A Look at the Design and Ergonomics
Design and Construction
The Kel Tec KSG Gen 3 immediately announces its presence with its striking bullpup design. Unlike traditional shotguns where the action is housed in front of the trigger, the KSG’s action and magazine tubes reside behind the pistol grip and trigger. This configuration results in a significantly shorter overall length, making it incredibly compact and maneuverable, a critical advantage in confined spaces. This compact form factor is a significant selling point.
The Gen 3 largely retains the original KSG’s design, crafted primarily from durable polymers and reinforced with steel components. This construction helps maintain a reasonable weight, crucial for handling. The receiver’s polymer construction contributes to the gun’s overall resilience, designed to withstand the rigors of regular use.
Ergonomics
Ergonomically, the KSG Gen 3 offers a comfortable, though somewhat unconventional, experience. The pistol grip is angled to provide a firm hold, even with gloved hands. The stock, integrated into the receiver, provides a solid cheek weld, although some users may find it somewhat short compared to traditional shotgun stocks. The placement of the controls are thoughtfully considered, though their learning curve is noticeable for shooters accustomed to more conventional layouts.
The Gen 3 doesn’t radically alter the original’s design, rather it continues to improve the user’s overall interface with the firearm, and we will examine those improvements later in this article.
The Pump and Magazine System
Pump Mechanism
At the heart of any pump-action shotgun lies its pump system, the mechanism by which the spent shell is ejected and a fresh round is chambered. The KSG Gen 3 utilizes a familiar pump-action system, but adapted to its unique bullpup configuration. The pump handle, located directly beneath the barrel, cycles smoothly. The force required to cycle the pump is reasonable, making repeated shots relatively easy, although the short pump stroke will require more conscious effort than a traditional shotgun.
The KSG has gained its reputation for reliability over the years, although some early models have been affected by feed issues. The Gen 3 aims to solidify the already proven design, with a few improvements to increase the reliability of the pump mechanism.
Magazine Capacity
The defining feature of the KSG is its dual-tube magazine system. Instead of a single magazine tube, the KSG boasts two independent tubes located beneath the barrel. Each tube can hold a significant number of shells, contributing to a high overall capacity.
The selector, a lever positioned just behind the pistol grip, allows the shooter to quickly switch between the two magazine tubes. This feature provides the distinct advantage of carrying two different types of ammunition loaded and ready to go. For example, one tube could be loaded with birdshot for defensive applications, while the other holds slugs for target shooting or hunting.
Loading Process
Loading the KSG’s tubes requires a bit of practice. Shells are loaded through a port located at the base of the stock. The loading process is generally smooth, but requires the user to maintain the pump in the rearward position.
Exploring the Barrel and Sights
Barrel Characteristics
The KSG Gen 3 typically features a relatively short barrel, contributing to its compact profile. The barrel’s length provides a good balance between maneuverability and effective range. A shorter barrel also results in a faster handling of the shotgun.
The barrel is often threaded for chokes, allowing the shooter to customize the shot pattern for different applications.
Sighting System
The KSG Gen 3’s top picatinny rail facilitates the attachment of various sighting systems. It provides ample space to mount optics such as red dot sights, reflex sights, or even traditional scopes.
Unveiling the Gen 3 Enhancements
Trigger Enhancements
The Gen 3 iteration focuses on refining the original KSG design. Kel Tec listened to user feedback and incorporated improvements to further streamline the user experience.
One of the key improvements in the Gen 3 lies in the trigger. Kel Tec redesigned the trigger mechanism, offering a smoother pull and a more crisp break.
Pump Handle Improvements
The pump handle has also received an upgrade. The redesigned pump handle is smoother and gives the shooter more control of the firearm. These improvements can improve the shooter’s speed and overall control.
Magazine Tube Selector Enhancements
Another key change addresses the magazine tube selector. The Gen 3’s selector is more robust and easier to operate, which is a crucial improvement for quick ammunition switching.
Ergonomic Refinements
Subtle changes in the Gen 3’s ergonomics further enhance the user experience. Kel Tec has carefully shaped the grip and other parts of the shotgun to make sure the user will feel more comfortable.
These enhancements, though subtle, are designed to address some of the common criticisms of the original KSG. They aim to refine the shooting experience, increase reliability, and make the KSG even more user-friendly.
Performance, Handling, and Reliability
Shooting Experience
The shooting experience with the Kel Tec KSG Gen 3 is unique, largely due to its bullpup design. Recoil, which is inherent in any shotgun, may feel more pronounced than with a traditional configuration. The weight distribution of the bullpup design can affect how recoil is felt, and requires practice to be mitigated. The felt recoil can also depend on the load of ammunition used.
Accuracy is another area where the KSG Gen 3 shines. Its relatively short barrel, combined with the mounting options for optics, allows for accurate shots at various ranges.
The rate of fire, as with any pump-action shotgun, depends on the shooter’s skill and speed. However, the KSG’s action cycles smoothly, allowing for relatively quick follow-up shots.
Handling and Maneuverability
The KSG’s compact size makes it exceptionally maneuverable. Navigating tight spaces or clearing rooms is significantly easier compared to a full-sized shotgun. The balanced weight distribution also contributes to smooth handling.
Reliability
The reliability of the Gen 3 is generally praised, although as a pump-action shotgun, its reliability depends on good maintenance and the use of quality ammunition.
Weighing the Advantages and Disadvantages
Pros
The Kel Tec KSG Gen 3 comes with a unique set of pros and cons.
On the positive side, its compact size makes it exceptionally maneuverable. The high-capacity dual-tube magazine offers a significant advantage, giving the user a substantial number of rounds. Its versatility also allows for rapid transitions between different ammunition types, and its ability to accept optics increases its overall effectiveness.
Cons
However, the KSG is not without its drawbacks. Recoil, although manageable, may be more noticeable due to the bullpup design. The loading process can take some time to master. The price point puts it in competition with more conventional shotguns.
Comparison to Other Shotguns
Comparison to Other Bullpup Shotguns
Compared to other bullpup shotguns, the Kel Tec KSG Gen 3 stands out due to its high-capacity magazine and user-friendly design. Competitors may offer a more streamlined appearance, but often lack the KSG’s magazine capacity.
Comparison to Traditional Shotguns
Compared to traditional pump-action shotguns, the KSG’s compact size is a major advantage in certain situations. The KSG offers an advantage in areas where maneuverability is critical. Its dual-tube magazine provides a higher capacity compared to many traditional shotguns, although the loading process can be a little longer than some models. Traditional shotguns are often more familiar and may be more readily available.
Concluding Thoughts
The Kel Tec KSG Gen 3 is a compelling option for those seeking a compact and versatile shotgun. Its bullpup design, combined with its high-capacity magazine system and improved features in the Gen 3, makes it a strong contender in the market. The refinements made in the Gen 3 have further enhanced the overall shooting experience, addressing some of the criticisms of the original design.
Ultimately, the question of whether the Kel Tec KSG Gen 3 is the “ultimate” bullpup shotgun is subjective. Its strengths lie in its unique design, capacity, and maneuverability. The Gen 3 refinements address some of the original’s shortcomings.
For those who appreciate its unique features and are willing to familiarize themselves with its operation, the Kel Tec KSG Gen 3 is a worthwhile choice.
Call to Action
If you are considering purchasing a Kel Tec KSG Gen 3, be sure to visit a local gun store and try one out.
