Description
The Kel-Tec P17 .22 LR Compact Pistol — Threaded, Tan is a lightweight, affordable rimfire pistol built for everyday training and range use. It pairs a steel threaded barrel with a fiber-optic front sight and ambidextrous controls on a polymer frame. Three magazines are included, making it a practical choice for shooters who want low-cost practice without sacrificing features.
| Manufacturer | Kel-Tec |
|---|---|
| Model | P17 |
| Material | Polymer frame, steel barrel |
| Compatibility | .22 LR ammunition |
| Finish | Tan polymer, black steel |
| Weight | Approx. 12.5 oz (unloaded, per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Threaded Steel Barrel — WHY IT MATTERS: Lets you attach a suppressor or compensator for quieter shooting or reduced muzzle rise, making range time more enjoyable and less fatiguing for new shooters.
- Fiber-Optic Front Sight — WHY IT MATTERS: Gives you a bright, easy-to-acquire sight picture in low light or bright sun, so you can stay on target without squinting.
- Ambidextrous Controls — WHY IT MATTERS: Left-handed or right-handed shooters can operate the slide stop and magazine release without changing grip, keeping the gun in the fight.
- Picatinny-Style Accessory Rail — WHY IT MATTERS: Mount a small light or laser for low-light training or home defense, without needing a gunsmith or adapter.
- Three Magazines Included — WHY IT MATTERS: You can load all three before a session and shoot longer between reloads, saving time and frustration at the range.
Who It’s For
This pistol is for new gun owners looking for an affordable way to learn fundamentals, families wanting a low-recoil plinker for weekend outings, and experienced shooters who need a lightweight .22 LR trainer that mirrors a centerfire compact. It also appeals to anyone who wants a threaded barrel right out of the box without spending extra.
Pros/Cons
- Pros: Very lightweight at 12.5 ounces; includes three magazines; threaded barrel standard; fiber-optic front sight; ambidextrous controls; Picatinny rail; affordable price under $230.
- Cons: The trigger pull is heavier than some target pistols (per Kel-Tec specs, it’s around 5-6 lbs), so precision shooters may want to budget for a trigger upgrade. Also, the polymer frame can feel less solid than all-metal designs, though it keeps weight down.
Comparison: Kel-Tec P17 vs. Ruger Mark IV vs. Taurus TX22
| Feature | Kel-Tec P17 | Ruger Mark IV | Taurus TX22 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight (unloaded) | 12.5 oz | ~32 oz | ~17 oz |
| Magazine Capacity | 16+1 | 10+1 | 16+1 |
| Threaded Barrel | Yes (standard) | Optional (model-specific) | Yes (on certain models) |
| MSRP | ~$230 | ~$500+ | ~$350 |
| Best For | Budget training & suppressor use | Target accuracy & customization | Reliability & competition |
FAQ
What type of ammunition does the Kel-Tec P17 use?
It uses standard .22 LR ammunition, including high-velocity rounds. Avoid subsonic loads unless you have a suppressor, as they may not cycle reliably.
Is the barrel already threaded, or do I need an adapter?
The barrel comes threaded from the factory with a standard 1/2×28 thread pattern, so you can attach most .22 LR suppressors or compensators directly without an adapter.
How many magazines come with the pistol?
Three 16-round magazines are included in the box, giving you 48 rounds total before you need to reload a magazine.
Is this pistol good for left-handed shooters?
Yes, the controls are ambidextrous, including the slide stop and magazine release, so left-handed shooters can operate it comfortably.
Can I mount a red dot sight on the Kel-Tec P17?
The slide is not pre-milled for a red dot, but you can use an aftermarket dovetail mount or a Picatinny rail-mounted optic if you prefer a frame-mounted solution.
Ready to Buy?
Order the Kel-Tec P17 .22 LR Compact Pistol — Threaded, Tan today and get a lightweight trainer that’s range-ready out of the box.
- ✓ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
- ✓ Ships 1-2 business days
- ✓ 30-day returns
- ✓ Secure checkout
See more in our Semi Auto Handguns collection, or check out .22 LR Pistols and Threaded Barrel Pistols.
Last updated: April 2026
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