Kel-Tec RFB18 Tan 7.62 NATO (.308) 20rd Bullpup Rifle

About this product

What is the Kel-Tec RFB18 Tan 7.62 NATO (.308) 20rd Bullpup Rifle? It's a forward-ejecting semi-automatic battle rifle that delivers full-power .308 performance in a compact 27.2-inch overall length package. Designed with ambidextrous controls and a unique forward ejection system, this bullpup configuration places the action behind the trigger group for exceptional balance and maneuverability.

What is the Kel-Tec RFB18 used for?

The RFB18 serves as a compact defensive or hunting rifle where full-power .308 ballistics are needed in confined spaces. Its 18-inch chrome-lined barrel maintains velocity while the bullpup design reduces overall length by 10 inches compared to traditional rifles like the the Stevens 334 Rifle | .308 Win, 20in Matte Black Synthetic, making it ideal for vehicle deployment or thick brush hunting. The adjustable gas system allows tuning for suppressor use or varying ammunition pressures.

How does the Kel-Tec RFB18 compare to the Stevens 334 .308?

The RFB18 offers significantly better maneuverability with its 27.2-inch overall length versus the Stevens 334's 40.5 inches, though it sacrifices some long-range precision due to its shorter 18-inch barrel. Where the Stevens 334's bolt-action provides sub-MOA accuracy for precision shooting, the RFB18's semi-automatic operation delivers rapid follow-up shots at the cost of approximately 2-3 MOA groups with standard ammunition. The bullpup design also positions weight further back, improving off-hand stability but creating a different balance feel.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

The RFB18 weighs 8.1 pounds unloaded and measures 27.2 inches in overall length with an 18-inch barrel. This compact footprint comes at the cost of a 14.5-inch length of pull that may require adjustment for taller shooters. The rifle maintains a 3.2-inch height and 2.6-inch width profile, making it surprisingly slim for a .308 platform.

Who is this NOT for?

This rifle isn't for precision competitors seeking sub-MOA accuracy or traditionalists uncomfortable with bullpup triggers. The RFB18's trigger pull measures 6.5-7 pounds with noticeable linkage feel, making it unsuitable for benchrest shooting where the the Stevens 334's crisp 3.5-pound trigger excels. Left-handed shooters should note that while controls are ambidextrous, the forward ejection system still requires careful cheek weld positioning to avoid gas blowback.

What's in the box?

The package includes the rifle, one 20-round steel magazine, owner's manual, and cable lock. Kel-Tec ships these with the gas system pre-set for standard M80 ball ammunition, requiring approximately 15 minutes of adjustment time if using commercial .308 hunting loads or suppressors. Unlike some competitors, no optic rail or backup sights are included—plan on adding $150-300 for a proper sighting system.

Is the Kel-Tec RFB18 worth it at $1749.99?

At $1749.99, the RFB18 justifies its price for shooters needing compact .308 firepower with modern features. The forward ejection system alone solves the brass-to-face problem common in other bullpups, while the adjustable gas system adds $200-300 worth of value compared to fixed-gas competitors. For the money, you're getting a specialized tool that outperforms converted SBRs in legality and reliability, though traditional rifle buyers might prefer the the Stevens 334 at nearly half the price for range use.