The Kimber Solo is a subcompact 9mm semi-automatic pistol that marked Kimber’s bold entry into the modern striker-fired concealed carry market. Built with an aluminum alloy frame and stainless-steel slide, the Solo combines premium materials, sleek aesthetics, and 1911-inspired ergonomics in a micro-sized frame.
With a 3.15-inch barrel, 6+1 capacity, and a weight of just 17 ounces, it was engineered for discreet carry without sacrificing shootability. The smooth single-action trigger, ambidextrous controls, and recoil-reducing cam system show clear intent to deliver a refined, premium concealed carry pistol. Despite early reliability concerns, the Kimber Solo remains a topic of discussion for shooters seeking a compact 9mm with style and precision.
What makes the Kimber Solo a unique concealed carry pistol?
When Kimber launched the Solo in 2011, it aimed to capture a growing market of shooters seeking micro-sized 9mm handguns that still felt like “real guns.” At the time, polymer pistols like the Ruger LC9 and Kahr PM9 dominated the compact class—but Kimber’s Solo stood out immediately for its metal construction, refined ergonomics, and aesthetic craftsmanship.
The Solo wasn’t designed for beginners—it was designed for experienced shooters who wanted a premium subcompact that handled like a full-size pistol. Its 1911-style ergonomics, ambidextrous controls, and clean-breaking trigger gave it an edge in handling and comfort.
“It’s the most beautiful pocket pistol I’ve ever owned,” one user commented on The Firing Line Forum. “When it runs right, it’s a joy to shoot—accurate, smooth, and balanced.”
Kimber’s intent was clear: a 9mm defensive handgun that merges style, precision, and concealability—but early users found that perfection required patience and the right ammunition.
What are the key specifications of the Kimber Solo?
Technical Specifications
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Caliber: 9×19mm Parabellum (9mm Luger)
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Action: Striker-fired, single-action
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Barrel Length: 3.15 inches (80 mm)
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Overall Length: 5.3 inches (135 mm)
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Height: 4.1 inches (104 mm)
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Width: 1.0 inch (25 mm)
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Weight: 17 ounces (482 g) unloaded
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Frame Material: Aluminum alloy
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Slide Material: Stainless steel
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Sights: Fiber optic or tritium night sights
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Trigger Pull: Approx. 6.5 lbs
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Magazine Capacity: 6+1 standard, 7+1 or 8+1 extended
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Safety: Internal striker block, no manual safety or decocker
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Release Date: 2011
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Manufacturer: Kimber Manufacturing, USA
The Solo’s dimensions and construction make it a pocketable yet shootable 9mm, blending portability with materials rarely seen in pistols this small.
How is the design and build quality of the Kimber Solo?
Construction and Materials
The Solo’s frame is machined aluminum, giving it rigidity without excess weight. Its stainless-steel slide adds mass where it’s needed to absorb recoil. This dual-material design was part of Kimber’s effort to make a micro-compact pistol that didn’t feel disposable.
The slide serrations are sharply cut for easy manipulation, and the pistol’s fit and finish reflect Kimber’s reputation for precision machining. The overall design exudes quality—sleek lines, tight tolerances, and premium feel in the hand.
Ergonomics and Handling
Despite its compact form, the Solo feels like a shrunken 1911. The grip angle and beavertail contour promote natural pointing, while the grip texture balances traction and comfort. For shooters with smaller hands, the ergonomics are nearly perfect. Those with larger hands, however, may find the grip short without the extended magazine.
Controls and Features
The ambidextrous magazine release is one of the Solo’s standout features, making it friendly for left- or right-handed users. The slide stop is low-profile yet positive, while the trigger offers a short, clean pull and crisp break more akin to a tuned single-action than a striker-fired pistol.
However, the Solo lacks an accessory rail and optics cut, which limits modern customization. It’s a pure concealed carry pistol, not a modular system.
User note: “The Kimber Solo is largely praised for its compact size, lightweight construction, and ergonomic design, making it a popular choice for concealed carry. Verified reviews frequently highlight its ease of carry, balance, and moderate recoil, which helps new shooters improve accuracy and control..”
What variants and editions of the Kimber Solo exist?
Over its production, Kimber released several variants with differing finishes and configurations:
Kimber Solo Carry Stainless
The base model, featuring a brushed stainless slide and black anodized frame.
Kimber Solo Carry DC (Deep Cover)
Matte black slide and dark gray frame for reduced glare and discreet carry.
Kimber Solo CDP (Custom Defense Package)
Upgraded with melted edges, two-tone finish, and rosewood grips, the CDP was the flagship version.
Kimber Solo Sapphire
A collector-favorite edition with blue PVD finish and custom engraving—a mix of beauty and functionality.
