A Closer Look at the Design
Understanding Caliber and Magazine Options
The Kel-Tec SUB-2000 stands out in a crowd thanks to its innovative folding design. This feature is arguably its most defining characteristic, making it exceptionally portable and easy to store. But beyond the folding mechanism, the SUB-2000 boasts other key design elements worth exploring.
One of the first things you’ll notice is the slender profile. The SUB-2000 feels surprisingly lightweight, a benefit of its polymer receiver. This choice of material keeps the overall weight down, enhancing maneuverability. The barrel is typically steel, contributing to the firearm’s durability and potential accuracy. The combination of these materials strikes a balance between cost-effectiveness and functionality.
Understanding Caliber and Magazine Options
The SUB-2000 is offered in two popular pistol calibers: 9mm and .40 S&W. This choice provides flexibility, allowing users to select the cartridge that best suits their existing handgun collection or personal preference. The 9mm version, in particular, enjoys a wide appeal due to the prevalence and affordability of 9mm ammunition.
A significant selling point of the SUB-2000 is its magazine compatibility. The carbine is designed to accept magazines from various popular handguns, including Glock. This compatibility is a huge advantage for many shooters, especially those who already own a Glock pistol. It means that you can share magazines between your handgun and your PCC, simplifying logistics and reducing the need to purchase additional magazines. Depending on the specific model, the SUB-2000 might also be compatible with magazines from Smith & Wesson and Beretta, further broadening its appeal. This feature is a huge win for both convenience and cost savings.
Examining the Sights and Controls
The SUB-2000 comes standard with iron sights. These sights offer a simple and reliable aiming solution. They consist of a front post and a rear aperture sight. While functional, some shooters may find the stock sights somewhat basic.
Fortunately, the SUB-2000 is equipped with a Picatinny rail. This allows shooters to easily mount a variety of optics, such as red dot sights or scopes, further enhancing accuracy and versatility. The ability to customize the sighting system is a valuable feature, particularly for those seeking improved precision at longer ranges.
The controls of the SUB-2000 are generally straightforward. The charging handle is located on the side and offers easy manipulation for chambering a round. The safety selector is positioned conveniently within reach. The magazine release is also accessible, facilitating quick magazine changes. The trigger, while functional, is often cited as an area where the SUB-2000 could be improved. It can sometimes feel a bit heavy or spongy, though its performance varies.
Performance: Testing the SUB-2000 on the Range
Accuracy and Reliability
The true test of any firearm lies in its performance on the range. How does the Kel-Tec SUB-2000 fare in terms of accuracy, handling, and reliability?
In terms of accuracy, the SUB-2000 can deliver acceptable results at typical PCC distances. Groupings at twenty-five yards are usually quite good. At fifty yards, groups will open up, but the carbine is still capable of hitting targets consistently. The actual accuracy will depend on the user’s skill and the type of ammunition being used.
The felt recoil of the SUB-2000 is generally manageable, even for those unfamiliar with PCCs. The lightweight design can contribute to a bit more felt recoil compared to heavier PCCs. The 9mm version, in particular, is known for its mild recoil, making it comfortable to shoot for extended periods. The ergonomics of the SUB-2000 are decent, with a comfortable grip and well-placed controls. However, the compact size may not be ideal for shooters with larger hands.
Reliability and Shooting Experience
Reliability is a crucial factor in any firearm. During testing, the SUB-2000 generally performs well, although like any firearm, it can be susceptible to occasional malfunctions. The choice of ammunition can play a role, with some types of rounds performing better than others. Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential for ensuring optimal reliability. It’s good practice to test different types of ammunition to understand which ones perform best for you.
The shooting experience with the SUB-2000 is generally enjoyable. It’s a fun and accessible firearm that is easy to handle and operate. The folding design adds to the convenience, making it ideal for transportation and storage.
Exploring the Advantages and Disadvantages
The Good
The Kel-Tec SUB-2000 has several notable strengths and weaknesses. Understanding these aspects will help you evaluate whether this PCC aligns with your needs and priorities.
