Handguns > Semi-Auto

Review: The Kimber Solo (Page 2)

With its new all-metal pocket pistol, the Solo, Kimber addresses power and portability, all in one package.

September 19, 2011

Manufacturer: kimberamerica.com
Caliber: 9 mm Luger
Action Type: recoil-operated,  striker-fired, single-action center-fire
Frame: aluminum
Barrel: 2.7"
Rifling: 1:10" LH
Magazine Capacity: detachable box, six-round capacity
Sights: fixed front and rear,  three-dot, dovetail-mounted
Trigger Pull: single-action; 7 lbs.
Overall Length: 5.5"
Width: 1.2"
Height: 3.9"
Weight: 17 ozs.
Accessories: padded zipper case, lock, manual, spare magazine
Suggested Retail Price: $747

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Tags: handguns, kimber handguns, kimber solo, kimber solo handgun, kimber solo handgun review, kimber usa handguns, reviews of kimber handguns, semi-auto, wiley clapp

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87 Responses to Review: The Kimber Solo (Page 2)

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Bob wrote:
December 04, 2013

Unless you are a body builder, Marine, or have a kung fu grip, this is not the gun for you. It is near impossible to rack the first round. If you get that accomplished, the gun stovepipes about 1 out of 3 times. This is the most expensive piece of junk on the market.

frankd1279 wrote:
November 19, 2013

I bought one last month (10-2013). It jammed a kot until I ran about 50 rounds of HOT 124gr-147gr ammo through it. Now it runs clean. The things that bother me are that you have to replace the recoil spring assembly qfter every 1,000 rounds (about $35.00 a pop). Also the springs are UNBIEVABLY strong. I bought a ADCO magazine loader just to load six rounds in the standard mag and eight in the extended version. The other thing is the reassembly. You have to make sure that the slide stop lever is put back in just right or the slide locks back after every shot. You know you've got it right if you take out the magazine, rack the slide back to the takedown notch and push up on the lever. If you feel spring pressure pushing down on the lever you got it right. All in all, it's a GREAT carry piece holding six + one in the pipe using +P 124gr to 147gr ammo. I use 115gr for practice and haven't any problems with feed or function.

Keith wrote:
November 17, 2013

This is Keith again. I posted previously on November 17, 2012 and here is a follow-up. I initially had good results with the Solo. The very next time that I went to the range (after posting comments) my Solo jammed every other round. I have no idea what happened. I was really upset and wouldn't carry it. I let it sit in my safe for about 9 months without firing it. Since that time, I bought a Sig P938. After buying the 938, I decided to send the Solo back to the factory. Now I'm happy to say that it is really working well now. I fired about 10 different types of ammo. I fired Critical Duty standard pressure 135 gr and had 1 failure to eject. Other than that, all other ammo, 124 grain through 147 grain that I fired, cycled flawlessly: Golden Saber 124 gr +P Golden Saber 147 gr standard pres Gold Dot 124 gr standard pressure Federal Hydra Shock 135 gr Critical Duty 135 gr +P version Hornady 147 gr XTP standard press Winchester PDX1 124 gr +P It was really accurate with the 124+P PDX1. That's what I'll keep it loaded with. It even fired some 115 grain. It does not like Winchester or Federal White Box 115 gr range ammo. Surprisingly, it cycles 115 gr PPU ammo and Tulamo Brass Maxx with no malfunctions. I had one failure to fire on the standard Tulamo (Black Box). The primer was struck but the bullet did not fire so I will call this an ammunition failure rather than a firearm operational failure. I fired about 350 rounds and I'm happy to say,,,,My Solo is Back! I like my new Sig P938 too, but the trigger is extremely stiff which affects my accuracy while firing it. I have never fired a gun with a trigger that stiff before. I'll get some trigger work done on it. The trigger on the Solo is really smooth and the gun is VERY ACCURATE. That is exceptional for a firearm with only a 2.7 inch barrel.

gene O wrote:
September 01, 2013

I just bought a Kimber Solo July 27 2013 but called to verify if there was any issues with gun, clip and or recalls. I was told there was No problems. In the past there was iisues that had been fixed. They wanted my serial number to confirm and mine was suoopose to have no problems and less than two months old. Used 4 kinds of 124 grain ammo during the 24 round break in. Gun jammed almost every other shot. Returned to Kimber they found nothing wrong and recommended 2 kinds ammo. Gun came back to me in pretty used some shape with scarring from jams. Shot my new Walthers with same ammo no failures. Tried to get my money back and no one wants to do that. Stuck with Kimber junk. Unsake gun not reliable very poor design. Do not believe websites that state other wise. You won't be happy Please post if you agree with the truth about Kimber.

Laura wrote:
August 28, 2013

I added a shim to the magazine to make it fit tighter. Haven't had a single miss feed or jam since. The only ammo I found is 115g and it functions flawlessly. I like shooting it but, still resent the fact I paid this much for it, they didn't fix it, would take a bath on it if I tried to get rid of it and wound up fixing it myself.

cndrdk wrote:
July 31, 2013

Laura: Other than selling/trading it off to some hopeful, starry eyed, unsuspecting soul, what is the easy fix you did to fix the mag popping loose and ammo problem?

