SU-16, long term reliability?

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itgoesboom

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I know, I know. They haven't been out very long. But I am curious what the owners are finding when it comes to reliability with these things. I am being tempted by the SU-16C, even though that stock is fugly, with a capital F.

Any issues so far with them?

I.G.B.
 
I hope there are no long term issues, as I am awaiting delivery of my SU-16A. I think the only mods I'll make re the sight change, but that C stock is tempting, if not ugly...

try this place www.ktrange.com


They seem to have a few ideas...
 
Ktog.org is another good site for info on the SUs, and usually more active than KTrange as well.
ktog's SU16 forum here

I'm quite happy with my SU-16b. Only issue was a broken firing pin after about 2000 rounds, which was replaced by KT quickly and for free. Aparently I got one of the 'original' firing pins which was found to be prone to breaking. KelTec has since replaced the firing pins in their SU-16 line, but if you get an 'old stock' SU-16 A or B that has been sitting in a dealer or distributor's warehouse for awhile, you may end up with the old style firing pin.

All the C and CA models have the new firing pins and mil-spec rail on top.
 
My CA model still shoots fine after 1,000 rounds with bore cleaning only. Federal AE HP ammo does not feed 100% with metal AR mags. FMJ ammo feed flawlessly with the factory mags, Orlite mags, and genuine GI AR mags.
The only time mine jammed was when I let the guy next lane shoot his Portugese surplus ammo with my rifle. I only use Federal AE and XM193 ammo which have been 100% reliable.
 
I don't own any of KT's rifles but I do own 3 of their pistols and will buy the new single stack 9 they just announced as soon as it becomes available. That being said I've always found KT's guns to have a high incidence of parts failures. Like the above posters firing pin. Yes, KT is a great company to deal with and they'll replace any broken parts for free in a hearbeat. And all guns break parts, but KT seems to have a high incident of it. If this is a range gun it's no big deal, have KT send you a new part and replace it. But if this is a self defense or SHTF gun, you might want to consider going with a gun made by a company known for using high quality parts. I sure wish KT would solve the cheap parts issue, I really like their designs and the company and would be willing to pay an extra 10% or more to get a more durable gun. I have high hopes that this is something that they will work out in the near future. I think they've already taken steps in the right direction, but IMHO they need to go further.
 
3rdPig you are making a fair statement. I really have to commend you on your balanced opinion. I have a KT P32 and it's been nothing short of a joy for me. However the quality assurance part of me has a little trouble with the materials they use. I agree with your sentiment wholeheartedly that the extra 10% would not only buy a better gun, but it would cement their place among innovative gunmakers.
 
I bought one of the first ones out of the factory. The gun runs great, thousands and thouands and thousands of cheap/dirty rounds later. Since this particular semi doesn't poop where it eats, it doesn't need to be cleaned as much as the other guns (pipe cleaners?). Reliability has been stellar and accuracy is far better than I ever expected.
 
Thanks guys. Looks like it is pretty good, but it also looks like some have had problems.

Looks like I will be waiting on this one for a bit longer.

I.G.B.
 
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