Understanding the KelTec SUB-2000
Basic Features and Design
The KelTec SUB-2000 has solidified its position as a favorite among firearm enthusiasts. Its distinctive folding design, coupled with the ability to accept magazines from popular handguns, makes it a versatile and convenient choice for many. From range trips to home defense, the SUB-2000 offers a compelling package. But beyond its core functionality, a world of customization and enhancement awaits, and at the heart of that world lies the possibility of KelTec SUB-2000 barrel thread modifications.
This comprehensive guide dives deep into the realm of KelTec SUB-2000 barrel thread options, unraveling the potential benefits and offering insights to help you tailor your carbine to your specific needs and desires. We’ll explore the how and why behind threading, delve into thread specifications, examine the available avenues for modification, and consider the associated safety and legal aspects. Whether you’re a seasoned gun owner or just starting to explore the possibilities, this article is your ultimate resource for understanding and optimizing your SUB-2000.
Why Thread the Barrel?
The advantages of a threaded barrel on a SUB-2000 go beyond mere aesthetics, offering tangible performance and utility enhancements. The ability to attach muzzle devices and suppressors significantly increases its functionality.
Adding a Suppressor
Perhaps the most significant reason to thread your barrel is to accommodate a suppressor, also known as a silencer. Suppressors reduce the amount of noise generated by a firearm when fired. This reduction can have a positive impact on hearing protection, both for the shooter and those nearby. Beyond hearing protection, suppressors often improve shooting comfort by reducing felt recoil and muzzle blast. While the SUB-2000 isn’t the quietest firearm, a suppressor can substantially diminish the noise signature. Owning a suppressor requires compliance with federal and potentially state regulations, which we’ll touch upon later.
Using Muzzle Devices
Muzzle devices are attachments that thread onto the end of the barrel and help to manage the gasses expelled from the firearm. Muzzle devices come in a variety of configurations, each designed to serve a specific purpose.
Muzzle brakes redirect the gas away from the shooter, significantly reducing recoil. This can result in faster follow-up shots and improved accuracy, making the SUB-2000 more controllable, especially during rapid fire.
Compensators are similar to muzzle brakes, but they also help to control muzzle rise, keeping the barrel flatter during firing. This also aids in faster follow-up shots.
Flash hiders minimize the visible flash produced when the gun is fired. They can reduce the shooter’s visibility to others and make it harder for the shooter’s position to be identified.
Enhanced Aesthetics
While functionality should always be the primary focus, a threaded barrel often enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of the SUB-2000. A threaded barrel lends a more tactical and purposeful appearance. With the correct muzzle device, the SUB-2000 transforms in appearance, making it look more modern and ready for action.
KelTec SUB-2000 Barrel Thread Specifications
The specifications for your KelTec SUB-2000 barrel thread are crucial. Getting this right is paramount for safety and to ensure that any attached devices properly function.
Common Threading Options
The most common thread pitch used for threading the SUB-2000’s barrel is typically 1/2×28 TPI (Threads Per Inch) for 9mm barrels and sometimes .40 S&W. This is a widely accepted standard in the firearms industry, allowing for compatibility with a broad range of muzzle devices and suppressors designed for those calibers. While other thread pitches might technically be possible, 1/2×28 is the most readily available and commonly utilized.
Thread Protection is Necessary
Once you have a threaded barrel, it’s critical to protect the threads when not using a muzzle device or suppressor. A thread protector is a small, threaded cap that screws onto the barrel, safeguarding the delicate threads from damage. Without proper thread protection, the threads can get dented, marred, or damaged. A thread protector will help to prevent that.
Threading Your KelTec SUB-2000 Barrel: Options to Consider
When it comes to threading your SUB-2000 barrel, you’re essentially faced with two primary avenues: professional gunsmithing or a DIY approach.
Professional Gunsmith Services
Entrusting the work to a skilled gunsmith is often the safest and most reliable route. Gunsmiths possess the expertise, specialized tools, and experience necessary to ensure accurate and safe threading. This is particularly vital with firearms because a slight misalignment can affect safety and performance.
The advantages of using a gunsmith include precision, peace of mind, and reduced risk. Experienced gunsmiths can ensure that the threads are cut correctly, concentric to the bore, and the device is properly aligned. When choosing a gunsmith, look for those with experience in the firearms industry.
Barrel Replacement Options
Another option is to replace the entire barrel. Several aftermarket manufacturers produce pre-threaded barrels for the SUB-2000. This can eliminate the need for gunsmithing, and these barrels often come with pre-cut threads that meet industry standards.
Muzzle Devices and Suppressor Compatibility
The choices for muzzle devices and suppressors are expansive. Once you have a threaded barrel, your choices will increase exponentially.
Choosing Muzzle Devices
The selection of muzzle devices is vast, each offering specific benefits: muzzle brakes, compensators, and flash hiders, each serving a different purpose. Researching the best option for you, the intended use for the carbine, and your shooting style is very important.
Suppressor Compatibility
If you choose a suppressor, verify the thread pitch is compatible with your threaded barrel. Then, consider the overall dimensions and weight of the suppressor and the potential impact on the carbine’s balance and handling.
Safety Precautions & Legal Considerations
Modifying a firearm, including threading the barrel, brings both safety and legal considerations.
Safety When Using a Threaded Barrel
Always make sure any attachment is securely fastened. Inspect the barrel and device regularly for damage or wear. Clean the threads thoroughly.
Legal Compliance
If you plan to use a suppressor, it is important to adhere to all regulations. Federal law requires registration and a background check through the National Firearms Act (NFA). State and local laws may further restrict the ownership and use of suppressors.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Proper care and maintenance are crucial for a threaded barrel.
Cleaning a Threaded Barrel
Use appropriate cleaning solvents and tools to remove any build-up. Carefully avoid damage to the threads.
Common Issues and Solutions
Misalignment of devices, damaged threads, and stuck devices are potential issues. If the attachment is misaligned, then the device is damaged, you should seek the help of a gunsmith.
Threading your KelTec SUB-2000 barrel thread is a worthwhile upgrade. It opens up a range of customization possibilities that can help you tailor your carbine to your specific needs. With careful research, a focus on safety, and adherence to the law, you can transform your SUB-2000 into a unique and highly functional firearm.
