Kimber EVO SP Review: A Premium 9mm Built for Concealed Carry

The Kimber EVO SP is a subcompact 9mm striker-fired pistol engineered to deliver premium performance and craftsmanship in the concealed carry market.

Built on a machined aluminum frame with stainless steel slide, the EVO SP blends 1911-inspired ergonomics with modern defensive features. It holds 7+1 rounds, uses a 3.16-inch barrel, and weighs roughly 19 ounces unloaded. A smooth trigger, Tritium Pro night sights, and G10 grips elevate its handling, while its FNC black finish ensures durability and corrosion resistance.

Introduced as the successor to the Kimber Solo, the EVO SP is aimed at shooters seeking a refined, metal-framed carry gun with proven reliability and comfort for daily use.

Photo credits

What makes the Kimber EVO SP stand out in today’s concealed carry market?

The Kimber EVO SP was designed to prove that metal-framed pistols still have a place in a polymer-dominated world. Released around 2018, this compact 9mm is Kimber’s second major venture into striker-fired territory after the short-lived Kimber Solo.

With lessons learned from the Solo’s reliability issues, the EVO SP was engineered with tighter quality control, improved ergonomics, and more robust internal components.

Kimber’s reputation for high-end 1911 pistols carries over here—precision machining, hand finishing, and tight slide-to-frame fit distinguish the EVO SP from mass-produced competitors. It’s a pistol built for those who appreciate craftsmanship and control, not just capacity and cost.

This gun targets the concealed carry and EDC market, competing directly with the SIG P365, Glock 43, and Springfield Hellcat, but it takes a different approach—prioritizing feel, shootability, and design elegance over raw capacity.

What are the specifications of the Kimber EVO SP?

Core Technical Data

• Caliber: 9×19mm Parabellum (9mm Luger)

• Action: Striker-fired

• Magazine Capacity: 7+1 rounds (two magazines included)

• Barrel Length: 3.16 inches (80.3 mm)

• Overall Length: 6.1 inches (155 mm)

• Height: 4.03 inches (102 mm)

• Width: 1.06 inches (27 mm)

• Unloaded Weight: 19 ounces (539 g)

• Frame Material: Aluminum with polymer grip inserts

• Slide Material: Stainless steel with FNC black finish

• Sights: TRUGLO Tritium Pro night sights

• Safety Features: Striker block, trigger safety (no manual safety)

• Accessory Rail: Yes, for lights or lasers

• Manufacturer: Kimber Manufacturing, USA

• Released: 2018–2019

The EVO SP strikes a balance between durability and portability. Its metal frame absorbs recoil better than polymer counterparts, while its rounded slide edges prevent printing during concealed carry.

How is the design and build quality of the Kimber EVO SP?

Frame, Slide, and Construction

Kimber’s machining expertise shines in the EVO SP. The CNC-cut aluminum frame ensures rigidity without adding unnecessary bulk. The stainless steel slide features deep front and rear cocking serrations that are both functional and visually distinct. Its FNC (Ferritic Nitrocarburizing) finish protects against wear and corrosion while providing a satin-black look.

Ergonomics and Handling

The EVO SP feels surprisingly substantial for its size. Its G10 grip panels with TLE-style texturing and undercut trigger guard promote a secure, high hold that improves recoil control. The backstrap is replaceable, allowing shooters to adjust fit—something rarely seen on all-metal subcompacts.

The grip angle mimics the 1911’s natural point of aim, while the smooth contouring avoids snag points. The pistol’s profile exudes a premium, minimalist aesthetic that appeals to shooters who value design as much as function.

Controls and Safeties

Controls are minimal yet positive. There’s a low-profile slide stop, magazine release, and flat-faced trigger with integrated safety. Kimber deliberately omitted a manual thumb safety to reduce complexity and encourage intuitive defensive use.

Accessory Compatibility

Unlike many subcompacts, the EVO SP includes an accessory rail under the dust cover, allowing attachment of compact lights or lasers—an advantage over guns like the Glock 43 or Walther PPS M2.

What variants of the Kimber EVO SP are available?

Kimber launched several EVO SP variants to appeal to different shooters and aesthetics:

EVO SP (TLE)

Designed with a tactical look, featuring black G10 grips, matte black slide, and TRUGLO Tritium Pro sights—a favorite among law enforcement and defensive carriers.

EVO SP (CDP)

The Custom Defense Package variant features two-tone silver and black finishes, carry melt treatment, and a polished trigger for a refined EDC presentation.

EVO SP (CS Custom Shop)

A premium offering from Kimber’s Custom Shop, boasting enhanced trigger tuning, custom checkering, and bright stainless accents.

