Garand Thumb's Knights Armament KS-3 Contract Loadout

Intro at Garand Thumb’s range and KS-3 overview

The video opens at Garand Thumb’s range, where Jason from Classic Firearms introduces a special Knights Armament KS-3 setup. The KS-3 is presented as the latest evolution in the KS-series, following the KS1 and KS2. This particular rifle is described as the 11.5-inch variant intended for close-quarters roles. The hosts note that Classic Firearms supplied the ammunition for the range session and emphasize that the KS-3 is a Knights Armament Company rifle built to contract specifications. The focus of the video is to walk through this contract-style loadout and discuss how it fits into modern requirements for UK special operations forces.

UK MOD Project Hunter and KS-series background

The discussion shifts to the UK Ministry of Defence’s Project Hunter, which sought to move away from the long-serving L85 bullpup service rifle. The L85 is described as needing modernization to match current conflict demands. Under Project Hunter, the KS1 appeared around 2019 as the first iteration, with testing taking place in 2022. In 2023, a contract worth about 15 million pounds was awarded for the KS1. The KS1 is characterized as a 13.7-inch general-purpose rifle suitable for a wide range of engagements. The KS-3 then emerges as a more compact solution, tailored to modern close-quarters needs and specific UK special operations roles.

Contract clone build, partners, and Pelican case

The KS-3 shown is described as a contract-correct clone built to mirror the UK MOD configuration. Several companies are credited for helping assemble the package. Vortex provided the AMG optic, which is highlighted as a capable choice for this rifle. Aimpoint supplied the Acro micro red dot, and Reptilia provided the mount. Knights Armament Company is recognized for producing the KS-3 itself. Pelican supplied a specialized case referred to as the "Reset," which uses a movable insert system instead of traditional pluck-and-peel foam, allowing quick adjustment for the rifle and accessories. Weapon Works handled the coating on both the rifle and suppressor to match the overall visual theme of the contract build.

Ambidextrous controls, gas system, and E3.2 bolt

Attention turns to the KS-series design features shared by the KS1, KS2, and KS-3. The rifles are described as having fully ambidextrous controls, not just basic mirrored functions. The host demonstrates that the magazine can be released from either side and that the bolt can be locked to the rear and released using controls accessible to both right- and left-handed shooters. Knights Armament’s proprietary gas system is mentioned as a key advancement, paired with the E3.2 bolt. The bolt is chrome lined and incorporates sand-cutter style relief cuts, a double extractor, and scalloped ejectors to enhance reliability in adverse conditions. The rifle’s reputation for reliability is emphasized as a core Knights Armament trait.

NCQ2 suppressor design and performance

The suppressor mounted on the KS-3 is identified as the NCQ2, informally nicknamed "the little can that could" and also referred to as the "Chad." It is a compact suppressor intended specifically for close-quarters battle use. Despite its short length, it is described as very effective at reducing the rifle’s report for its intended role, taking much of the bark out of the 5.56 platform in confined environments. The can uses a flow-through style design, similar in concept to other modern suppressor technologies, to manage gas and back pressure. Weapon Works applied a high-standard Cerakote finish to the suppressor, and viewers are told it is built to withstand hard use. The setup is noted as pairing an SBR configuration with the NCQ2 suppressor in a way that aligns with current tax stamp incentives.

Barrel profile and KS-3 workhorse role

The KS-3’s barrel profile is discussed as a key difference from other KS variants. This model uses a heavier barrel intended to function as a durable workhorse for demanding use. By contrast, the 14.5-inch configuration in the line is described as having a slimmer, dimpled barrel. The dimples on that longer barrel are explained as a weight-saving measure rather than a heat-management feature, helping keep overall mass down as barrel length increases. In the KS-3’s shorter configuration, the heavier profile is presented as appropriate for sustained use in close-quarters and specialized roles, such as those undertaken by the British Ranger Regiment and Royal Marine Commandos.

Vortex AMG optic and Aimpoint Acro at 12 o’clock

The optics package is then examined in detail. Vortex responded to the contract requirements with a compact version of its Razor line, here referred to as the AMG. This optic is described as smaller and lighter than a traditional Razor while retaining a combat-focused design. It uses an EBR reticle, which is highlighted as well suited to the rifle’s intended employment. Mounted at the 12 o’clock position above the primary optic is an Aimpoint Acro. Placing the Acro at 12 o’clock allows the shooter to transition quickly between magnified and unmagnified views by slightly adjusting head position while maintaining a solid stock weld. The setup is presented as practical for rapid target engagement and maintaining situational awareness in dynamic environments.

Closing thoughts and code word

The video closes with appreciation for Garand Thumb and his team for hosting the Classic Firearms crew at the range. The KS-3 contract-style build, including the Knights Armament rifle, NCQ2 suppressor, Vortex AMG optic, and Aimpoint Acro, is framed as a faithful representation of the UK MOD Project Hunter configuration. A code word, "Thumb" with a capital T, is introduced for viewers to reference. The host thanks viewers for their support and notes that the team plans to continue running the rifle on the range. The segment ends with a brief sign-off, emphasizing continued testing and use of the KS-3 setup in realistic shooting scenarios.