Kel-Tec CMR-30 .22 WMR Carbine, Black, Collapsible Stock
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Kel-Tec CMR-30 is a lightweight semi-automatic carbine chambered in .22 Winchester Magnum that pairs an anodized aluminum chassis with a fully collapsible polymer stock. This .22 WMR platform offers minimal recoil and modular accessory mounting in a package that bridges the gap between handgun-caliber carbines and rimfire trainers. At just over 4 pounds unloaded, it represents one of the lightest centerfire-alternative carbines on the commercial market.
What is the Kel-Tec CMR-30 used for?
The CMR-30 excels as a low-recoil training platform and small-game hunting carbine where its 30-round capacity and minimal report provide distinct advantages. The 1:14" twist rate stabilizes standard 40-grain .22 WMR ammunition effectively out to about 75 yards, making it suitable for varmint control and plinking sessions where larger-caliber firearms would be excessive. Combined with the threaded barrel, it makes an excellent host for rimfire suppressors, reducing noise to hearing-safe levels without bulky hearing protection.
How does the Kel-Tec CMR-30 compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The CMR-30 offers significantly higher capacity and faster follow-up shots than bolt-action alternatives like the Stevens 334 in .308 Win, trading long-range precision for tactical utility. Where the Stevens 334 delivers sub-MOA accuracy at 100+ yards with careful shooting, the Kel-Tec provides 30+1 rounds of rapid fire in a package that's nearly 2 pounds lighter. For training new shooters or rapid target engagement under 100 yards, the Kel-Tec is objectively better; for deliberate precision work, the Stevens dominates.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The CMR-30 weighs 4.1 pounds empty and extends from 24.8 inches to 33.5 inches depending on stock position. The collapsible stock provides 3.5 inches of adjustable length of pull, accommodating shooters from 5'4" to over 6'2" comfortably. Barrel length measures 16.25 inches with a 1/2x28 thread pattern that accepts standard .22 caliber muzzle devices without requiring NFA paperwork.
Who is this NOT for?
This carbine isn't suitable for hunters needing ethical takedown power beyond 100 yards or competitors requiring sub-MOA precision. The .22 WMR cartridge loses energy rapidly past 75-100 yards, making it marginal for coyote or larger varmints compared to .223/5.56 platforms. Shooters wanting traditional wood-and-steel aesthetics should look at alternatives like the Stevens 555 Sporting shotguns, as the Kel-Tec's polymer-and-aluminum construction prioritizes function over form.
What's in the box?
Kel-Tec includes two 30-round magazines, Magpul MBUS flip-up sights, and the carbine itself with all factory documentation. The magazines use a unique double-stack-to-single-feed design that requires specific loading technique to prevent rimlock malfunctions. No cleaning kit or case is included, so budget an additional $30-50 for proper storage and maintenance supplies.
Is the Kel-Tec CMR-30 worth it at $668.99?
At this price point, the CMR-30 delivers exceptional value for shooters wanting high-capacity rimfire performance without pistol-caliber carbine weight or noise. Compared to 9mm carbines costing $800+, the Kel-Tec offers similar handling characteristics with ammunition that costs 40% less per round. The included Magpul sights and dual magazines represent about $120 worth of accessories, making the effective firearm cost closer to $550 when compared to bare-bones competitors.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 4.1 pounds - 2.3 pounds lighter than comparable 9mm carbines
- Includes two 30-round magazines ($60 value) and Magpul MBUS sights ($80 value)
- Collapsible stock adjusts through 3.5 inches of length-of-pull range
- Threaded 1/2x28 barrel accepts suppressors without NFA paperwork
Trade-offs
- Magazine loading requires specific technique to prevent rimlock malfunctions
- No included case or cleaning kit adds $30-50 to true cost of ownership
- Plastic trigger group exhibits noticeable creep compared to aluminum alternatives
- Limited aftermarket support compared to AR-platform rimfire rifles
Key attributes
| upc | 640832004618 |
| manufacturer | KelTec |
| manufacturer part number | CMR30BLK |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel finish | Black |
| barrel length | 16.1" |
| caliber/gauge | .22 Magnum |
| capacity | 30 + 1 |
| color | Black |
| length | 30.5 |
| model | CMR-30 |
| number of magazines | 2 30 rd. |
| package height | 4.0 |
| package width | 10.5 |
| product type | Rifle |
| safety | Lever Action |
| shipping weight | 6.05 |
| sights | Magpul MBUS Sights |
| sights type | Adjustable Sights |
| state restriction (ca) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO CALIFORNIA |
| state restriction (il) | NO SALE TO ILLINOIS PICA |
| state restriction (or) | NO SALE TO OREGON |
| state restriction (ri) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO RHODE ISLAND |
| state restriction (wa) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO WASHINGTON |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard .22 LR ammunition?
- No, the CMR-30 is chambered exclusively for .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (.22 WMR), which is dimensionally incompatible with .22 Long Rifle cartridges. Attempting to fire .22 LR in this firearm will result in malfunctions and potential safety hazards. Always verify ammunition compatibility by checking the barrel stamp before loading.
- Does it fit in a standard rifle case?
- Yes, the collapsed length of 24.8 inches allows the CMR-30 to fit in most 26-inch tactical cases from brands like Plano or Pelican. The slim profile requires only 3.5 inches of width clearance, making it easier to transport than bulkier AR-platform firearms. For optimal protection, I recommend cases with at least 1.5 inches of foam padding on all sides.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Ironclad Armory processes firearms shipments within 2 business days via UPS or FedEx with an average transit time of 4-6 days to Montana addresses. All firearms ship to your chosen FFL dealer, who will conduct the mandatory background check before transfer. Expedited shipping is available for an additional $35, reducing transit to 2-3 business days.
- Can I return it if it doesn't cycle properly?
- Ironclad Armory accepts returns within 30 days for manufacturing defects verified by our armorers, but firearms exhibiting user-induced damage or modifications are not eligible. Most cycling issues with the CMR-30 stem from improper magazine loading technique - we provide detailed loading instructions and will troubleshoot via phone before authorizing returns. Expect a 5-7 day inspection period before refund processing.
- Does this work with Holosun red dot sights?
- Yes, the Picatinny rail section on the receiver accepts all Holosun models with standard MIL-STD-1913 mounts including the popular HS403 and HS510C. The rail provides 3.5 inches of mounting surface, sufficient for most micro red dots and smaller holographic sights. For optimum zero retention, I recommend using Loctite 242 on the mounting screws and torquing to 15-18 in-lbs.