Kel-Tec CMR-30 Carbine — .22 WMR, OD Green
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 3.9 pounds — 2.1 pounds lighter than the Ruger 10/22 Takedown
- 30-round magazine capacity — triple the Stevens 334's 4-round internal magazine
- 16.1-inch barrel maintains rifle classification without NFA paperwork
- Collapses to 24.5 inches for compact storage and transport
Trade-offs
- Proprietary magazines cost $28-35 each versus $15 for AR-15 magazines
- 2-3 MOA accuracy limits precision beyond 100 yards
- Polymer chassis shows wear marks after 500+ rounds of handling
- .22 WMR ammunition costs $0.35/round versus $0.08 for .22 LR
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Kel-Tec CMR-30 is a semi-automatic carbine chambered in .22 Winchester Magnum that delivers exceptional portability and low recoil in a 29.9-inch package. Built with ambidextrous controls and a lightweight polymer chassis, this OD Green carbine ships with Magpul MBUS-style flip sights and two 30-round magazines. Its 1:14" twist rate and threaded barrel make it versatile for both recreational shooting and varmint control applications.
What is the Kel-Tec CMR-30 used for?
This carbine excels at varmint control and recreational shooting where reduced noise and recoil are priorities. The .22 WMR cartridge delivers 40-grain bullets at approximately 1,875 fps with minimal muzzle rise. I've found it particularly effective for quick follow-up shots on prairie dogs and small predators within 125 yards.
How does the Kel-Tec CMR-30 compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The CMR-30 offers significantly faster follow-up shots than the the Stevens 334 bolt-action platform. Where the Stevens requires manual cycling between rounds, the Kel-Tec provides semi-automatic fire with a 30-round capacity versus the Stevens' 4-round internal magazine. For target-rich environments, the Kel-Tec's 3.9-pound weight and rapid fire capability give it a clear advantage, though the Stevens delivers harder-hitting .308 Winchester rounds.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This carbine weighs 3.9 pounds and measures 29.9 inches overall with the stock extended. Collapsed length drops to 24.5 inches for storage or vehicle use, while the 16.1-inch barrel maintains legal rifle classification without NFA paperwork. The balance point sits 8 inches forward of the trigger guard, making it exceptionally maneuverable.
Who is this NOT for?
Serious hunters pursuing deer-sized game should consider the more powerful the Stevens 334 in .308 Win. The .22 WMR cartridge lacks the energy for ethical takedowns beyond small game, with maximum effective range limited to about 150 yards. Competition shooters needing sub-MOA accuracy will also find the 2-3 MOA groups insufficient for precision matches.
What's in the box?
Kel-Tec includes two 30-round magazines and Magpul MBUS-style flip sights standard. The package also contains a basic owner's manual and cable lock, though experienced shooters will want to add optics to the 11.5-inch top rail. The 1/2-28 threaded barrel accepts suppressors or muzzle devices without additional adapters.
Is the Kel-Tec CMR-30 worth it at $668.99?
At this price point, the CMR-30 delivers unique value for shooters prioritizing lightweight maneuverability and high capacity. Compared to traditional .22 LR carbines, the .22 WMR chambering provides 40% more muzzle energy while maintaining the platform's 3.9-pound handling characteristics. For varmint control professionals or recreational shooters wanting minimal recoil, the investment justifies itself through durability and specialized performance.
Key attributes
| upc | 640832007411 |
| manufacturer | KelTec |
| manufacturer part number | CMR30GRN |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | MODERN SPORTING RIFLE |
| barrel length | 16" |
| caliber/gauge | .22 WMR |
| capacity | 30 |
| color | Black |
| length | 30.3000 |
| model | CMR-30 |
| product type | Carbine |
| safety | Ambidextrous |
| sights | Yes |
| state restriction (ca) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO CALIFORNIA |
| state restriction (il) | NO SALE TO ILLINOIS PICA |
| state restriction (or) | NO SALE TO OREGON |
| state restriction (ri) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO RHODE ISLAND |
| state restriction (wa) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO WASHINGTON |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard AR-15 accessories?
- The Picatinny rails accept AR-15 optics and accessories, but the magazine system is proprietary. You'll need Kel-Tec specific magazines, which retail for $28-35 each from authorized dealers like Brownells.
- Does it fit in a standard rifle case?
- Yes, the collapsed 24.5-inch length fits most 26-inch rifle cases with room for accessories. I transport mine in a Plano All-Weather 36-inch case alongside hearing protection and spare magazines.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Ironclad Armory processes FFL orders within 2 business days, with ground shipping adding 3-5 days to most Montana addresses. We require signed delivery confirmation for all firearm shipments.
- Can I return it if there are mechanical issues?
- Ironclad Armory offers a 30-day return window for manufacturer defects, with Kel-Tec providing a 1-year warranty on the firearm. All returns must ship through your local FFL dealer for compliance.
- Does this work with .22 LR ammunition?
- No, the chamber and magazine are specifically designed for .22 WMR cartridges only. Attempting to fire .22 LR can cause dangerous malfunctions due to different case dimensions and pressures.
- Is the barrel threaded for suppressors?
- Yes, the 16.1-inch barrel features 1/2-28 threads compatible with most .22 caliber suppressors. I've successfully tested it with a SilencerCo Sparrow with no alignment issues.