed carry with shootability—yes. Owners and reviewers commonly highlight:

Comfortable recoil for its size
Excellent grip traction
Clean, consistent trigger break
Practical accuracy at defensive distances
Optics-ready capability without aftermarket milling

Does the Kimber R7 Mako Have a Safety?

Yes—internally.

The R7 Mako uses passive internal safeties typical of striker-fired pistols:

Trigger safety
Firing pin safety
Drop safety

Does the Kimber R7 Mako Have a Manual Safety?

Some versions are offered with an optional ambidextrous manual thumb safety, while others are without it. Buyers can choose the configuration that matches their preference.

Where Is the Kimber R7 Mako Made?

Kimber manufactures the R7 Mako in the United States at its facilities in Troy, Alabama.

Grip and Ergonomics: The Standout Feature

KIMBER R7 MAKO

The grip texture is one of the most praised elements of the R7 Mako:

Deep, wraparound stippling for control
Natural point of aim
Secure purchase during recoil
Comfortable trigger reach for smaller hands

This texture helps the pistol feel more controllable than many pistols in its size class.

Optics-Ready From the Factory

The slide is cut for RMSc-pattern micro red dots, allowing direct mounting without adapter plates for many popular optics. This is a major advantage for concealed carriers who prefer red dots.

Magazine Capacity and Options

Flush-fit magazine for maximum concealment
Extended magazine for added capacity and grip length
Steel magazines with durable construction

This balance allows users to tailor the pistol for concealment or shootability.

Shooting Experience

KIMBER R7 MAKO

Despite its small size, the R7 Mako is known for:

Manageable recoil impulse
Fast follow-up shots
Predictable muzzle behavior
Practical defensive accuracy

Is Kimber Worth the Money?

Kimber has long been associated with premium 1911 pistols and precision manufacturing. With the R7 Mako, that attention to detail translates into:

High build quality
Thoughtful ergonomics
Modern feature set
Strong reliability record

For many buyers, the combination justifies the price point in the micro-compact category.

Does Kimber Make Good Pistols?

Kimber is best known for its 1911 platform pistols but has expanded into modern striker-fired designs with the R7 Mako. The company’s reputation for fit, finish, and accuracy carries into this model.

Does Kimber Make Rifles?

Yes. Kimber also produces high-quality hunting rifles, though the R7 Mako is part of their handgun lineup.

Reliability and Durability

The R7 Mako has built a reputation for dependable operation with quality 9mm ammunition when properly maintained, aided by:

Robust recoil system
Quality internal components
Durable slide finish

Maintenance and Field Stripping

Simple takedown procedure allows for:

Easy cleaning
Minimal lubrication points
Quick maintenance routine

Ideal Use Cases

The Kimber R7 Mako excels for:

Everyday concealed carry
Appendix carry due to slim profile
Optics-equipped defensive setups
Shooters wanting maximum grip control in a micro gun

Concealment Performance

KIMBER R7 MAKO

Its dimensions make it easy to conceal while still offering enough grip for confident control.

Trigger Characteristics

Crisp break
Short, tactile reset
Consistent pull weight

These traits contribute to accuracy and shooter confidence.

Who Should Choose the Kimber R7 Mako?

Concealed carriers wanting optics-ready capability
Shooters who value aggressive grip texture
Those wanting high capacity in a micro-compact frame
Buyers seeking Kimber quality in a modern platform

Practical Ownership Experience

Owners often report:

Comfortable all-day carry
Excellent grip security under recoil
Confidence in reliability
Easy adaptation from larger striker-fired pistols

Final Thoughts on the Kimber R7 Mako

Micro-compact 9mm striker-fired pistol
Introduced in 2022
Made in Troy, Alabama, USA
Available with or without manual safety
Optics-ready RMSc slide cut
Exceptional grip texture and ergonomics
High capacity for its size
Known for reliability and shootability

The Kimber R7 Mako delivers a rare combination in the micro-compact class: capacity, control, optics readiness, and premium build quality—all in a pistol designed from the ground up for serious concealed carry.

is kimber r7 mako a good gun

KIMBER R7 MAKO