The Kimber KS6XS is a double-action-only revolver chambered in .38 Special +P with a 2-inch match-grade barrel and 6-round cylinder. It weighs 15.9 ounces (1 lb). The Kim Pro II stainless finish covers the exterior. Hogue cobblestone rubber grips are standard, and fixed sights include a high-contrast orange dot front. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Model: KS6XS 
• Caliber: .38 Special +P 
• Barrel Length: 2 inches 
• Capacity: 6 rounds 
• Weight: 15.9 oz (1 lb) 
• Action Type: Double Action Only 
• Sights: Fixed with high-contrast orange dot front 
• Grips: Hogue cobblestone rubber 
• Finish: Kim Pro II stainless 
   

Features 

At 15.9 ounces, this is a light 6-shot revolver for .38 +P, a meaningful spec for all-day carry. The double-action-only trigger eliminates the option of cocking to single-action, which suits defensive carry where a consistent pull is preferred over a light single-action break. 
 
The match-grade barrel helps accuracy within the constraints of a 2-inch snub. The Hogue cobblestone grips give good purchase and absorb some recoil from the +P loads this revolver is rated for. The orange front dot is the right call for a defensive sidearm, fast to pick up under stress and in varied lighting. 
 
California-compliant. 
 

Usage 

• Concealed carry: 15.9 oz and 2-inch barrel fit most pocket and IWB holsters without bulk 
• Home defense: 6 rounds of .38 +P is adequate for most defensive scenarios, with no magazine to fumble 
• Backup firearm: revolvers don't require a slide to cycle, making them reliable as a secondary option

Owners of the Kimber KS6XS tend to come in two camps: people who appreciate the build quality and are satisfied, and people who feel the price is high relative to alternatives from S&W and Ruger.

Craftsmanship feedback is positive. The stainless finish and fit quality are above what you find on the J-frame or LCR at lower price points, and owners who have handled multiple snub-nose revolvers notice the difference. The Hogue grips draw consistent mentions for comfort, especially during extended shooting.

Shoot-ability for a 2-inch .38 +P gets good marks. Recoil is manageable, the orange front sight picks up fast, and the trigger is smooth for a DAO design. Some shooters note it takes rounds to fully break in the trigger, but most feel it settles into a good pull.

The California-compliance angle is a real draw for CA buyers who have limited choices in the carry revolver category. Several reviews are specifically from California owners noting it as one of the few quality snub-noses they can purchase new.

Price is the main friction point. The KS6XS runs higher than a comparable S&W 642 or Ruger LCR, and whether the premium is worth it is debated. Most owners who bought it believe it is; people shopping on price alone typically land on the alternatives.