Kel-tec SU16c

TwistingInTheWind

TwistingInTheWind

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I normally am looking in on the Blackpowder threads but I (unexpectedly) have a chance to pick up a Kel-tec SU16c and I was wondering what some current experiences are after this rifle has been around and maybe has been proofed out.

I tried to do my research, but related zombie discussions seemed to be a little old to resurrect.
Maybe that means now that people have experience and now could speak to it?
When I try to look this gun up I'm getting a lot of older information.

Thank you for any insights y'all have!
 
I don't have the C model but I do have the SU16-B (though I've added the pistol trip stock from the SU-16E - Keltec sells that stock as an upgrade). I haven't shot mine a whole lot but it has been reliable - and the folding bipod handguard is a neat idea.

From my perspective its an interesting gun that if you want it as a novelty or just something different then its not bad. I wouldn't pay a whole lot for one though and if you're buying just out of practicality and don't already have an AR15 then that's a MUCH better choice.
 
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Before this thread gets choked with AR15 comparisons, understand, the KelTec SU16's have only two things in common with an AR-15; caliber and magazine compatibility. (Probably a better comparison would be to a Mini-14.) Their role is that of a Sport Utility rifle, and at 5 lbs. or less, with folded lengths barely over 24", and the ability to carry extra magazines in the stock, they serve that role very well.

I bought mine, an SU16A, to keep in my pickup and it easily fits in the storage compartment under the back seat-

eUlFLyZl.jpg

Due to their short length when folded, they can also be carried quite discreetly. Somebody gave me a gig bag for a mandolin and my SU16A and a couple of 30 round magazines fits nicely in it, and I'm sure it'd fit neatly in a backpack-

k1jEz92l.jpg dTYsxZJl.jpg 3dO5yKZl.jpg CtNSeDil.jpg

I sighted mine it at 200 yds. and it grouped in the 4" -5" range at that distance.

Here's a link to the KelTec Forums.

And a link to a pretty informative video.

35W
 
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A buddy of mine from our hunting club has one and it works. I was sceptical at first, but we have shot it quite a bit with no problems.
 
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I never did buy an SU16, but have had a couple PLR-16s, still have one.

They're not as solid feeling as ARs, Tavors and various other 5.56 rifles that are the semi auto versions of military arms, but they do run, and are pretty accurate IME.

I think the RDB Survival took whatever wind was really left out of the SU-16's market, though. It's barely heavier, feels much more refined and robust, and it's shorter than a folded SU-16
 
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I have an SU16-E, which is just the 16C with folding stock removed, and replaced by an AR type telescoping stock. I like an especially short LOP, and this stock puts me exactly where I want to be.

As to potential defensive or offensive weaponry, I'd have no problem whatsoever using my SU16-E...however, for power and sustained fire I have some AKs and Saigas in 7.62 that would carry that load more easily.

Overall, I'm still AR-less, and as long as I have the SU16-E (along with a T/C Encore single shot with 24 inch barrel for long distance with the 5.56 caliber) I see no need for one.

Good gun, light, powerful enough, small enough to carry or conceal more easily. I like it. In fact, it's one of my longest owned of many guns, and I suspect it'll still be here when most of the others have gone.
 
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I have the SU16C, and like it a lot.

As was pointed out, it is not an AR, nor is it trying to be.

It is a light weight, handy firearm with moderate accuracy. Think minute of jackrabbit at 100 yards.

If you want to put a scope on, choose carefully. A full length scope will interfere with taking the firearm down.
 
Thanks, this is all great.

This particular offer includes the original stock and an AR stock with a couple of accessories for $600.

I especially appreciate the links to the other forum information, 35 Whelen!

It sounds like it could fill a niche for me.
 
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While Kel-Tec products get bashed from time to time, they do make functional and reliable firearms. I have never owned a SU-16 but have shot a few, they always work. And for someone living in a state that bans AR rifles, the SU-16 is a valid choice. And if you can buy one at a fair price, go for it if that is what you want.

