The size and shape of the Kel-Tec SUB-2000 Gen 2 are key factors in its design. These measurements determine its portability, handling characteristics, and how easily it can be stored or concealed. For example, the overall length, folded and unfolded, significantly impacts its transportability and ease of storage. Critical dimensions such as barrel length affect ballistic performance, while the length of pull influences shooter comfort and accuracy.
Understanding these physical attributes is essential for potential buyers and current owners. Compact dimensions contribute to the firearm’s discreet nature, making it suitable for various applications where portability is paramount. The ability to fold the firearm reduces its footprint, simplifying storage and transportation. Historically, this design feature has appealed to those seeking a balance between firepower and ease of concealment. These characteristics have established the platform within a niche market segment, contributing to its enduring popularity.
This article will delve into the specifics of the Kel-Tec SUB-2000 Gen 2, exploring its various configurations, including differences between chamberings and magazine compatibility. Furthermore, the impact of its size and shape on practical use and accessory choices will be examined in detail.
1. Folded Length
Folded length is a defining characteristic of the Kel-Tec SUB-2000 Gen 2, directly influencing its portability and storage practicality. This unique folding mechanism hinges at a point just forward of the trigger guard, allowing the barrel to fold back against the receiver and stock. This reduces the overall length by approximately half, transforming the firearm into a compact package. This feature is a significant advantage for discreet transportation and storage in confined spaces, such as backpacks, vehicle compartments, or small safes. The reduced length minimizes the firearm’s profile, making it less conspicuous and easier to manage in tight environments.
The practical implications of the folded length are substantial. For example, hikers or campers might appreciate the compact size for carrying on trails or storing securely at campsites. Similarly, individuals prioritizing home defense might find the reduced length beneficial for maneuvering within the confines of a residence. Furthermore, the ability to quickly unfold the firearm into its operational state ensures readiness when needed. While specific folded dimensions might vary slightly depending on the model and caliber, the core benefit of reduced length remains consistent across all variants.
In summary, the folded length of the Kel-Tec SUB-2000 Gen 2 represents a significant design element contributing to its portability and storage convenience. This feature distinguishes it from other pistol-caliber carbines and directly influences its suitability for a range of applications. Understanding this aspect provides valuable insight into the platform’s overall design philosophy and its potential benefits for various users. The balance between folded compactness and unfolded functionality solidifies its position as a practical and versatile firearm.
2. Unfolded Length
Unfolded length is a critical dimension of the Kel-Tec SUB-2000 Gen 2, directly influencing handling characteristics and sight radius. Understanding this measurement provides insight into the firearm’s ergonomics and its suitability for various shooting scenarios. This aspect significantly impacts user experience and overall effectiveness.
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Sight Radius and Accuracy
Unfolded length directly affects sight radius, the distance between the front and rear sights. A longer sight radius generally contributes to improved aiming precision and accuracy, particularly at longer ranges. The SUB-2000’s unfolded length, while compact compared to some rifles, provides a sufficient sight radius for effective target engagement within its intended range. This balance between compactness and sight radius is a key consideration for potential users.
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Handling and Maneuverability
The unfolded length determines how easily the firearm can be maneuvered in different environments. While longer barrels generally offer ballistic advantages, they can be cumbersome in close quarters. The SUB-2000’s unfolded length strikes a balance, offering reasonable handling characteristics in both confined spaces and open areas. This adaptability enhances its versatility for various applications.
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Stability and Control
A longer unfolded length can contribute to improved stability during firing, particularly for users with longer arms. The SUB-2000’s design, while compact, offers sufficient length to provide a stable shooting platform for most individuals. This stability enhances controllability and reduces felt recoil, contributing to a more comfortable and accurate shooting experience.
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Legal Considerations
In some jurisdictions, firearm legality is tied to overall length. The unfolded length of the SUB-2000 is an important factor to consider for compliance with local regulations. Potential purchasers should thoroughly research applicable laws to ensure the firearm’s legality in their specific area. This due diligence is crucial for responsible firearm ownership.
