KelTec's KS7 Gen 2 Adds Optics Rail, Smoother Action

KelTec's KS7 Gen 2 takes the single-magazine-tube version of its bullpup KSG and adds an optics rail, a smoother action and a few other updates, giving defensive shotgun buyers a slimmer, lighter alternative to the double-tube original.

Snapshot

B. Gil Horman's review for Tac Retailer covers KelTec's fall 2025 update to the KS7, a bullpup 12-gauge pump that trades the KSG's dual magazine tubes for a single one. The Gen 2 swaps the old carry-handle sight for a Picatinny rail, refines the internals for smoother cycling, and keeps the gun's compact 26.1-inch overall length and 18.5-inch barrel intact.

Key points

• Optics-ready upgrade: The Gen 1's polymer carry handle and fiber-optic sight are gone, replaced by a 12.25-inch Picatinny rail for red dots or AR-height back-up irons.
• Capacity and weight: The single-tube magazine holds six 3-inch or seven 2 3/4-inch shells, and the unloaded gun weighs 6 pounds, 2.5 ounces.
• New forend accessory rail: A covered M-LOK-style rail under the forend now accepts vertical or angled fore grips, in addition to four existing M-LOK slots.
• Range results: Horman reports reliable cycling with birdshot and buckshot loads, with the Gen 2's dual action bars running noticeably smoother than the original KS7.
• Mini-shell caution: KelTec told Horman the KS7 and KSG both accept 1 3/4-inch mini shells, but mini shells cycle more consistently in the KSG and can occasionally tip and fail to feed in the KS7.

Quick take

For shoppers who liked the KSG's capacity but not its bulk, the KS7 Gen 2 looks like a reasonable middle ground, especially with an optics rail now standard. At $699.99 across black, FDE and OD finishes, it's still a budget-friendly way into a bullpup shotgun, though Horman's note on mini-shell reliability is worth testing before trusting it for home defense.

Read the full story: B. Gil Horman