Daniel Defense MK18 - REVIEW/UPGRADES

[@sickvendetta9]

Man, this was a great video. I did a quick look through the comments section and didn’t see anyone give you the heads up that KZbin is trying to screw over gun tubers -any video that shows someone inserting a 30 round mag will immediately get a strike you might want to edit this out. It looks like you have the start of a great channel. Hate to see it shut down over some dumb stuff.

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

I appreciate it! I will definitely look into this.

[@jamescunningham6251]

Put a couple strips of electrical tape on the buffer tube then put the brace back on. That will eliminate the wobble of the brace.

[@joquin4618]

Was about to comment this

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Will do thanks!

[@terribletimmy2]

That's really good to know, thank you

[@jamescunningham6251]

@@mminnich83 putting tape on the brace does not change it from its natural function. Thus making it perfectly legal to put tape on it

[@bartbeshootin]

Nice, I’m going to try that on mine

[@joshua7999]

I have a DD m4 and I also swapped the trigger for a Geiselle ssea trigger. So much better. Been around a lot of ar/m4/m16 (army vet) and had no idea what I was missing out on.

[@matthukfuk1417]

It's sad spending around 2k for a rifle or pistol and getting a DD trigger. I have 3 one came with a geiselle and the others I had to buy a trigger for. I'm not saying that there triggers need to be geiselle but come on lol

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Ya the Geissele triggers are legit!

[@paulhester1904]

I swapped my trigger for a Timmny single stage trigger 3 pound.

[@gabrielmorris2098]

Love the build man, can't believe you don't have more subs. Keep up the good work!

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Thanks I appreciate it!

[@TehPh1L]

quick tipp: put a thin layer of Vaseline on your flashlight. Whenever the carbon buildup is getting to much you can very easily wipe it off :)

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

i like it!

[@edgaresquivel2147]

I just wipe off with a D Lead wipe and good to go.

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

does the vaseline block the light output though?

[@TehPh1L]

@@ExplorersWorkbench activeresponsetraining has an article on it called "The Chapstick Trick", a quick google search should get you there. Garand Thumb has also made a video on an alternative product ages ago (the video is called "Firearm Tips #1: Dirty Weapon Light") But to answer your question: Very slight change in light output will of course occur, since this is a very Redneck approach to this problem lol. It also varies based on what product you use and how much you apply. But especially for a day at the range this trick/hack, whatever you wanna call it, is pretty sweet :)

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

@@TehPh1L Nice!

[@jaug93]

i have the same optics. with that you have to use the riser thats in the box to highten the magnifer so itll sit over the hump on the optic. that way itll be more compact and youll be able to add your rear back up sight.. also remove the adjustment pin on the magnifer

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Good to know

[@flybum300]

Take a tiny dab of dish soap and rub it on your light if you're going to go out and shoot a lot. Way easier to wipe that off than scrub and scratch your lens. Or get an old flip-cover and huck it on there. I just did that for my home defense 10.5, so I don't accidentally flash my position away if I don't need my light. Such a beautiful set up man!

[@Dj1DurBreD]

Toothpaste works well too

[@matthukfuk1417]

One hundred concepts has a light cover. I haven't tried them out yet but I will here soon. Ricky crisky on KZbin likes them it seems

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

I will give that a try. Thanks!

[@menumlor9365]

I never really liked the mk18. I get why DOS and other 3 letter agencies have it. It’s very compact, light and easy to handle. Before I left the Marines some of us got issued the mk18. What I didn’t like about the mk18 was -Muzzle velocity was cut down significantly with a short barrel. -Barrel hot hot fast typically after 2-3 mags. -bullet drop after 100 yards is quite significant. -Shorter barrel didn’t help optimize the m855 or the m193 ammo we used and trained with.

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Thank you for your service. Ya it has a specific application. Close quarters it’s a beast.

[@menumlor9365]

Yes it is.

[@mikehawkswollen5819]

Layering strips of painters tape on the buffer tube helps with the brace wobble

[@jamesgaller1046]

Or also a small piece of Velcro

[@joquin4618]

Yep 👍

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

I’ll give it a go.