In conclusion, the unfolded length of the Kel-Tec SUB-2000 Gen 2 represents a carefully considered design element that balances portability with practical shooting characteristics. Understanding the implications of this dimension provides valuable insight into the platform’s intended use and its suitability for individual needs. From sight radius and handling to legal compliance, unfolded length plays a significant role in the overall evaluation of this unique firearm.
3. Barrel Length
Barrel length is a critical component of the Kel-Tec SUB-2000 Gen 2’s overall dimensions, significantly influencing several performance characteristics. This dimension directly impacts ballistic performance, handling dynamics, and overall firearm length. A longer barrel typically yields higher muzzle velocities due to increased propellant burn time, resulting in flatter trajectories and potentially greater effective range. Conversely, a shorter barrel enhances maneuverability, particularly in confined spaces, but may sacrifice some muzzle velocity and accuracy at longer distances. The SUB-2000’s design balances these factors, offering a barrel length that provides acceptable ballistic performance while maintaining a compact profile. For instance, a 16-inch barrel variant will generally exhibit higher muzzle velocities compared to a 9-inch variant chambered in the same caliber.
The choice of barrel length significantly affects the overall dimensions and handling of the SUB-2000. This factor influences how the firearm balances in the hands, affecting aiming stability and ease of target acquisition. Furthermore, barrel length plays a key role in determining the overall folded and unfolded lengths of the firearm, influencing its portability and storage requirements. Users prioritizing maneuverability in close quarters might opt for a shorter barrel, while those seeking enhanced ballistic performance might prefer a longer barrel. Understanding these trade-offs is essential for selecting the appropriate configuration based on individual needs and intended applications. For example, a shorter barrel might be advantageous for home defense scenarios, while a longer barrel might be preferred for recreational shooting or hunting.
Careful consideration of barrel length is crucial when evaluating the Kel-Tec SUB-2000 Gen 2. This dimension directly affects ballistic performance, maneuverability, and overall firearm dimensions. Understanding the interplay between barrel length and other dimensional aspects allows for informed decisions regarding configuration choices. This knowledge empowers potential purchasers to select the variant best suited to their specific requirements, maximizing the platform’s versatility and effectiveness. Balancing performance requirements with practical considerations ensures the selected configuration aligns with the intended use case.
4. Width
Width is a crucial aspect of the Kel-Tec SUB-2000 Gen 2’s overall dimensions, significantly impacting handling, concealment, and storage. Understanding this dimension provides insights into the firearm’s practicality and suitability for various applications. This exploration of width considers its influence on user experience and tactical considerations.
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Concealment and Carry
Width significantly influences the ease with which the SUB-2000 can be concealed under clothing or carried discreetly. A narrower profile minimizes printing, enhancing concealment effectiveness. This is particularly relevant for users prioritizing concealed carry or discreet transportation. For example, a slimmer profile allows for easier concealment under jackets or within bags, increasing its suitability for low-visibility situations. The folded configuration further reduces the width, enhancing its concealability.
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Storage and Transportation
Width affects storage options and ease of transport. A narrower firearm occupies less space, making it easier to store in confined areas such as safes, backpacks, or vehicle compartments. This is particularly advantageous for users with limited storage space or those who frequently transport their firearms. The ability to fold the SUB-2000 further reduces its width, making it even more compact for storage and transportation.
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Handling and Ergonomics
Width impacts grip comfort and handling dynamics. A wider grip can provide a more secure hold for users with larger hands, while a narrower grip might be preferable for those with smaller hands. The SUB-2000’s width is designed to balance these considerations, offering a comfortable and controllable grip for a wide range of hand sizes. This ergonomic design contributes to improved handling and reduces fatigue during extended use. The relatively narrow width also allows for easier one-handed manipulation if necessary.
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Accessory Compatibility
Width can influence the compatibility of certain accessories, such as foregrips, lights, or lasers. A wider handguard might offer more mounting options, while a narrower profile might limit choices. Understanding the width of the SUB-2000 is essential when selecting accessories to ensure proper fit and functionality. Users seeking to attach specific accessories should carefully consider compatibility with the firearm’s width to avoid potential interference or fitment issues.
