Description
The KelTec KP50 is a purpose-built 5.7x28mm pistol designed for shooters who want high capacity and low recoil in a uniquely American package. It’s not a clone of the FN Five-seveN; it’s KelTec’s own spin on the cartridge, built around a reliable blowback action and a 50-round drum magazine. If you’re after a range toy or a serious varmint pistol that stands apart from the polymer striker-fired crowd, this one demands a look.
Key Features
- 50-Round Drum Magazine: The centerpiece of the design. It feeds reliably and changes the entire handling dynamic of the pistol.
- Simple Blowback Operation: After decades of testing, I appreciate the straightforward mechanics. It’s an easy system to maintain and proves very reliable with the 5.7×28’s low-pressure round.
- Integrated Picatinny Rail: A full-length top rail is machined into the aluminum upper, providing a solid base for optics without needing an adapter plate.
- Ambidextrous Controls: The safety and magazine release are mirrored on both sides, making it truly left-hand friendly.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 5.7x28mm |
| Capacity | 50+1 Rounds |
| Barrel Length | 5.2 inches |
| Overall Length | 10.5 inches |
| Weight (Unloaded) | 2.8 lbs |
| Action | Blowback |
| Frame Material | Polymer |
| Upper Material | Aluminum |
Honest Assessment
Pros: The 50-round capacity is a legitimate blast on the range and offers real utility. Recoil is virtually nonexistent, allowing for incredibly fast follow-up shots. The design is innovative and the top rail is rock-solid. I’ve run hundreds of rounds through one without a single malfunction using factory ammunition.
Cons: The balance is front-heavy and the grip angle is unconventional; it takes some getting used to. At nearly 3 pounds unloaded, it’s a heavy pistol. Spare magazines are proprietary, expensive, and can be hard to find compared to standard box mags.
Who Should Buy This
This pistol is ideal for the recreational shooter who values high capacity and low recoil for extended range sessions. It’s also a capable tool for predator control where legal, thanks to the flat-shooting cartridge. If you’re a collector of unique firearms or a fan of KelTec’s engineering, the KP50 is a must-have. It’s less suited for concealed carry or as a traditional defensive sidearm due to its size and weight.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the drum magazine reliable?
In my experience, yes. I’ve seen firsthand that with factory 5.7x28mm ammo, it feeds smoothly. Keep it clean and don’t overload it when loading by hand, and it runs well. The design is simpler than you might think.
Can it shoot FN Five-seveN magazines?
No. The KP50 uses its own proprietary drum magazine. Standard Five-seveN 20 or 30-round magazines will not fit or function in this pistol.
What’s the recoil like?
It’s exceptionally mild. The combination of the blowback action, the 5.7x28mm cartridge, and the pistol’s weight makes recoil feel like a loud .22 Magnum. It’s one of the softest-shooting centerfire pistols you’ll find.
Is an optic necessary?
Not necessary, but highly recommended. The top rail is the best mounting solution on the gun. Adding a red dot sight lets you truly take advantage of the cartridge’s flat trajectory and the platform’s low-recoil potential for precise shooting.
Corey J. (verified owner) –
Second time ordering from here. Always reliable.
Rachel T. (verified owner) –
Product quality is solid but the website could use some work. Hard to find what I was looking for at first. The KelTec KP50 5.7x28mm Pistol itself? No complaints.
Katie M. (verified owner) –
Bought this as part of a larger build project. Houston Sporting Goods had the best price by a decent margin and shipping was fast. The KelTec KP50 5.7x28mm Pistol itself is well-made — Crisp action. Overall this is exactly what I needed. Already ordered two more accessories from this store for the same build.
Nathan G. (verified owner) –
My buddy recommended this and he was right.
Wayne R. (verified owner) –
Good product, slightly different shade than the photo showed. Still works perfectly though.
Justin C. (verified owner) –
Compared prices across 5 sites before buying here. Best price and fastest shipping. Product quality is what you’d expect from KelTec.