Though known for its M1911 handguns and bolt-action rifles, Kimber Mfg. has brought out several designs over the past decade that cater to the modern concealed-carry market, from micro-compact pistols to the sized-for-9 mm KDS9c series. Continuing on this path, the company is introducing the new-for-2024 “Covert Double Stack 9” (CDS9), a micro-compact 9 mm handgun with a double-column 10-round magazine.
The CDS9 takes the basic design of the KDS9c and shrinks it into a micro-compact format.
Like all Kimber handgun products, the CDS9 takes visual cues from the classic M1911 and uses a hammer-fired, single-action mechanism with manual safety. That is where the similarities end, with the mechanics of the CDS9 drawing on the KDS9c. Its frame is aluminum alloy with a KimPro II finish with aggressive “frag pattern” checkering on the front and rear strap and an accessory rail machined into the dustcover. Controls are ambidextrous, with bilateral safety levers and slide releases and a reversible magazine release. Grips are VZ brand made of G10 material with a matching frag pattern checkering. Extended 13-round and 15-round magazines are included with each pistol and a compact, flush-mount 10-round magazine is available as an accessory.
The CDS9 is also available with an extended and threaded barrel (TFS).
The CDS9’s slide has aggressive “fish scale” serrations on the front and rear and a KimPro II finish. Sights are a TAG Precison FiberLok front sight with a fiber-optic insert and a serrated U-notch rear. The pistol is optics ready with a direct-mount RMSc footprint. Its 3.16” barrel is made of stainless steel and is match grade. Other design features include an external extractor and a dual recoil spring. The CDS9 has an overall length of 6.2”, a height of 5” and a width of 1.1”, and weighs 20.8 ozs.
Optics ready with an accessory rail and an optional extended and threaded barrel, the CDS9 is a versatile micro-compact handgun. Shown with the extended 15-round magazine inserted.
The CDS9 hit the market with aftermarket accessories already available, including holsters made by Southern Trapper that accommodate the pistol with or without an optic or weapons light. The Kimber CDS9 is available in two configurations. The first has a standard-length barrel with a matte black finished slide and silver finished frame and an MSRP of $1,075. The second (TFS), has an extended 3.64” barrel with its muzzle threaded 1/2x28 TPI for the attachment of suppressors. Its frame has a matte black finish and its slide is finished matte silver. Both are optics ready (OR) and have an accessory rail (RL). For more information, see the company’s website.