[@freedomtime1287]

I taped a small square of Velcro (the soft side) on the inside of my SBA4. Took all the rattle and movement away. Think I got the idea off KZbin if you look around.

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

will give it a try! thanks!

[@jasonard7227]

move your sight forward and the 3x mag and it will fit. the only thing that touches on mine is the scope cover I have your exact DD MK18 with the exact same optics, same light and flip up irons with the law tactical I also changed to the sbm4 brace also have same foregrip ... we could switch guns and not even know it...fine looking and shooting gun...

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

I guess you have good taste then!

[@arnelgelera242]

Got one. I put in a Voltor stock which are an inch shorter than std. The LWRCs compact stocks are even more shorter than the Voltor....this made the MK18 look even more shorter.

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Sounds sweet man!

[@KiDxKaM]

Put a little gaffer or electrical tape on top of the buffer tube long ways at the end. 2 strips about 3-4inches. That'll take care of the wiggle in the brace.

[@jorgergonzalezvisualartist8925]

Looks very nice, hopefully this whole circus 🎪 with the atf and the nfa will clear up to our favor and we won’t have to worry anymore about SBRs. What ever you don’t fill out the form during the grace period. From what the guys from GOA are saying you would be in a heap of trouble if the application goes sideways and they take longer than 80 days to process. New Sub.

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

I appreciate it. The next few months will be interesting.

[@spoderpan9303]

Or just don't comply with unconstitutional laws or decrees.

[@prominence2826]

The brown with the black accents look so good

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Ya I think so too! Thanks!

[@MarketAndChurch]

Very cool. I love the color. I think I'm going to go with the M4A1 or the Mk12 upper for my build.

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Thanks. That May be a safer option.

[@oliverallen5324]

I have a mk12. It's exactly as you imagine. It's heavy, easy to shoot, and shoots straight. Shot a class with it on irons. Surprised everyone.

[@MarketAndChurch]

@@oliverallen5324 That's exactly how I imagine a Mk12 to be. I was originally interested in a PRI but decided on going with DD instead. (I might still get the PRI in a few years) It's going to be my dedicated SPR build.

[@alvinkey4591]

Sweet set up!

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Thanks!

[@focusxreal]

I can’t wait to buy one 🔥

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

They are sweet!

[@Pbemarrio]

Love that gun nice build 🔥👍🏾

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

thanks

[@MBE-qs5qb]

Just stick the rear back up sight in front of the optic. Yes, it shortens the sight radius but it’s a back up sight. The large aperture will work fine. You’ll end up having your sights located similarly to an AK pistol.

[@SamFisher007]

Or just shift the optics forward and put the rear sight where its supposed to go.

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

@@SamFisher007 eye relief on the magnifier ain’t great

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

I’ll try that thanks

[@mdbbdm7850]

Use chap stick on your lights lens. Real easy to clean off

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Lip gloss or chapstick bro?

[@mdbbdm7850]

@@ExplorersWorkbench haha! Good point, let’s go with chapstick! Haha! I swear I don’t use lip gloss ….

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

@@mdbbdm7850 😂

[@MikeWMiami]

Thank you for the informative video! Which Vertx backpack are using for the folded MK 18?

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

This one here amzn.to/3H0HRMU

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Here is my breakdown of the vertx gamut 2.0 kzbin.info/www/bejne/lZ_MmGZ5oNdlobM

[@Writer_Boi.]

I own a Daniel Defense MK18. I love it!! 😄

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Good stuff!

[@Writer_Boi.]

@@ExplorersWorkbench Yes.

[@ricosuavy8375]

i like that the rails on the hand guard, where did you get them from or whats there name cause I want to add it to my set up!

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

They are Magpul rail ladders. Thanks.

[@frankensteinfirearms]

How do you like the T2? I have the Turbo K on my MK18, and I love it, thinking about getting a T2 as well

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

It’s great! I love it.

[@___KaH0tika___]

MBUS pro fits perfectly with Aimpoint T2 and Eothech G33 on mine...obviously way more Gucci and pricy

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Ya that’s a nice setup!

