KEL-TEC SUB-2000 Recoilless Charging Handle
Experience a dramatic reduction in felt recoil with the M*CARBO Recoilless Charging Handle, specifically engineered for the KEL-TEC SUB-2000.
This precision-machined upgrade reduces felt recoil by up to 68%, providing a smoother, more controlled shooting experience.
The low-profile handle features a wider grip surface for improved control and comfort.
It makes bolt charging substantially easier, enhancing positive control while maintaining a sleek design that won’t snag during operation.
Each handle includes a stainless steel, tool-less locking pin that delivers added strength and ensures secure bolt lockup.
Adding just 2.2 ounces to your SUB-2000, this upgrade is lightweight yet highly effective.
CNC machined from American A311 stress-proof carbon steel, it incorporates a heavy-duty internal lockup feature to resist wear, stress, and breakage.
Fully compatible with Gen 1, Gen 2, and Gen 3 SUB-2000 models.
Note: Not compatible with SUB-2000 10mm models.
The factory charging handle weighs just 1 ounce, while the M*CARBO Recoilless Charging Handle weighs 3.2 ounces.
That extra mass slows blowback momentum, dramatically reducing felt recoil.
It also features a larger diameter for a more substantial, confident grip during charging and operation.
Upgrade your SUB-2000 with the M*CARBO Recoilless Charging Handle today and take control of recoil without unnecessary weight!
KEL-TEC SUB-2000 Resources:
If you're upgrading to the KEL-TEC SUB-2000 Recoilless Charging Handle, the following SUB-2000 resources will help maximize your firearm’s performance.
Download the SUB-2000 Owner’s Manual or use the Exploded View of the SUB-2000 Parts Diagram to plan your next project.
Tested and Approved:
The KEL-TEC SUB-2000 Recoilless Charging Handle has been tested repeatedly to ensure reliable operation and safety.
ATTENTION:
You must be 18 yrs of age to purchase. We advise that all parts purchased from our inventory be installed and inspected by a qualified gunsmith. Modifying your weapon may be prohibited in your state. Do not modify your sear or hammer engagement surfaces, with or without the KEL-TEC SUB-2000 Recoilless Charging Handle. Before installing please be sure to check all local state and federal laws. By installing this part you agree to take full responsibility for any and all legal, health and warranty consequences that may be incurred.
Recoilless charging handle.
i did not have any major issues installing the parts. I’m new to guns only the 2nd time I’ve attempted any installation of parts, 67 years old with arthritis and was able to install everything, with a little struggle installing the locking pin but managed to install it. My only issue was being in California the charging handle is very close to the featureless fin. I was able to trim the fin to fit my fingers fit comfortably.
Revised Oversized Charging Handle
Unfortunately, the original oversize handle I purchased years ago snapped. Without question, Mcarbo replaced this with the revised component. Yes, I suppose if you do not have hands with sufficient strength changing the spring end cap could be a problem, but without anything but the enclosed allen wrench and a rag I had this swapped out in about 10 minutes. I have not tested it out yet, but I see no reason will not work as well or better than the prior charging handle. My review is both to express admiration to Mcarbo for recognizing the need to upgrade this component from the Keltec design (it is clear why these break once you see one that has sheared off), and to thank them for the no questions asked upgraded replacement. You guys are the best!
Nice!
It's much easier to operate this charging handle than the OEM charging handle. Big improvement.
For the little woman
The Sub2000 doesn't have much of a kick, but I purchased this product to reduce even that. My wife is average size but has arthritis in her hands and did not enjoy shooting a 9mm pistol because the recoil her her hands. So I purchased this kit to see if that would at least allow her to shoot this vs. an AR.
No complaints about the product, but the installation video fooled me into believing I could make this change. I don't have arthritis, but my 77 year old hands just didn't have the strength to change out the end cap. My local gun shop had the tools and expertise to do it in a couple of minutes. If you're old or have less strength in your hands, take the easy way out and save yourself some frustration.
WoundedVet768
Green Valley, AZ
Hells yeah brother!
Do yourself a favor, and don't settle for the factory crap that came with your sub. These cats help transform your cost effective plastic pew into a tactical competitor. And they have idiot proof videos to help you along the way. Mine went from a gritty new toy to a butter smooth defensive weapon.
The Allen key is OK but I made tool to capture spring.
Used a 2x4 drilled to hold the end of recoil spring, held in my workmate. Used a 3/32 steel brazing rod piece, sharpened to a point and held with small vice grip plyers to capture the spring. Respect that sharp end when working the spring. A third hand would be handy getting the locking piece into the spring.
Cheers
Recommend Gunsmith Installation
Despite the M*Carbo installation video on YouTube this is an extremally difficult, if not impossible for some, accessory to install on your Sub 2000. The video even suggests if you have difficulty send it to them at a price to be determined and they will do the install. The installation is not only frustrating but painful on the fingers.
