Kel-Tec RDB-17: Redefining the Compact Rifle Experience

Are you searching for a modern sporting rifle that offers the ballistic performance of a full-length barrel in an incredibly compact and maneuverable package? Do you need a firearm that caters equally to right-handed and left-handed shooters without compromise? For enthusiasts, tactical professionals, and sport shooters alike, the Kel-Tec RDB-17 in its distinctive green finish (model RDBGRN) emerges as a standout choice, challenging conventional notions of rifle design. This isn't just another bullpup; it's an engineering marvel designed to solve common frustrations while enhancing the shooting experience for everyone.

Understanding the Bullpup Advantage: Why Compact Matters

A traditional rifle design places the action and magazine well forward of the trigger, leading to a longer overall length. Bullpup designs, however, strategically position the action and magazine behind the trigger group, allowing for a significantly shorter overall length while retaining a full-length barrel. This ingenious configuration directly addresses several practical challenges:

• Maneuverability in Confined Spaces: Whether navigating dense brush, operating within a vehicle, or defending a home, a shorter rifle is inherently easier to handle, pivot, and aim.
• Reduced Snag Points: Less rifle extending forward means fewer opportunities for the firearm to get caught on gear, foliage, or doorways.
• Improved Balance: With the weight shifted rearward, closer to the shooter's body, bullpups often feel lighter and more balanced, reducing fatigue during extended use.
• Enhanced Portability: A compact rifle is simply easier to transport and store, making it ideal for discreet carry or fitting into smaller cases.

While bullpups offer these compelling advantages, many designs historically suffered from issues like poor trigger feel, non-ambidextrous operation, or awkward ergonomics, particularly regarding spent casing ejection. This is precisely where the Kel-Tec RDB series, and specifically the RDB-17, dramatically redefines the platform, offering innovative solutions to these very challenges.

The RDB-17's Groundbreaking Innovations for Unmatched Performance

The Kel-Tec RDB-17 isn't just a compact rifle; it’s packed with unique features that elevate its performance and user experience far beyond typical bullpup designs.

Patented Downward Ejection: A Game Changer for Ambidextrous Use

Perhaps the most revolutionary feature of the RDB-17 is its patented downward ejection system. Unlike most firearms that eject spent casings to the side (which can be problematic for left-handed shooters or when shooting from unconventional positions), the RDB-17 reliably ejects casings straight down through a port behind the magazine well.

• Benefits for All Shooters:
  • True Ambidexterity: No more hot brass flying past your face, regardless of which shoulder you're shooting from. This is a crucial safety and comfort feature, especially for left-handed individuals who often face limitations with traditional rifle designs.
  • Versatile Shooting Positions: It allows comfortable shooting from either shoulder, around cover, or in close quarters without worrying about brass interference.
  • Cleaner Operation: Keeps spent casings away from optics, sling points, and the shooter's line of sight.
  • Eliminates Deflectors: Unlike some ambidextrous designs that rely on brass deflectors, the RDB-17's system is inherently clean and simple.

This innovative ejection mechanism is a cornerstone of the RDB-17's truly ambidextrous nature, setting it apart from nearly every other rifle on the market.

Unprecedented Bullpup Trigger Feel

One of the most frequent criticisms leveled against bullpup rifles is their typically heavy, spongy, or otherwise suboptimal trigger pull, often due to the long linkage required to connect the trigger to the rear-mounted hammer or firing mechanism. The Kel-Tec RDB-17 completely shatters this stereotype. Its trigger is renowned for being surprisingly crisp and light, feeling more akin to a well-tuned AR-15 trigger than a bullpup. This is achieved through clever engineering that minimizes linkage slop and optimizes the geometry.

• Impact on Shooting:
  • Improved Accuracy: A better trigger allows for more precise shot placement, reducing shooter-induced errors.
  • Enhanced Control: Smoother trigger pull aids in managing recoil and staying on target during rapid fire.
  • More Enjoyable Shooting: A good trigger transforms the shooting experience from a chore into a pleasure.

This attention to trigger quality demonstrates Kel-Tec's commitment to building a user-friendly and high-performing firearm, addressing a common pain point for bullpup enthusiasts.

Complete Ambidextrous Control Layout

Beyond the downward ejection, every critical control on the RDB-17 is designed for ambidextrous operation, making it genuinely usable by anyone.