Doc G wrote:
July 31, 2013

Took delivery jammed several times with proper ammo would not load with full clip no faith in the gun now would never own another of their products. Sent it back I am sure they will say nothing is wrong bought a sig. Now stuck with an expensive piece of crap.

cndrdk wrote:
July 12, 2013

Kimber customer service is next to none, meaning it is just one notch up from NOTHING. Shot my 4 magazines of 147 gr Golden Saber ammo with only a couple of fail to eject. Would not fire over 2 rounds with 115 gr ammo. Towards the last would not go completely into battery, Took it apart and found that the leading locking lug in the slide was "hammered" and large chunk protruding upward and caused deep scratch in the barrel hood area. Took a small round stone and took only a bit of the protruded area on the slide locking lug. Took it out and shot it again, same thing, metal on slide locking lug "hammered" and protruding. Sent in to Kimber. Their diagnosis that I had altered the slide AND the barrel and and would have to replace barrel and slide at my expense. Would not let me talk to the gunsmith who made the diagnosis, stating barrel and slide out of spec. I argued that I did NOT alter the barrel other than remove the scratch in the barrel hood area and did NOT alter the slide locking lug area other than knock down the protruding chuck in slide that would not allow it to go into battery. The actual locking parts of slide/barrel were not altered in any way. After going up the "customer service" ( I use that line loosely) supervisor line was told that they would repair at my expense ($350.) or they would send it back listing it in their registry as unsafe to fire or they could keep it and destroy it if I would send them a letter of authorization to do so. What a bunch of losers. I am not new to pistols as I am a retired police officer with 37 years on the job and I know what "alterations" are. Of all the pistols/revolvers/rifles that I have had over the years, I have never had to send one back for factory repairs and the first time I do, I get treated like crap. I do own several other 1911 type Kimber pistols which I plan to get rid of (along with the Solo) and will not own another due to the experience with their "customer service". I will also let everyone I know.

Laura wrote:
July 01, 2013

Citizen A: The gun has to function properly in order for it to be "an elegant, performance shooting experience". My two 1911's fall into this category but not this thing. I will say that my husband and I have a simple fix for the magazine popping loose. If Kimber would actually test these gun in hand and not from a vise (or whatever they use) they would have it happen too. Now that we performed the easy "fix" that Kimber could not do, it fires ALL ammo with not one misfeed or mag coming loose. Still can't really put 6 in the mag though. The only reason I still have it because I would lose trying to get rid of it, not because I've warmed up to it. I'm still mad.

Citizen A wrote:
June 28, 2013

How is you dorks still complain about ammo jams when it's been made quite clear that you have to use premium, 124+ grain ammo? "Yeah, but a gun that expensive should eat anything." Yeah, but if you can afford a gun this nice, the 'expensive' ammo doesn't mean squat either. Keep a crappy old .22 around for cheap practice. But keep a Kimber around for an elegant, performance shooting experience.

karl wrote:
June 19, 2013

My kimber solo crimson jams every round with 115 gr 9mm, this pisses me off, $1200 gun that can't shot factory ammo

Laura wrote:
June 05, 2013

Well, got off the phone with Kimber and I was told there was nothing they could do. They did not find a problem with the gun. I told him that they would indeed be seeing this gun again. Not from me, but from the next sad, sorry, sap that has to have one. Just like I had to. Never again. I'm checking forum after forum before I buy any new to market pistol again. Everybody wants a piece of the pie, roll in the dough and get them out as quick as possible. This is the end result. A non-functional CC firearm. I'll take it back to where I bought it. Hopefully I can get a decent price for it or trade even up for something that works. And to think, I didn't buy the $138 Jimenez because I thought it would jam or something. Has to for that price right? Re-thinking that idea seeing I paid $700 for a non-functional "quality" gun.

Laura wrote:
June 05, 2013

I too purchased a Kimber Solo. I just got it back from Kimber yesterday. They supposedly fired 4 mags through it. I'm willing to bet they did not load 6 rounds in the mag. It is possible to get 6 in it if you grunt real hard. If you manage to get the last one in, it will not chamber a round because the top round is tilted down instead of up. I took it out and shot it at the range last night. The magazine still pops loose and fails to chamber the next round. You still cannot chamber a round if you manage to get 6 rounds in the mag. The only thing that did change is that the next round no longer jams in the slide. Now, you have to pull the mag out and re-seat the next round because it was "kissed" and pushed forward 1/4 inch. Of course, they find nothing wrong with it and send you operating instruction pages back with the gun. I don't know about anyone else, but I take it mean that I'm too stupid to know how to use a handgun properly. I own 3 other Kimbers, all 1911's and I love them. That was the sole reason I purchased this gun when they came with it, because their 1911's are great. I cannot use this as a concealed carry gun. The mag comes loose at least once with every mag. I'm about to call them again and I'm sure they'll want it back. If it comes back in the same condition, it's gone, I'll take the hit. Just glad I didn't spend the money on extra mags and a holster. I haven't been able to enjoy this gun. This crap happened on the very first mag full put through it.

Bill wrote:
May 30, 2013

Got my Solo back from Kimber after the second attempt at repairing the "ISSUES" See previous post. Mags fall out, if more than 3 rounds in mag.Slide not staying open after final round with replacement mags only. Metal flaking, not the finish, metal chips flaking from slide in barrel locking lug area. This time they only kept the gun a month. Upon reading the accompanying invoice they "replaced the magazine catch and fired 2 clips of ammo, blah blah blah. There was absolutely no mention of repairing the slide lock not working with empty mags (still does this) or addressing the problem with metal chipping from the slide. (Still chipped) I described, in detail, the problems both over the phone and with a letter sent with the gun for repair...I own several Kimber 1911s and rifles, They are great guns. This time think that I am done with Kimber. With the exception of trying to contact the CEO and tell him exactly what I think. I am sure that he will advise me to send in the gun and he will see to it that it is repaired..Sorry, already tried that twice!! Besides what kind of CEO would have to get involved in this kind of problem..I know..The one that runs a company that really DOES NOT CARE.. Anyone know how to get in touch with Kimber's CEO.. What kind of husband would I be if I gave this Solo to my wife for her self protection??? Hey, Honey..The Solo is fixed now, Just dont put more than 3 rounds in the mag... NO, as of now, She is happy with her new S&W Shield...200 rounds on the first session, no problems.. that's more than I have put through the Solo since I owned it.. I am sure there are Many Happy Solo owners..Great. I am sure that a lot of owners have too much pride to admit that they are having a problem with something they paid too much for. Dont say this does not happen... My opinion as of now..Go the the county fair, find the booth that has those plastic ducks floating around that oval canal thing. Pay 1.00,draw a duck. You may draw a winner, you may not

LC wrote:
May 25, 2013

I'm not trying to be funny but their is no such thing as correct ammo. As much as Kimber charges for a gun it should fire from the cheapest to the best ammo in the world!! (Correct ammo is a bs statement)

jon everson wrote:
May 08, 2013

I've had my solo for 2 weeks now and have taken her out on a date 2 times. both times i fired over a hundred rounds at each outing. i have had zero problems. when using the correct ammo this gun shoots as smoothly as warm butter spreading over toast. for those of you that are having difficulty with dropping the clip because of it's tightness while loaded...simply push up on the clip and depress the release and the mag will come right out.

