Concealed Carry permits, after the Obama election, were hitting record levels so it makes sense that there would be a big market for concealed carry pistols. We saw the .380 pistols explode onto the market with the Ruger LCP joining the Kel Tec P-3AT to lead the way until the Sig Sauer P238, Taurus TCP, and Smith & Wesson Bodyguard .380 jumped into the mix. A few other players were the Diamondback DB380 and the Kahr P380. The pocket pistol was a huge success!
However, many people felt the .380 just didn’t pack the punch needed for defensive purposes. Oh, and there was also that little issue called “A MAJOR SHORTAGE OF .380 AMMUNITION”. This perfect storm of supply and demand helped to start the micro 9 arms race.
For this comparison we are going to ignore the Kel Tec PF-9, but don’t worry, we will have the PF-9 in a few comparisons to come along with the Diamondback DB9 and Kahr PM9 and Kahr CM9. For now we wanted to focus on three of the new mass marketed big name micro 9 players. Thus, the Kimber Solo, Ruger LC9 and the Sig Sauer P290.
There are really so many angles you can take on this: size, price, capacity, etc etc.
We chose to create an image that compares the size and let you make the determination on price. That said, the RUGER LC9 is MUCH CHEAPER, but also the largest of the three.
Quick Breakdown:
| Make / Model |
Height |
Length |
Width |
Weight |
Capacity |
Price |
| Kimber Solo |
3.9 in. |
5.5 in. |
1.2 in. |
17 oz. |
6+1 |
$747.00 |
| Ruger LC9 |
4.5 in. |
6.0 in. |
.9 in. |
17.1 oz. |
7+1 |
$443.00 |
| Sig P290 |
3.9 in. |
5.5 in. |
.9/1.1 in. |
20.5 oz. |
6+1 |
$758.00 |
Ruger LC9 - Kimber Solo - Sig Sauer P290
Kimber Solo vs Sig Sauer P290 vs Ruger LC9
For additional information you can visit their respective websites:
http://www.kimberamerica.com
http://www.sigsauer.com
http://www.ruger.com
