SHOT Show 2019: Kel-Tec KS7 Shotgun

by
posted on February 1, 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. **
kel_tec_ks7-white_right.jpg

In 2011 Kel-Tec set the shotgunning world on its ear with the release of the KSG, a bullpup pump-action 12-ga. with two magazine tubular magazines which hold up to a total of 12 rounds when loaded with 3" shells. It was an instant hit that has been a top seller for the company ever since.

However, there's much more to appreciate about the KSG's design than the gun's impressive ammunition capacity. The bullpup configuration, polymer components and signature Kel-Tec design influences make this relatively compact and light weigh platform. Trimming the gun down to just one magazine tube would make it just that much handier, which is what the company has done with the new KS7 shotgun.




As the name implies, the KS7 holds a total of 6+1 rounds when loaded with 3" 12-ga. cartridges with room for one more when using 2.75" rounds. With an overall length of 26.1", 13" length of pull and an unloaded weight of 5.6-lbs., it's intended for use as a personal defense option for us in the home or on the trail.

Running this gun during the 2019 SHOT Show Industry day at the range, I found it cycled smoothly and handled much more naturally than the KSG. The polymer pump grip has a lip to prevent support hand slippage and the tall sight rail features a carry handle. Along with weighing less than the KSG, the KS7 also has a smaller price tag of $499. A sporting-length barrel model is also in the works for a possible release later this year.

Latest

FP 6.5Peak Launch Fusion Terminalascent Peakalloy 19
FP 6.5Peak Launch Fusion Terminalascent Peakalloy 19

Federal's New 6.5 Creedmoor +Peak: The Peak Alloy Case Goes Mainstream

Federal introduced its high-pressure Peak Alloy case design with the 7 mm Backcountry in 2025. Now, the company is incorporating it into high-pressure 6.5 Creedmoor loads with the +Peak design.

I Carry: Springfield Armory Echelon 4.0FC in a JM Custom Kydex Holster

In our latest "I Carry" video, a Springfield Echelon 4.0FC is outfitted with Aimpoint's new COA enclosed-emitter red-dot optic, and to carry this optic-equipped handgun, we've selected a JM Custom Kydex holster.

The Armed Citizen® June 5, 2026

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

Multi-Caliber MK24 to Replace SCAR-H For SOCOM

U.S. Special Forces will soon be replacing their 7.62-NATO-chambered SCAR-Hs with a new, barrel-swapping MK24 Mid-Range Gas Gun-Assault (MRGGA) gun capable of running either 7.62 NATO or 6.5 Creedmoor.

Rifle Renaissance 2026: Exploring Rifle Skills Beyond Marksmanship

Being able to shoot in contextual situations, shoot from unusual positions, manipulate the rifle quickly and rapidly adjust one’s position based on distance are all essential skills for a well-trained rifleman. To train these abilities, The Complete Combatant hosted the first annual Rifle Renaissance event in March 2026.

New Guns For 2026: A Full Guide

While it’s claimed the firearms industry is experiencing a slowdown, that hasn’t meant a stall to innovation. It means gunmakers are working harder than ever to earn your business.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.