[@Ming_USA]

Whenever people are talking about their gun being super accurate, I really wish they could be a little bit more specific, like 0.5MOA, 1MOA, 1.3MOA, 2MOA, 4MOA... at xxx distance. Without that, it's almost like saying nothing because "super accurate" can mean almost anything depending on whom you're talking to.

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

1 MOA capable. Depends on shooter an ammo. More accurate than me that’s for sure

[@Ming_USA]

Thanks for the reply!@@ExplorersWorkbench

[@ΑλεξανδροςΜερτζανογλου]

Holosun set is beautiful nice work...

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Ya I’m really digging it! Thanks

[@mojo0]

I love OD Brown!

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Same

[@primetown956]

Can anyone tell me the mix ratio of cerakote DD uses to achieve that color? (Milspec+)

[@Gorlami90]

The eotech with the magnifier can also fit the buis

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Nice

[@bulletproofrecon1082]

What brand is the sling? Also brand/model for suppressor?

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

magpul

[@ahrixace8453]

*whistles* look at that beauty

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

She's a gem!

[@A.Arechiga]

I’m confused.. is this the SBR because it looks like the mil spec + version.. the AR pistol does not come in the full bronzeish color…

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

It was a dealer special. sold as ar pistol.

[@adamdecker8129]

Put some stripes of tape on your buffer tube then put on the sba4 brace...no wobble

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Will do!

[@gadsdenboiz3483]

Is your angled foregrip intended more for a hand stop or do you utilize it as a grip? I ask, because I bought a strike industries “angled foregrip”, and at 80* it’s almost straight up and down like a vert grip, it’s the short version so it doesn’t extend beyond my palm, it doesn’t seem to snag if at all, and I love utilizing it. If you wanted the vert grip look and function without being “illegal” (like that matters much anymore haha), then that’s a good route to go imo.

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

I actually put my index finger in front of the front knob it and my other fingers in the middle and then c clamp grip and pull it into my shoulder. I've actually grown fond of it and prefer it to my other rifle with a 90 degree foregrip.

[@jtasgl88]

That color is dope

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Ya it is!

[@xakk9]

Hey great build! Im looking for a similar foregrip for my mk18. What do you have on yours?

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

magpul xtm handstop.

[@superboy305]

Dodo Brown, love it👍🏾

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Thanks!

[@johnblick7981]

Where do y'all find those ladder rail covers like that?

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

I’m pretty sure they are magpul.

[@johnblick7981]

@@ExplorersWorkbench awesome I’ll see if I can find some

[@momanddadplusus]

I have a factory built 16” Noveske N4 Keymod from 2017. I have a guy that wants it. He’s offering me a new unfired DD MK18 10.3”. Should I trade? Never owned a DD rifle before!

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

I don’t know much about that noveske 16 inch. If you’d prefer something more handy and compact the mk18 would be way better. It’s an incredible gun and a blast to shoot, especially suppressed.

[@momanddadplusus]

@@ExplorersWorkbench Exactly, looking for something a little smaller and maneuverable. Would love to shoot at suppressed as well with my Sandman on it. Thanks!

[@Montyang1]

Did you install the law tactical folder yourself? Thinking of getting one for my DD mk18 but don’t know how hard it would be to take off and install everything on

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Yes I did. It’s a bit of a pain, but you can do it. Might take you an hour tops. You’ll need a good vise and a basic armorers tool to remove the castle nut. Freakin love the ability to fold it.

[@stronggeek1]

If you take your brace off and throw a strip of goon tape along the length of the top of your buffer tube that rattle will be completely gone. I do this on all of my ar “pistols”

[@chaneystcgstore4692]

The atf just banned braces unfortunately.

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

I’ll give that a shot. Thanks

[@odinson810]

Nice set up 👍

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Thank you!

[@AlwaysTired1991]

Hey dude, sweet gun! What buffer and spring are you running with the Law folder and suppressor? Where does your brass usually go suppressed vs unsuppressed?

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Thanks! I believe it’s an A2 buffer and spring. Whatever came stock with the mk18. Brass ejection usually around 3 o clock. I have an adjustable bolt carrier group that can adjust the back pressure, so usually it’s pretty close to

[@bbcant]

I know Im just a bit late to the vid but would you ever install a ris3 on this? Im looking into buying a DD mk18 but can't choose between the ris2 or ris3 for the added upgrades, I personally find the ris2 more visually appealing.

