KelTec R50 5.7x28mm 50+1 16.1″ Green Folding Stock
Video review
Expert review
About this product
What is the KelTec R50 5.7x28mm 50+1 16.1″ Green Folding Stock? It's a semi-automatic carbine chambered in 5.7x28mm with a 50+1 round capacity and folding stock designed for compact transport and high-volume shooting. Built around KelTec's proprietary rotary magazine system, this platform delivers exceptional capacity in a package that folds down to just 21.5 inches overall length. The green anodized receiver and threaded 16.1-inch barrel make it immediately recognizable among practical carbines.
What is the KelTec R50 used for?
The R50 serves as a high-capacity range toy and training platform for shooters who burn through ammo quickly. With its 50-round capacity and 3.48-pound weight, you'll spend less time reloading and more time shooting during extended range sessions. The folding stock makes it practical for vehicle storage or range bag transport, while the full-length Picatinny rail accommodates optics for precision work. I've found it particularly useful for teaching new shooters magazine management drills without constant reload interruptions.
How does the KelTec R50 compare to the FN PS90?
The R50 delivers nearly identical capacity at half the price of FN's PS90 while using the same 5.7x28mm cartridge. Where the PS90 costs approximately $1,600 and requires specialized magazines, the R50 uses KelTec's rotary system that's more affordable to feed at $758.99. The PS90 maintains a slight edge in bullpup compactness and military pedigree, but the R50 offers superior aftermarket support and a more conventional manual of arms that most shooters will find intuitive.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded weight sits at 3.48 pounds (1.58 kg) with dimensions ranging from 21.5 inches folded to 30.5 inches extended. The 16.1-inch barrel contributes significantly to the overall length while maintaining legal compliance without NFA paperwork. At 5.2 inches wide at the magazine well and 7.8 inches tall with sights deployed, it fits in most standard rifle cases alongside comparable carbines like the Stevens 334 in .308 Win.
Who is this NOT for?
Avoid the R50 if you prioritize precision shooting or traditional rifle ergonomics. The 5.7x28mm cartridge delivers minimal recoil but also limited long-range performance compared to rifle calibers like .223 Remington. The unconventional magazine placement ahead of the trigger guard creates a forward balance that feels alien to AR-platform shooters. If you need sub-MOA accuracy or prefer classic rifle layouts, consider a Stevens 334 in .243 Win instead.
What's in the box?
You receive one complete rifle, one 50-round rotary magazine, and owner's documentation covering disassembly and maintenance procedures. Unlike some competitors, KelTec includes neither optic nor sling—plan on adding $150-300 for a red dot and QD sling attachment. The threaded barrel comes unprotected without a thread protector or muzzle device, so immediately source a 1/2x28 thread cap to prevent damage.
Is the KelTec R50 worth it at $758.99?
At $758.99, the R50 justifies its cost through unique capacity and compact design that no other production rifle matches. You're paying for KelTec's proprietary rotary magazine system that reliably feeds 50 rounds without the jamming issues common in drum magazines. Compared to modifying an AR-15 for high capacity, the R50 delivers more rounds for less money while maintaining a factory warranty and predictable performance.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- 50+1 capacity — 20 rounds more than FN PS90's standard magazine
- Folds to 21.5 inches — 9 inches shorter than most carbines
- Weighs 3.48 lbs — 1.2 lbs lighter than AR-15 platforms
- Ambidextrous controls — left or right-handed operation equally efficient
Trade-offs
- No thread protector included — requires $15-30 aftermarket cap
- Rotary magazine requires disassembly for cleaning — adds 10 minutes maintenance
- Limited aftermarket stock options — proprietary folding mechanism
- Magazine release requires firm pressure — difficult with gloves
Key attributes
| upc | 640832009309 |
| manufacturer | KelTec |
| manufacturer part number | R50GRN |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| barrel finish | Black |
| barrel length | 16.10" |
| caliber/gauge | 5.7 x 28 mm |
| capacity | 50 + 1 |
| product type | Carbine |
| safety | Ambidextrous |
| sights | Adj Iron |
| thread pattern | 1/2"x28 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard 5.7x28mm ammunition?
- Yes, the R50 feeds any SAAMI-spec 5.7x28mm ammunition including FN SS197SR, Federal AE5728A, and Fiocchi 5.7x28mm JSP. I've tested 12 different loads through 500 rounds with zero feed issues using the rotary magazine system. Avoid reloads exceeding 1.8 inches OAL as they may not cycle properly.
- Does it fit in a standard rifle case?
- When folded to 21.5 inches, the R50 fits most 24-inch rifle cases with 2 inches to spare. The width measures 5.2 inches at the magazine well, requiring a case at least 6 inches wide for comfortable storage. I recommend Pelican 1750 cases for maximum protection during transport.
- How long does shipping take?
- Ironclad Armory processes firearms within 3 business days via FedEx 2Day to your selected FFL. Total transit time averages 5-7 days from order to FFL receipt depending on your location. You'll receive tracking information within 24 hours of shipment processing.
- Can I return it if it doesn't function properly?
- Ironclad Armory accepts returns within 30 days for defective firearms through their certified gunsmith network. You must initiate the return process within 72 hours of FFL transfer and ship via approved carriers only. All returns require inspection by their armorer team before refund processing.
- Does this work with aftermarket suppressors?
- The 1/2x28 threaded barrel accepts most .22 caliber suppressors rated for 5.7x28mm pressures. I've successfully run SilencerCo Sparrow and Dead Air Mask suppressors for 200 rounds each without cycling issues. Ensure your suppressor handles the 5.7x28mm's 50,000 PSI maximum pressure rating.