Kel-Tec KS7
Kel-Tec CNC Industries · Shotgun · In Production · 2019
Also known as: KS7
Overview
The Kel-Tec KS7 is a lightweight bullpup pump-action shotgun introduced in 2019 as a simplified, more affordable alternative to Kel-Tec's dual-tube KSG. Chambered in 12 gauge with a 3-inch chamber, the KS7 uses a single tubular magazine holding 6+1 rounds of 3-inch shells or 7+1 rounds of 2.75-inch shells. The bullpup configuration places the action behind the pistol grip, allowing the KS7 to maintain a full 18.5-inch barrel while achieving an overall length of just 26.1 inches -- shorter than most conventional shotguns with equivalent barrel length. At only 5 pounds 14 ounces unloaded, the KS7 is one of the lightest pump-action 12-gauge shotguns available, making it exceptionally maneuverable for home defense and close-quarters use. The shotgun loads from the rear and ejects spent shells downward through a common port, making it fully ambidextrous. A removable carry handle doubles as a sighting channel with a triangular green fiber-optic bead, and features M-LOK slots on each side for mounting lights and accessories. The carry handle can be replaced with a flat Picatinny rail for mounting optics. An integral Picatinny rail on the receiver top provides additional mounting options. The polymer construction with a steel receiver, steel magazine tube, and steel bolt keeps weight to a minimum while maintaining structural integrity.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 2676 g (94.4 oz) |
| Overall Length | 663 mm (26.10") |
| Barrel Length | 470 mm (18.50") |
| Action Type | Pump Action |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Stage |
| Trigger Pull | 28 N (6.3 lbf) |
| Magazine Capacity | 7 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Tubular |
| Effective Range | 40 m (44 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Smoothbore |
| Number of Grooves | 6 |
| Frame Material | Polymer |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Polymer |
| Finish | Matte Black |
Calibers
- 12 Gauge · primary — also known as 12 ga, 12 bore
Features
- Firing modes: Manual
- Feed systems: Tubular Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Crossbolt Safety, Trigger Disconnect
- Features: Bullpup Configuration, Single Tube Magazine, Downward Ejection, Rear Loading, Removable Carry Handle, Fiber Optic Bead Sight, M Lok Slots, Picatinny Top Rail, Rubber Recoil Pad, Hand Shield, 3 Inch Chamber, Magazine Witness Ports, Ambidextrous Pump Release, Swivel Studs
Variants
- Kel-Tec KS7 Gen2 — Improved
- Kel-Tec KS7 Tan — Cosmetic
Production
Production years: 2019-present
Produced at Kel-Tec's facility in Cocoa, Florida. Primarily a civilian commercial product for home defense and recreational shooting.
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Designer: George Kellgren
Notes
The KS7 cannot be loaded directly into the chamber -- shells must first enter the magazine tube and then be cycled into the chamber, similar to the Ithaca Model 37. The loading port at the rear of the receiver can make reloading slower than conventional shotguns, as the tube entrance is positioned near the shooter's shoulder. The light weight of the KS7, while excellent for maneuverability, results in noticeably sharp recoil with full-power 12-gauge loads -- proper technique and grip are essential. Reliability with Aguila Minishells is approximately 70%. The Gen2 variant, announced in 2025, features an upgraded forend for faster and cleaner cycling, five-slot Picatinny forend rail, and a slight weight increase to 6.1 pounds. The KS7's carry handle can be swapped with the KSG's flat Picatinny rail for shooters who prefer to mount red dot sights or backup iron sights.
Background
The KS7 was born from Kel-Tec's desire to distill the KSG's bullpup shotgun concept into a lighter, simpler, and more affordable package. By eliminating the dual-tube magazine system and its selector switch, Kel-Tec created a shotgun that weighs nearly a pound less than the KSG while maintaining the same compact 26.1-inch overall length. Debuted at SHOT Show 2019, the KS7 was praised for its natural handling and balance, with the center of gravity sitting directly over the pistol grip -- a benefit of the bullpup layout that makes it feel lighter than its already-low weight suggests.