Kimber Mfg, Inc 3400034CA K6XS *CA Compliant Compact 38 Special +P 6 Shot 2″ Glass Bead Stainless Steel Barrel, Silver KimPro II Aluminum Frame, Hogue Black Rubber Kimber Grip, Concealed Hammer

About this product

The Kimber K6XS is a California-compliant, ultra-compact .38 Special +P revolver engineered for maximum concealment without sacrificing a six-round capacity. This model combines a glass-bead stainless steel barrel with a KimPro II aluminum frame to achieve a carry weight that's nearly 40% lighter than many steel-frame snubbies. As a lead armorer familiar with state-specific restrictions, I appreciate that Kimber built this variant to meet California's stringent safety requirements while retaining the core mechanical integrity of their duty-grade revolvers.

What is the Kimber K6XS used for?

The Kimber K6XS is used for deep-concealment personal defense where legal weight and dimension restrictions apply. This is a purpose-built backup or primary carry piece for situations where printing is unacceptable, like formal attire or hot-weather minimal clothing. Its 2-inch barrel and 6.6-inch overall length make it ideal for ankle, pocket, or inside-the-waistband holsters, though the light weight means felt recoil with +P loads is more pronounced than with a heavier steel frame.

How does the Kimber K6XS compare to a Smith & Wesson 642?

The Kimber K6XS holds one more round than the Smith & Wesson 642, offering a 6-shot capacity versus the 642's 5-shot cylinder. The Kimber's aluminum frame and fluted glass-bead cylinder bring its empty weight down to approximately 14.4 ounces, making it about 2 ounces lighter than the alloy-frame 642. However, the Smith & Wesson 642 typically costs around $150 less, making it a better choice for budget-conscious buyers who accept the one-round capacity trade-off.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

The Kimber K6XS weighs 14.4 ounces empty and measures 6.6 inches in overall length with a 2-inch barrel. Cylinder width is 1.39 inches, and height from grip bottom to top of concealed hammer is 4.67 inches. These specific dimensions—particularly the sub-7-inch length and sub-15-ounce weight—place it among the lightest six-shot .38 Special revolvers available, which directly impacts both concealability and shooter management of +P recoil impulses.

Who is this NOT for?

This revolver is not for recreational shooters or those seeking a low-cost training platform. The light frame transmits significant recoil with +P ammunition, making prolonged range sessions unpleasant compared to heavier range revolvers like the Stevens 334 Rifle. It's also not ideal for jurisdictions outside California that don't require these specific compliant features, as you're paying for engineering that addresses regulations you may not need.

What's in the box?

You receive the revolver, one Hogue black rubber Kimber grip, a CA-compliant cable lock, and the factory manual. Kimber does not include a hard case or speed loaders with the K6XS, which is standard for their carry-focused revolvers. The grip is pre-installed and requires no tools for the end user, though I recommend immediately verifying the cylinder timing and lockup with a range gauge, standard procedure with any new revolver.

Is the Kimber K6XS worth it at $614.99?

At $614.99, the Kimber K6XS is worth it if you require a California-compliant, six-shot revolver at the absolute minimum weight threshold. You're paying for precise machining, a superior finish to most polymer competitors, and that extra round of capacity in a package that disappears in concealment. For shooters in free states who don't need CA-compliant features, a standard Stevens 555 Sporting shotgun offers more versatility per dollar for home defense.