Alan Hoffmann wrote:
April 26, 2013

Purchased solo a month ago. Just shot it today. 40 rounds, 115 grain, quality ammo. Gun must have jammed 15 times. Called Kimber. Customer service claims no issues with jamming (fte). Read these blogs, appears to be common. Will clean and start again.

Bob wrote:
April 15, 2013

My solo has had nothing but problems: mag drops out when firing Kimber repaired, now it takes 2 hands to eject Mag. Ext Mag does not push bullet above the lip of mag so it jams last time I took to range, every round jammed with factory mags back to Kimber for repair, then to the auction!

Bill wrote:
April 02, 2013

This is a follow up to 1/29/2013. Got the Solo back from Kimber after 6 weeks with a repair invoice that said "Replaced sear spring. Fired 24 rounds with no problems". The spring has a different design. HEY, GREAT. Problem solved, right?? During the first range session loaded the mag with 6 rounds. Jacked one into the chamber fired off 6 rounds. No problems. Loaded 6 into the mag. Jacked one into the chamber and then loaded 1 more in the mag. After all, It is a 6 round mag. First shot, bang, failure to eject and mag fell out. Tried it again, same thing. Tried 2 new factory mags, the followers are different in the replacement mags. Mags fell out during firing with 5 rounds, Failure to eject and fell out with 6 rounds. No, It was no my grip as 3 other folks had the same problem with it. Also, the slide will not remain open with the new replacement mags. The followers just slide past the slide lock.I plan to contact Kimber again today. Again, this is not a Kimber bash, just honest accurate information. I am not complaining about the price. Just the value. As of now, the value of this gun is zero. I feel the the company that has "The finest production firearms made" will correct these problems, sorry, "issues". I am starting to think NOT ...

Ed wrote:
March 25, 2013

I've had my Solo CDP Crimson Trace for a month now. 600 rounds of whatever comes out of the box through the Solo and not a single issue. It is a gun that you don't want to be gentle chambering the first round. Rack it back like you mean it and it will load and shoot every time. Unbelievably accurate out to 50'--beyond that I'm out of my comfort zone anyway-especially with a 2.7'' barrel.

Angie wrote:
March 18, 2013

Reading through the comments, I'm happy that most seem to love their Solo Carry. My hubby bought me one in late January 2013...spent $800.00. We took it home, loaded it with the recommended ammunition. I fired the first two shots, pulled the trigger a third time...nothing. I thought it had jammed but the magazine had dropped out of position. My hubby thought perhaps I didn't have the magazine locked in properly to begin with. I tried again...same thing. Hubby tried and the same thing happened to him. I called Kimber and they sent me a label to ship it to them. I just got the gun back last week with a note that they fired 100 rounds through it and were not able to verify the magazine dropping out during firing. My husband and I took it out this weekend and it's still happening. We made sure the magazine 'clicked' and was in securely and it still dropped out when firing. It happened with me, my husband and now my son also. I just got off the phone with Kimber and guess what? They will look at it again...at my expense! I can't even believe this! The most expensive gun I've ever had and I can't even carry it. And Kimber won't even do anything else about it! Unbelievable!

Bill wrote:
January 29, 2013

As the owner of 4 Kimbers, I decided on the Solo for my wife. She is not a hammer person. Long story short, The tail of the sear spring fell off of its home position down into the frame recess. Of course the gun will not fire as the sear does not set. I understand broken parts but this seems to be a design issue as there is nothing to keep the spring from falling into the frame recess. It just slowly walks across it little ledge and eventually ends up falling into the recess. Upon inspection of another Solo, the sear spring is exactly the same. However, it has not malfunction on this particular gun. I understand that Kimber QC has gone down, but it seems that all of the manufacturers have gone down. I have searched the net for the Solo issues and found one with a problem exactly the same as mine. Anyone have any idea what is going on? Gun was purchased in late December and has less than 150 rounds through it. It is now at Kimber for repair or redesign. Kimber is not talking, they just "Will take care of it" in 4 to 6 weeks. Not looking so good for Kimber. This is not a Kimber bash, just first hand experience.

JS wrote:
January 06, 2013

Mine has had flawless function with any ammo including 115gr (not recommended by factory). It is concealable, very accurate and lightweight. I am very impressed and would recommend it to an experienced and competent shooter.

Darby wrote:
January 05, 2013

PS to previous posting: Any semi auto should be loaded by locking slide open, then placing magazine in weapon, releasing slide. That is particularly important on the Solo. With strong springs, it may be difficult to pull slide back far enough to chamber a cartridge. So do it right! Chamber with a locked slide and magazine installed. This is not to say anything negative about the Solo. Love mine.

Darby wrote:
December 31, 2012

Purchased a Kimber Solo about two weeks ago. Have been to the range twice. Never a malfunction of any sort. Very accurate. Used PP ammo as suggested as well as target ammo, all worked. I am an old guy well past 80, not large nor strong. Early on could barely get the slide locked open. After shooting 100+ rounds,stll takes an effort but can do it. Strong spring in the magazine makes it a little tough to load, especially the last one or two. Again age and strength enter into it. It is quite a "kicker" due to light weight. But it is exactly what I want. If the first seven shots don't do it, probably won't matter, will it?

