KelTec’s ingenuity is on full display once again with the launch of the SUB2000 GEN3, proving that the Swedish designer George Kellgren and his team are far from resting on their laurels.
This new iteration of the much-acclaimed folding pistol-caliber carbine (PCC) continues to push the envelope, building on the success of its predecessors while introducing a key innovation that addresses a longstanding issue.
The new SUB2000 GEN3, released in 2024, brings to the table a rotating fore-end that enables the firearm to fold without removing the mounted accessories and optics.
This feature is a game-changer for those who have long struggled with the choice between the convenience of a foldable gun and the tactical advantage of an optic.
At the heart of this innovative design is the rotating fore-end, which, when unlocked from the receiver, swivels 90 degrees to allow the barrel to fold while keeping devices attached.
The inclusion of top and bottom Picatinny rails with M-Lok slots ensures that a variety of sighting options can be mounted, from red-dot optics to magnified riflescopes, and more. The 16.15-inch carbon-steel barrel is threaded, ready for muzzle devices, and the firearm is built with a blowback operation, a two-stage trigger, and an adjustable stock for a customizable length of pull.
In terms of ergonomics and user-friendliness, the GEN3 sports a shortened grip to accommodate 15-round Glock 19 magazines (and still accepts G17 and extended magazines), a lighter trigger pull with an aluminum trigger, an ambidextrous bolt hold-open notch, and a redesigned charging handle for added comfort.
These enhancements underscore KelTec’s commitment to not only innovation but also to the refinement of user experience.
The SUB2000 GEN3’s compatibility with popular Glock magazines remains, ensuring it can still tap into the vast aftermarket support for these common magazines.
With a weight of just over four pounds and the ability to collapse into a compact size, this carbine is primed for ease of transport and storage, fitting into tight spaces like backpacks and carry bags without the hassle of detaching accessories.
At the range, the SUB2000 GEN3 proves its reliability and versatility, comfortably handling a range of ammunition and magazine capacities, though it’s recommended that owners test to find the perfect magazine-ammo combo for their needs.
This model demonstrates how KelTec remains at the forefront of PCC design, ensuring that the SUB2000 remains a top choice for aficionados and practical users alike.
It’s a fitting addition to any collection and a tool that aligns with the needs of the modern shooter—whether they’re engaging in home defense, recreational shooting, or need a trusty companion in their vehicle.
As such, the SUB2000 GEN3 stands out as a remarkable example of how thoughtful engineering can marry functionality with convenience. It’s a bold statement in the PCC market, promising to continue the legacy of its innovative lineage and ensuring that KelTec remains synonymous with cutting-edge firearm solutions.
With a price point that doesn’t break the bank, KelTec’s latest offering is a testament to their ability to deliver high-quality innovations accessible to a wide range of users.
Relevant articles:
– Review: KelTec SUB2000 GEN3, American Rifleman
– New For 2024: KelTec SUB2000 GEN3, American Rifleman
– First Look: Kel-Tec SUB2000 Gen3, Shooting Illustrated
– New Pistol-Caliber-Carbines for 2024, Shooting Illustrated