EVO SP (Raptor)

Introduces signature Raptor-style serrations and scaled grip textures, adding a visually distinct pattern while maintaining Kimber’s classic styling.

Comparisons with Competitors

Compared to the SIG Sauer P365, the EVO SP trades two rounds of capacity for a superior trigger and more solid metal feel.

Against theGlock 43, it offers better sights and finish but at a higher price. It also competes with the Springfield Hellcat, which offers more capacity but lacks the EVO’s premium aesthetic and tactile quality.

How does the Kimber EVO SP perform in real-world use?

Accuracy

For a pistol with a 3.16-inch barrel, accuracy is impressive. Most testers report 2-inch groups at 10 yards, tightening further with match-grade ammo like Federal HST or Speer Gold Dot 124gr. The Tritium night sights provide excellent sight alignment day or night, enhancing both precision and speed.

Recoil and Control

The aluminum frame dampens recoil significantly, making it more manageable than polymer competitors of similar weight. The EVO SP shoots flatter than expected for its size, allowing for quick, accurate follow-up shots.

Reliability

Owners report excellent reliability after a brief 100–150 round break-in. It runs cleanly on a range of ammo—FMJ, JHP, and +P defensive loads—with minimal issues. Occasional early feed hesitations are typically resolved through magazine spring break-in.

Trigger Feel

The trigger is crisp with a 5–6 lb. pull, a short take-up, and a predictable wall. The reset is tactile but slightly long. Still, it’s notably better than the average striker-fired subcompact.

What ammunition works best with the Kimber EVO SP?

Recommended Defensive Loads

• Federal HST 124gr +P – Excellent expansion and consistent cycling.

• Speer Gold Dot 124gr JHP – Smooth feeding and proven terminal ballistics.

• Hornady Critical Defense 115gr FTX – Reliable ignition, low flash, and tight groups.

Range and Training Ammo

• Blazer Brass 115gr FMJ

• Winchester White Box 124gr FMJ

• Remington UMC 115gr FMJ

The EVO SP’s precision chambering makes it compatible with nearly all commercial 9mm ammunition, though it performs best with higher-pressure defensive loads that fully cycle the slide.

Is the Kimber EVO SP suitable for different use cases?

Concealed Carry

Absolutely. The 6.1-inch overall length and rounded slide make it easy to conceal in appendix or IWB carry. Its solid metal frame adds a touch of weight that enhances shooting stability while still being comfortable for all-day carry.

Home Defense

Equipped with night sights, rail for lights, and a reliable trigger, the EVO SP doubles well as a home defense sidearm. Its low recoil and easy handling make it ideal for shooters seeking simplicity under stress.

Competition or Training

While not designed for competition, the EVO SP’s accuracy and balance make it a strong option for IDPA backup gun divisions or training drills.

Field or Recreational Use

Its robust construction and corrosion-resistant finish make it capable of withstanding regular carry in harsh environments.

What are the best holsters for the Kimber EVO SP?

Holsters for the Kimber EVO SP are designed to balance concealment, retention, and comfort. Each Kimber EVO SP holster below is made from durable Boltaron polymer for a consistent draw and long-lasting performance.

Cloak Tuck 3.5 IWB Holster

This inside-the-waistband design offers deep concealment and adjustable cant for comfort during everyday wear.

OWB Paddle Holster

Ideal for quick attachment or removal, allowing versatile range or field use without a permanent belt setup.

What are the pros and cons of the Kimber EVO SP?

Pros

• Exceptional build quality and materials for a subcompact

• All-metal frame enhances stability and recoil control

• Crisp, clean trigger with short travel

• Excellent TRUGLO night sights included standard

• Accessory rail adds tactical flexibility

• Comfortable, natural grip geometry reminiscent of a 1911

• Aesthetically premium design with multiple finish options

Cons

• Higher price point than polymer competitors

• Slightly long trigger reset for rapid-fire users

• Limited magazine capacity (7+1)

• Aftermarket support not as robust as Glock or SIG

• Break-in period recommended for optimal reliability

What’s the final verdict on the Kimber EVO SP?

The Kimber EVO SP is a premium subcompact 9mm that succeeds where the company’s previous striker-fired efforts stumbled. It’s refined, reliable, and remarkably shootable for its size—a gun that appeals to discerning shooters who demand both performance and craftsmanship.

While its price and capacity may turn off some buyers, those who value metal construction, superb trigger feel, and premium ergonomics will find the EVO SP to be one of the most satisfying carry guns in the market.

For concealed carriers who appreciate the balance of 1911-style handling with striker-fired simplicity, the EVO SP delivers in both feel and function.