KelTec CP33 – Gun Review

Are you looking into getting a KelTec CP33? Before you fork over the cash, get to know this baby first!

KelTec CP33: Things You Need to Consider

The KelTec Competition Pistol 

The Kel-Tec CP33 is called such because CP stands for “Competition Pistol.” The CP33 is snappy, accurate, and prevents you from having to reload too often, thanks to its innovative design.

Magazine Design

Right off the bat, you’ll see that the CP33 has a quad stack magazine that can hold 33 rounds in total. You won’t find this magazine anywhere else because it’s been patented by the manufacturer. It allows two streams of ammunition to combine at the top for a single position feed and an unending flow as you squeeze off rounds.

Action

As a semiautomatic rimfire pistol, the CP33 is designed with a straight, blowback action. This means that the energy made from the cartridges you fire pushes backward on the unlocked bolt and automatically cycles the firearm for another shot. This makes it satisfying to shoot and quite controllable as the body of the gun moves back instead of using a slide system.

Rail

Furthermore, you’ll appreciate the inclusion of a Picatinny rail at the top of the weapon that allows you to mount various attachments or accessories like sights or lights.

We’d heavily recommend investing in a great pistol optic to increase your accuracy at a distance or help you hit your targets in low light environments.

Trigger

Pulling the trigger feels particularly nice and crisp. The CP33 benefits from a single action internal hammer fire mechanism that means you can pull the trigger light and smooth to squeeze off a shot.

It’s also made with a larger than average handle with excellent texturing; this both makes the pistol difficult to drop in the first place and feels comfortable to grip tightly when you’re trying to be especially accurate. However, keep in mind that those without very big hands might need to look elsewhere due to the handle size.

Weight

It doesn’t weigh too much, though. Compared to smaller handguns it’s significantly heavier, clocking in at 26 ounces with an empty magazine loaded in place. It goes up to 30 ounces once you’ve loaded the magazine.

Speaking of magazines, you can purchase an additional extendable magazine. This will allow the CP33 to hold 50 rounds in total: truly nuts for a handgun!

Controls

The CP33 uses an ambidextrous safety shaped like a paddle, so it’s easy both to recognize and operate. A clear red oval indicates the safety status so there’s no miscommunication.

Next to the safety is a bolt release button and the magazine release in the shape of a knob and installed on the heel of the pistol grip. Again, this is to facilitate an excellent experience for both left and right-handed shooters.

Looks

Aesthetically, the KelTec CP33 looks a little futuristic, particularly compared to compact and more modern guns that you commonly find on the market. There are few pistols that are as notably “hi-tech” looking as the CP33.

Ideal Uses

The CP33 could excel as a self-defense firearm, thanks to its high ammunition count and its general accuracy and performance. It’s decently accurate at longer distances, so you can also use it for target practice or general fun with your friends.

However, the larger than average handle and the lack of a slide mechanism means that you may not be used to how this gun operates. Spend some time practicing with the pistol before you rely on it as a dedicated self-defense sidearm.

Additionally, we wouldn’t recommend it for concealed carry defense. It’s too large and bulky to be comfortably carried beneath your shirt.

The Verdict

All in all, the KelTec CP33 is a great pistol to check out if you’re any kind of firearm enthusiast given its innovative design and plethora of possible uses.

Watch this video from Guy In A Garage for another review of an upgraded KelTec CP33:

We’d advise giving it a look or seeing if your local gun store has any in stock sooner rather than later considering how COVID-19 is affecting local businesses.

What are your experiences with this gun? Tell us in the comment section below!

**Disclaimer: All content on this site is for informational purposes only.**

Editor’s Note: This post was originally published on April 14, 2020, and has been updated for quality and relevancy.