Compact rifles offer a practical solution for those needing firearms in tight spaces. These weapons combine power and accuracy with a smaller footprint, making them ideal for various situations. Compact rifles provide versatility from home defense to outdoor activities without sacrificing performance.
Many compact rifle designs use innovative features to reduce size. Some models break down into smaller parts for easy transport. Others use folding stocks or bullpup layouts to shorten overall length. These space-saving options allow users to store or carry capable firearms in limited areas. Compact rifles come in different calibers and styles to suit diverse needs and preferences.
1. Kriss Vector CRB

The Kriss Vector CRB stands out as a unique carbine rifle. Its compact size makes it easy to handle in tight spaces. The gun has a 16-inch barrel and measures 34.8 inches long.
The CRB uses a special system to cut down recoil. This helps shooters make quick follow-up shots. The gun moves energy down instead of back, which reduces muzzle rise.
Buyers can pick from different pistol calibers for this rifle. This makes it a good match with many handguns. The CRB’s design is not like most other guns, but it works well for many shooting needs.
2. Kel-Tec Sub-2000

The Kel-Tec Sub-2000 stands out as a compact rifle for tight spaces. This 9mm carbine folds to a mere 16.25 inches, making it easy to store and carry. When unfolded, it offers a full-sized rifle experience with good accuracy up to 100 yards. The Sub-2000 weighs only 4.25 pounds due to its polymer build.
It takes common handgun magazines, pairing well with many carry pistols. A clever sight setup allows use even when folded. This feature adds to the gun’s usefulness in small areas. The Sub-2000’s design makes it a top pick for those needing a compact but capable rifle.
3. IWI Tavor X95 Rifle

The IWI Tavor X95 stands out as a compact and reliable bullpup rifle. Its short length of 26.125 inches makes it ideal for tight spaces, while maintaining a 16.5-inch barrel for full-powered performance.
These features add to the X95’s versatility and ease of use in close quarters. The rifle’s compact size doesn’t compromise its power, making it a popular choice for those seeking a full-sized rifle in a smaller package.
4. M1 Carbine

The M1 Carbine is a compact and lightweight rifle with a rich history. It measures 35.6 inches long and weighs just over 5 pounds, making it easy to handle. The gun fires .30 Carbine rounds, packing more punch than many pistol-caliber options.
Preppers and history fans often choose the M1 Carbine for its proven track record. Its simple design and short-stroke gas piston system make it reliable and easy to maintain. The rifle’s small size and light weight allow for quick aiming in tight spaces.
5. Kel-Tec’s Compact Powerhouse

The Kel-Tec SU-16 is a small but mighty rifle. It weighs just 4.7 pounds and folds down to 25.5 inches. This makes it easy to carry in a backpack or store in tight spots. The rifle packs a punch, using 5.56 NATO ammo. It works with regular AR-15 magazines too.
A built-in bipod helps steady your aim without adding bulk. The gas piston system keeps the gun running smoothly in tough conditions. It stays clean longer than some other designs.
6. Ruger 10/22 Takedown

The Ruger 10/22 Takedown is a handy .22 LR rifle that splits into two parts. It’s easy to carry and store. The gun weighs 4.6 pounds and is 37 inches long when put together. It’s small enough for tight spots but still shoots well.
Many gun owners like to change their rifles. The 10/22 Takedown makes this simple. Lots of extra parts are sold to fit it. This rifle keeps the good points of the regular 10/22. It just adds a quick-take-apart feature.
7. FN PS90

The FN PS90 is a compact rifle with a unique design. It’s the civilian version of the P90, used by military and law enforcement. The PS90 has a bullpup layout, which puts the action behind the trigger. This makes the gun very short at only 26.23 inches long.
The PS90 uses special 5.7x28mm ammo. These small, fast bullets can go through body armor at close range. The gun has low recoil, so it’s easy to shoot. It also holds 50 rounds in its odd top-loading magazine.
The PS90’s strange looks come from its focus on being small and useful in tight spaces.
8. Henry AR-7 Survival Rifle

