Kel-Tec CMR-30

The Kel-Tec CMR-30 is a semi-automatic carbine chambered in .22 WMR (.22 Magnum), offering 30 rounds of high-velocity rimfire in a lightweight, compact platform with a folding stock. It shares magazines with the PMR-30 pistol, making the pair a natural companion combination. The CMR-30 extends the .22 WMR’s effective range significantly compared to pistol-length barrels, pushing a 40-grain bullet to approximately 1,900 fps from the 16.1-inch barrel. There is no direct equivalent from other manufacturers in the rimfire carbine market.

Read our full Kel-Tec CMR-30 Buying Guide ↓

Platform Overview

The CMR-30 uses a blowback operation with a 16.1-inch barrel that maximizes .22 WMR velocity. The folding stock allows compact storage and transport, and the M-LOK handguard provides rail space for lights, lasers, and other accessories. Empty weight is approximately 3.8 pounds—one of the lightest semi-automatic carbines available. The 30-round transparent magazine allows easy visual round count verification. The overall package is distinctively light and compact for a full-length carbine, making it well-suited for backpacking and field carry.

PMR-30 Compatibility

The CMR-30 shares its 30-round magazine with the Kel-Tec PMR-30 pistol, making the two natural companions. Owners of both platforms carry one ammunition type and one magazine standard—a practical advantage for simplicity. This companion relationship is intentional in Kel-Tec’s design philosophy, similar to how .357 Magnum revolvers and lever-action carbines share ammunition. For buyers interested in both platforms, the shared magazine standard is a genuine convenience that reduces the logistics of maintaining two different systems.

Uses and Applications

The CMR-30 is primarily a range, small game, and varmint hunting platform. 30 rounds of .22 WMR at 1,900 fps is a capable combination for ground squirrels, prairie dogs, and similar small varmints inside 150 yards. The light weight and folding stock make it practical for backpack hunting and trail carry. For range use, .22 WMR costs more per round than .22 LR but significantly less than centerfire alternatives, allowing meaningful practice volume. The unusual 30-round capacity in .22 WMR also makes it a popular collector and novelty platform.

Ammunition Sensitivity

The CMR-30 is more ammunition-sensitive than most semi-automatic firearms. .22 WMR ammunition varies significantly in quality and dimensions between manufacturers, and the CMR-30 performs best with CCI and other high-quality loads. Budget or off-brand .22 WMR can cause feeding and cycling issues. Run your chosen ammunition through the carbine to confirm reliable function before hunting or other applications where reliability is critical. CCI Maxi-Mag is the most widely recommended load for reliable CMR-30 function across all shooting conditions.

Browse our Kel-Tec page for the full Kel-Tec lineup, or see our rifles page for other carbine options. Visit our .22 WMR ammo page for ammunition recommendations for the CMR-30.