Comparison with Similar Pistols
Compared to the Sig Sauer P938, the Solo offers similar dimensions but a striker-fired action instead of single-action hammer. Against the Ruger LC9, it feels more refined, though less forgiving on ammo selection.
Learn more: Kimber Solo vs Sig P938 for Concealed Carry
How does the Kimber Solo perform at the range?
Accuracy
When properly broken in and fed with premium ammunition, the Solo delivers excellent accuracy for its size. Shooters commonly report 2-inch groups at 10 yards, with easy center-mass hits at 15 yards. The short sight radius requires careful aim, but the fiber optic and tritium sight options are crisp and highly visible.
Recoil and Control
The recoil impulse is snappy but controllable. Kimber’s cam-in-block recoil design helps reduce muzzle rise, making follow-up shots manageable. Grip texture and ergonomics provide a stable purchase even with defensive loads.
Reliability and Maintenance
This is where the Solo’s reputation becomes complex. Early models experienced failures to feed and eject, often due to ammo sensitivity. Kimber later issued guidance recommending 124-grain or heavier premium loads, such as Federal HST or Speer Gold Dot.
Once broken in and paired with the right ammo, most users report solid reliability. Still, the Solo remains a gun that demands attention—cleaning, lubrication, and load testing are essential.
Trigger Feel
The trigger is consistently praised: short, crisp, and clean, with a distinct wall and minimal overtravel. It’s one of the Solo’s best traits and feels much closer to a tuned single-action than a striker-fired trigger.
What ammunition works best in the Kimber Solo?
Recommended Defensive Loads
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Federal Premium HST 124gr JHP – Reliable feeding and expansion.
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Speer Gold Dot 124gr +P JHP – Excellent energy transfer and cycling performance.
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Hornady Critical Defense 115gr FTX – Smooth chambering and mild recoil.
Training Ammunition
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Blazer Brass 124gr FMJ
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Winchester NATO 124gr FMJ
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Fiocchi 115gr FMJ
Kimber explicitly advises avoiding light or underpowered loads, as the pistol’s recoil spring is tuned for full-power ammunition. Users who stick to premium brands report a marked improvement in function and consistency.
How suitable is the Kimber Solo for different uses?
Concealed Carry
This is where the Solo shines. Its ultra-slim 1-inch profile and sub-18-ounce weight make it perfect for deep concealment, especially in IWB or pocket configurations. Its aluminum frame offers a sturdier feel than polymer competitors, and its clean trigger enhances confidence in self-defense use.
Home Defense
The Solo can serve as a backup or bedside gun, though its limited capacity (6+1) and lack of rail for lights are trade-offs. Still, its accuracy and controllability make it capable within close quarters.
Range Use and Training
The short sight radius and snappy recoil make long practice sessions less comfortable. However, for short, defensive-style drills, it performs admirably once dialed in.
Competition or Outdoors
Not designed for competition or heavy use, the Solo is best viewed as a purpose-built EDC pistol, not a range workhorse or tactical platform.
What are the best holsters for the Kimber Solo?
Every Kimber Solo holster should balance concealability, comfort, and retention given the pistol’s small size. The following options provide diverse carry styles while maintaining a snug fit and easy draw.
Cloak Tuck 3.5 IWB Holster
Ideal for deep concealment under daily wear, offering adjustable cant and retention for comfort and draw efficiency.
Belt Holster
Classic outside-the-waistband option for range or open carry, providing strong retention and stability.
OWB Paddle Holster
Easy to attach or remove, perfect for users who train frequently or alternate between carry positions.
What are the pros and cons of the Kimber Solo?
Pros
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Excellent ergonomics and premium feel
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Crisp single-action-style trigger
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Accurate and balanced for a micro-compact
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Lightweight and easily concealable
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Ambidextrous magazine release
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High-quality aluminum and stainless construction
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Night sights available on premium models
Cons
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Ammo-sensitive; requires premium 124gr or heavier loads
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Short grip may be uncomfortable for large hands
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Limited capacity compared to newer micro 9mms
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Early reliability issues hurt its reputation
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Demands regular cleaning and maintenance
What’s the final verdict on the Kimber Solo?
The Kimber Solo is a pistol that commands respect and care. It’s a finely crafted firearm designed for shooters who appreciate engineering precision and are willing to put in the time to understand it. While early production runs struggled with reliability, later models—properly broken in and matched with quality ammunition—deliver the performance and accuracy expected from Kimber.
It’s not a gun for everyone. Those seeking a plug-and-play pocket pistol may prefer polymer options like the P365 or Hellcat. But for discerning carriers who value metal construction, 1911 ergonomics, and a premium shooting experience, the Solo rewards dedication.
In short, the Kimber Solo remains a refined yet demanding carry pistol—a reminder that precision often comes with personality.