How Durable is the Elite 03 Finish?

[JMI]

Been thinking of getting a MK40 (w/night sights) in either the matte or possibly the Elite 03 polished finished. This would be a concealed carry piece. I currently use my new PM9 for pocket carry, which it does nicely, but I'm thinking a MK40 for a IWB/OWB carry. My concern is scratches and dings in the polished surface of the Elite.

Any thoughts?

Thanks

Jim

[FLBri]

The "elite" finish is a brushed stainless. It is easier .... infinitely easier .... to maintain than the bead blasted standard finished. Scratches can be re-brushed with a scotch brite pad with little effort at all.

[Barth]

My MK40 Elite is a few years old, has +1000 rounds down the pipe and still looks like new.

I bought mine with factory NS and am glad I went Elite.
The gun appears to have a slight melted treatment, polished feed ramp and beveled mag well.

Really believe it's worth the extra cost.

[rjt123]

How Durable is the Elite 03 Finish?

Ditto. My K9 Elite is by far my best looking Kahr. Keeping it looking NIB-fresh requires just an occasional wipe down.

NRA Life Member

[berettabone]

If your going to use it as a CCW piece, it's going to get some wear marks..........can't get away from that. Shooting it(heaven forbid) may also cause some wear. You should either immediately lock it up in a safe, or send it to me..................

[JMI]

Let me rephrase the question(s).
Are the two finishes equally durable? Or is one more durable then the other? Which one is most durable?
As I indicated this is going to be a carry piece and not a "safe queen".



Jim

[FLBri]

the are equally durable. You nick them and they both will show the nick. You scratch and they will both show.
But one (the Elite) you can keep looking new forever at home every time you clean it. The other you can send out for a fresh bead blasting anytime you want.

[JMI]

OK , guys. Thanks for the help.

Jim

[quikduk]

FWIW, I have one and have been carrying it for over 3 years in a TT Gunleather custom convertible IWB/OWB. It still looks new. I also have around 500 rounds through it with no issues to date.

[JMI]

FWIW, I have one and have been carrying it for over 3 years in a TT Gunleather custom convertible IWB/OWB. It still looks new. I also have around 500 rounds through it with no issues to date.

Hi Quikduk,

I assume you mean the "Elite 03" by having "one".

Thanks

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By the way, does anyone know if the "03" indicates the year it was introduced or what?

Jim

[berettabone]

Hi Quikduk,

I assume you mean the "Elite 03" by having "one".

Thanks

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By the way, does anyone know if the "03" indicates the year it was introduced or what?

Jim

Correctimundo.....................

[Twoslow]

I got an Elite 03 and polished the brushed areas, left the mate the same though. started with 800 grit and worked my way up to 2000 grit then used Mothers mag and aluminum polish with a microfiber cloth. its beautiful!
now I want wood grips.

[Barth]

Kahr Elite, is Elite.

My MK40 Elite 03 has close to 2000 rounds on it now.
Still looks like new.
As Jocko likes to say - I'm just saying.

You can count on The Kahr Elite finish.
That's just the way it is.