The KelTec SU-16C 5.56 NATO rifle (brand part no. SU16CBLK) is the Charlie model of the SU16 sport utility series from KelTec, built around an under-folding stock for compact storage. It is a gas-piston, semi-automatic rifle with a 16-inch barrel that accepts standard AR-15 magazines. Iron sights and a Picatinny-style rail on the receiver give you a choice between irons and an optic. At under five pounds unloaded it works as a truck gun, a hunting backup or a light rifle for outdoor trips.

Key Specifications

• The chambering is 5.56 NATO, listed by KelTec as .223 Rem and 5.56x45mm.
• The barrel length is 16 inches, which suits a handy general-purpose rifle.
• The twist rate is 1:7, the rifling pitch KelTec lists for the SU16 series.
• The action is gas-piston operated semi-auto, which keeps fouling down where the action cycles.
• The stock is an under-folding design, and the rifle still operates with the stock folded.
• Magazine capacity is 10 or more, and the rifle takes AR-15 magazines as well as KelTec’s own 10-round magazine.
• Overall length is 35.5 inches with the stock extended and 25.5 inches folded.
• Unloaded weight is 4.7 pounds, light enough to carry for hours.
• A Picatinny-style rail on top of the receiver accepts an optic, and adjustable iron sights are included.
• Trigger pull is listed at 6 pounds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the SU-16C fire with the stock folded? Yes. KelTec says the under-folding stock still lets the rifle operate in the folded position with a metal GI magazine or a proprietary KelTec 10-round magazine.

What magazines does the SU-16C accept? KelTec lists AR-15 compatible magazines for the SU16 series, and a proprietary 10-round magazine also works with this model.

Can I mount an optic on the SU-16C? Yes. The receiver has an integrated Picatinny-style rail, and the rifle also comes with adjustable iron sights.

Buy the KelTec SU-16C 5.56 NATO Under-Folding Stock Rifle, 16-Inch Barrel

The SU-16C is KelTec’s compact answer to a light 5.56 rifle that packs down small and still runs standard AR-15 magazines. Order it from our Lubbock, Texas gun shop for fast, insured shipping to your FFL, and see more semi-auto rifles in our catalog.