The kick feels too weak to be an effective combat option once you're out of ammo. It comes out slowly, doesn't do much damage, and usually leaves a long window for the enemy to hit you themselves once you get close enough to use it. Too much risk for too little reward.
Apart from that, I love the setting, and the gameplay feels snappy and retro as it should. The decision to use projectile bullets instead of hitscan was great; dodging them feels satisfying and adds depth to the combat loop. Well done!