SHOT Show 2019: Kel-Tec CP33 Pistol

by
posted on January 25, 2019
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
cp33-lef_lead_2t.jpg
Offering unprecedented capacity for a semi-automatic rimfire pistol, Kel-Tec’s new CP33 feeds from innovative quad-stack detachable box magazines that hold a total of 33 rounds of .22 Long Rifle. That’s a lot of trigger pulls before the user is forced to reload—making the CP33 an intriguing option for competitive shooters. Further enhancing the pistol’s potential as a competition gun is the 19-slot Picatinny rail that runs nearly the entire length of the gun’s receiver—for the installation of an optic.  


Using a standard blowback operating system, the CP33’s action is opened by pulling back on an ambidextrous, non-reciprocating charging handle found at the rear of the receiver. A lever on the left side of the gun allows the bolt to be locked in the open position. A pair of fully adjustable fiber-optic sights (green up front and red in the rear) ride the top of the gun, while a single M-Lok-compatible slot is molded into the dustcover.

The CP33 measures 10.6” long, with a 5.5” barrel that is threaded 1/2x28 TPI from the factory and comes with a thread protector. Bilateral thumb safeties are positioned on the polymer frame so that up is safe and down is fire. The pistol’s high-capacity magazines are released from the frame via a European-style magazine release button located in the heel of the gun.
During our initial testing Monday morning at the SHOT Show 2019 Industry Day at the Range, Kel-Tec’s new CP33 functioned well, although the company does warn that there is a “correct” way to load the magazines in order to avoid rim lock. And for those who don’t think a 33-round-capacity magazine is enough, Kel-Tec already has a 50-round prototype in the works. With an MSRP of only $475, the CP33 deserves consideration from anyone looking for high-volume rimfire fun. For more information, visit keltecweapons.com.

Latest

Smith Wesson Model 1854 Stealth Hunter 1
Smith Wesson Model 1854 Stealth Hunter 1

Rifleman Review: Smith & Wesson Model 1854 Stealth Hunter

Smith & Wesson's Model 1854 Stealth Hunter is one of the latest additions to the company's line of modernized lever-action rifles.

VKTR Goes 2011: The Vanguard VKP Pro

Primarily known for its premium AR-15 rifles, VKTR Industries jumped into the 2011 handgun world in 2026 with its VKP Pro and Vanguard designs.

Rifleman Q&A: Cracking Marlin’s Code

Q: I have a Marlin Model 782 repeater, Serial No. 27392733, with a Micro-Groove barrel. I would like to understand how to narrow down its time of manufacture.

Review: Ruger 10/22 Carbon Fiber

Ruger recently released a variant of its popular 10/22 made with modern materials and incorporating performance-minded engineering: the 10/22 Carbon Fiber.

Winchester Celebrates USA 250th With Commemorative Ammo Line

Winchester Ammunition's special line of commemorative ammunition honors the 250th anniversary of the nation's founding, with unique packaging that honors the American heritage.

BANISH Suppressors Introduces BANISH 556

BANISH Suppressors introduced its BANISH 556, a full-auto rated suppressor with controlled-flow technology that the company claims is the "most advanced 5.56 NATO/.223 Rem. suppressor on the market."

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.