Kel-Tec RDB
Kel-Tec CNC Industries · Carbine · In Production · 2014
Also known as: Rifle Downward-ejecting Bullpup, Kel-Tec RDB-17
Overview
The Kel-Tec RDB (Rifle, Downward-ejecting, Bullpup) is an innovative American bullpup rifle chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO. Introduced in 2014, the RDB's defining feature is its patented downward ejection system, which directs spent casings through a chute in the stock directly behind the magazine well. This unique ejection method makes the RDB truly ambidextrous, allowing left- or right-handed shooters to use the weapon without modification or brass deflection concerns. The bullpup configuration places the 17.3-inch barrel behind the trigger group, resulting in an overall length of just 28 inches while maintaining full barrel velocity. The RDB uses standard AR-15 magazines and features a non-reciprocating side-mounted charging handle that can be installed on either side. An adjustable gas block allows the operator to tune the rifle for suppressed or unsuppressed use. The rifle includes a full-length Picatinny rail for optics mounting and uses a short-stroke gas piston system for reliable operation. The trigger mechanism is designed to minimize the typically poor trigger feel associated with bullpup rifles.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 3175 g (112.0 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 3745 g (132.1 oz) |
| Overall Length | 711 mm (27.99") |
| Barrel Length | 432 mm (17.01") |
| Action Type | Gas Operated Long Stroke |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Stage |
| Trigger Pull | 26 N (5.8 lbf) |
| Magazine Capacity | 30 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 945 m/s (3100 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 1787 J (1318 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 500 m (547 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 3600 m (3937 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 178 mm (7.01") |
| Number of Grooves | 6 |
| Frame Material | Polymer |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Polymer |
| Finish | Matte Black |
Calibers
- 5.56x45mm NATO · primary · 5.56x45mm NATO — also known as 5.56mm NATO, 5.56x45mm, .223 Remington
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety, Magazine Disconnect
- Features: Bullpup Design, Downward Ejection, Ambidextrous Operation, Adjustable Gas Block, Chrome Lined Barrel, Rotating Bolt, Picatinny Rail, Ar15 Magazine Compatible, Non Reciprocating Charging Handle, Reversible Charging Handle
Variants
- RDB Defender — Compact
- RDB Hunter — Precision
- RDB Survival — Takedown
Production
Production years: 2014-present
Limited production numbers typical of Kel-Tec firearms
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Notes
The RDB's downward ejection system uses dual ejectors to positively eject cases through the stock chute, and has been demonstrated to function even when the rifle is inverted. The design prevents hot brass from hitting the shooter or being ejected into the shooter's workspace. The rifle uses a 1:7 twist barrel optimized for heavier 5.56 NATO loads. Kel-Tec's proprietary trigger mechanism reduces trigger pull travel compared to traditional bullpup designs, though the pull remains longer than a conventional AR-15. The RDB Defender variant features a 16-inch barrel, while the RDB Hunter uses a 20-inch barrel for improved long-range accuracy. All RDB variants are manufactured at Kel-Tec's Cocoa, Florida facility using a combination of polymer and steel components to minimize weight.
Background
Kel-Tec is known for innovative, unconventional firearm designs, and the RDB continues this tradition with its unique downward ejection system. Company founder George Kellgren previously worked for Swedish firearms manufacturer Husqvarna and Intratec before founding Kel-Tec in 1991. The RDB represents Kel-Tec's solution to the ambidextrous operation problem that plagues most bullpup designs, which typically require field conversion or result in brass ejection toward the shooter's face when firing from the 'wrong' shoulder.