Reduced Recoil by not more than 5-10%
Makes a claim of "Reduces felt recoil by 68% on your SUB-2000!" This was not the case for me there was almost no noticed reduced recoil. Like some of there other items I think this is just a bluff. I purchased $300 worth of Mcarbo parts including the Trigger performance kit and saw little to no benefit with any of their upgrades and with several emails and photos back and forth with the tech's they offered me a $27 refund. $27 dollar refund on a $300 purchase. What a joke.
Is it compatible with the 5.7x28 gen 3?
Will function with a keltec cqb ?
Will this work on the sub 2000 gen 3 10mm
No - It is not compatible with the 10mm
Will this work for gen3 version
Yes - It is compatible with the 9mm
Somebody please answer Deadmule’s question! Are check to see if he is still alive!
The question has been answered. It fits the Gen 3
Somebody please answer Deadmule’s question! Are check to see if he is still alive!
Somebody please answer Deadmule’s question! Are check to see if he is still alive!
To avoid the annoying repetition about GEN 3 parts compatability,
Can you post a list of the parts you offer that are compatible with GEN3?
Also, do you plan on and have ETA for when you will start upgrade service for GEN3?
Due to the fact that we are consistently updating and modifying the list it is not something easily posted. We are actively working on it but due not have an ETA.
I have a gen3 sub2000. Can I get the two finger charge handle and pin ?
Answered by
Porsch3136 /
February 16, 2025 10:33 AM
I’m running a can on my gun already. Will running this along with a recoil buffer still allow the gun to cycle?
If the gun cycles with the mods but without the can, it will cycle with increased backpressure!
If these two mods are too much for it to cycle without the can, it depends on the can and how it is designed to manage Gass.
I would recommend a can built for a 9mm PCC ro minimize back pressure for many reasons to include your concern!
Gas in the face is no fun and this is a firearm with a lot of polymer, so the increase in pressure and cycling speed will increase the rate of wear no matter what is added.
MCARBO - I'm thinking you would be the one company to find a way to 'tune' the Sub 2k pressure like an adjustable vent on the bolt, maybe the barrel tap to a vent tube that runs between the barre and handguardl far enough to vent forward near the muzzle? Something similar to a M4 gas tube but smaller and tuned to produce a low tone/minimal signature!
Not a suppressor of any sort, just not anything that will produce enough sound to render suppression useless or increase the overall sound Signature!
Think the sound of gas released from an Adam's Arms adjustable block or the DI solution by Superlative...
Thank you.
Awaiting my gen 2 40 caliber sub 2000. Does the charging handle work with both calibers (of the gen 2 offerings).
It will work with both 9 &40. I do have it on my gen 2 9mm and it really worth the money, I plan on soon putting one on my gen 3. I just finished put almost everything they offer on the gen 2 and I could not be any more pleased with their products.
Answered by
armyrat /
May 11, 2025 1:50 AM
Sooooo Keltec team, does it fit a Gen 3???
Answered by
Kenneth G /
December 31, 2024 9:31 AM
I went ahead and bought one and it fits perfectly on Gen 3 Subs.
Answered by
Deadmule /
December 28, 2024 1:37 PM
Sooooo Keltec team, does it fit a Gen 3???
Answered by
Kenneth G /
December 31, 2024 9:31 AM
Sooooo Keltec team, does it fit a Gen 3???
Answered by
Kenneth G /
December 31, 2024 9:31 AM
Sooooo Keltec team, does it fit a Gen 3???
Answered by
Kenneth G /
December 31, 2024 9:32 AM
Sooooo Keltec team, does it fit a Gen 3???
Answered by
Kenneth G /
December 31, 2024 9:32 AM
Sooooo Keltec team, does it fit a Gen 3???
Answered by
Kenneth G /
December 31, 2024 9:33 AM
Sooooo Keltec team, does it fit a Gen 3???
Answered by
Kenneth G /
December 31, 2024 9:33 AM
Sooooo Keltec team, does it fit a Gen 3???
Answered by
Kenneth G /
December 31, 2024 9:33 AM
Sooooo Keltec team, does it fit a Gen 3???
could you repeat the question?
Answered by
Kenneth G /
December 31, 2024 9:34 AM
Sooooo Keltec team, does it fit a Gen 3???
Answered by
Kenneth G /
December 31, 2024 9:35 AM
Will this work with the gen 3?
DDA February 2, 2024 9:40 AM
Answered by
Kenneth G /
December 31, 2024 9:35 AM
Will this work with the gen 3?
DDA February 2, 2024 9:40 AM
Answered by
Kenneth G /
December 31, 2024 9:35 AM
Will this work with the gen 3?
DDA February 2, 2024 9:40 AM
Answered by
Kenneth G /
December 31, 2024 9:36 AM
Answered by
Kenneth G /
December 31, 2024 9:36 AM
Will using this part along with the recoil buffer (cherry lifesaver) and the recoil pad on the butt stock allow the gun to cycle properly? I have the 9 mm Gen 2. Thanks
Yes, using the Double Finger Charging Handle, Recoil Buffer (Cherry Lifesaver), and Recoil Pad on the Buttstock together on your 9mm KEL-TEC SUB-2000 Gen 2 should still allow the firearm to cycle properly. These components are designed to work in harmony to reduce felt recoil while maintaining the firearm’s reliability.