• Reversible Operating Handle: The charging handle can be easily swapped to either the left or right side, catering to shooter preference.
• Ambidextrous Safety: The safety selector is accessible from both sides, allowing quick and intuitive manipulation regardless of dominant hand.
• Magazine Catch/Release: Strategically placed and designed for easy access from either side.
• Integrated Ambidextrous Sling Points: Allow for versatile sling attachment.

This holistic approach to ambidexterity ensures that neither left-handed nor right-handed shooters are at a disadvantage, promoting seamless transitions and universal accessibility.

Power and Precision: The 5.56x45mm NATO Advantage

The Kel-Tec RDB-17 is chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO, a highly versatile and widely available cartridge also compatible with .223 Remington ammunition. This caliber is celebrated for its flat trajectory, moderate recoil, and effectiveness across various applications.

• Ballistic Performance: The 17.30-inch barrel, despite the rifle's compact 27.30-inch overall length (OAL), allows the 5.56x45mm NATO cartridge to achieve excellent muzzle velocities and energy. This means you're getting full-size rifle performance in a package shorter than many pistol-caliber carbines.
• Versatility: The 5.56 NATO is suitable for:
  • Sport Shooting: Excellent for target practice, plinking, and competitive shooting.
  • Home Defense: A reliable and effective round for personal protection, especially with appropriate ammunition selection.
  • Varmint Hunting: Sufficient power and accuracy for small to medium-sized game.
  • Tactical Applications: Favored by military and law enforcement for its balance of power, capacity, and manageable recoil.
• 1:7" Twist Rate: The 1:7" twist rate of the barrel is optimized for stabilizing heavier 5.56x45mm NATO projectiles, such as 62-grain M855 or even heavier match-grade ammunition. This ensures maximum accuracy and performance across a broad spectrum of modern ammunition types, making the RDB-17 incredibly versatile.

Durability, Ergonomics, and Customization

Kel-Tec is known for its innovative use of modern materials, and the RDB-17 is no exception.

• Robust Construction:
  • Steel Receiver: Provides a strong and durable backbone for the rifle's action.
  • Black Nitride Barrel Finish: Offers superior corrosion resistance, enhanced durability, and reduced friction, contributing to the barrel's longevity and ease of cleaning.
  • High-Impact Resistant Zytel Forend: The forend is crafted from Zytel, a high-strength nylon polymer known for its durability and light weight, ensuring the rifle can withstand rigorous use.
  • Synthetic Stock: The green fixed bullpup stock is made from a rugged synthetic material, designed for resilience and a comfortable cheek weld.
• Ergonomic Design:
  • Green Polymer Grip: Provides a secure and comfortable hold, even in adverse conditions. The striking green finish adds a distinctive aesthetic appeal.
  • Exceptional Balance: The bullpup configuration inherently places the rifle's center of gravity closer to the shooter's body, resulting in a naturally balanced feel that reduces perceived weight and fatigue. This allows for quicker target transitions and improved control.
• Accessory Mounting:
  • Integrated Picatinny Rail: The Zytel forend features a built-in Picatinny-style rail on the bottom. This allows for the easy attachment of essential accessories such as lights, lasers, bipods, or vertical foregrips, enabling users to customize the rifle to their specific needs and preferences.
  • Optic Ready Sights: The RDB-17 comes optic-ready, featuring a full-length Picatinny rail along the top for mounting your preferred red dot sight, holographic sight, or magnified optic. This flexibility allows shooters to optimize their aiming solution for various shooting scenarios, from close-quarters engagements to longer-range precision.

Capacity and Magazine Compatibility

The Kel-Tec RDB-17 boasts a generous 20+1 round capacity, providing ample firepower for various applications. A significant advantage is its compatibility with standard AR-15 pattern magazines. This is a huge benefit for anyone already owning an AR-15 or looking for a rifle with widely available and affordable magazines. This commonality simplifies logistics, reduces cost, and ensures a broad selection of magazine capacities and types are readily available.

Who is the Kel-Tec RDB-17 For? Real-World Applications

The Kel-Tec RDB-17 is an excellent choice for a diverse range of users, each finding unique benefits in its innovative design.

