Kimber K6S Review: The Modern .357 Revolver for Concealed Carry

The Kimber K6S is a double-action revolver chambered in .357 Magnum and also compatible with .38 Special ammunition, offering an ideal balance between stopping power and concealability.

Built on a forged stainless-steel frame with recessed chambers and a six-round capacity, the K6S distinguishes itself as one of the smallest six-shot .357 Magnum revolvers on the market. With a smooth 9.8-pound trigger, beveled contours, and a snag-free design, it’s a premium choice for concealed carry or backup duty use.

Available in2-inch and 3-inch barrel variants, the K6S line delivers exceptional craftsmanship, a modernized revolver aesthetic, and the kind of reliability Kimber is known for.

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What is the Kimber K6S and why does it matter in the modern revolver world?

The Kimber K6S was introduced in the mid-2010s, marking Kimber’s ambitious entry into the revolver market—a bold move for a manufacturer renowned for its 1911 pistols. Designed for the concealed carry and defensive revolver market, the K6S set out to combine the classic wheelgun appeal with modern machining, improved ergonomics, and superior trigger engineering.

Kimber’s goal was simple: create a .357 Magnum revolver small enough to conceal, durable enough to handle full-power loads, and refined enough for enthusiasts who demand precision.

The result was a revolver that immediately drew comparisons to legends like the Smith & Wesson Model 60, Colt King Cobra, and Ruger SP101, yet carved its own identity with stainless steel construction, six-round capacity, and a trigger that rivals custom-tuned actions.

What are the specifications of the Kimber K6S?

Core Technical Data

• Caliber: .357 Magnum / .38 Special

• Action: Double Action / Single Action (varies by model)

• Capacity: 6 rounds

• Barrel Lengths: 2-inch and 3-inch variants

• Overall Length: 6.6 inches (2-inch model)

• Height: 4.45 inches

• Width: 1.39 inches

• Weight (unloaded): ~23 ounces (652 grams)

• Frame Material: Forged stainless steel (not aluminum)

• Cylinder: Stainless steel, recessed chambers

• Finish: Brushed stainless or DLC coating depending on variant

• Sights: Fixed low-profile or dovetail tritium night sights

• Grips: Textured G10 or rubber overmold

• Safety: Internal safety mechanisms, no external manual safety

• Manufacturer: Kimber Manufacturing, USA

This configuration makes the K6S one of the most powerful and compact carry revolvers available—maintaining the six-shot capacity that many competitors sacrifice for size.

How is the Kimber K6S built and what’s unique about its design?

Frame and Construction

The K6S is machined from solid stainless steel, giving it exceptional strength for continuous use with full-power .357 Magnum loads.

The cylinder isfluted and beveled, reducing weight while maintaining durability. Kimber also engineered the cylinder to sit as close as possible to the frame, minimizing bulk and improving concealability.

Ergonomics and Grip

The revolver’s grip frame is rounded and compact, featuring glass-filled nylon or G10 panels with checkered texturing for enhanced control.

Despite its small size, the grip shape distributes recoil well and supports a full two-finger hold on the 2-inch model, with the 3-inch offering a bit more surface area.

Controls and Operation

The cylinder release is push-style, located intuitively on the left rear of the frame. The trigger is a standout—smooth, consistent, and stack-free, breaking at around 9.8 lbs in double-action. The hammer is shrouded on DAO models, while DASA variants feature an exposed spur for single-action precision.

Aesthetics and Finish

Every edge is rounded or beveled to prevent printing or snagging on clothing, a thoughtful touch for concealed carry users. The finish options—from matte stainless to DLC black—complement Kimber’s premium aesthetic and resistance to wear.

What Kimber K6S variants are available and how do they differ?

Kimber’s K6S lineup has expanded over time, catering to both defensive users and revolver enthusiasts who value variety in barrel length and sight configurations.

K6S DCR (Double-Action Carry Revolver)

• DAO trigger system for simplicity and reliability.

• 2-inch barrel optimized for deep concealment.

• Compact grips, snag-free design, and fixed sights.

K6S CDP (Custom Defense Package)

• Features rosewood grips, two-tone stainless and matte finish, and night sights.

• Intended for users seeking a stylish yet functional EDC revolver.

K6S DASA (Double Action/Single Action)

• Exposed hammer allows both double and single-action operation.

• Ideal for those wanting precise single-action control.

• 3-inch model offers better velocity and sight radius.

K6S Target / Combat Models

• Longer 4-inch barrels, adjustable sights, and extended grips.

• Built for range use and revolver competition.

K6XS (2023 Lightweight Variant)

• Aluminum frame reduces weight to 15.9 ounces.