The Henry AR-7 is a clever, compact .22 LR rifle. It weighs only 3.5 pounds and can be taken apart and stored inside its own stock. This makes it easy to carry and keep dry. The rifle floats if dropped in water. It’s quick to put back together without any tools.
The AR-7 holds 8 rounds in its magazine. This is enough for hunting small animals or protection if needed. With its 16.5-inch barrel, it can shoot accurately up to about 100 yards away.
This rifle is a good choice for outdoor trips or as a backup in tough spots.
9. Steyr AUG

The Steyr AUG is a compact rifle that packs a punch. Its bullpup design makes it much shorter than regular rifles while keeping a full-length barrel. At just over 28 inches long, it’s easy to handle in tight spaces. The AUG fires 5.56 NATO rounds, giving it serious stopping power. It has a quick-swap barrel and controls that work for lefties and righties. The built-in sight mount keeps the gun’s profile low and sleek. Military and police forces around the world have used the AUG for years because it’s so versatile and powerful for its size.
10. Mossberg 464 SPX Lever Action Rifle

The Mossberg 464 SPX blends classic and modern design. This compact rifle measures 34 inches long. It has an adjustable stock for better fit. The gun uses .30-30 Winchester ammo, good for medium game.
A Picatinny rail sits on top for easy scope mounting. The lever action allows fast follow-up shots. It works well even in tough conditions. This rifle mixes old-school function with new-school features. It’s easy to handle in tight spots.
11. The Compact and Lightweight Chiappa Little Badger

The Chiappa Little Badger is a small, foldable rifle that packs a punch. This gun weighs just 2.9 pounds and folds down to 17 inches. It comes in three calibers:
- .22 LR
- .22 WMR
- .17 HMR
Its wire stock and bare-bones frame make it super easy to carry.
It has a single-shot, break-action design. The rifle also sports a rail system for add-ons like scopes. This lets users customize their gun without making it bulky.
12. Marlin Model 70PSS Papoose

The Marlin Model 70PSS Papoose is a compact .22 LR rifle that splits into two parts. This takedown design makes it great for hiking and tight spaces. It comes with a case that floats. The gun is light at 3.25 pounds and short at 35.25 inches when put together. It’s easy to carry and use.
This rifle works well outdoors in many weather types. Its small size and tough build make it a good choice for people who need a reliable gun on the go.
13. CZ Scorpion EVO 3 S1 Carbine

The CZ Scorpion EVO 3 S1 Carbine is a compact and reliable firearm. It’s a 9mm pistol caliber carbine that packs a punch in a small package. The gun measures 34.75 inches with the stock fully out. This makes it shorter than many other rifles.
The Scorpion holds 20 rounds in its magazine. Its barrel is made using cold hammer forging. This process helps make the gun accurate and long-lasting. The gun uses a blowback system to work. This design is simple and helps the gun run smoothly.
14. Savage Model 42 Takedown

The Savage Model 42 Takedown is a handy combo gun. It has a .22 LR rifle barrel on top and a .410 shotgun barrel below. This makes it great for hunting small animals or use in tough spots. The gun breaks apart easily, so it’s simple to pack and carry. It’s 35.75 inches long and weighs 6.1 pounds.
The break-action style is easy to use and works well in all types of weather. The gun has a tough synthetic stock that can handle rough use outdoors. This mix of features makes it a good choice for hunters and outdoor fans.
15. Ruger PC Carbine Breakdown Rifle

The Ruger PC Carbine is a smart choice for those who need a compact rifle. This 9mm firearm can be taken apart into two pieces, making it easy to store and move around. It’s just over 34 inches long and weighs about 7 pounds. The gun works well in small spaces but still lets you shoot from your shoulder.
This rifle is built to be handy and useful in many situations. Its design makes it a solid pick for home defense or as a backup gun.

Raised in a small Arizona town, Kevin grew up surrounded by rugged desert landscapes and a family of hunters. His background in competitive shooting and firearms training has made him an authority on self-defense and gun safety. A certified firearms instructor, Kevin teaches others how to properly handle and maintain their weapons, whether for hunting, home defense, or survival situations. His writing focuses on responsible gun ownership, marksmanship, and the role of firearms in personal preparedness.