The Kel-Tec RFB (Rotating Bolt Face) shotgun has earned a reputation as a unique and intriguing firearm. This review delves deep into its design, performance, pros, cons, and overall value, helping you decide if it's the right shotgun for you.
Design and Mechanics: The Heart of the RFB
The RFB's most striking feature is its bullpup design. This places the action behind the trigger group, resulting in a shorter overall length despite retaining a full-length barrel. This compact design makes it incredibly maneuverable in tight spaces, a significant advantage for home defense or tactical situations.
The rotating bolt face mechanism is another key element. Unlike traditional shotguns, the RFB utilizes a rotating bolt that locks into the breech face, providing reliable cycling and reduced recoil. This system is known for its robust design and relatively simple operation, although it does require a bit more cleaning and maintenance than some other shotguns.
Key Design Features:
- Bullpup Configuration: Shorter overall length for improved maneuverability.
- Rotating Bolt Face: Enhanced reliability and reduced felt recoil.
- Polymer Construction: Lightweight and durable, resistant to corrosion.
- Adjustable Stock: Allows for a customized fit.
- Picatinny Rails: Facilitates the addition of accessories like optics and lights.
Performance and Handling: On the Range
The RFB's performance is generally positive, but it's essential to manage expectations. While the rotating bolt helps mitigate recoil, it's still a 12-gauge shotgun, and you'll feel the impact. Accuracy is surprisingly good for a bullpup design, but mastering the trigger pull and learning the weapon's specific handling characteristics are crucial for optimal performance.
Performance Highlights:
- Reliable Cycling: The rotating bolt face mechanism generally provides dependable function.
- Manageable Recoil: While not recoil-less, the RFB's design helps mitigate the impact.
- Good Accuracy: Surprising accuracy for its bullpup configuration, but practice is key.
- Unique Handling: The bullpup design requires some adjustment, but it offers benefits in close-quarters scenarios.
Pros and Cons: Weighing the Options
Before making a purchase decision, carefully weigh the advantages and disadvantages of the Kel-Tec RFB.
Pros:
- Compact and Maneuverable: Ideal for close-quarters combat and home defense.
- Reliable Operation: The rotating bolt face is generally reliable and durable.
- Lightweight: Easier to carry and handle for extended periods.
- Affordable: Relatively inexpensive compared to other bullpup shotguns.
- Customizable: Picatinny rails allow for customization with various accessories.
Cons:
- Steeper Learning Curve: The unique handling characteristics require practice to master.
- Cleaning and Maintenance: The rotating bolt mechanism requires more attention than some other shotguns.
- Limited Spare Parts Availability: Finding replacement parts can sometimes be challenging.
- Magazines Can Be Expensive: Depending on the market, finding and purchasing magazines might be costly.
- Ambidextrous Controls Are Limited: While some features are ambidextrous, some aren't.
Conclusion: Is the RFB Right for You?
The Kel-Tec RFB is a unique and capable shotgun, particularly well-suited for those seeking a compact and maneuverable firearm for home defense or tactical situations. However, it’s crucial to understand its quirks and limitations. Its relatively affordable price and robust design make it an appealing option, but the learning curve and specific maintenance needs shouldn't be overlooked. If you're willing to invest the time and effort in mastering its handling and maintenance, the RFB could be a rewarding addition to your collection. However, those seeking a simple, straightforward shotgun might find other options more suitable. Thorough research and, ideally, hands-on experience before purchasing are highly recommended.
