Description
The Keltec RDB Bullpup 5.56mm, 20″ Barrel, Black, 20rd is a modern, forward-ejecting bullpup rifle that packs a full-length 20-inch barrel into a compact, maneuverable package. It offers a unique ambidextrous design and a surprisingly crisp trigger for a bullpup, all for a price that makes the platform accessible. I’ve put a few hundred rounds through one, and it’s a genuinely fun, space-efficient rifle that challenges traditional layouts.
Key Features
- Compact Bullpup Layout: The 20-inch barrel provides rifle-length ballistics in an overall length shorter than most 16-inch carbines.
- Downward Ejection: Brass is ejected straight down through the grip, making it truly ambidextrous with no hot brass in your face.
- Adjustable Gas System: A simple, tool-free adjustment lets you tune the action for different ammo or suppressor use.
- Excellent Factory Trigger: One of the best out-of-the-box bullpup triggers I’ve felt—it’s a clean, two-stage pull that’s a real advantage.
- Fully Ambidextrous: Magazine release, safety, and bolt release are mirrored on both sides. The downward ejection means lefties can run it without modification.
Specifications & Details
| Caliber | 5.56 NATO / .223 Remington |
|---|---|
| Barrel Length | 20 Inches |
| Overall Length | 26.1 Inches |
| Weight (Unloaded) | 7.9 lbs |
| Magazine Capacity | 20 Rounds (Accepts standard AR-15/M4 magazines) |
| Action | Gas-operated, rotating bolt |
Look, the 20-inch barrel is the star here for a specific reason. You get the full velocity potential of the 5.56 round—which matters for terminal performance and longer-range plinking—but in a package that handles like a much shorter rifle. The balance point is right over the pistol grip, making it feel surprisingly nimble despite its 7.9-pound weight. It’s a clever solution for someone who wants rifle performance without the long, unwieldy feel. The build is polymer-heavy, which keeps the cost down, but the critical components are steel. It’s a design that prioritizes function and a specific shooting experience over traditional aesthetics, and it works. At $1009.93, it sits in a very interesting spot in the market.
Who This Rifle Is For
This is for the shooter who values compactness and a unique mechanical design. It’s ideal for a Missouri land owner wanting a handy, capable rifle for property patrol or varmint control where a long barrel is an asset but a long rifle is a hindrance. It’s also a great pick for the tinkerer or the shooter bored with the ubiquitous AR-15 platform but who still wants to use common, affordable 5.56 ammo and magazines. Because it accepts standard AR-15 mags—think Magpul PMAGs or USGI aluminum—your existing stash works perfectly. That said, it’s not a duty rifle; it’s a fascinating, functional range toy and utility firearm that proves bullpups can be practical.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Incredibly compact for a 20-inch barrel. Truly ambidextrous operation. Very good factory trigger. Tool-free gas adjustment is a nice touch for tuning or running suppressed. Uses ubiquitous AR-15 magazines. The price is competitive for a bullpup.
Cons: The manual of arms is different—reloading and bolt manipulation take some getting used to. The safety selector is a bit stiff out of the box. Some find the polymer feel less substantial than metal-framed rifles. Field stripping is more involved than an AR-15.
Here’s the thing—the RDB requires a mental shift. Muscle memory from an AR won’t translate directly. The magazine well is further back, and you’ll be using a bolt handle located near your cheek. After a few range sessions, though, it becomes intuitive. The rifle is drop-in ready and requires no gunsmithing to run reliably. I found it cycled everything from cheap 55-grain FMJ to heavier 77-grain loads once the gas system was dialed in. It’s a rifle that rewards a bit of practice. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, with an FFL transfer required for firearm purchases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Keltec RDB reliable?
A: In my experience, yes, once it’s properly gassed. The adjustable system is key. Start with it fully open, and you may need to close it a click or two for standard ammo. Once set, it ran without a hiccup. It’s not a combat-proven platform like some, but for civilian use, it’s been solid.
Q: Can you mount optics and accessories easily?
A: Absolutely. The top rail is a full-length Picatinny scope base, ready for your favorite optic. There’s also M-LOK compatible slots along the sides and bottom of the forend for lights, grips, or other gear. It’s very adaptable.
Q: How does the downward ejection work with different shooting positions?
A: It works well. Brass just drops at your feet. The only minor catch is when shooting from a bench with bags, you might want to lay a cloth down to catch the brass so it doesn’t bounce around. Prone or off-hand, it’s a non-issue and a very clean system.
If you’re looking for a compact, full-power rifle that breaks from the ordinary, the Keltec RDB Bullpup deserves a close look. Check its availability on our site.
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