Keith wrote:
November 17, 2012

I purchased the Kimber Solo CDP about a month ago and finally took it to the range today. I can honestly say, whatever problems the Solo had initially, have been fixed. It ate up 50rds of Winchester White Box 115 gr, 25rd Golden Saber 147 gr, 25rd Hornady Critical Duty 135gr plus P, Half box of Speer Gold Dot 124 gr GDHP, 14rds Corbon Powerball...all flawless. However, it did not like 147gr FMJ Winchester Super-X Subsonic rounds. It jammed every 3rd round or so. Nor does it like Winchester Supreme Elite PDX1 147 Grain JHP. One other thing, the magazine release is pretty stiff and if it jamms, it's extermely hard to remove the magazine. This was right out of the box. As it is broken in, the magazine release will probably get easier. Its very accurate and I believe its worth the money. I love it.

Jason Birdsong wrote:
October 03, 2012

I have owned and shot every pocket .380 and 9mm on the market, i bought the Kimber solo when it first came out it 2 tone and i fired about 600 rounds through it with no problems at all. At the time it was the best shooting pocket 9mm i have ever owned, someone gave me $300 over what i paid for it so of course i couldnt say no to that. I since bought the Sig p938 in 9mm and this is also a great pocket gun but it was a bit longer slide and i couldnt get the accuracy that i was getting from the solo. Last night i got a great deal on a Solo STS and had to get it. Bye Bye Sig 938. I shot 400 rounds through my STS solo with 0 malfunctions. I can only speak HIGHLY of this pistols craftsmanship and reliability, especially its accuracy for a pocket gun. If i had anything bad to say its this "the 2 tone model will get scratches under the slide stop lever and the finish inside under the recoil spring will wear so get the STS". I have also owned every other pocket gun and if you want any information or my opinion on any other pistol you can email me @ jason.birdsong@hotmail.com

Bill wrote:
August 25, 2012

I picked up an exceptionally clean Solo Carry yesterday. I'd estimate that the gun had less than 50 rounds through it. I cleaned it, oiled it and reassembled it per the Kimber videos on their website. I took it to the range today and ran a box of Federal 115 gr. ball and a box of Gold Dot 124 +P's through it. After the first 13 rounds of ball I noticed a small roll pin sitting on the bench. I cleared the pistol and field stripped it. It turns out it's the left hand thumb safety roll pin. There are two roll pins holding the ambi-safety together. The right one is still in place. I continued firing all the rounds. The gun went bang everytime I pulled the trigger. No light strikes, no magazine problems, no FTF's, no FTE's. I will be calling Kimber about the roll pin, though.

David wrote:
August 15, 2012

Took my solo cdp (lg)out for the first time on 8/15. I am very disappointed. It would not load properly and when it did it usually jammed. At first I could only load 2 rounds in the mag. for it to function. I shot 50 rounds of approved 147 gr. Towards the end I could load 4 rounds in the magazine. Reading the comments below there seems to be a flaw in the design of the gun. I hope to have better luck this weekend. If not, it's going back to the factory. At this point I'm concerned it wouldn't function if needed.

Rod wrote:
August 06, 2012

I picked up Solo 2 weeks ago put 100rounds of American Eagle 124gr and it was 100% Love everything about it don't believe the bad reports of a year or more ago Kimber has it all corrected

Linda wrote:
July 12, 2012

Purchased a Kimber Solo CDP (LG) recently..yes it was WAY expensive and am very sorry I spent the money. First time shooting, could only get 3 rounds in the clip...first shot fired, it locked the slide open, it repeated the same thing for the next 2 rounds.Had to get my husband to manually release the catch as I just coudlnt safely release it myself. Changed to different brand shell, first shell jammed. End of target practicing for the day as I left my true blue Ruger LC9 that I usually use at home What a total disappointment. Took the gun back to the dealer and got a line of crap. They told me to fire 200 rounds through it to wear it out. WHAT?! Trying to contact Kimber for either money back or replacement. This gun was NOT CHEAP! Sorry I purchased it.

Kim Campbell wrote:
June 26, 2012

Very good and honest article. I just acquired a S&W Shield in 9mm and think it superb. Almost three fingers on the shorter mag and full grip on the extended. Very controllable recoil and flip. Fine accuracy for a short sight radius pistol; excellent, clear sights. No cautions in either the manufacturer's manuals or the forums on malfunctions or finnickiness of any sort. I shot a .40 Shield as well. A bit brisk but manageable. The 9 though gives an extra round; with the new copper slugs, the well placed 9 should be just as lethal. I own three SIGs - 220 match elite, 229, and 239. Excellent handguns! But their new smaller ones don't live up to the excellence of their older proven designs. Trying too hard?? Check out the Shield, if you can find one, that is.

Tom & Cheryl wrote:
June 14, 2012

I picked up the Solo for my wife last weekend. We shot 100 rounds of 124gr through it with no cycling problems at all. The spring is very tight and difficult for my wife to open and lock the chamber. It was no problem for me. She loves it and was shooting a 4"-6" pattern at 25'. Best small conceal ever fired! Cocoa, Florida

Brenda wrote:
May 17, 2012

I just purchased a Kimber Solo and already have problems. Not sure yet if it is me or the Kimber but it is very diffucult to load the first round. Out of two attempts to load it has jammed both times. I've read the book over and over I've oiled. No luck.

Dan W wrote:
May 16, 2012

I recently purchased a Kimber Solo. In my opponent it is without a doubt the best pocket gun made. I have purchased and shot almost all the pocket guns and this is the best by far. I have a Kahr PM9, P380, MK9, Beretta Nano and Tomcat, Rohrbaugh R9S and a WAlther PPKs. The Kimberly is perfect. It is incredibly accurate and easy to shoot. The sights have bigger dots than other pocket guns, making it much easier to acquire the target quickly. I have never had a single malfunction with this gun. Yes, it is expensive, but well worth the price in my book.