In summary, the width of the Kel-Tec SUB-2000 Gen 2 is a carefully considered dimension that balances various practical and tactical considerations. From concealment and storage to handling and accessory compatibility, width plays a significant role in the firearm’s overall usability and effectiveness. Understanding this dimension provides valuable insights into its design philosophy and empowers users to make informed decisions based on their specific needs and preferences.
5. Height
Height, a frequently overlooked dimension, plays a crucial role in the overall design and practical use of the Kel-Tec SUB-2000 Gen 2. This measurement, from the base of the magazine to the top of the mounted sights or optics, influences sight picture, cheek weld consistency, and overall handling. Understanding the height’s impact on these factors is essential for optimizing shooting performance and comfort.
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Sight Alignment and Cheek Weld
Height directly influences sight alignment and cheek weld consistency. Proper cheek weld, the firm and consistent contact between the cheek and the stock, is crucial for maintaining a consistent sight picture and managing recoil effectively. The SUB-2000’s height, combined with the stock design, contributes to a comfortable and repeatable cheek weld for most users. Variations in height due to different sight configurations can affect cheek weld and require adjustments to shooting technique. For example, taller sights or optics may necessitate a higher cheek weld, potentially impacting comfort and shooting posture.
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Sight Picture and Target Acquisition
The height of the sights or optics relative to the bore axis affects the sight picture and target acquisition speed. A lower sight height generally allows for quicker target acquisition, particularly in close-quarters scenarios, while a higher sight height might offer advantages in longer-range engagements or when using body armor. The SUB-2000’s height provides a balance between these considerations, allowing for relatively quick target acquisition while maintaining a usable sight picture at longer ranges.
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Carrying and Concealment
While less critical than length and width, height contributes to the overall profile of the firearm, influencing how easily it can be concealed or carried discreetly. A lower overall height can make the firearm less noticeable under clothing or in bags. The SUB-2000’s design, with its folding capability, minimizes height for improved concealment, though the presence of sights or optics can affect this.
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Aftermarket Accessories and Customization
Height considerations are crucial when selecting and mounting aftermarket accessories such as optics, lights, or lasers. The height of the mounting rail and the dimensions of the chosen accessories influence the overall height of the firearm and can impact sight picture, cheek weld, and handling. Careful consideration of these factors is essential to ensure proper fit and functionality of accessories without compromising ergonomics or performance. For example, a bulky optic mounted too high can disrupt cheek weld and negatively impact accuracy.
In conclusion, the height of the Kel-Tec SUB-2000 Gen 2, while often overshadowed by length and width, is a critical dimension that significantly impacts practical use and shooting performance. Understanding the interplay between height, sight picture, cheek weld, and accessory compatibility allows for informed decisions regarding customization and optimization for individual needs. Careful consideration of height ensures a comfortable and effective shooting experience while maximizing the platform’s versatility.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the size and shape of the Kel-Tec SUB-2000 Gen 2, providing clarity on aspects that influence its practicality and suitability for various applications.
Question 1: What are the exact folded and unfolded dimensions of the SUB-2000 Gen 2?
Specific dimensions vary slightly depending on the chosen caliber and configuration. Consulting the manufacturer’s specifications for the desired model is recommended for precise measurements. Generally, folded length ranges between 16-18 inches, and unfolded length ranges between 28-30 inches.
Question 2: Does the barrel length affect the overall folded length?
While barrel length influences overall unfolded length, it typically does not significantly affect folded length, as the folding mechanism hinges forward of the barrel.
Question 3: How does the SUB-2000’s width compare to other pistol-caliber carbines?
The SUB-2000 generally maintains a narrower profile compared to many other pistol-caliber carbines, particularly when folded. This narrow profile contributes to its concealability and ease of storage.
Question 4: Does adding accessories significantly alter the firearm’s dimensions?
Adding accessories, especially optics, foregrips, or lights, can increase the overall dimensions, potentially affecting handling and concealment. Careful consideration of accessory choices is recommended to maintain balance and functionality.
Question 5: How do these dimensions impact practical use and transportation?
Compact dimensions, particularly when folded, enhance portability and discreet transportation. This allows for easier storage in backpacks, vehicle compartments, or other confined spaces, making it suitable for various activities where larger firearms might be impractical.
