About KELTEC Firearms
Founded in 1991 by Swedish-born firearms designer George Kellgren, KelTec Firearms—officially Kel-Tec CNC Industries Inc. has earned a global reputation for redefining modern firearm design.
Headquartered in Cocoa, Florida, KelTec was originally established to manufacture precision CNC-machined components.
However, it wasn’t long before the company began pushing the boundaries of firearm technology with a lineup of innovative, space-efficient, and affordable weapons tailored to meet the needs of civilian shooters, law enforcement, and tactical users.
KelTec’s early success came with the introduction of the P-11 pistol in 1995—a groundbreaking, double-stack 9mm semi-automatic featuring a polymer frame and double-action-only trigger system.
It was one of the first pistols designed specifically for concealed carry, offering a compact, lightweight, and highly concealable option for self-defense.
This launch set the tone for KelTec's design philosophy: function-first engineering with a focus on compactness, reliability, and forward-thinking innovation.
Since then, the company has continued to disrupt conventional firearm norms with unique offerings like the SUB2000 folding carbine, the PMR30 .22 Magnum pistol, and the iconic KSG bullpup shotgun.
Each model showcases the brand’s emphasis on high capacity, lightweight materials, and distinctive ergonomics—hallmarks that have become synonymous with the KelTec name.
One of the company's most notable contributions to the firearm industry is its pioneering work in bullpup rifle technology. The RFB and RDB series deliver full-size rifle performance in ultra-compact frames, offering ambidextrous controls and exceptional balance.
These rifles represent the pinnacle of KelTec’s commitment to space-conscious innovation without sacrificing power or performance.
Today, KelTec remains a proudly American and privately-owned business, with an ever-expanding product line that includes semi-automatic pistols, rifles, and shotguns.
Their offerings appeal to a broad spectrum of users—from concealed carry permit holders and home defense enthusiasts to survivalists and recreational shooters—thanks to their unbeatable combination of performance, affordability, and innovation.
Whether you're looking for a rugged backpacking carbine or a next-gen home defense platform, KelTec Firearms delivers practical solutions engineered for real-world applications.
Unique Features
KelTec Firearms is renowned for engineering some of the most forward-thinking firearms on the market today. Known for their compact designs, high-capacity builds, and modular functionality, KelTec products are anything but traditional.
Whether for concealed carry, home defense, or tactical applications, KelTec’s commitment to innovation and user-centered performance is apparent in every feature they design.
Bullpup Configurations for Maximum Compactness
KelTec is one of the few firearms manufacturers to embrace bullpup technology across multiple rifle and shotgun platforms. Firearms like the KSG shotgun, RFB, and RDB rifles place the action and magazine behind the trigger, allowing for a shorter overall length without sacrificing barrel length or ballistic performance. These designs offer superior maneuverability in close quarters, making them ideal for home defense and tactical scenarios.
Folding Firearms for Portability
The SUB2000 folding carbine is a prime example of KelTec’s space-saving ingenuity. This pistol-caliber carbine folds in half for storage and transport, making it perfect for backpack carry, vehicle storage, or compact bug-out kits. Despite its portability, the SUB2000 maintains excellent accuracy and compatibility with popular handgun magazines.
High-Capacity, Low-Weight Designs
KelTec specializes in creating lightweight, polymer-based firearms that don’t compromise on capacity. The PMR30, for instance, holds 30 rounds of .22 Magnum in a sleek, easy-to-carry frame. This philosophy extends across their lineup, offering users more firepower in a more manageable package.
Ambidextrous Controls
From the RDB’s downward-ejecting system to ambidextrous safety selectors and charging handles, KelTec firearms cater to both left- and right-handed shooters. This attention to detail improves usability and makes their firearms more versatile for a wider range of users.
Modularity and Accessory Compatibility
KelTec firearms often feature Picatinny rails, M-LOK slots, and modular handguards, enabling users to fully customize their firearms with optics, grips, lights, and other tactical accessories. This modularity ensures that shooters can tailor their weapon to specific missions or personal preferences.
Innovative Caliber Offerings
KelTec isn’t afraid to think outside the box with their caliber choices. Firearms like the CP33 (.22 LR) and PMR30 (.22 WMR) provide shooters with unique alternatives to traditional calibers, offering lower recoil and increased capacity while still delivering impressive performance for sport shooting and small-game hunting.
Distinctive Aesthetics
KelTec firearms stand out visually as well as functionally. With futuristic lines, sleek polymer frames, and unconventional silhouettes, models like the KSG, P50, and RFB have become instantly recognizable in both civilian markets and pop culture alike.
Popular KELTEC Firearms
KelTec SUB-2000
The KelTec SUB-2000 is a folding carbine available in various calibers, such as 9mm and .40 S&W. It is known for its compact size, folding capability, and ability to accept popular pistol magazines.
