KEL TEC RFB24 Hunter 7.62×51 24″ Threaded Bullpup Rifle
About this product
The Kel Tec RFB24 Hunter is a forward-ejecting, short-stroke gas piston bullpup rifle chambered in 7.62x51 NATO/.308 Winchester, designed to package a full 24-inch barrel into a chassis with an overall length shorter than many conventional 16-inch AR-10 carbines. It's engineered from the ground up to be fundamentally ambidextrous and route all combustion gasses and brass forward of the shooter, making it a unique proposition in the semi-automatic .308 market. Its 5/8x24 threaded muzzle and chrome-lined barrel are built for durability and accessory compatibility over thousands of rounds.
What is the Kel Tec RFB24 Hunter used for?
The RFB24 Hunter is primarily used for precision-oriented field work and extended-range shooting where a compact, ambidextrous package is critical for maneuverability without sacrificing ballistic velocity. Its 24-inch barrel provides a significant velocity advantage—typically 150-200 fps over a 16-inch barrel—making it excellent for reaching out to 800+ yards with factory match ammunition. The forward-ejecting system keeps hot brass and gas entirely out of the shooter's workspace, which is a tangible benefit for shooters working from vehicles or barricades where spent cases can be a genuine hazard.
How does the Kel Tec RFB24 Hunter compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle in .308?
The RFB24 Hunter provides semi-automatic rapid fire capability and a significantly more compact overall package, while the Stevens 334 Rifle is better for pure, cost-conscious precision shooting from a supported position. The bullpup's overall length is 37.5 inches, over 10 inches shorter than the 49-inch Stevens with its 20-inch barrel, making the Kel Tec easier to maneuver in tight spaces. However, the bolt-action Stevens 334 will typically deliver superior inherent accuracy potential for the price, often achieving sub-MOA groups with quality ammo where the RFB is a consistent 1.5-2 MOA rifle.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The RFB24 Hunter weighs 9.25 pounds unloaded and measures 37.5 inches in overall length. This specific 24-inch barrel model has a height of 8.75 inches from the bottom of the magazine well to the top of the integrated rail, and the trigger is positioned approximately 14.5 inches forward of the buttpad. For context, that overall length is nearly identical to an AR-15 with the stock collapsed, but you're getting the barrel length and ballistic performance of a full-sized rifle.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not for first-time shooters or anyone unfamiliar with the specific takedown and maintenance procedures of a forward-ejecting bullpup. The trigger linkage inherent to the bullpup design results in a heavier, longer pull—typically breaking at 7.5-8.5 pounds—which makes it unsuitable for benchrest precision competition where a crisp 3-pound trigger is expected. It's also a poor choice for buyers seeking a traditional wood-stocked hunting rifle aesthetic; this is a purpose-built, polymer-chassised tool.
What's in the box?
The rifle ships from the factory with one 20-round steel magazine, a basic set of field-stripping tools specific to the RFB platform, and an owner's manual detailing the unique takedown procedure. Unlike many conventional rifles, it does not include flip-up iron sights or a muzzle device; you are getting the bare rifle ready for optics mounting and your choice of a suppressor or muzzle brake threaded 5/8x24.
Is the Kel Tec RFB24 Hunter worth it at $1990.99?
At $1990.99, the RFB24 Hunter is worth it for shooters who specifically need the compact length of a bullpup combined with the long-range ballistics of a 24-inch .308 barrel and value ambidextrous, gas-forward operation. You are paying a premium for unique engineering that solves specific problems of space and ejection direction, not for match-grade accuracy. If your primary use is static bench shooting or you prefer the manual operation and potential accuracy of a bolt-action, a rifle like the Stevens 334 at nearly a third of the price is the more financially sensible choice.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Overall length of 37.5 inches — over 11 inches shorter than a conventional rifle with the same 24-inch barrel.
- Forward-ejecting system routes all gas and brass forward — completely ambidextrous and eliminates port gassing.
- Chrome-lined barrel rated for +15,000 rounds — significantly extends service life compared to standard carbon steel.
Trade-offs
- Bullpup trigger linkage results in a heavy 7.5-8.5 lb pull — not suitable for precision trigger work without aftermarket mods.
- Uses proprietary modified FAL magazines — cannot use common, low-cost AR-10/SR-25 pattern magazines.
- Field strip requires specific, non-intuitive steps — not as simple as breaking open an AR-10.
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 640832003482 |
| manufacturer | KelTec |
| manufacturer part number | RFB24TAN |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel finish | Black |
| barrel length | 24" |
| caliber/gauge | .308 / 7.62 NATO |
| capacity | 20 + 1 |
| number of magazines | 1 20 rd. |
| package height | 6.0 |
| package width | 15.0 |
| product type | Rifle |
| safety | Lever Action |
| shipping weight | 20.8 |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Does this work with a .308 Win suppressor?
- Yes, the 5/8x24 threaded muzzle is the standard thread pitch for .30 caliber rifles and is directly compatible with most .308 Winchester/7.62x51 NATO suppressors from manufacturers like SilencerCo, Dead Air, and Rugged. Ensure your chosen suppressor is rated for full-power .308 from a 24-inch barrel, as some pistol-caliber models may not handle the pressure.
- Is it compatible with standard AR-10/SR-25 pattern magazines?
- Yes, the RFB platform is designed around modified FAL magazines, which are mechanically different from AR-10/SR-25 pattern mags. You must use Kel Tec's proprietary magazines or aftermarket magazines specifically designed for the RFB. Attempting to use an unmodified AR-10 magazine will not work and may cause a malfunction.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- For in-stock items like this, Ironclad Armory typically processes and ships within 2-3 business days. Transit time then depends on your location and carrier, but continental US delivery to your selected FFL dealer generally adds 5-7 business days. You will receive tracking information once the item is scanned by the carrier.
- Can I return it if it has a mechanical issue?
- Ironclad Armory does not accept returns on firearms for change of mind due to federal regulations. If you receive the rifle and discover a legitimate mechanical defect, you must contact customer service within 10 days of receipt to initiate a manufacturer warranty claim with Kel Tec, who will provide an RMA for repair or replacement.