The Boot Campaign is a nonprofit that supports military veterans, and Kimber has built special editions of its pistols in support of it. This R7 Mako is chambered in 9mm and wears a flat dark earth finish with the campaign markings.

The R7 Mako is a micro-compact striker-fired pistol, built for concealed carry. It is smaller than a standard compact and designed to hide under a shirt on a hot Carolina day.

Small guns take practice. The shorter grip and lighter weight give more felt recoil, so spend range time getting used to it, and consider a holster with a good retention fit. The flat dark earth color is a break from the usual black and gives the gun a rugged look. If you are new to the type, a short lesson from a patient friend pays off quickly.

If you want a carry gun that supports a cause you care about, this edition is worth a look. The price is higher than a standard model, and part of that is the special finish. This pistol is new. It ships to a North Carolina FFL dealer for the background check and transfer.