KelTec RDB First Shots & Impressions: The Budget Bullpup

Published on May 28, 2022
Duration: 14:18

The KelTec RDB bullpup rifle is reviewed as a budget-friendly option under $1,000, offering a compact form factor with a 16-inch barrel. While it demonstrated 100% reliability and impressive accuracy at 50 yards, the reviewer ultimately gave it an 'F' due to significant drawbacks. These include excessive heat buildup on the handguard, painful hot brass ejection hitting the shooter's arm, and higher recoil than expected for its caliber.

Quick Summary

The KelTec RDB is a budget bullpup rifle under $1,000, featuring a 16-inch barrel and true ambidextrous downward ejection. While reliable and accurate at 50 yards, it suffers from extreme heat buildup and hot brass hitting the shooter's arm, leading to an 'F' rating.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Comparisons
  2. 01:36The Bullpup Concept Explained
  3. 03:03RDB Specific Features: Ambidextrous Ejection
  4. 04:11Controls, Ergonomics & Budget Price
  5. 06:13Range Testing & Initial Performance
  6. 08:25Ergonomic Issues & Heat Problems
  7. 10:43Final Verdict: An 'F' Rating

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main advantages of the KelTec RDB bullpup rifle?

The KelTec RDB offers a compact bullpup design with a 16-inch barrel for good velocity. Its key advantage is truly ambidextrous downward ejection, meaning no modifications are needed for left-handed shooters. It's also budget-friendly, often priced under $1,000.

What are the significant drawbacks of the KelTec RDB?

The RDB suffers from excessive heat buildup on the handguard, making it painfully hot quickly. Hot brass frequently ejects downwards, hitting the shooter's arm. Recoil is also noted as heavier than expected for a 5.56 rifle.

How does the KelTec RDB perform in terms of accuracy?

During range testing, the KelTec RDB demonstrated impressive accuracy at 50 yards, achieving tight groups on steel plates. This suggests good inherent precision despite its ergonomic challenges.

Is the KelTec RDB considered a good budget bullpup option?

While the RDB is budget-friendly and reliable, its severe ergonomic issues like extreme heat and brass ejection led the reviewer to give it an 'F' rating, suggesting potential buyers consider alternatives if these factors are critical.

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