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

@@bbcant nah. This ris 3 is nice. But ris 2 is classic

[@bbcant]

@@ExplorersWorkbenchcouldn’t agree more, thanks for the feedback!!

[@jacobmcinnis5321]

Awesome gun I love mine, you could throw the rear sight in front of the holosun

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

never thought of that. Will give it a try!

[@Alnis14]

Thank you for nice work. I’ve just gotten the same. Could you please give me a link for your fore grip. It’s perfect. I couldn’t find it on Magpul website. Thanks.

[@CesarChavez-bn6iv]

Definitely getting one

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Absolutely love it!

[@Lbdataz1469]

You're def not now thanks to the ATF.

[@CesarChavez-bn6iv]

@@Lbdataz1469 smh 🤦🏽‍♂️

[@yodzilla426]

Magnifique !!!

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Thanks!

[@90civicsir]

The Stock DD trigger is not very good, but not super bad. With stock trigger I was able to hit steel at 300 yards with a Trijicon MRO no magnifier.

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Good to know!

[@rubberduggy261]

Geissele 🙌🏼🙌🏼

[@gtcam723]

The ladders aren’t so much for grip as they are to avoid shredding your hands.

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Agreed, they do help with that!

[@tallpinesstudio]

Sweet build.

[@smbeezy]

Ever run an eotech with magnifier ? If so, what’s your take on the two, the eotech and the holosun ?

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Don't have experience with the eotech. I know they are the standard, but a lot of people online prefer the holosun.

[@smbeezy]

@@ExplorersWorkbench thank you

[@beck4218]

How did you get it in mil-spec + in pistol form?

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Dealer special

[@COMMANDERHAWK22]

why do you have a front sight but not a rear sight ?

[@JMane3000]

That sexy rifle deserves an eotech

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Agreed.

[@alexyoung407]

why not deadfoot folding brace adaptor ？ which allows shooting while its folded ？

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

This one is rock solid and great quality. I have not heard of the adapter. How does the bolt cycle if it's folded?

[@alexyoung407]

@@ExplorersWorkbench It has a very small buffer tube which allows buffer spring into it

[@gsotak1]

What are you using to mount your light to the Mk?

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

It came with a pic Mount.

[@gsotak1]

@@ExplorersWorkbench thanks

[@jayr.1523]

Anyone know the differences from this dd4 mk18 to the dd4 mk 18 R3?

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

This has the R2 rail system. Quad rail

[@HunterLonge-yc6xo]

I want this gun but don’t know the battery to get

[@jeddi209]

Is the folding adapter legal in California?

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

That’s a great question. Since we’re talking California, my guess is no haha. But I don’t actually know sorry.

[@dakotaweigle4776]

Do they still make this color ? I want this color it looks SO goood

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Ya I believe so

[@BryanStockhausen]

The wobble is from the law tactical folder or from the brace you have ?

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Ya the braces have a little play. You can use electrical tape to tighten the gap, but it’s not really a big deal

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Not the folder that’s rock solid

[@paulhester1904]

Why Holosun red dot? That but stock can it be replaced with a daniel defense standard butt stock????????

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Yes it can

[@joejoeseesingtons]

Nice build

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Thanks!

[@adolfoaguirre3878]

Were you able to take the rifle home with you while you waited for your sbr stamp to get approved or did you have to leave it in the shop the same way you probably did with your suppressor?

[@_Gart_]

It's not an SBR it's a pistol. To make it an SBR from this configuration you would need to fill out an ATF form 1 and pay the appropriate tax stamp then have the lower receiver engraved accordingly. Only then can you put a stock on it.

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

This is an AR pistol with a pistol brace instead of a stock. so it’s not an NFA regulated item, as for now, although the new laws may change that soon.

[@chaneystcgstore4692]

@@ExplorersWorkbench The rule dropped im in the same boat as you.

[@tomdo8629]

Which magpul grip is that again?

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

magpul xtm hand stop

[@RASTA9x19]

Is that the m-lok handstop or the xtm version??

