The Kel-Tec Sub-2000 Gen 2 has carved a niche for itself in the crowded world of carbines. Its unique folding design, lightweight construction, and surprisingly accurate performance have garnered both praise and criticism. This review dives deep into the strengths and weaknesses of this intriguing firearm, helping you determine if it's the right choice for you.
What Sets the Sub-2000 Apart?
The Sub-2000's most striking feature is its folding design. This allows for incredibly compact storage and transport, making it a popular option for those seeking a discreet and easily portable firearm. Unlike many folding firearms, the Sub-2000's folding mechanism is robust and reliable, contributing to its overall dependability. This compact nature also makes it an excellent choice for vehicle storage or as a "truck gun".
Another key aspect is its lightweight construction. Utilizing polymer extensively, the Sub-2000 keeps weight to a minimum, enhancing maneuverability and reducing fatigue during extended use. This is particularly advantageous for individuals who prioritize portability and ease of handling.
Finally, despite its compact size and lightweight design, the Sub-2000 delivers surprisingly accurate performance. With proper ammunition and practice, it's capable of good accuracy at ranges typically encountered in self-defense or home-defense scenarios.
Deep Dive into Features and Performance
Pros:
- Compact and Foldable: The folding design is a game-changer for portability and storage. It's significantly smaller than most other carbines when folded.
- Lightweight: The polymer construction results in a noticeably lightweight firearm, making it easy to carry and handle.
- Affordable: Compared to many other carbines on the market, the Sub-2000 is generally more affordable, making it accessible to a wider range of shooters.
- Reliable Feeding (Generally): While some users report occasional feeding issues, many find the Sub-2000 to be reliable with a variety of 9mm ammunition.
- Versatile Caliber: The Sub-2000's availability in 9mm makes it cost-effective to shoot, with readily available and relatively inexpensive ammunition.
Cons:
- Ergonomics: The ergonomics are subjective and may not suit all shooters. Some find the grip and stock somewhat uncomfortable, particularly during extended shooting sessions.
- Potential for Feeding Issues: While generally reliable, certain types of ammunition can cause feeding problems in some Sub-2000s. Experimentation with different brands and types of ammunition is often necessary to find the most reliable load.
- Recoil: The lightweight design can translate into slightly more felt recoil compared to heavier carbines. This isn't necessarily a deal-breaker, but it's something to be aware of, especially for novice shooters.
- Sights: The factory sights are functional, but some users upgrade to more advanced sights for improved accuracy.
Who is the Sub-2000 For?
The Kel-Tec Sub-2000 Gen 2 is an ideal choice for individuals who prioritize:
- Portability and Compactness: For those needing a firearm that can be easily stored, transported, and concealed in a vehicle, the Sub-2000 shines.
- Budget-Consciousness: Its lower price point makes it attractive to shooters on a budget.
- A lightweight firearm: The emphasis on a lightweight build is a significant advantage for users seeking easy maneuverability.
Conclusion: A Unique and Practical Carbine
The Kel-Tec Sub-2000 Gen 2 is not without its quirks, but its unique features and generally reliable performance make it a compelling option for specific users. The compact size, lightweight design, and affordability are strong selling points. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for feeding issues and the subjective ergonomics before making a purchase. Thorough research and perhaps even hands-on experience are highly recommended before committing to this intriguing and distinctive carbine.
