KelTec has, once again, raised the bar in innovating firearms with the SUB2000 GEN3 Pistol Caliber Carbine, guaranteed to take simplicity, modularity, and convenience to fresh dimensions. This generation is specifically made for a straight blow-back system to promote easy operation and maintenance. Without using tools, the carbine can be taken apart for cleaning or inspection and is, therefore, also perfectly suitable for both novice and experienced shooters.
The SUB2000 GEN3 features a 16.15″ threaded barrel that’s suppressor-ready, improving the accuracy, velocity, and power of 9mm cartridges. One of the unique features that makes this carbine the favorite of many is its ability to fold in half real plus on backpacking trips or any time space is at a premium. KelTec continues to be attached to modularity, as evidenced by the inclusion of M-LOK slots and plentiful Picatinny rail space. This allows users to mount whatever accessories they may need, such as lights or optics, with confidence that they won’t get jarred loose if the carbine is folded up.
With an MSRP of just $499.99, the SUB2000 GEN3 is engineered to be the most accessible 9mm caliber carbine available on the market. To sweeten the offer even more, this is a carbine compatible with Glock magazines, such as G19 and G17 models. KelTec maintains the SUB2000 GEN3 fills a niche that no other firearm has-a haven for scenarios where space and handiness are at a premium. The features of this carbine make it hard to argue against the company’s claim.
Swedish designer and inventor George Kellgren is known for his outside-the-box approach to designing firearms, and the SUB2000 GEN3 is no exception. KelTec’s history with pioneering designs says volumes about the company and its attitude toward innovation: think the P11 polymer-frame 9mm pistol and the KSG series of dual-tube, pump-action shotguns. The SUB2000 first hit the market in 2001, and this little folding pistol-caliber carbine was well ahead of its time.
Changes abound with the GEN3 model, yet it has retained many of the core features that have made the SUB2000 a staple among shooters for a decade-plus. Arguably one of the most noteworthy changes is the addition of the rotating fore-end to address the largest problem of the optic mounting. The new design allows for fore-ends to rotate 90 degrees to the right or left, allowing users to keep optics mounted and zeroed on their carbine even in its folded configuration.
Construction of the carbine involves a black polymer receiver and fore-end, attached via frame screws, along with a 16.15″ carbon-steel barrel with a threaded muzzle. The trigger guard is a dual-purpose affair, providing the release lever for the hinged barrel, while the two-stage trigger itself breaks smoothly and cleanly. The grip has been shortened to accommodate 15-round Glock 19 magazines, allowing its height to match the shoulder stock.
The weight of the SUB2000 GEN3, with an empty magazine, is a mere 4 lbs. 6 oz., hence being highly versatile and practical for many purposes. Designed to be adjusted for the length of pull, its one-piece polymer shoulder stock provides comfort among users of different statures. Moreover, the carbine is pretty versatile, as it accepts Glock magazines with anything from 15 to 33 rounds of capacity.
At the range, the SUB2000 GEN3 ran everything from Federal’s American Eagle 147-grain subsonic load to SIG Sauer’s M17 V-Crown 124-grain +P with ease. A few of the magazine and ammunition combinations produced an occasional jam, but overall reliability was very good.
KelTec’s SUB2000 GEN3 managed to incorporate useful updates without losing either the features or the price point that have made this carbine such a great choice. The rotating fore-end eliminates the optics problem and hence strongly improves the diversity and friendliness of the carbine. Whether for backpacking, self-defense, or target shooting, the SUB2000 GEN3 is one of the lightest, compact, and easy-to-manipulate carbines adapted to take popular Glock magazines, and it will doubtless keep being successful in the market.