Selected Handgun Detail

Kel-Tec
Model PLR-16
Kel-Tec Pistol PLR-16 .223 Rem Variant-1
Scale To:
Gun Dimensions Width:No Data
Length:18.5-in Height:No Data
Barrel:9.2-in Weight:51-oz
1 Variant
Gun Rankings
  • Power Factor (55 grain bullet)138270
  • Recoil Factor (55 grain bullet)6.26 ft-lb
  • Total Capacity11 rounds
  • ConcealabilityVery Poor
  • Defense Factor44%
Gun Specifications
Type:Pistol
Caliber:.223 Rem
Action:M16 type gas operation
Trigger:single-action (SA)
Safety:ambidextrous pushbolt
Magazine:10-round
Frame:glass fiber reinforced polymer
Grip:integrated polymer
Sights:M16 style front, adjustable rear
Notes:weight is w/o mag., accepts M16 mags
Manufacturer
Kel-Tec CNC Industries Inc.
More Info
About the Gun

The PLR-16 is a gas operated, semi-automatic pistol chambered in .223 Remington (5.56mm NATO) caliber. It is intended to be the ideal Silhouette shooting and hunting pistol. The PLR-16 has a conventional, long-stroke gas-piston operation and utilizes the proven Johnson/Stoner breech locking system. The rear sight is adjustable for windage. The front sight is similar to an AR-15 style rifle, and adjustable for elevation. An integrated MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny rail will accept a multitude of standard accessories. The muzzle is threaded to accept standard attachments such as a muzzle brake or flash hider. Except for the barrel, bolt, sights, and firing mechanism, the PLR-16 pistol is made entirely of high-impact glass fiber reinforced polymer.

Production

Production of this firearm began in 2006 and continues to the present day. It remains a popular choice among enthusiasts for its unique design and compatibility with standard magazines, maintaining steady production over the years.

Market value
Last updated: 7/3/2025

The MSRP for a new unit is approximately $665. Current market value for a used one in 95% condition is around $500-$550, depending on local demand and availability.

Cartridge Specifications
Cartridge: .223 Remington
Alias: 5.56x45 mm NATO
More Info
Ballistics for This Gun
Selected Bullet Mass:55 grains
MV:2514 ft/sec ME:772 ft-lbs
Analysis

This .223 Remington pistol offers a unique design tailored for shooters seeking a compact, rifle-caliber platform. Its accuracy is commendable, benefiting from a longer barrel than traditional handguns, which aids in stabilizing the high-velocity round. Ergonomically, it provides a comfortable grip and adjustable features that suit a variety of hand sizes, enhancing control during use. Reliability is generally solid, with consistent performance under standard conditions. However, maintenance can be somewhat cumbersome due to the complexity of the design, requiring more attention to detail during cleaning. Availability of replacement parts may also pose challenges, as they are not as widely stocked as those for more common platforms. The trigger pull is crisp but on the heavier side, potentially affecting precision for some users. Felt recoil is noticeable, though manageable with proper technique, given the chambering of a rifle round in a pistol frame.

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