Keltec SU-16 review

[Drakejake]

Reports indicate that the SU-16 is a good design and accurate, like many of the Kel Tec products. I have looked at and handled an SU but haven't shot it. I usually have to buy based on reports and reviews rather than actual experience. The SU-16's plastic forestock/bipod has been called flimsy. The sights on the original version are plastic, I believe; the scope rail is plastic and installing or removing rings can shave the plastic, I have read. All of this is in the interest of lightness, I know. Nothing against the SU, but some may want something stronger and tougher than the KT. I am very happy with the Mini 14. This is a rifle that has sold in large numbers for about 30 years and is still going strong. It has been used by a number of LEO's. So I think it can be considered an alternative to the SU. I wish the Mini barrel were thicker but Ruger sells it as a light-weight hunting and law enforcement rifle made to shoot a few rounds at a time. When this is done, accuracy is OK. The problems come when 20 or 30 rounds are rapidly fired and the barrel heats up. But there are a number of very good, easy fixes for this that cost less than $50 (flash hider, muzzle break, rigidity strut, bedding, etc.)

Drakejake

 

[Justang]

If Ruger would do something about the accuracy, it would be a better gun for sure.

I wouldn't call the stock on the SU flimsy, it's actually very sturdy. I think the stock could handle just as much abuse as the Mini's. The bipod isn't perfect, but it's still very stable. I could see how some would call it flimsy. Yes, the alpha model sights aren't the greatest. They do alright for what they are, but most prefer something a little better. And, honestly, I really liked the look of the Bravo sights over the Alpha sights.

The other reason I like the SU is it's folding ability. I can fold it and throw it in a backpack or duffle bag and be on my way. It's very handy!

 

[Justang]

here's a couple pics of my SU before I did the Bravo sight swap...

 

[Sawdust]

Nice, Justang.

Where did you buy it?

Thanks,

Sawdust

 

[Justang]

Ridgecrest, CA. Jons Gunworks. It was $438.

I believe he has a website.

 

[Sawdust]

Thanks Justang.

Sawdust

 

[jcollins1007]

Is that Christopher Walken shooting that mini?

 

[RevolvingGarbage]

Revived a 5 year old post for that?

 

[republicanhack]

I know this is an old thread but I am wondering how people feel about their Su16s. I have had several ARs and currently have a newer mini14 that I love but they are 2 totally different beasts. I currently have a sub2k that is one of my favorites and several Keltec pistols so I am very curious about the Su rifles and was thinking about buying another AR but of all of them I have had I just am not super impressed. So after them being out for several years what's the deal on the Su series?

 

[merlinfire]

Revived a 5 year old post for that?

Haha, I know, right?

The SU-16 definitely is lighter and less expensive than an AR, but man is it ugly.

 

[1stmarine]

4000+ rounds w/o one single F2F....

 

[Panzercat]

Oh, ow. 5 years old? Still a good review thread.