SHOT Show 2019: Kel-Tec CP33 Pistol

by
posted on January 25, 2019
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
cp33-lef_lead_2t.jpg
Offering unprecedented capacity for a semi-automatic rimfire pistol, Kel-Tec’s new CP33 feeds from innovative quad-stack detachable box magazines that hold a total of 33 rounds of .22 Long Rifle. That’s a lot of trigger pulls before the user is forced to reload—making the CP33 an intriguing option for competitive shooters. Further enhancing the pistol’s potential as a competition gun is the 19-slot Picatinny rail that runs nearly the entire length of the gun’s receiver—for the installation of an optic.  


Using a standard blowback operating system, the CP33’s action is opened by pulling back on an ambidextrous, non-reciprocating charging handle found at the rear of the receiver. A lever on the left side of the gun allows the bolt to be locked in the open position. A pair of fully adjustable fiber-optic sights (green up front and red in the rear) ride the top of the gun, while a single M-Lok-compatible slot is molded into the dustcover.

The CP33 measures 10.6” long, with a 5.5” barrel that is threaded 1/2x28 TPI from the factory and comes with a thread protector. Bilateral thumb safeties are positioned on the polymer frame so that up is safe and down is fire. The pistol’s high-capacity magazines are released from the frame via a European-style magazine release button located in the heel of the gun.
During our initial testing Monday morning at the SHOT Show 2019 Industry Day at the Range, Kel-Tec’s new CP33 functioned well, although the company does warn that there is a “correct” way to load the magazines in order to avoid rim lock. And for those who don’t think a 33-round-capacity magazine is enough, Kel-Tec already has a 50-round prototype in the works. With an MSRP of only $475, the CP33 deserves consideration from anyone looking for high-volume rimfire fun. For more information, visit keltecweapons.com.

Latest

Teaching Liberty Hillsdale College 1
Teaching Liberty Hillsdale College 1

Teaching Liberty: Hillsdale College & The Second Amendment

At Hillsdale College, students don't just learn about the fundamental truths behind the Second Amendment. They also learn the practical side of the right to keep and bear arms.

Smith & Wesson Partners With Lipsey's On Line Of "Mountain Guns"

First applied to its Model 629 in 1989, the Smith & Wesson "Mountain Gun" is a lightweight and compact variant designed to be carried afield, and thanks to a partnership with Lipsey's, Smith & Wesson is bringing them back.

Pro-NRA & Second Amendment Supporter Dr. Michael Fuljenz Wins National Writing Award

Longtime NRA benefactor Dr. Mike Fuljenz, president of Universal Coin & Bullion, was honored by the Numismatic Literary Guild for his recent and timely article about the need to eliminate copper pennies.

Reloading The Stalwart .308 Winchester

For more than 70 years, the .308 Win. has been one of the world’s most tested and versatile cartridges—and it’s still far from obsolete.

The Rifleman Report: Tried-And-True Attributes

In this August 2025 issue, we explored how several entirely different kinds of firearms, and a classic cartridge, possess the tried-and-true attributes that make them effective for self-protection or hunting—even though none is as popular as the modern sporting rifles, semi-automatic pistols and specialty chamberings that account for much of today’s gun coverage.

C&H Precision And Grounds & Rounds HQ Grand Opening

Cavalier Attitude Global Holdings, parent company of eight industry brands, will officially host their grand opening celebration in September with raffles, concerts and the unveiling of Grounds & Rounds, a combination coffee bar and gun range.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.