Originally developed for the FN P90 Personal Defense Weapon (PDW) and introduced in 1990, the 5.7x28mm cartridge has gained popularity in recent years. It is almost surprising that the Kel-Tec Sub2000 folding carbines haven’t been available chambered in the high-velocity, small-caliber cartridge.
Until now.
Cocoa, Florida-based Kel-Tec has announced that its Sub2000 Gen3 series has been expanded to include the 5.7x28mm cartridge while also offering a new feature for the rifle – the ability to twist the forend and fold the firearm in half without the need to remove the optics.
“The addition of the 5.7 caliber brings lower recoil and improved accuracy to the Sub2000 GEN3,” said Kel-Tec managing director Derek Kellgren. “This makes it a more family-friendly firearm compared to other calibers.”
The Sub2000 is equipped with a 16-inch barrel, which extracts greater velocity and power while still maintaining minimal recoil. The carbine chambered in a 5.7x28mm caliber cartridge offers a flat trajectory and low recoil, while its simple and reliable blowback design ensures ease of maintenance. It is fed from a 20-round magazine and, along with a lightweight polymer frame, offers a foldable design for compact storage—yet it is also integrated with M-LOK and Picatinny rails to provide full customization options.
“The 5.7 Sub2000 GEN3 is also an excellent choice for law enforcement, government, private security, school resource officers, and church protection teams,” added Director of Business Development Parker Rosenberger. “Its ability to quickly fold and deploy, with zeroed optics ready to go, makes it perfect for situations where compact, reliable firepower is essential.”
The gun maker further announced that it would incorporate the Sub2000 Gen3 into its new Peacekeepers Program, designed to equip safety and security professionals with cutting-edge firearms and unmatched support.
“Kel-Tec’s commitment to innovation, quality, and performance means we never stand still,” said Matt Stanek, marketing manager at Kel-Tec. “The evolution of the SUB2000 line is a testament to our dedication to continuous innovation.”
Kel-Tec 5.7 Sub2000 Gen3 Specs:
- Caliber: 5.7×28 mm
- Magazine Capacity: 20rd FN Pro Mag
- Weight Unloaded: 4.36 pounds (1.9 kg)
- Overall Length: 30.45 inches (774 mm)
- Length Collapsed: 29.2 inches (742 mm)
- Length Folded: 16.15 inches (410 mm)
- Barrel Length: 16.15 inches (410 mm)
- Twist Rate: 1:7 inches
- Trigger Pull: Five pounds
The Kel-Tec 5.7 Sub2000 Gen3 is available now for $511 (MSRP).