• The Discerning Sport Shooter: Looking for a unique, high-performing rifle for range days? The RDB-17's exceptional trigger, balance, and compact size make it a joy to shoot, offering a fresh experience beyond traditional AR-style platforms. Its ability to utilize common AR-15 magazines means you can bring your existing magazine collection to the range.
• The Prepared Home Defender: Compactness is key for home defense, allowing easy maneuverability within a dwelling. The RDB-17's 5.56 NATO chambering provides effective stopping power, while its ambidextrous nature means it can be operated effectively from either side of cover or by any family member trained in its use. Downward ejection eliminates brass-in-face issues during high-stress situations.
• The Tactical Enthusiast: Seeking a rifle optimized for close-quarters battle (CQB) or tactical drills? The RDB-17's short overall length, superior balance, and ambidextrous controls make it incredibly agile and adaptable to dynamic shooting scenarios. The Picatinny rails allow for all necessary tactical accessories.
• The Left-Handed Shooter: Tired of compromising with firearms designed primarily for right-handers? The RDB-17 is truly ambidextrous from the ground up, providing a seamless and comfortable shooting experience without hot brass ejection concerns or awkward control manipulation.
• The Shooter Seeking a Compact Travel/Storage Solution: For those with limited storage space or who frequently transport their firearms, the RDB-17's incredibly short OAL (27.30 inches) makes it easy to store in smaller safes or transport discreetly in backpacks or range bags that wouldn't accommodate a full-size rifle.
• The Collector of Innovative Firearms: Kel-Tec has a reputation for pushing boundaries in firearm design. The RDB-17, with its patented downward ejection and unique bullpup execution, is a prime example of their innovative spirit, making it a desirable piece for any modern firearm collection.

Considering the Kel-Tec RDB-17: Common Questions Addressed

When evaluating a new firearm, especially one with unique features like the RDB-17, potential buyers often have specific questions. Here are some common inquiries and their answers:

• "How easy is it to disassemble and clean?" The RDB-17 is designed for relatively straightforward field stripping. Once familiar with the process, routine cleaning and maintenance are manageable, ensuring the rifle's longevity and reliability.
• "What kind of accuracy can I expect?" With its 17.30-inch barrel, 1:7" twist rate, and exceptional trigger, the RDB-17 is capable of good accuracy, often delivering 2-3 MOA (Minute of Angle) or better with quality ammunition, which is excellent for a combat-oriented rifle and sufficient for most sport shooting and defensive applications.
• "Is the weight manageable?" At 7 lbs, the RDB-17 is light for a rifle in this caliber, especially considering its steel receiver and barrel. The bullpup design distributes this weight efficiently, making it feel even lighter and more balanced during handling.
• "What accessories are recommended?" Given its optic-ready nature, a quality red dot or low-power variable optic (LPVO) is highly recommended. A vertical foregrip or handstop can enhance control on the Picatinny rail. A comfortable sling is also essential for carry.

Elevate Your Shooting Experience with the Kel-Tec RDB-17

The Kel-Tec RDB-17 stands as a testament to thoughtful firearm innovation. It systematically addresses common challenges associated with the bullpup platform, delivering a rifle that is not only exceptionally compact but also genuinely ambidextrous, boasts an impressive trigger, and offers the ballistic performance of a much longer firearm. Whether you're a seasoned shooter seeking the next evolution in rifle design or a newcomer desiring a versatile and user-friendly platform, the RDB-17 offers a compelling solution. Its unique combination of features ensures reliability, comfort, and performance across a spectrum of demanding applications. Explore the future of compact rifle design with the Kel-Tec RDB-17, available through trusted retailers like DEGuns.

Kel-Tec RDB-17 Specifications

Feature	Detail
Brand	Kel-Tec
Model	RDB
Series	17
Caliber	5.56x45mm NATO
Action	Semi-Auto
Operating System	Direct Impingement
Barrel Length	17.30"
Overall Length	27.30"
Weight	7 lbs
Capacity	20+1
Magazine Type	AR-15
Stock Finish	Green
Stock Material	Synthetic
Stock Description	Bullpup
Grip Material	Green Polymer
Hand	Ambidextrous
Sights	Optic Ready
Barrel Finish	Black Nitride
Barrel Description	Steel
Twist Rate	1:7"
Rails	Picatinny (Bottom Forend, Top)
Receiver Material	Steel
UPC	640832005950
MPN	RDBGRN
SKU	131891