Are bullpups the future of CQB firepower or simply an odd footnote in the history of firearm innovation? For many years, shooters have sought the answer to whether these compact, bare-stock wonders represent merely the ultimate fusion of size and power or simply the point at which the technology becomes compromises.
Bullpup designs in both rifle and shotgun versions allow the action and magazine to be placed behind the trigger mechanism, which has the effect of reducing the overall weapon length but retaining the barrel length. This allows the user to enjoy the flexibility associated with shorter barrels but still maintain the power of the firearm associated with the standard-length barrel.
The most appropriate gun can make all the difference between defeat and success for gun enthusiasts, tactical shooters, or military personnel.
The following list hones in on the top 10 models available today, ones that blend reliability, ergonomics, and innovation in exciting ways. While some have been battle-tested in military imports, others have been designed in such a way that they appear to be plucked straight out of a movie set and right off the screen and into action.
1. IWI Tavor X95 – The Tested Workhorse
Preferred by the Israel Defense Forces, the X95 is an upgrade on the previous Tavor SAR model, offering a more ergonomic and modular design. The ambidextrous controls, compatibility with regular magazines, and reduced size make this gun well-suited for CQC applications. Examples suggest that it is reliable when fired at long ranges, having strong accuracy out to 300 yards.
This ensures that it is well balanced when positioned against one’s shoulder to avoid fatigue when one is using it for a longer period. Although it may require one to get accustomed to it to get comfortable, one may choose to replace it with an alternative trigger guard system that is more accommodating to one’s hands when it is gripping it. For many professionals in the military or similar professions, it is hard to go higher than an X95 when it comes to a bullpup.
2. Springfield Armory Hellion – Modern Military Import
Based on the Croatian VHS-2 service rifle, the Hellion offers a proven platform to the US market. Full ambidexterity, a reversible ejection port, and an adjustable gas system offer a lot of flexibility. Its rear recoil impulse feels very smooth, which can be attributed to well-designed gas system dynamics.
The Hellion is known for its efficient flip-up sights, as well as M-LOK slots. Although slightly imperfect in accuracy compared to the X95, it is highly appreciated for its clean functioning even after multiple rounds of continuous fire without lubrication. This is a great choice for gunners in pursuit of a different, but military-tested, design.
3. Steyr AUG-A3 – The Icon
Designed in 1978 by the Austrian Army, the AUG continues to be one of the most recognizable bullpup designs in the world. Its modular style facilitates quick changes, and the NATO version is compatible with AR magazines. While highly reliable, it lacks the customization options of more modern designs.
While appearances in pop culture, from action movies to video games, solidify its position, it is its lasting service over many decades that justifies its existence. As both a collectors’ item and an operational piece, it is a legacy of performance that AUG brings.
4. FN PS90 – The PDW Specialist
Designing around a 5.7x28mm caliber round, with a top-leading translucent mag that ejectsSr down, the PS90 is purely ambidextrous. A muzzle brake kicks in a much-needed reduction of recoil, with an overall length of 26.23 inches.
Even though it’s not the most ergonomic weapon, the fan community loves the futuristic look and handling characteristics of the pistol. It’s a firm favorite among agencies that require a concealable but potent platform, with the high capacity of 30 rounds providing firepower on demand.
5. Kel-Tec RDB – Budget-Friendly Versatility
The RDB Rifle, specifically the RDB (Rifle, Downward-Ejecting Bullpup) variant, provides left-handed shooters with ambidextrous controls and standard AR magazine compatibility with a suggested retail price lower than many others on the market today. One of its benefits is
Although it appears less ruggedly built than high-end ones, the RDB’s ergonomics and reliability traits have convinced budget-conscious shooters to go for it. This is a good entry-level offering in the bullpup genre without digging deep in one’s pocket.
6. Barrett Model 95 – Bolt-Action Heavy Hitter
This .50 BMG bullpup rifle matches the accuracy provided by bolt-action designs with incredible range and power. Steel receivers, a chrome-filled chamber, and a fluted barrel add strength and accuracy. The dual spring firing pin gives this rifle quick lock time.
However, at a weight of 23.5 pounds, it is no quick-reaction rifle, though its overall size and weight are well within a manageable radius from a size and weight perspective relative to its overall bulk when put in relation to other .50 BMG designs. As a specialized long-range interdictor, it is a truly unique weapon.
7. Bluegrass Armory Moonshiner – Multi-Caliber Precision
“The Moonshiner’s interchangeable-caliber system allows changing between calibers 7.62 NATO, .300 Win Mag, and .338 Lapua Magnum.” It features “aluminum billet construction, 30 MOA offset Picatinny rail, and AR ergonomics.”
The flared magwell ensures fast reloads, and numerous sling attachment points facilitate different carry techniques. In terms of versatility for precision rifle users that might require it, the Moonshiner is certainly a capable offering.
8. Kel-Tec KSG – Pump-Action Power
With two magazine tubes that can hold up to 14+1 rounds of 2¾-inch shells, the KSG boasts impressive power with a length of only 26.1 inches. It also features a selector lever that allows the user to choose which magazine to reload from. Downward ejection makes it amiable to both shoulders, though the loading process can be a bit slow. For home defense or breaching missions, the compact and powerful nature of the gun is difficult to resist.
9. IWI Tavor TS12 – High-Capacity Semi-Auto Shotgun
The TS12’s drum magazine has a 15-round capacity and the ability to top off spare drums, leaving a drum readied for immediate discharge. Gas operation helps reduce recoil, and the weapon has M-LOK slots. A break-in cycle is advised before trusting the gun to function properly, especially with heavy weights. Tuned, it is peerless at Group-redundancy engagements but suffers from right-hand ejection, which inhibits left-handed shooters.
10. Rock Island Armory VRBP-100 – Ergonomic Semi-Auto
Magazine-fed with a capacity as high as 19 rounds, the VRBP-100 combines AR-type controls with a compact design ideal for concealment and tactical roles in either full-power or subsonic rounds. The 20-inch barrel provides higher velocity over similar guns with shorter barrels, in addition to compatibility with The recoil is evident, but it handles easily. A good choice for shooters interested in magazine-fed options, where quick shotgun access is necessary. Clearly, bullpup rifles and shotguns aren’t suited to every owner, but they do represent an excellent choice if what you are looking for is a weapon where you don’t need to compromise when it comes to a barrel.
From the battle-proven X95 to the TS12 with its large magazine, and from the legendary AUG to every other model listed below, it’s clear that compact guns can be capable ones. Tactical firearms owners and defense professionals can always use an excellent bullpup if they know what they are looking at when they buy it; in other words, it needs to be a precision instrument