John Caile wrote:
May 16, 2012

I tried out a Solo at a local gun range - it failed to feed 3 times in about 100 rounds (1 FMJ and 2 JHP loads, all brass case, premium ammo). Now, I could tolerate ammo issues with a cheap gun - but NOT one in this price range. I have a Kahr MK-9 (the all stainless model at 21 oz.) which is also a premium priced gun, and not only is it pleasant to shoot, even with DoubleTap plus P ammo, it feeds and functions with ANYTHING I put through it, including the steel case Russian garbage. The 9MM cartidge has been around for more than 100 years, and if Kimber can't make a 9MM that performs with just about any ammo available on the market, why would I pay top dollar for it?

Bill wrote:
May 15, 2012

Find some of the comments here rather comical. The Solo is not meant to be the weapon of choice for a gunfight. My wife has no military background, and has a choice between a Dan Wesson Guardian or a Springfield EMP. For purse carry she likes the Solo. It is not meant to be reloaded to continue to fight it out with a band of terrorists. I have a SF background and usually carry a spare magazine for whichever .45 I am carrying. However I rely on situational awareness to ensure I am not puting myself in a situation where a pistol is my main firepower. The Solo is a great gun to have in ones pocket when walking on beach without a shirt, and will definately stop anyone threatening my life. If I need to be doing mag changes I might rethink the beaches I choose to visit. The Solo is a great weapon to have for CC, not a good choice for competition.

Afterguard wrote:
April 24, 2012

I admit to being a Kimber fan and have carried a kimber ultra raptor for several years. I have been interested in the Solo since it was first announced, as a smaller alternative for pocket and IWB appendix carry in hot Florida weather. So when I finally found one for sale this past weekend I snapped it up. After reading all the unfavorable review of the gun I was apprehensive on the first trip to the range. Not any more. The gun ate TAP 124 gn JHP, 124 gn NATO FMJ ball, even some of my own 115 gn copper plated ball reloads. Not so much as a burp. Great gun, great sights. 3-4 inch groups at 10 yards off hand. I'm satisfied with it.

Bill wrote:
April 19, 2012

Have 2 Solos. One for me and one for wife. She usually carries EMP I usually carry either Kimber Ultra CDP II in 3" or Knighthawk Custom in 4". The Solo is for hot summer in Alabama when its no fun to dress to conceal anything that won't go in pocket and dont want to compromise to .380. Comparing Solo to other 9s is missing the point. It should be compared to micro 380s.

HANDGUNNER wrote:
April 11, 2012

I JUST SAW THE AMERICAN RIFLEMAN SHOW FROM I BELIEVE 1-11-2012 ABOUT THE SOLO. I WORK AT A GUN SHOP. WE GOT ONE FROM KIMBER OVER A YEAR AGO FOR EVALUATION. WE HAD TROUBLE WITH IT FROM THE GET GO. IT WOULD ONLY FEED HARDBALL AMMO AND STILL HAD ISSUES OF SHORT OR WEAK STRIKER AND FAILURE TO EJECT AND FEED. KIMBER DID NOT DO THEIR HOMEWORK ON THIS ONE BEFORE SHIPPING. WE HAVE SENT SEVERAL BACK TO KIMBER FOR REPAIRS OR REPLACEMENT SINCE CUSTOMERS WERE VERY UNHAPPY. I AM NOT SURE IF KIMBER FIXED THE ISSUES AND IS PUTTING THE SOLO OUT AGAIN BUT WE HAVE HAD BACKORDERS FOR A YEAR AND CAN'T GET ANY IN. MAKES ME THINK THEY ARE NOT SHIPPING ANY???????? I WOULD LIKE TO SEE IT BACK ON THE SHELVES AND WORK. IF SO I WOULD BUY ONE BUT CAN'T JUSTIFY THAT YET WITHOUT SOME PROOF THEY WILL WORK.

Joe Pa. wrote:
March 07, 2012

Followup from 2/27/2012 posting. Went back to the range and fired another 100 rounds. I put a few more drops of oil on the ejection button and followed Kimber's advice ejecting several full magazines. Kimber was right. I can eject a full magazine with reasonable effort. My Solo performed flawlessly while shooting the 100 rounds of 124 grm FMJ & 115 grm.FMJ. I had no FTF, FTE or Missfires. I can also say I am very pleased with its accuracy especially at 25 yards for a pistol of this size and weight. I field stripped my Solo, gave it a good cleaning, few drops of oil and I am now very comfortable carrying it.

Mark wrote:
February 28, 2012

Solo's are easy to find in Central/South East Texas and below MSRP. But, most people I have talked to and my own experience with mine is, with medium large to large hands, this guns shoots poorly. I spent the extra $250 and traded it on an EMP..... Much better gun, by far . The Solo has been disappointing to me and several friends. My wife didn't like it either. But she shoots a PPK...... no more needs to be said. I am glad it works for the few it does, we all have different tastes and experiences, but after 30+ years shooting, packing and hunting, I have no use for the Solo for the reasons spoken of above. Just my opinion.

Joe Pa. wrote:
February 27, 2012

After searching for a year I bought my new Kimber Solo CDP last week. I shot 100 ends. of CCI 124Gr ball ammo. My Solo functioned flawlessly, except when I try to eject a full magazine, I have to use two thumbs instead of one. I called Kimber customer service to report the blue blister on my right thumb and was pretty much told to keep ejecting the mag should get easier. Advised them will cycle through another 100 rnds while ejecting full magazines. If this extraordinary stiff mag ejection button continues, I will send back to Kimber. I didn't spend over a thousand dollars for a weapon to malfunction

DJH wrote:
February 14, 2012

I ordered my Solo on 02/03/11. Due to Kimber backorders finally rec'd it on 09/06/11. During the break-in period, the gun would jam whether the magazine had 6 rounds or less of the recommended ammo loaded. Contacted Kimber customer service and they suggested using other different brands of ammo. Problem continued. Finally sent back to Kimber to resolve. After re-reaming the barrel and polishing the feed ramp, the weapon is finally functioning correctly. Unfortunately I have lost faith and this will be a secondary carry weapon at best.