How Each Part Affects Cycling:
Double Finger Charging Handle:
Adds weight to the charging handle, slightly slowing the bolt's rearward movement during recoil, which helps reduce felt recoil without impeding cycling.
Recoil Buffer (Cherry Lifesaver):
Cushions the rearward movement of the bolt, softening the impact on the receiver and reducing recoil.
Does not typically interfere with cycling, as it is made from material that compresses appropriately during operation.
Recoil Pad:
Absorbs recoil at the shoulder, providing additional comfort without affecting the internal cycling of the firearm.
Compatibility and Proper Functioning:
Balanced Weight and Tension:
The 9mm Gen 2 is well-suited for these upgrades because the added weight and cushioning components still allow the firearm's blowback system to function properly.
The recoil spring in the firearm is strong enough to compensate for the slight additional resistance created by these parts.
Testing:
After installation, test the firearm with your preferred ammunition to ensure reliable cycling. Use a variety of loads (standard, +P, etc.) to confirm consistency.
Potential Concerns:
If the firearm fails to cycle or short-strokes, it may indicate excessive resistance from a combination of upgrades. This is rare but can be addressed by removing one component at a time to identify the issue.
Recommendations:
Ammo Selection:
Standard or +P 9mm ammunition will typically provide sufficient energy for proper cycling with these upgrades installed.
Routine Maintenance:
Keep the recoil spring and bolt assembly clean and lubricated to ensure reliable operation, especially with added components.
Conclusion:
Using the Double Finger Charging Handle, Cherry Lifesaver Recoil Buffer, and Recoil Pad together should work perfectly on your SUB-2000 Gen 2 without causing cycling issues
Answered by
Kenneth G /
December 31, 2024 9:37 AM
What are the exact dimensions of this charging handle? Asking for clearance concers. in particular how long across is it measured from the base?
Does this charging handle have the pin you have to install on the recoil spring like in the photos of the product or does the charging handle have a notch to catch the recoil spring like in the install video. I'd prefer no pin and having the actual charging handle being recessed to capture the spring. Installing the pin looks like a Hassle. Thanks
Is there a warranty on it ?
Our products are warrantied against defects.
Bought an installed as directed. Charging handle won’t lock back . Put original one back in worked fine . Reinstalled again a still won’t come back an lock .
I know you asked this question back in 2023, but in case someone else wants to know mine in 2025 had the same problem. It's the cherry lifesaver not letting the charging handle come back farther enough, if you really muscle it back it will lock back. The better built charging handle shaft is just a hair bigger in diameter but I found after a few rounds it will get easier to lock back.
Answered by
armyrat /
May 11, 2025 2:11 AM
I have the exact same issue. Were you able to get this resolved?
Please email us at Help@mcarbo.coom
We can help you troubleshoot this. It can be not installed properly.
What is the difference between this and the skeleton version?
No different one is skeletonized, and the other is not.
Recoilless Charging Handle-Is heavy for recoil
Skeletonized Charging Handle- Is Not as heavy
Kel Tec makes a SUB2000 Heavy Weight Bolt. Will these two accessories work in conjunction with each other.
January 22, 2023 10:06 PM
Yes, they will work together. Both will actually provide a better reduction in recoil together.
How well will this work (40 Cal) with the Kel-Tec heavy brass bolt.
It will work on the heavy bolt and 40-cal version
Will the KEL-TEC SUB-2000 Recoilless Charging Handle be effective for a 40 S&W Sub2000 Gen 2?
Will this KEL-TEC SUB-2000 Recoilless Charging Handle work on the Sub-9 models?
Can you provide more information about the sub-9. Are you asking about a sub-2000 9mm?
If I add a can to this with sub-sonic ammo will it cycle?
Yes it will but we recommend going with the skeleton version
Yes it will but we recommend going with the skeleton version
I have purchased this upgrade already and in the process of trying to install the new charging handle, I didn't get the new locking pin secured properly and now am having a very hard time installing the locking pin. In my struggle, I've lost both original spring end caps. I consider myself normally adept at doing things like this, but I really screwed up this time. I am a Vietnam Patrol and Sentry Dog Handler Veteran and a strong supporter of Veteran business's. Any suggestions, can I purchase the spring with the improved charging handle upgrade.?
Hello Timothy, we do not sell the recoil spring with locking pin preassembled, however, you are welcome to send your locking pin and recoil spring to us to complete the install for $35, which covers the cost of return shipping via USPS First Class. You may be able to purchase the end caps from Kel-Tec as these are not parts we carry for resale.
can i use this with the recoil buffer
I wondered the same thing, but also if you get the butt stock pad will everything allow the gun to cycle properly? I have the 9mm version. Thanks.
Good day, Brother!
You indeed can use these together.