Question 6: Are there legal restrictions related to the SUB-2000’s dimensions?
Firearm regulations vary by jurisdiction. Potential purchasers should research and understand local laws regarding overall length, barrel length, and other dimensional restrictions to ensure compliance.
Understanding the dimensions of the Kel-Tec SUB-2000 Gen 2 is crucial for informed purchase decisions and responsible ownership. Consulting official manufacturer specifications and local regulations provides clarity regarding specific measurements and legal compliance.
The next section will provide a detailed overview of available calibers and magazine compatibility for the Kel-Tec SUB-2000 Gen 2.
Optimizing the Kel-Tec SUB-2000 Gen 2
This section offers practical guidance on maximizing the Kel-Tec SUB-2000 Gen 2’s unique design features, focusing on the impact of its dimensions on practical use and customization.
Tip 1: Storage Solutions for Folded Configuration: Leverage the compact folded dimensions for discreet storage. Cases designed for disassembled firearms or smaller tactical bags offer excellent storage options, minimizing the firearm’s profile and enhancing security during transport. Consider purpose-built storage solutions that accommodate the folded dimensions while providing additional compartments for magazines and accessories.
Tip 2: Sight Selection and Cheek Weld: When selecting sights or optics, consider their height and impact on cheek weld. Taller optics might necessitate adjustments to cheek weld or stock modifications for optimal comfort and sight alignment. Prioritize maintaining a consistent and comfortable cheek weld for improved accuracy and recoil management.
Tip 3: Maneuverability in Confined Spaces: The compact dimensions of the SUB-2000, particularly with a shorter barrel, offer advantages in confined spaces. Practice maneuvering the firearm in close-quarters scenarios to understand its handling characteristics and develop proficiency for potential defensive applications.
Tip 4: Barrel Length and Ballistic Performance: Understand the trade-offs between barrel length, muzzle velocity, and maneuverability. Longer barrels generally offer higher velocities but can hinder maneuverability. Shorter barrels prioritize maneuverability but might sacrifice some ballistic performance. Select the barrel length best suited to the intended application.
Tip 5: Accessory Selection and Compatibility: Carefully consider the impact of accessories on overall dimensions. Bulky accessories can hinder maneuverability and concealment. Prioritize accessories that enhance functionality without significantly increasing the firearm’s profile or weight. Verify compatibility with specific SUB-2000 models to ensure proper fit and function.
Tip 6: Legal Compliance and Dimensional Restrictions: Thoroughly research and understand local regulations regarding firearm dimensions. Ensure the chosen configuration complies with all applicable laws and restrictions related to overall length, barrel length, and other dimensional requirements.
Tip 7: Transportation and Concealment Considerations: Utilize the folding mechanism to minimize the firearm’s profile during transportation and storage. Discreet carrying cases or bags designed for folded firearms enhance concealment and security. Adhere to all applicable laws and regulations regarding concealed carry and firearm transportation.
By understanding and applying these tips, users can maximize the benefits of the Kel-Tec SUB-2000 Gen 2s unique design, optimizing its performance, practicality, and suitability for a range of applications.
This article concludes with a comprehensive summary of key takeaways regarding the Kel-Tec SUB-2000 Gen 2s dimensions and their influence on its practical use and effectiveness.
Concluding Remarks
This exploration of the Kel-Tec SUB-2000 Gen 2’s dimensions has highlighted their significance in defining the firearm’s character. From the folded length’s impact on portability and concealment to the unfolded length’s influence on handling and sight radius, each dimension contributes to the platform’s unique identity. Barrel length considerations directly affect ballistic performance, while width and height influence handling, accessory choices, and overall practicality. Understanding the interplay of these dimensions is crucial for informed decision-making regarding model selection, customization, and practical application.
The Kel-Tec SUB-2000 Gen 2 occupies a distinct niche in the firearm market, offering a balance of portability, firepower, and adaptability. Careful consideration of its dimensional attributes empowers users to maximize its potential, tailoring configurations and accessories to specific needs and preferences. Further research into specific models and configurations, combined with an understanding of local regulations, ensures responsible ownership and effective utilization of this versatile platform.