Understanding the Kel Tec Sub 2000’s Core
Brief Overview of the Sub 2000 Design
The Sub 2000, a blowback-operated, semi-automatic rifle, is instantly recognizable for its distinctive folding design. This crucial feature allows for significantly reduced storage and transportation space, making it a truly compact and user-friendly firearm. Its lightweight construction, coupled with its accuracy, also contributes to its popularity. The Sub 2000 is chambered in either 9mm or .40 S&W, providing users with familiar and readily available ammunition choices.
Another pivotal aspect of the Sub 2000’s design is its magazine compatibility. Kel Tec cleverly engineered the rifle to accept magazines that fit popular handguns. This design choice provides a significant advantage for users who already own compatible handguns, as it allows for ammo commonality and magazine sharing, a factor that is highly appealing. Different models are designed to accept specific magazine configurations, the most common being those that accommodate Glock magazines, but it’s also found in variants compatible with Beretta and Smith & Wesson magazines. This magazine flexibility further enhances the Sub 2000’s appeal, expanding its versatility across diverse applications.
Factory Magazine Capacity
When purchased, the Sub 2000 typically comes with standard-capacity magazines based on the magazine type it’s designed for. These magazines offer a functional capacity that is sufficient for basic shooting activities. However, there are many instances where shooters will find the advantages of having more rounds readily available to be appealing. The desire for greater capacity often leads owners to explore extended magazine options, like the powerful 33 round magazine, offering a significant advantage in certain scenarios.
The Allure of Enhanced Capacity
Increased Capacity
The central attraction of a 33 round magazine is, quite simply, its increased ammunition capacity. With a substantial increase in available rounds over standard magazines, shooters gain a marked advantage in several ways. This heightened capacity can prove invaluable at the range, reducing the time spent reloading and allowing for more continuous shooting sessions. It translates to more trigger time and enhanced skill-building practice.
Advantages of Extended Magazines
Furthermore, this expanded magazine capacity offers advantages in more demanding contexts. Imagine yourself in a self-defense situation or a tactical environment where rapid engagement and sustained firepower are crucial. The 33 round magazine offers a significant edge, allowing for more shots before a reload becomes necessary. The increased rounds also provide increased confidence in the face of uncertain circumstances, allowing for more effective responses and a better chance of prevailing in a defensive scenario.
Beyond the direct advantages of more rounds, the utilization of extended magazines subtly impacts the overall shooting experience. Fewer reloads mean less downtime. This advantage can enhance both the shooter’s enjoyment and their overall efficiency. The continuity provided by the increased capacity can lead to a more consistent and comfortable shooting rhythm.
Considering the Sub 2000’s Magazine Needs
Magazine Compatibility
The Kel Tec Sub 2000 is specifically designed to use pistol magazines, an important design consideration for anyone aiming to equip the rifle with higher capacity magazines. Because of this unique design, the 33 round magazines utilized are based on pistol magazine configurations, not standard rifle magazine designs. Therefore, ensuring compatibility between the magazines and the pistol platform that feeds the rifle is crucial. Not all 33 round magazines will function seamlessly with the Sub 2000.
Reliability and Function
Reliability plays a critical role in selecting a 33 round magazine. The magazine’s construction, follower design, and spring strength are vital factors in ensuring smooth and consistent feeding. A poorly constructed magazine can lead to malfunctions, frustrating jams, and reduced shooting effectiveness. Therefore, investing in high-quality magazines from reputable manufacturers is essential to maximize performance. When selecting, a crucial step is checking for a proper fit within the Sub 2000’s magazine well. Magazines must seat correctly, allowing for the bolt to strip a round from the magazine with each cycle of operation.
Modifications (if any)
While most high-quality 33 round magazines are designed to function flawlessly with the Sub 2000, modifications are rarely needed, but are a possibility depending on the exact magazine and Sub 2000 model. It’s essential to assess whether any modifications are necessary to facilitate the use of an extended capacity magazine. Consulting online forums, manufacturer documentation, or gunsmith assistance may provide guidance.
