Let’s Dive into Kel Tec PLR-16 Pistol Polymer Forend with Picatinny Rail
The Kel Tec PLR-16 Pistol Polymer Forend with Picatinny Rail promises to enhance the functionality and aesthetics of the already unique Kel Tec PLR-16 pistol. Offered by Kel Tec, this forend aims to provide a stable platform for mounting accessories, offering a Picatinny rail for lights, lasers, or foregrips. As someone with over a decade of experience in outdoor and tactical gear, I was eager to see if this seemingly simple accessory could live up to its potential and address some common complaints about the PLR-16’s stock configuration.
I’ve always felt the PLR-16 was a fantastic concept hampered by limited accessory mounting options. The stock forend, while functional, lacks versatility. I was primarily looking for a way to securely mount a weapon light without resorting to cumbersome aftermarket solutions.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the forend’s lightweight polymer construction. The texture felt adequate, providing a decent grip. However, the initial impression was slightly marred by a noticeable seam along the mold lines, which hinted at potentially less-than-perfect fit and finish.
Compared to other aftermarket forends I’ve used on similar platforms like AR pistols, this one felt surprisingly basic. Many competitors offer free-floating designs or incorporate heat shields. Ultimately, I chose the Kel Tec forend for its purported simplicity and direct compatibility with the PLR-16, hoping for a hassle-free upgrade.
My first impression was a mix of excitement and slight apprehension. The promise of a Picatinny rail was appealing, but the somewhat flimsy feel of the polymer raised concerns about its long-term durability and stability under recoil.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kel Tec PLR-16 Pistol Polymer Forend with Picatinny Rail to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Kel Tec PLR-16 Pistol Polymer Forend with Picatinny Rail at my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was clear and sunny, providing ideal conditions for sighting in and evaluating the forend’s performance. I focused primarily on assessing how well it held zero with a mounted flashlight and its overall impact on handling.
The forend felt less secure than I anticipated during the first few magazines. I could detect slight movement and creaking under recoil, even without any accessories attached. This immediately validated some of the negative user feedback I had read online.
Installing the forend was straightforward, but achieving a truly tight fit proved challenging. The polymer seemed slightly flexible, making it difficult to eliminate all play between the forend and the receiver. This lack of a rock-solid connection was concerning.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use and approximately 500 rounds fired, the Kel Tec PLR-16 Pistol Polymer Forend with Picatinny Rail has shown some concerning signs of wear. The seam along the mold lines has widened slightly. There are also some minor scratches from normal handling.
While the forend hasn’t completely failed, the play has increased noticeably. The screws holding it together required frequent tightening. The polymer is showing signs of stress, particularly around the mounting points.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and some mild detergent. However, the need for frequent screw tightening is a significant drawback. It shows the Kel Tec forend is not as durable as I had hoped.
Compared to my experience with other polymer forends from brands like Magpul, this one is a clear disappointment. Those alternatives generally exhibit superior rigidity and long-term durability, even under harsh conditions. This Kel Tec forend doesn’t meet my standards.
Breaking Down the Features of Kel Tec PLR-16 Pistol Polymer Forend with Picatinny Rail
Specifications
The Kel Tec PLR-16 Pistol Polymer Forend with Picatinny Rail is constructed from a lightweight, injection-molded polymer. This helps keep the overall weight of the pistol down.
It features a full-length Picatinny rail along the bottom for mounting accessories. This is the primary selling point of the forend, allowing users to attach lights, lasers, or foregrips.
It is specifically designed for and compatible only with the Kel Tec PLR-16 pistol. This ensures a proper fit, although the fit’s tightness is debatable based on user experiences.
The forend weighs approximately 4 ounces, adding minimal weight to the PLR-16. The light weight aids in maintaining the pistol’s balance and maneuverability.
The listed price is $64.79. This puts it in a competitive price range compared to other aftermarket forends, but the value proposition is questionable considering the reported issues with fit and durability.
Performance & Functionality
The Kel Tec PLR-16 Pistol Polymer Forend with Picatinny Rail’s primary function is to provide a stable mounting platform for accessories. However, due to the reported issues with fit and stability, its performance in this regard is questionable.
The Picatinny rail does allow for the attachment of various accessories. But the movement and creaking under recoil can affect accuracy and the reliability of mounted devices like lasers.
The forend meets the basic expectation of providing a rail. But it falls short in terms of providing a secure and confidence-inspiring platform for shooting and tactical use.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is adequate, but the polymer feels somewhat flimsy and prone to flexing. The noticeable seam along the mold lines detracts from the overall aesthetic.
The forend is relatively user-friendly, requiring only basic tools for installation. There is no significant learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on user feedback and my own experience, the Kel Tec PLR-16 Pistol Polymer Forend with Picatinny Rail’s long-term durability is a major concern. The polymer is showing signs of wear and stress after only moderate use.
Maintenance is simple, but the need for frequent screw tightening indicates a fundamental design flaw. This affects the overall reliability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kel Tec PLR-16 Pistol Polymer Forend with Picatinny Rail itself is an accessory designed to enhance the PLR-16’s customization options. It allows users to mount a wide range of Picatinny rail-compatible accessories, such as weapon lights, lasers, vertical foregrips, and bipods.
The forend is compatible with most standard Picatinny rail accessories from various brands. This provides a wide range of customization possibilities.
Pros and Cons of Kel Tec PLR-16 Pistol Polymer Forend with Picatinny Rail
Pros
- Provides a Picatinny rail for mounting accessories.
- Lightweight design adds minimal weight to the PLR-16.
- Easy to install with basic tools.
- Affordable price point.
- Compatible with a wide range of Picatinny rail accessories.
Cons
- Questionable fit and stability.
- Polymer feels flimsy and prone to flexing.
- May not hold zero with mounted accessories under recoil.
Who Should Buy Kel Tec PLR-16 Pistol Polymer Forend with Picatinny Rail?
The Kel Tec PLR-16 Pistol Polymer Forend with Picatinny Rail might be suitable for casual shooters who prioritize adding a basic Picatinny rail to their PLR-16 without spending a lot of money. It may also work for those who don’t plan on putting their pistol through rigorous use.
Anyone looking for a truly rugged and reliable forend for tactical applications or frequent range use should skip this product. They should consider investing in a higher-quality alternative.
A thread locker compound, such as Loctite, may be a must-have to keep the screws from loosening. Zip ties might even be required to keep it from separating during firing.
Conclusion on Kel Tec PLR-16 Pistol Polymer Forend with Picatinny Rail
The Kel Tec PLR-16 Pistol Polymer Forend with Picatinny Rail promises to be a simple and affordable upgrade for the PLR-16 pistol. However, its questionable fit, flimsy polymer construction, and lack of stability ultimately undermine its value proposition.
At a price of $64.79, the cost is relatively low, but the reported issues with fit and durability make it difficult to justify. A more robust and well-designed forend would be a better investment in the long run.
Based on my experience and the consistent feedback from other users, I cannot confidently recommend this product. While the concept is sound, the execution falls short of expectations. Explore other options.