The Kel-Tec P17 is a DAO semi-automatic pistol chambered in .22 LR with a 3.80-inch barrel, 16+1 capacity, and an overall length of 6.70 inches. Unloaded weight is 12.80 oz (0.8 lbs). The frame is black polymer, the slide is steel, and the safety is ambidextrous manual. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Brand: Kel-Tec 
• Model: P17 
• Caliber: .22 LR 
• Action Type: Semi-Automatic (DAO) 
• Capacity: 16+1 rounds 
• Barrel Length: 3.80 inches 
• Overall Length: 6.70 inches 
• Weight: 12.80 ounces (0.8 lbs) 
• Frame Material: Polymer 
• Finish Color: Black 
• Safety Feature: Ambidextrous Manual Safety 
   

Detailed Features 

 
At 12.80 oz with 16+1 rounds of .22 LR, the P17 is among the lightest high-capacity rimfire pistols available. The fiber optic front sight aids target acquisition and the adjustable rear sight lets you dial in the zero. The steel slide has serrated edges for grip during racking. The ambidextrous safety works without modification for left- or right-handed shooters, and the DAO trigger maintains consistent pull weight on each shot.

The P17's weight-to-capacity combination drives most of the positive discussion. 16+1 rounds at under 13 oz is difficult to find in any caliber. The affordability of .22 LR ammunition also comes up constantly as a reason to choose this for training or recreational use.

Reliability with certain ammunition types is the main critique. Some owners report feeding issues that respond to specific brands or loads; others find it runs fine after a break-in. The trigger gets mixed reviews, adequate for the intended use case but not refined. Build quality is generally considered fine for the price, though comparisons to more expensive rimfire pistols are unfavorable on fit and finish.