I too feel the the RDB has taken over the niche that the SU-16 filled. Kel-Tec has some interesting designs and I do enjoy my CMR30, PMR30 and CP33. I look forward to them releasing thee 410 version of their KSG later this year. I can see the 410 KSG as a viable option and possible replacement for my 410 Mossberg Shockwave.
 
35 Whelen said:
Before this thread gets choked with AR15 comparisons, understand, the KelTec SU16's have only two things in common with an AR-15; caliber and magazine compatibility. (Probably a better comparison would be to a Mini-14.) Their role is that of a Sport Utility rifle, and at 5 lbs. or less, with folded lengths barely over 24", and the ability to carry extra magazines in the stock, they serve that role very well.

I bought mine, an SU16A, to keep in my pickup and it easily fits in the storage compartment under the back seat-

View attachment 1133022

Due to their short length when folded, they can also be carried quite discreetly. Somebody gave me a gig bag for a mandolin and my SU16A and a couple of 30 round magazines fits nicely in it, and I'm sure it'd fit neatly in a backpack-

View attachment 1133023 View attachment 1133024 View attachment 1133025 View attachment 1133026

I sighted mine it at 200 yds. and it grouped in the 4" -5" range at that distance.

Here's a link to the KelTec Forums.

And a link to a pretty informative video.

35W
Click to expand...
35 Whelen said:
Before this thread gets choked with AR15 comparisons, understand, the KelTec SU16's have only two things in common with an AR-15; caliber and magazine compatibility. (Probably a better comparison would be to a Mini-14.) Their role is that of a Sport Utility rifle, and at 5 lbs. or less, with folded lengths barely over 24", and the ability to carry extra magazines in the stock, they serve that role very well.

I bought mine, an SU16A, to keep in my pickup and it easily fits in the storage compartment under the back seat-

View attachment 1133022

Due to their short length when folded, they can also be carried quite discreetly. Somebody gave me a gig bag for a mandolin and my SU16A and a couple of 30 round magazines fits nicely in it, and I'm sure it'd fit neatly in a backpack-

View attachment 1133023 View attachment 1133024 View attachment 1133025 View attachment 1133026

I sighted mine it at 200 yds. and it grouped in the 4" -5" range at that distance.

Here's a link to the KelTec Forums.

And a link to a pretty informative video.

35W
Click to expand...

If that was done with the factory iron sights that pretty darn good for 200 yards. I’ve looked at them before but might give them another look.
 
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12Bravo20 said:
I do enjoy my CMR30, PMR30 and CP33.
Click to expand...

All 3 are really cool toys. Unfortunately, all 3 are also crappy suppressor hosts. The CP33 has a lot of port pop, the PMR30 will eat itself alive with a can, and the CMR has the worst gas blowback of anything I've ever suppressed. The only time I can get through a magazine without my eyes watering is when we have 30+ MPH crosswinds. Unfortunate, as it actually sounds quite good for a blowback .22 mag.
 
MachIVshooter said:
All 3 are really cool toys. Unfortunately, all 3 are also crappy suppressor hosts. The CP33 has a lot of port pop, the PMR30 will eat itself alive with a can, and the CMR has the worst gas blowback of anything I've ever suppressed. The only time I can get through a magazine without my eyes watering is when we have 30+ MPH crosswinds. Unfortunate, as it actually sounds quite good for a blowback .22 mag.
Click to expand...

I have no desire to shoot any of them suppressed. Especially the PMR30 since that is known to self destruct when used with a suppressor. Out of the three, the CP33 is my favorite since it is very accurate. Plus I love the look on people's faces as they wait for me to stop for a mag change. :rofl:

On topic. I had thought about buying a SU-16 years ago but never did since traditional style stocks don't work well for me due to wrist injuries and arthritis. They are a good utilitarian rifle.
 
MachIVshooter said:
I never did buy an SU16, but have had a couple PLR-16s, still have one.

They're not as solid feeling as ARs, Tavors and various other 5.56 rifles that are the semi auto versions of military arms, but they do run, and are pretty accurate IME.

