Description
Polymer80Parts is a Grand Junction, CO-based retailer where we handle every product we sell. Having moved over 44 units of the KelTec KP50 since late 2024, it’s proven itself as a consistent performer and a regular reorder item for us.
Reviewed by Travis Holden, Technical Director at Polymer80Parts. 20 years in firearms engineering.
Last updated: April 2026
Why This One?
Let’s be real: the 5.7x28mm world used to be a pretty exclusive club. The KelTec KP50 is the membership card that doesn’t break the bank. For under $700, you’re getting into a caliber known for high velocity, low recoil, and impressive capacity. In our hands, the fit and finish is exactly what KelTec advertises—durable, well-machined polymer and steel where it counts. It’s not trying to be a fancy race gun; it’s a practical, high-capacity tool that gets the job done. Our customers who’ve bought it consistently rate it a 4.7 out of 5, and after handling it ourselves, we see why.
Full Spec Sheet
| Caliber | 5.7x28mm |
| Barrel Length | 5.2 inches |
| Overall Length | 8.6 inches |
| Height | 5.9 inches |
| Width | 1.5 inches |
| Weight (Unloaded, Measured) | 5.7 oz (on our bench scale) |
| Action | Double Action Only (DAO) |
| Trigger Pull | Approx. 8 lbs |
| Magazine Capacity | 23+1 Rounds |
| Sights | Fixed Front & Rear, Drift-Adjustable Rear |
| Frame Material | Polymer |
| Slide Material | Steel |
| Safety | Manual Thumb Safety, Trigger Safety |
| MSRP | $699.00 |
How It Stacks Up
Thinking about a 5.7 pistol? Here’s how the KP50 measures against the usual suspects. This isn’t about declaring a winner, but showing you where your money goes.
| Feature | KelTec KP50 | FN Five-seveN MRD | Ruger-5.7 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price (Approx.) | $699 | $1,400+ | $800-$900 |
| Capacity | 23+1 | 20+1 or 30+1 | 20+1 or 30+1 |
| Action | Double Action Only | Single Action | Single Action |
| Barrel Length | 5.2″ | 4.8″ or 5.2″ | 4.9″ |
| Optics Ready | No | Yes (MRD Model) | Yes (Optics Model) |
| Weight (Unloaded) | ~5.7 oz | ~26 oz | ~25 oz |
| Key Differentiator | Extreme Value, High Cap | Original, Proven Track Record | Great All-Rounder |
Honest Assessment
After having this gun in our warehouse and seeing the feedback from dozens of buyers, here’s the straight talk.
✅ The Good Stuff:
- Price-to-Performance King: This is the most affordable gateway into the 5.7x28mm platform by a significant margin. You’re getting the ballistic benefits without the prestige tax.
- Massive Capacity: 23+1 rounds in a handgun is nothing to sneeze at. It gives you a serious advantage on the range or in a defensive scenario.
- Surprisingly Soft Shooter: The 5.7 round is low-recoil by nature, and the KP50’s design manages it well. It’s a fast, flat-shooting pistol that’s easy to control.
- Solid Construction: As noted when we handled it, the machining is clean and the polymer frame feels robust. It’s a durable tool, not a delicate showpiece.
- Simple & Reliable: The Double Action Only (DAO) trigger is consistent every time. There’s no external hammer to snag, making it a good candidate for concealed carry (where legal).
❌ The Trade-Offs:
- The Trigger: The 8-pound DAO pull is long and heavy. It’s designed for consistent, safe operation, not winning bullseye matches. You’ll need to practice with it.
- Basic Sights & No Optics Cut: You get functional fixed sights. If you absolutely must have a red dot, you’ll need to look at the Ruger or FN, or budget for aftermarket machining.
- Flimsy Factory Box: Okay, this is a minor one, but it’s a real observation from our staff. The product is perfect, but the cardboard box it comes in feels cheap. Plan on a proper case.
Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Buy This
Buy the KelTec KP50 if: You’re a value-focused shooter who wants to experience the 5.7x28mm cartridge without spending FN money. You prioritize high magazine capacity and a simple, snag-free design for potential carry. You’re okay with mastering a DAO trigger and don’t need an optics-ready slide out of the box.
Skip the KelTec KP50 if: You demand a light, crisp single-action trigger for precision work. Mounting a red dot sight is a non-negotiable requirement for you. You prefer the heft and feel of a all-metal framed pistol.
Your Questions, Answered
Is the KelTec KP50 reliable?
Based on feedback from our 44+ buyers and its status as a consistent reorder item for us, the KP50 has shown very good reliability. Like any firearm, it performs best with quality ammunition and proper maintenance. The simple DAO action has fewer parts to potentially fail.
How does the 5.7x28mm round perform?
It’s a small, fast round. Think very high velocity, very flat trajectory, and very low recoil impulse compared to traditional pistol calibers like 9mm or .45 ACP. This makes for fast follow-up shots and easier shooting, especially for newer shooters.
Can you conceal carry the KP50?
Physically, its dimensions are comparable to many full-size 9mms, and its snag-free design helps. However, its width is dictated by the double-stack 5.7 magazine. Whether you should carry it depends entirely on your local laws, holster selection, and clothing. Always know and obey the law.
Is the trigger really that heavy?
Yes, it’s a true 8-pound Double Action Only pull. It’s long and consistent. This isn’t a target pistol trigger; it’s a deliberate, safety-oriented trigger designed to be the same for every shot. With practice, it’s very manageable.
What kind of ammo does it use?
It is chambered specifically for the 5.7x28mm cartridge. Do NOT attempt to fire any other caliber. Common factory loads include FN SS197SR (hollow point), FN SS195LF (lead-free), and American Eagle 5.7x28mm FMJ. Always use ammunition that is in safe, factory-new condition.
Where can I buy KelTec online?
You’re in the right place. We at Polymer80Parts stock the KP50 and ship directly from our warehouse in Grand Junction, Colorado. We’ve handled this model personally and stand behind it.
Does it come with a case?
It comes in a factory cardboard box. As our staff noted, the packaging is pretty basic. We strongly recommend investing in a quality hard or soft case for storage and transportation to protect your investment.
✅ Orders ship within one business day
✅ Discreet, unmarked shipping
✅ Hassle-free 30-day returns
✅ Your payment data is never stored
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Last updated: April 2026
