New for 2020: Kel-Tec RDB Defender

by
posted on August 2, 2020
keltec_rdb_defender.jpg

Building off the success of the earlier Rifle Downward-ejecting Bullpup, or RDB, rifle design Kel-Tec unveiled a new variant for 2020, The RDB Defender. The Defender features a blend of the original RDB layout with the lighter weight of the RDB Survival model into one package. Its key features include a 16” pencil-profile barrel, adjustable butt, and the inclusion of a new aluminum M-LOK handguard.

Chambered in 5.56x45 mm NATO, the RDB Defender has the same basic controls as the previous tactical version of the RDB. The safety selectors are ambidextrous as well as the bolt and magazine release. The bolt and magazine release are located behind the pistol grip around the magazine-well. A Picatinny rail sits on top of the receiver to allow the mounting of sights and accessories like the previous version as well.

The RDB defender does have some key differences, with the first being a slightly shorter and lighter barrel. The Defender’s barrel is 16” versus the 17” barrel present on the normal model and has a slimmer profile to reduce weight. The barrel’s twist rate is 1:7” and comes with an attached A2 style flash-hider. Another key difference of the Defender is the collapsible buttstock. On the original RDB, the butt is at a fixed length with no option for adjustment.

On the Defender, the butt can be adjusted for length-of-pull by pressing a tab hidden on the underside of the butt piece. The butt on the Defender is also smaller in profile than the original RDB and lacks the rubber molding and sling swivel. Another feature of the Defender is the inclusion of an aluminum M-LOK compatible handguard in place of the polymer Zytel handguard found on the original RDB.

This handguard has M-LOK slots on the sides, bottom and 45-degree positions in-between to allow the attachment of rail segments or other accessories. Despite the handguard’s metal construction, the Defender’s entire weight is 6.7 lbs. unloaded versus the 7 lbs. of the original version. It is also slightly shorter than the original adding to the design’s compact nature. The defender is compatible with AR-15 style magazines and has a suggested retail price starting at $1,072. For more information on the RDB Defender visit keltecweapons.com   

Latest

KelTec PR57
KelTec PR57

KelTec’s PR57: Thinking Outside The (Detachable) Box

KelTec has brought the stripper clip back with the thoroughly unconventional PR57—a carry pistol with an uncommon chambering, an unusual action and no box magazine.

The Armed Citizen® June 9, 2025

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

More Western States Opening Large Shooting Ranges

A number of states in the western U.S. have opened or are planning to open large, versatile ranges to serve the growing need for publicly accessible shooting spaces.

Preview: Sneaky Pete Distressed Leather Perfect Holster

More than just a fresh look made using handcrafted leather, the Sneaky Pete Distressed Leather Perfect Holster has been redesigned to accommodate extra ammunition in addition to a concealed firearm.

New For 2025: Rost Martin RM1S & RM1C Comped

Two new models joined the Rost Martin handgun lineup in 2025, one with subcompact dimensions and another with a built-in compensator that promises to reduce recoil substantially.

CMP Resumes M1911 Pistol Sales

As of January 2025, the Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) had resumed sales of surplus U.S. Army M1911/M1911A1 pistols to qualified U.S. citizens.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.