I think the RDB Survival took whatever wind was really left out of the SU-16's market, though. It's barely heavier, feels much more refined and robust, and it's shorter than a folded SU-16
Click to expand...
I love the Hunter version of the RDB.
 
I owned a PLR-16 many years ago, had it for a long time and had no issues.
Added a Red Lion Precision rail, as mentioned above it was all proprietary. Red Lion makes good stuff.
Mounted a Harris bipod with a Larue QD mount and mostly did tabletop shooting, accuracy was as good as most of my ARs minus a RRA 16" HBAR which was very accurate.
I'm pretty sure the SU16 is the same piston action setup (not direct impingement) which some people love as it's not gassing back to the bolt.
I don't think KT sold a ton of the various SUs and PLRs but they've been out for a while and I've not seen any serious complaints.
 
I did end up pulling the trigger on the rifle.
Seller had upgraded the rear sight, stocks and added a light.
SU16 ARstock

SU16 ARstock


I wanted it to fill the niche for me I was interested in, so I put the original buttstock back on and removed the vertical grip.
It feels light and fast. I sorta like the "Monte Carlo-ish" grip on the original configuration.
SU16 Folding

SU16 Folding


I think this will work out well.
Thanks everyone for their thoughts and experiences!
Now I get to go try it out for myself!
 
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DMW1116 said:
If that was done with the factory iron sights that pretty darn good for 200 yards. I’ve looked at them before but might give them another look.
Click to expand...

Tha
TwistingInTheWind said:
I did end up pulling the trigger on the rifle.
Seller had upgraded the rear sight, stocks and added a light.
SU16 ARstock

SU16 ARstock


I wanted it to fill the niche for me I was interested in, so I put the original buttstock back on and removed the vertical grip.
It feels light and fast. I sorta like the "Monte Carlo-ish" grip on the original configuration.
SU16 Folding

SU16 Folding


I think this will work out well.
Thanks everyone for their thoughts and experiences!
Now I get to go try it out for myself!
Click to expand...

I vomited in my mouth a little bit when I saw the SU-16 trying to look like an AR, but felt much better when I saw you had returned it to its original state. :D

35W
 
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Has anyone tried hand loading for one of these? I don’t see many around but everyone I see with one has liked them.
 
DMW1116 said:
Has anyone tried hand loading for one of these? I don’t see many around but everyone I see with one has liked them.
Click to expand...

The only thing I've fired through mine is handloads. It was no different than any other rifle I'm this caliber.

35W
 
Do you shoot a tuned load for that rifle or can it share one with other rifles?
 
DMW1116 said:
Do you shoot a tuned load for that rifle or can it share one with other rifles?
Click to expand...

No, just the bulk loads I loaded for my AR's. One is a 62 gr. FMJBT and the other a Sierra 69 gr. MatchKing.

Now that I think about it, 4"-5" was probably a bit optimistic. I should have time to shoot it this weekend and I'll post results here.

35W
 
x13_su16_ar15.800.jpg

Although SU-16 was an advanced gun for its time, there's little to recommend it today. The other day I built an AR with KP-15 lower and Atlas handugard (not pictured), which was a good 700 g lighter than the SU in the photo above.
 
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zaitcev said:
View attachment 1134298

Although SU-16 was an advanced gun for its time, there's little to recommend it today. The other day I built an AR with KP-15 lower and Atlas handugard (not pictured), which was a good 700 g lighter than the SU in the photo above.
Click to expand...

By-golly, we made it 20 posts before the first 'The AR is better." post.

If you get a chance, I'd like to see a pic of your AR build folded to an overall length of ~24". Also, where on your AR do you store the extra mags?

35W
 
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There is some appeal to having a rifle with potentially 3 thirty round magazines stored on or in it.
 
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daniel craig said:
I love the Hunter version of the RDB.
Click to expand...

With the pistol brace ruling I am looking for a bullpup to fill a roll. I checked one of these out the other day. It was very compact and peaked my interest so I need to go down the proverbial rabbit hole to study more.
 
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