KelTec PMR-30
The KelTec PMR-30 is a lightweight semi-automatic pistol chambered in .22 WMR. It stands out for its high-capacity magazine, futuristic design, and lightweight construction.
KelTec PF-9
The KelTec PF-9 is a slim and lightweight 9mm semi-automatic pistol, favored by those seeking a concealed carry firearm. It offers a blend of compactness, reliability, and affordability.
KelTec KSG
The KelTec KSG is a bullpup-style shotgun with dual magazine tubes, allowing for a high capacity of shotgun shells. It is compact, easy to handle, and popular for home defense and recreational shooting.
KelTec P-11
The KelTec P-11 is a compact, double-action-only semi-automatic pistol chambered in 9mm. It is valued for its small size, lightweight construction, and affordability.
KelTec RDB (Rifle Downward-ejecting Bullpup)
The KelTec RDB is a bullpup-style rifle that features downward ejection of spent casings, resulting in ambidextrous use and reduced recoil. It is chambered in various calibers, including 5.56mm.
KelTec SU-16
The KelTec SU-16 is a lightweight, folding rifle available in various configurations and calibers, such as 5.56mm and .223 Remington. It is known for its portability and adaptability.
KelTec CP33
The KelTec CP33 is a semi-automatic pistol chambered in .22 LR. It is distinguished by its high-capacity magazine, holding up to 33 rounds, and its ergonomic design.
KelTec CMR-30
The KelTec CMR-30 is a lightweight semi-automatic rifle chambered in .22 WMR. It offers a high-capacity magazine, compact size, and ease of handling.
KelTec P-17
The KelTec P-17 is a compact semi-automatic pistol chambered in .22 LR. It features a 16-round magazine capacity, a lightweight construction, and an affordable price point.
KELTEC FAQs
QUESTION: What is KelTec known for?
ANSWER: KelTec is best known for its innovative firearm designs, especially its compact and lightweight builds. From the folding KelTec SUB2000 carbine to the bullpup KelTec KSG shotgun, the brand specializes in high-capacity, space-saving firearms ideal for concealed carry, home defense, and tactical use.
QUESTION: Where are KelTec firearms made?
ANSWER: All KelTec firearms are proudly manufactured in Cocoa, Florida, USA. As an American-owned and operated company, KelTec emphasizes domestic innovation, engineering, and craftsmanship.
QUESTION: Who founded KelTec Firearms?
ANSWER: KelTec was founded in 1991 by George Kellgren, a Swedish-born firearms designer with previous experience at Intratec and Husqvarna. His goal was to revolutionize modern firearm design with function-first, compact platforms.
QUESTION: Are KelTec pistols good for concealed carry?
ANSWER: Yes. KelTec pistols like the P-11, P3AT, and P15 are designed specifically with concealability and lightweight carry in mind. Their polymer frames and slim profiles make them popular among concealed carry permit holders.
QUESTION: What calibers are KelTec rifles available in?
ANSWER: KelTec rifles are available in multiple calibers including 5.56 NATO, .308 Win, and 9mm. Popular models include the RDB, RFB, and SUB2000, which offer flexibility for tactical, hunting, or recreational shooting.
QUESTION: Is the KelTec KSG shotgun reliable?
ANSWER: Yes. The KelTec KSG is a 12-gauge bullpup shotgun trusted for its dual-tube magazine capacity, compact design, and pump-action reliability. It's a favorite among home defense and tactical users.
QUESTION: What makes KelTec different from other firearm manufacturers?
ANSWER: KelTec Firearms is known for pushing boundaries. Their products focus on compact size, innovative engineering, and affordability. Many KelTec designs—such as the folding SUB2000 or the 30-round PMR30—have become icons in their categories.
QUESTION: Can I mount accessories on KelTec firearms?
ANSWER: Yes. Most KelTec rifles and shotguns feature Picatinny or M-LOK rails for adding optics, lights, vertical grips, and other accessories. This modularity appeals to tactical and recreational shooters alike.
QUESTION: Are KelTec guns good for beginners?
ANSWER: Many KelTec pistols and rifles are suitable for new shooters due to their ease of use, low recoil, and lightweight frames. Models like the KelTec CP33 and SUB2000 are often recommended for target practice and training.
QUESTION: Does KelTec offer customer service or warranty support?
ANSWER: Yes. KelTec Firearms offers a lifetime warranty for original owners and a dedicated U.S.-based customer service team. Their reputation for standing behind their products is a key reason for their loyal customer base.
QUESTION: Where can I buy KelTec firearms online?
ANSWER: You can find a wide selection of KelTec shotguns, KelTec rifles, and KelTec handguns at trusted retailers like Ammunition Depot, with fast shipping to your preferred FFL.
Additional KELTEC Firearm Resources
Find, view, and download your favorite KELTEC owner's manual and gun schematics including Pistols, Rifles, and KELTEC Shotguns!
Visit the KELTEC Firearms Schematics and Owner's Manuals Page