Big Dave wrote:
January 27, 2012

Looked at ALL the small CCW 380s and 9MMs; the Sig Sauer P238 in 380 was my choice - STAINLESS top and bottom. 6 rds or 7. Love it.

Chuck Burns wrote:
January 26, 2012

Finally! A fair and balanced, accurate review of the Kimber Solo. I owned an early Solo and after having the slide and barrel replaced twice finally returned it for a refund. But as mentioned in the review, the Solo is so appealing that I am still interested and will probably buy another Solo, but only the Solo STS stainless model that may look and last better than the poor quality black Kimpro II finish.

Mark wrote:
January 22, 2012

Reading all the reviews/posts on the 'Solo' and need to know if kinks in the Kimber Solo have been cleared/ removed. In-short, looking for a nice, all metal, 9mm, from a reliable company like Kimber or Sig Arms. Want to compare 'Solo' to 'P 938' to decide which small 9mm is the best and most reliable.

John K wrote:
January 04, 2012

Bought my Kimber Solo in April 2011 when they first came out -- big mistake! First time at the range, it would not load six rounds in the magazine, the mag would drop out almost after every shot, it would not feed properly, it would not eject properly, it would stovepipe. It would do everything except go "boom." I used the ammo recommended by Kimber, and for the specified number of "break in" roumds. Sent it back to Kimber, and when it came back, it had the same problems. Sent it back again, and then finally sold it when it came back. Absolutely the worst gun I have ever purchased, especially considering the money spent for it. Never agaon!

Bob wrote:
January 01, 2012

Have had my Solo now for a while and couldn't be happier with it. Have put 400 rounds through it with no failures of any kind and that includes 50 rounds of WWB 115gr. Ergonomics are excellent. Trigger is excellent. This is without a doubt the best of the small 9mm handguns on the market today.

Brian watts wrote:
December 31, 2011

Bought a kimber solo and fired it for fist time today. Fired 50 rounds of hornady 147 grain and federal 124 jhp had no problems and loved it!!!!

Bill j wrote:
December 29, 2011

Pretty little gun. That's the end of the good news. Takes two hands to eject the mag, almost impossible to lock the slide open, jams often, cannot load 6 in the mag. Very poor weapon, Kimberly. Love the Kimberly 1911's, have 5 of them, all terrific but predict the solo won't have a long life. Anyone want to buy one cheap?

scott wrote:
December 28, 2011

I had to send my solo back for the second time. Kimber has agreed to send me a new Solo. This a great gun but when I carry it concealed i am very nervous that the first shell will load into the chamber. Kimbers service department is the best that I have ever dealt with they are by far the best. I do not want to get rid of my Solo but I just dont know what to do. The gun looks great and when you get a shell into the barrel it is great, the problem is the first round ir jams every time and that does not have anything to do with the ammo, it is a problem with the gun. I wish i could get a straight answer from someone as to wether the gun is at fault or am I not breaking the gun in correctly. I have spent over $200.00 to break in the first gun. I guess if I was willing to carry the gun with a shell in the barrel maybe the jamming problem would go away, or maybe I could as my assailant to wait untill I load my GUN!

Gwyn Hollar wrote:
December 27, 2011

Scott, I received my Solo CDP on Dec 24 and after 125 rounds had no malfunctions. I Cleaned it first as kimber instructed and made sure the ammo seated well in the back of the magazine. Also remember to grip it tight and you shouldn't have the problem

RAD wrote:
December 08, 2011

Why doesn't anyone ever comment on the trigger that curls around into a point and bites your finger? Otherwise, love my Solo.

Ed Griffith wrote:
November 30, 2011

Scott, Where did you get your Solo?

Scott Kearns wrote:
November 26, 2011

I just purchase a Kimber solo CDp the first round I loaded the gun jammed I shot 40rounds and the first round jams. I am using 147gr hollow points. The bad thing is there is a lot of people having problems with the solo jamming. I can't understand how a gun could be so expensive and so many users are having the same problems. I hate to have to send the gun back because I ordered the gun bac on feb. 2 2011

Tony wrote:
November 13, 2011

Just got my new solo. Shot 100 rounds at 25 yards of Federal HST without any hitches. Also very accurate at that range with the stock white sights. Appears Kimber has fixed their issues with the solo.

Pontificator wrote:
November 04, 2011

Have had my Solo for two weeks now and have put 200+ rounds through it without problem. Am using the higher weight bullets but have also tried WWB 115gr. and it fires these as well. All in all this is a great gun and I highly recommend it.

stork wrote:
November 01, 2011

I have had my Kimber Solo for a about 6 weeks and put about 300 rounds through it. I put approved rounds and low end 9mm rounds through it. The gun is vey accurate and easy to shot. I did not have any firing problems with this gun. It is solid and has a very smooth and responsive trigger. Comparing it to a Kahr P380 and PM 9 and S&W 38 special, I found the Solo to be my favorite. I do also shoot a Kimber Pro 45, but it a much bigger hand gun and not a true carry. The Solo seems simple perfect. I read about these kind of comments about the Solo, but I have found it to be flawless.