Choosing the Right 33 Round Magazine
Popular Manufacturers
Several leading manufacturers specialize in producing high-quality 33 round magazines compatible with Glock magazines. This compatibility opens up a broad range of options for Sub 2000 owners, but not all manufacturers offer the same level of quality or features. Among the most popular and reliable options are magazines from companies with a history of exceptional engineering. These magazines often incorporate advanced features, such as optimized follower designs that resist tilting and jamming and robust spring systems designed for long-term reliability. The materials used, such as reinforced polymer and high-grade steel, further contribute to the magazine’s durability and performance.
Material Choices
The choice of materials significantly impacts a 33 round magazine’s functionality, durability, and feel. Polymer magazines, typically constructed from high-strength polymers, are generally lightweight, offering a balance of durability and impact resistance. Metal magazines, typically made from steel, are known for their ruggedness and robustness, able to withstand heavy usage and harsh conditions. The ideal material depends on the intended use of the magazine. Polymer magazines may be better for those prioritizing weight and ease of handling, while steel magazines can be a great choice if there’s a need for heightened durability.
Reviews and Recommendations
Before committing to a purchase, it’s essential to conduct thorough research. The internet is replete with reviews and user feedback regarding the performance of different 33 round magazines. These reviews can provide valuable insights into real-world experiences with the magazines, including their reliability, durability, and compatibility with various Sub 2000 models. Carefully consider the ratings and comments from other users to gauge their suitability for your shooting needs.
Using and Maintaining 33 Round Magazines
Loading Procedures
Proper loading techniques are critical to ensure reliable feeding from a 33 round magazine. Careless loading can lead to jams or failures to feed, disrupting the shooting experience. Users should learn and implement proper loading techniques, paying attention to the position of the rounds within the magazine and ensuring the follower operates smoothly. Often, a speed loader can be a useful investment, significantly simplifying the loading process.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Maintaining and cleaning your 33 round magazines is critical for long-term reliability and function. Regular cleaning removes dirt, debris, and carbon buildup that can interfere with smooth feeding. A good practice is to disassemble the magazine, clean the inside with a solvent appropriate for the materials used, and lubricate the internal components before reassembly. Regular inspection for signs of wear or damage helps identify potential problems before they lead to malfunctions. The spring’s condition is especially important; it can begin to show signs of fatigue over time.
Storage and Handling
Proper storage is equally important. When not in use, 33 round magazines should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. This will help prevent damage to the magazine’s components, particularly the springs, and extend its operational lifespan. Care should be exercised to avoid dropping the magazines or exposing them to impacts that could dent or damage them.
Safety and Legal Considerations
Local Laws
A very important consideration is the prevailing local laws governing high-capacity magazines. The legality of 33 round magazines varies considerably depending on the state, city, or jurisdiction. It is the responsibility of the Sub 2000 owner to fully understand and comply with these laws. Failure to do so can result in severe penalties, including fines or even criminal charges. Before purchasing or using any high-capacity magazine, thorough research of the applicable local laws is crucial. Consulting with local law enforcement agencies or legal professionals specializing in firearms law is a sensible approach to ensure compliance.
Responsible Gun Ownership
Responsible gun ownership encompasses more than just obeying the law. It requires prioritizing safety in all aspects of firearm handling, storage, and use. High-capacity magazines do not change the fundamental principles of firearms safety. Always treat firearms as if they are loaded, keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, and never put your finger on the trigger until you are ready to shoot. Safe and secure storage is paramount, preventing unauthorized access to firearms and ammunition.
Conclusion
The Kel Tec Sub 2000, with its foldable design, compact form factor, and magazine versatility, is a truly remarkable firearm. Integrating 33 round magazines is an effective way to elevate this platform’s capabilities. The increased capacity translates to more rounds available, which allows for extended shooting sessions, minimizes the need for reloads, and provides added confidence in self-defense scenarios.
Choosing the right 33 round magazine, taking care to prioritize quality and compatibility, is essential to ensuring smooth and reliable performance. Thorough research, including reading reviews and recommendations, is vital for making informed purchasing decisions. Equally important is the understanding and adherence to local laws and the practices of responsible gun ownership.
By carefully considering these factors, Sub 2000 owners can unlock the full potential of their firearms, maximizing their shooting enjoyment and their confidence. The Sub 2000 already has great potential; upgrading to a 33 round magazine further solidifies its position as a practical and versatile firearm adaptable to a wide range of uses. Make sure to explore all options and choose what suits your personal needs and complies with all regulations.