• Chambered for .38 Special +P, offering milder recoil for carry users.

How it Compares

• vs. Smith & Wesson 640 Pro: Kimber’s trigger is smoother, and the gun carries slightly smaller.

• vs. Ruger SP101: K6S offers one extra round, better trigger, and sleeker finish.

• vs. Colt Cobra: Kimber has more refined machining and a sturdier cylinder lockup.

How does the Kimber K6S perform in accuracy and handling?

Accuracy

For a snub-nose revolver, the K6S is exceptionally accurate. The tight lockup, precise machining, and clean trigger break contribute to sub-2-inch groups at 10 yards and consistent hits at 25 yards with practice.

Recoil Control

Recoil is sharp with .357 Magnum, as expected, but the stainless frame and ergonomic grip mitigate muzzle flip effectively. Shooting .38 Special or +P rounds makes extended range sessions comfortable.

Reliability

Reliability is near flawless. Owners report thousands of rounds fired without timing issues or failures to eject. The enclosed hammer on DAO versions prevents snagging and debris intrusion, while the cylinder tolerances maintain reliable lockup even after extended use.

Trigger Feel

The DAO trigger is the K6S’s defining feature: smooth, consistent, and without stacking. The DASA models introduce a crisp, light single-action mode ideal for precise shots. It’s a revolver that genuinely rewards trigger discipline.

What ammunition works best in the Kimber K6S?

Best Defensive Loads

• Federal 125gr Hydra-Shok .357 Magnum – Proven stopping power and clean ignition.

• Hornady Critical Defense 135gr .38 +P – Reduced recoil with consistent expansion.

• Speer Gold Dot 135gr .357 Magnum Short Barrel – Tailored for 2-inch revolvers, balanced power.

Target and Range Loads

• Remington UMC 130gr .38 Special FMJ

• Winchester White Box 125gr .38 Special

• Blazer 158gr .38 Special LRN

The revolver handles all loads reliably, but lighter bullets produce the best balance of recoil and velocity in short-barrel configurations.

How does the Kimber K6S fit different use cases?

Concealed Carry

This is the K6S’s primary purpose. The 2-inch DAO model carries effortlessly in IWB or pocket holsters thanks to its rounded frame and shrouded hammer. It’s small enough to disappear under light clothing but still delivers six rounds of .357 Magnum authority.

Home Defense

The 3-inch DASA model with night sights makes an excellent home-defense option. Its longer barrel and adjustable sights improve control and accuracy in low-light situations.

Competition and Range Use

While revolver competitions are dominated by larger frames, the Target and Combat variants offer exceptional precision and shootability for steel challenge or defensive revolver divisions.

Field or Outdoors

Loaded with .357 Magnum hard-cast rounds, the 3-inch K6S can double as a trail gun for hikers or campers, offering a potent defense against predators in a compact package.

What are the best holsters for the Kimber K6S?

Each Kimber K6S holster below is made from durable Boltaron polymer and tailored for security, comfort, and fast access. The revolver’s compact frame makes it compatible with a wide range of carry styles.

Cloak Tuck 3.5 IWB Holster

Ideal for deep concealment under casual or business attire, this inside-the-waistband option provides secure retention and adjustable cant for comfort.

Chest Holster

Excellent for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hands-free access while hiking, hunting, or driving off-road.

What are the pros and cons of the Kimber K6S?

Pros

• One of the smallest six-shot .357 Magnum revolvers available

• Excellent trigger—smooth, consistent, and stack-free

• Premium stainless-steel construction and machining quality

• Compact, snag-free design for concealed carry

• Strong accuracy for a snub-nose revolver

• Reliable with both .357 Magnum and .38 Special

• Multiple variants for different preferences

Cons

• Noticeable recoil with full-power .357 loads

• Limited aftermarket grips and accessories

• More expensive than comparable Ruger or S&W models

• Short sight radius on the 2-inch model

• Heavy for a pocket revolver (stainless variant)

What’s the final verdict on the Kimber K6S?

The Kimber K6S represents the modern pinnacle of the compact revolver. It blends classic simplicity with contemporary precision, delivering a revolver that’s as capable as it is beautiful. For everyday carriers, it offers the reliability of a wheelgun without sacrificing concealability or firepower.

It’s best suited for experienced shooters, law enforcement backups, and defensive revolver enthusiasts who appreciate superior machining and smooth trigger performance.

The K6S isn’t cheap, but it earns its price with build quality, confidence, and timeless reliability. In an age of polymer pistols and optics-ready autos, it stands as proof that a well-built revolver still has a place on the hip of a professional.