Allan Matthews wrote:
October 16, 2011

I decided to try the Solo since it was 9mm in lieu of the .380. I can't say the solo is without it's problems like the sig's but it is still a very nice little carry gun if you take the time to work through the proablems. I too had magazine problems in that they were extremely difficult to get 6 rounds into and the first round would not strip out of the magaxine to chamber when I would pull the slide back to cock and chamber the first round. I quickley learned that if you use the slide release and let the slide slam into battery it will pick the first round up from the magaxine every time with no problem. That too presented a little problem though since the slide release was so stiff I had to use two hands to get it to release the slide. I took some 400 grit emery paper and smoothed up the slide release so I could release it with one hand easily and not it works perfectly. I very much dislike the black finish on the frame. Kimber you really need to address this problem with the finish. Over all I like this pistol now that it's been fine tuned but I wouldn't purchase another one until or unless Kember does something about the extremly poor finish on the frame. Kimber might want to consider a finish more like what's found on their .45's or at least stay away from the black finish on the amuminum frame. My Solo doesn't seem to shoot as accurately as my sig 238's but it hits harder so I suppose that's an acceptable trade off. Ammo for the P238 is more expensive than the 9mm so that's a plus for the Solo also. Oh! I almost forgot the issue with the extended magazines -- can't get them! Why not? This postol has been out long enough now that these extended magazines should be readily available.

Charles tates thin TN wrote:
October 09, 2011

I prefer to spend my money on firearms made in states where voters elect policy makers who support the 2nd Amendment. These states do NOT include NY (Kimber/Kahr), IL (Springfield), MA (S&W/Kahr) or CA. Why would you support jobs and state payroll taxes for people who elect Charles Schumer, any Kennedy, Diane Boxer, or Dick Durbin? Are you nuts?

Albert wrote:
September 29, 2011

I just got the Solo last week $650. I took it to the range and put 250 rounds through it. I used 124gr Gold Dots had no problems. I used 115gr TulAmmo no problems. When I used Golden Saber I had 1 fail to fire. The fireing pin was marked on the cartridge very well, so I don't think it was the gun. I love this little gun. It feels very good for such a small gun. I put my LCP away.

Nelson wrote:
September 27, 2011

Tried a Solo earlier this year before Kimber asked for them back. Anyone who says this gun is ugly must be nuts. It fit my hand very nicely, too. I am a Kimber fan and love their 1911s. But here's the rest of my story: I also handled and fired the SigSauer P290. The P290 is not as nice-looking, or as comfy in the hand. When the firing started, there was a BIG difference between the two. The Solo bit my hand, the P290 did not. The P290 printed considerably tighter groups. I took the P290 home. I've since put >500 rounds of 115 grain ball through it with no FTF or FTE. It is a joy to shoot, something I never thought I'd say about a very small 9.

AGThigpen wrote:
September 26, 2011

The Pistol is heading back to Kimber for a re-do. Last pistol I sent to them for feed issues came back as nice as any custom shop gun in performance, and I really don't expect to be disappointed this time either. I really like shooting this one, and my wife likes it too. Sometimes a tight tolerance pistol needs a little fine tuning.

AGThigpen wrote:
September 26, 2011

I just got a Solo, went to the range, and although quite accurate, with probable the nicest trigger of any comparable gun, just didn't measure up yet. First, it won't chamber the first round of a 6 round magazine, at least not every time, the firing pin would hang up at times, preventing the next cartridge from fully moving up into position, so it wouldn't chamber, a few failure to extracts, and the roll pin on the right safety fell out, as did the right side safety lever. There were times when everything worked perfectly with all six shots, and when it did, that was a really nice experience. I used both the Speer and Golden Saber in 124 and 147 grain, but neither one was 100%. I shot 115 grain ammo as well, without any worse results, so I would think that if they get the issues [that I had] corrected, it should work with just about any full power loads. I also compared side by side with a Kahr PM9 and both were very similar although the older Kahr had fewer problems, although there were a few even with that, mostly with lower recoil ammo. The guns were interchanged between 3 shooters, with consistent outcomes. I think these small nines have such tight tolerances that they are pushing the limits of reliability. One last observation, the Solo frame is coated in what is claimed to be KimPro II, but it behaves much like a baked on epoxy or powdercoat and it will wear off under the recoil spring and the disassembly/slide lock pin. Not nearly as durable as the finish on the Kimber CDP II.

Ron in RI wrote:
September 25, 2011

Hey Michael, this firearm is for carry purposes. Why would you send 1000 rounds through it? It is not a target pistol. By the looks of the comments here people don't relize what a carry gun is for. Your only going to get one shot if needed. You better make it count. Save your target shooting for a gun made for that.

Mike wrote:
September 24, 2011

I really like Kimbers, but not a good choice for concealed carry. They are picky when it comes to ammo used and are subject to jamming especially when using cheaper ammo. For concealed carry, my Glock model 27, 40 caliber in my opinion is much better. Shoots ANY jacketed ammo and NEVER jams. For concealed carry, I want a gun that WILL NOT malfunction when needed in a pinch.

Paul Revere wrote:
September 24, 2011

$900 bucks? Are you kidding me? Try, just try, and compare, feature to feature, dollar to dollar, the Hi Point carry guns. Yes, Hi Point. $150-200 will get you a great gun. As my brother says, if it makes noise and hits the target, why spend more?

Richard G. wrote:
September 24, 2011

Hey there Stan. I have always thought Kimber was over priced. I have never had one give me the reliablity problems I have had with Sig arms. I not bothered with HK due to their price either though. As to the comment about them being "copy cats". I hope you are not talking about them building 1911's or Mauser types. I dont spend that kind of money on any gun. I let others do so and then buy their stuff when they are in need. I would take any Kimber over a Sig or an HK any day.

Dallas wrote:
September 24, 2011

Looks like a cool gun. Small easy to carry ,I think it is a very nice gun to have and shoot.

S Fraz. wrote:
September 24, 2011

Suggested Retail Price: $747? for a pocket 9? I'll pass.

Ronnie Dunlap wrote:
September 24, 2011

Buy a Kahr CW9,,Save your self some money and a better value as well.

injunjoe1976 wrote:
September 24, 2011

I never had a Kimber. Way too over priced for me. Glock, Springfield, S&W, or Ruger work just fine for way less money.

