"An internal, passive striker block keeps the striker from moving forward should the P9 be dropped on its muzzle. Like most "slick-slide" DAO pistols, there are no external safeties as a long, deliberate pull of the trigger is necessary to fire the P9. Pulling the trigger rearward causes the trigger bar to be drawn forward, which in turn rotates the two-lobed cocking cam rearward. With the pistol loaded and at rest, the left lobe of the cocking cam holds the striker partially cocked, and the spring -loaded striker block drops into a recess in the striker preventing its forward movement. When pulling the trigger to fire the pistol, the left lobe of the cocking cam completes cocking of the striker, while the right lobe simultaneously depresses the striker block. When the trigger reaches its fully rearward position, the left cocking cam lobe slips from the striker allowing it to fly forward under striker spring pressure to directly into the grip proper. This makes for a slightly slimmer grip compared to the steel-framed guns. Compared to the K9, the P9's slimmer profile and reduced weight improve the already excellent carrying qualities of Kahr pistols."