Following up in the string of long overdue range reviews . . . comes the range report of the Kel Tec P-11. As you’ll recall, I purchased a couple (one black, one olive and black – his and hers if you want) as part of the Guns at Cost sale earlier this year in honor of the 2nd Amendment.
Well, I’ve had it now for a little over 2 months and in that time have formed some definite opinions on this little marvel as a day to day summer carry gun. But first, for the range review.
Range Report
The first shots I took, unfortunately at 25 yards, weren’t well recieved. Using 147 grain Hydra Shocks, I sent 10 rounds down range. None . . . I repeat none . . . landed on the target (or target frame for that matter). Now, of course, this is a compact carry gun, and one would presume that your not going to pull it and shoot it at a target 25 yards away, but still.
The Kel Tec Users Group has a whole list of recommended fixes for the gun. I can see how they are necessary. The trigger is stiff stiff stiff. And heavy. Heck, its got to be at least 10 pounds. That combined with my first time shooting it resulted in 10 wasted rounds. Seeing this, and still in shock over the cost of a 20 round box of Hydra shocks ($17.95) I decided to move on to the cheaper generic range ammo (125 (i believe) grain FMJ) at $11.95 for a box of 50. And I moved the target closer . . . to 10 yards, and all the shots landed on the target…not in a pretty cloverleaf or anything . . . . but in about a 5 inch spread. Not great, but it certainly will get the job done.
My brother actually has a theory here that has nothing to do with it being a new gun with a stiff trigger . . . he thinks that the 147 grain Hydrashocks are too heavy for such as small barrel. Any thoughts???????
Of course, the shooting isn’t all bad. I am always surprised at how light the recoil on a 9mm is – but was expecting such a small gun to have just a bit more kick. There was none. No recoil really at all – which makes it very easy for a woman or anyone else to control close range shots and get back on target. But, you better make sure you get the job done. The action/slide is very very stiff. I don’t doubt this thing will eat all sorts of ammo, but if your a small woman, you might want your boyfriend to rack the slide. And don’t bother getting a spare mag. You won’t need it (at least not in a gun fight) as there is simply no way to do quick elegant magazine change.
Carry Report
When I picked the gun up, I was a bit disappointed in that – in a holster – it left a pretty distinguished print on my front pant pocket. The gun itself is small, but its neither featherweight (when loaded) or small enough to disappear in the front pocket holster of a business suit. The solutions, I think, is to add the Kel Tec Clip (ordered, on its way). Once it arrives, I’ll clue you in on that. In the meantime though, I have pretty much carried it every day, every where, outside of work and DC (I work in DC so . . . . ) In a pair of jeans, or cargo shorts/pants, or anything with a heavier durable fabric, the gun itself just disappears.
The one complaint I would have with it, if there were any, is that after a relatively short time of carrying and shooting it (just a few days over 2 months) there is already signs of wear showing. For instrance, look at this slide lock
Now true, it largely a plastic framed gun and this is pretty minor in consequential damage to a part that gets handled perhaps more than any other on the gun. But still, the finish shouldn’t already be rubbing off. Here’s another view, with different lighting so you can clearly see what I mean.
That said, it is a pretty good gun and one I feel very comfortable carrying . . . especially now after having shot a few rounds through it and gotten a feel for how it shoots.
WHen I posted about it last time, there were some questions, so maybe I can try to respond them further here.
Phil-Z asked
I’m thinking about buying one, but the gap between the “frame” and the slide, visible in the pic above, kinda puts me off. Anyone have any thoughts on how bad that might be? I’m thinking it’s a lint trap, but I’m hoping I’m wrong.
Yes, the space is real. As this picture demonstrates . . . but I haven’t noticed it being a lint trap. Rather, I’ve had much bigger problems with dirt getting stuck on the back sight.
Roland had this to say
Is that actually a gap, or just some weird reflection? It can’t be seen in the close-up or the back lit photo in front of the window. It does look like bunny fur though.
I actually responded that it was my flash. I was wrong.
Yes, you can see right through the gun under the barrel, though so far that hasn’t caused any problems or accumulated much lint.
All in all, I think its a great little gun that you can manage to take with you everywhere. In this day and age of increased personal security awareness, I’d say its as vital as your Amex card. Don’t leave home with out it.