Scott C in NY wrote:
September 24, 2011

I'll stick with my .40 cal compact H&K, I've had it for 14 years and I never experienced a single problem. It holds it's own against 6 inch barrels and fits very nicely in a pocket or in a belt with no holster. Be safe!

Wild Bill Kelso wrote:
September 24, 2011

While it looks nice I don't like the external thumb safety. For a pocket pistol I'll stick to my Kahr PM9 or my S&W Snubbie bodyguard.

karen wrote:
September 24, 2011

Too bad you can't get it. Unavailable. Kimber told me production on the stainless has NOT even started yet!

Stan W. wrote:
September 23, 2011

Kimber...a "Legend in Their Own Minds!" I'll take my Sigs (or H&K) any day of the week over these over-priced, copy-cat, mediocre

miked309 wrote:
September 23, 2011

Every issue has full page ads for the Solo and now a cover page with a great article but I cannot find the Solo STS anywhere! Why spend the money on ads and feature the Solo STS in this issue when there is no product available? This doesn't make sense to me.

Michael in OR wrote:
September 23, 2011

Ammunition sensitive and needs parts replaced in 1000 rnds... Not my choice for concealed carry, and the price is not justified. Kimber makes a lot of nice products, but I just can't get excited about this one. I want reliability as the first requirement. My Keltec is doing great, at half the price.

jimmyjet wrote:
September 22, 2011

The first rule of a gun writer: Never say anything really bad about a product. You get a bad gun and nobody wants to play with you. THE KIMBER SOLO IS PLUG-UGLY, HAS NO FLARE, IS A TORTURE TO SHOOT AND FORTUNATELY IS MEANT FOR CONCEALED CARRY. (YOU WOULDN'T WANT A FRIEND TO KNOW THAT YOU OWNED SUCH AN UGLY GUN).

Gary wrote:
September 21, 2011

The Kimber Solo is a cute little gun and it would be fun to own one. But the problem with most of these smaller defensive pistols is that their caliber is lacking. And while it is always fun to debate the "stopping power" of the .380, 9mm, .40, and .45, there is information available that answers the question of which one is best and it will make you a believer. The following link is very, very long but you can read as much as you wish and you will be glad that you did because this information is not available in any magazine. It is written by a former cop who is now working in a morgue and you will be mesmerized by the stories he tells. Here you will find the truth on which calibers work and which ones don't, and why, regardless of all the verbiage and ballistic gelatin tests you have digested over your life time. Enjoy: http://www.gunthorp.com/Terminal%20Ballistics%20as%20viewed%20in%20a%20morgue.htm

David wrote:
September 20, 2011

I have had my Solo for about two months now and really like the gun. It's accurate, dependable, very well made, and makes a great carry gun. Shot about 400 rounds so far. I have only one inconvenience. The mag spring is so very strong that the mag is difficult to release when loaded. It's a stiff push on the release button when the mag is empty. I'm convenced that the strong mag spring is the problem through trial and error and process of elimination. The mag release works great with the slide removed. If you push up on the bottom of a loaded mag then push the release, it works fine. I purchased two extra mags and they all work the same. I called Kimber, they did not seem to understand my explanation and offered to take the gun back and "repair". I have not sent it to them yet. I want to look at another one for comparison first. Still waiting for that.

steve wrote:
September 20, 2011

i have been looking for a solo since feb...no luck have been told by all dealers dont expect one before next year...i bought a kahr pm9 love it...broke it in with 300 rounds of walmart crap had 2 jams...ran another 100 after cleaning no jams then 20 rounds of defense ammo...what a gun...forgot all about the solo till reading this..sorry kimber love you .45's but have to go with the kahr on the carry 9mm

Bob wrote:
September 20, 2011

Agree with Rick. Received on at the store, sold it, got it back. Bitter experience with Kimber, (that was a shock) got a return authorization finally. Received back with a new slide???? not sure why.Was sent in for mag loading problems, fighting to get six in, didn't feed, would not cycle 115 rounds, 147 stuck in barrel. NOT a good start.YES we sell A LOT of Kimbers.

Joe Mynarsky wrote:
September 19, 2011

Any guess as to how long to get the new Solo. I ordered 2 one for the wife and I, on March 21, 2011 and I'm still waiting of it's arival.

Rick wrote:
September 19, 2011

I've had my Solo since February, when a newbie behind the counter sold me what was supposed to be the store's display piece. My results after about 200 rounds are similar, but with some added findings. First, the finish is so slippery it was almost impossible to rack the slide, or even hold on to the weapon when firing. The Hogue smallest-size rubber grip sleeve solved both problems. Recoil is pretty brutal, and my trigger finger gets banged around inside the trigger guard during extensive firing. The recoil also tends to loosen the grip screws, even the lower ones under the grip sleeve. I tightened them back up with a generous dose of red Loctite, and check them after every firing session. I keep shooting costs down by firing 124gr FMJ for about 90% of my shooting. I experimented with bullets down to 100gr. Some brands were 95% reliable, but there is no margin for "good enough" for this job. There has to be enough recoil to guarantee reliable functioning, and prevent bullet creep due to the lower inertia of lighter bullets. I finish my shooting session by firing my defense ammo I carried in the Solo, and reload with fresh rounds. That way I can fire something more economical, and make sure my "carry" rounds are still capable of doing the job, at least on a paper target. There are lots of tradeoffs with any handgun in this size and weight range. The advantage is having a pocket pistol that can be carried day in and out, and capable of getting a very specific job done. I can't say I "love" my Kimber Solo like I do my antique H&K P7 PSP, but the Solo gets to keep me company a lot more than the H&K.

bruce4guns wrote:
September 19, 2011

I would love to buy one, but cannot find one for sale even at list price. I currently carry a Colt 380 1908 for social events it is flat and concealable. I have not had the desire to change till now. Laser sight grips would be a great option.