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Kel-Tec PLR16 Defender Pistol — 5.56 NATO, 9.2in

SKULIP|KTPLR16BLKD Conditionnew CategorySemi Auto Handguns
$823.99
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About this product

The Kel-Tec PLR16 Defender is a compact, rifle-caliber pistol built around a lightweight design for range use, small-game field use, and modular customization. Chambered in .223 Rem/5.56 NATO, the platform accepts standard AR-15 magazines and is set up for optics and accessory fitment. This enhanced kit includes a Viridian RFX11 optic, a Strike Industries pistol stabilizer brace, a Magpul angled foregrip, and a compact forend to provide immediate utility out of the box. The 9.2in threaded barrel and picatinny receiver make the PLR16 ready for common muzzle devices and optics.

Key Specifications

  • Chambered in .223 Rem/5.56 NATO for compatibility with common rifle-caliber ammunition.
  • The barrel measures 9.2 inches and is threaded for aftermarket muzzle devices.
  • The action is Semi-Auto for standard semi-automatic operation.
  • Accepts standard AR-15 magazines for broad magazine compatibility.
  • Thread pattern is 1/2×28 to match common muzzle accessories.
  • Optic footprint is PICATINNY for easy mounting of red dots and scopes.
  • Includes Viridian RFX11 optic as part of the Defender kit.
  • Includes a Strike Industries pistol stabilizer brace and Magpul angled grip for improved handling.
  • The unloaded weight is approximately 3.4 lbs (54.4 oz) for a balance of portability and controllability.
  • Drilled and tapped for optics: Yes, and it features an ambidextrous safety: Yes.

Purpose-built for shooters who want rifle-caliber performance in a compact, customizable pistol package, the PLR16 Defender delivers a practical mix of light weight, accessory readiness, and common-standards compatibility. Its threaded barrel, picatinny receiver, and included accessories get you on target with minimal additional setup while leaving plenty of room to tailor the platform to your preferred configuration.

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Specs at a glance

Kel-Tec PLR16 Defender Pist… SPECS AT A GLANCE 3.4 lbs WEIGHT 9.2in SIZE
Editorial diagram — measurements verified during testing.

Key attributes

upc640832011043
manufacturerKelTec
manufacturer part numberPLR16BLKD
actionSemi-Auto
atf typePistol
barrel finishBlack
barrel length9.2"
caliber/gauge.223 REM/5.56 NATO
capacity10 + 1
colorBlack
length22.8500
modelPLR-16
number of magazines1 One 10rd
package height2.3
package width9.8
product typeSemi-Auto Pistol
safetyAmbidextrous
shipping weight6.6
sightsAdjustable rear/Fixed front
sights typeAdjustable Sights
state restriction (il)NO SALE TO ILLINOIS PICA
thread pattern1/2"x28
Sources & methodology. Editorial review and rating by Declan Vance based on hands-on testing notes and published vendor specifications. Pricing verified at time of publication.
$823.99