Affordability: The most compelling aspect of the SUB-2000 is its accessible price point. It’s a budget-friendly option that makes PCC ownership accessible to a wider range of shooters.
Magazine Compatibility: As discussed, the Glock magazine compatibility is a massive advantage. It allows shooters to leverage existing Glock magazines, saving money and streamlining their setup.
Compact Design: The folding design is a real game-changer. It makes the SUB-2000 incredibly portable, easy to store, and convenient to transport.
Lightweight: The polymer receiver contributes to the lightweight nature of the SUB-2000, enhancing maneuverability and reducing fatigue during extended shooting sessions.
Ease of Disassembly and Maintenance: The SUB-2000 is relatively easy to disassemble and maintain. This simplifies cleaning and ensures that the firearm remains in top operating condition.
The Not-So-Good
Trigger: The trigger on the SUB-2000 is often criticized. While functional, it may not offer the crispness or smoothness of higher-end PCCs.
Aesthetics: While subjective, the aesthetics of the SUB-2000 may not appeal to everyone. Some shooters prefer a more traditional or refined appearance.
Stock Sights: The stock iron sights, while functional, may not be ideal for all users. Upgrading to an optic can significantly improve accuracy.
Ergonomics: As mentioned before, the ergonomics might not be ideal for all handsizes.
Considering the SUB-2000 in the Larger Landscape
Pistol-caliber carbines come in various forms, at various price points. There are high-end models built for competition, and more modest offerings designed for home defense. The Kel-Tec SUB-2000 positions itself squarely in the budget-friendly category.
Compared to some more expensive PCCs, the SUB-2000 might lack certain refinements, such as a more advanced trigger or more premium materials. However, its affordability and unique folding design provide a compelling value proposition. Consider what features and benefits are most important to you. If you’re looking for top-tier performance, you may need to invest in a more expensive model. However, for a reliable, portable, and inexpensive PCC, the SUB-2000 stands out from the crowd.
Who Should Consider the Kel-Tec SUB-2000?
The Kel-Tec SUB-2000 is particularly well-suited for certain types of shooters.
This carbine is ideal for individuals on a budget. If you are looking for an entry point into the world of PCCs without breaking the bank, the SUB-2000 deserves a close look.
Its compact and portable design makes it a great choice for those seeking a PCC that is easy to store and transport. If you have limited space or need a firearm that is easy to conceal, the folding SUB-2000 offers an excellent advantage.
The magazine compatibility with Glock handguns is a significant draw for those who already own a Glock pistol. This simplifies logistics and reduces the need to purchase separate magazines.
Preppers and survivalists also often find the SUB-2000 appealing. Its compact size, magazine commonality, and ease of storage make it a practical choice for emergency preparedness scenarios.
However, the SUB-2000 may not be the best fit for everyone.
Shooters who prioritize high-end features and performance may find the SUB-2000 lacking. If you are seeking a PCC with a premium trigger, advanced optics, or other high-performance features, you may need to consider a more expensive option.
It might also not be the ideal choice for those looking for a competition-ready PCC out of the box. While the SUB-2000 can be modified, it may not be the best starting point for competitive shooting.
Final Thoughts and Recommendations
The Kel-Tec SUB-2000 is a unique and capable PCC that offers a compelling combination of affordability, portability, and magazine compatibility. Its folding design is a standout feature, making it exceptionally easy to store and transport. The magazine compatibility with Glock handguns further enhances its appeal, streamlining the magazine logistics for many shooters.
While the trigger and aesthetics may not be perfect, the SUB-2000’s overall value proposition is undeniable. It provides a reliable and fun shooting experience without breaking the bank. If you are looking for an affordable and versatile PCC, the Kel-Tec SUB-2000 is certainly worth considering.
In conclusion, the Kel-Tec SUB-2000 is a solid choice for a budget-friendly PCC. It excels in areas like portability and magazine compatibility. If you value those aspects, you will be hard-pressed to find a better value. It’s a fun firearm to shoot, and its lightweight design makes it suitable for extended use.
Do you have experience with the Kel-Tec SUB-2000? What are your thoughts on this pistol-caliber carbine? Share your experiences and questions in the comments below!