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Picatinay

[@ramirogarza3rd]

You added a stream light to an mk18?

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

@@ramirogarza3rd sure did buddy!

[@jz497]

Rail panels aren’t for appearance they’re for better gripping the rails

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Help a little with the heat too. But I chose these for how they look.

[@georgehernandez1502]

What sling are you rocking?

[@georgehernandez1502]

Or any recommendations?

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Magpul 2 point. It works well.

[@georgehernandez1502]

@@ExplorersWorkbench thanks!

[@choppin_wit_chan1762]

Love mine

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Same

[@juanrivera9542]

What size is that drop in quad rail ?

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

drop?

[@barry2949]

I love your shit no matter what the government say 👍👍👍

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Thanks!

[@barry2949]

@@ExplorersWorkbench 👍👍👍

[@muffinsmuffins8074]

What buffer are you using?

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

A2

[@tacticalwave]

Love the build brother I’m working on a sig mcx canebrake build at the moment. Just dropped a review on it as well. But anyways nice video

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Sweet! Will check it out. Thanks!

[@SubOptimal_]

me staring at that safety selector being on fire the whole time

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

at :20 I show it’s clear weapon

[@OFCINC]

@@ExplorersWorkbench apparently, if he did not see it was clear, he did not stare whole time 🤦

[@casualobserver3145]

Have you thought about ditching the brace for a bare buffer tube w/foam cover?

[@ChrisRobertson09]

🤣🤣🤣

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Nah I don’t think so

[@marshalllapenta7656]

Nice build! The HK 10.5 would give it a run

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Ya think?

[@chltmdwp]

I'm not a fan of that brake from YHM. I have one and it adds an unnecessary length...

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

makes no difference when the cans on. Mine usually is.

[@Donlosmedia]

beautiful build. Ive been considering ditching my eotech for the same holosun. How have you been liking it?

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Thanks! Ya the holosun has been great. Would definitely recommend

[@ulflyng]

Ehy? Battery life?

[@Cgonz1982]

@@ulflyng Up to 50,000 Hours Battery Life (Setting 6), i've had mine for 2 years now. still havent replaced the battery, and mine sits on 4, but i also have it set to using the solar.

[@ulflyng]

@@Cgonz1982 👍

[@Cgonz1982]

@@ulflyng i should also point out i have the green one. although the battery lives are the same. astigmatisms suck.

[@bulletjones119]

Come you paid all that money for a DD and put a holoson on it😮

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Ya dude this optics sick and half the price of eotech.

[@turdferguson2863]

Thyrm clens lens protector, you're welcome

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Thanks

[@CoolKid-mg9bo]

10.3?

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Yes

[@cloud-ny5ux]

damn only 1000 rounds?

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

@@cloud-ny5ux 3k now

[@fluffycottoncandy1780]

I wish we had a 3d model of this gun with the same texture color like in the video ;-;

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Make one!

[@fluffycottoncandy1780]

@@ExplorersWorkbench I made one but it ain't 100% like this but am still happy with it ;-;

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

@@fluffycottoncandy1780 sick!

[@fluffycottoncandy1780]

@@ExplorersWorkbench I used the model to port into a video game ;-; this is how it looks kzbin.info/www/bejne/rJOamZ6hrJuLgs0

[@tangomantactical]

I'm not a DD fan but I know your proud of your rig. It looks good. And Vaseline on your light? So the carbon is easy to wipe off when no can? Who ever runs non suppressed? Get a piston kit and run that can. Ppl wait 8-16 mths for a can then constantly have it on and off.

[@tallpinesstudio]

Thanks! will do.

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Thanks!

[@jaymitparmar7886]

Awesome bro👍👍👍

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Thanks!

[@prancer1803]

Cool. Now you get to/have to register it as an sbr, get it engraved, send in fingerprints to the atf, also you can’t travel with it from your home state (which may not allow nfa items) without special paperwork 👍

[@jhonjaundadon414]

🤩🤩🤩

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Thanks!

[@chino8418]

Nice video! Question, with the whole ATF thing going on are you planning on registering it?

[@xakk9]

👮🏾‍♂️

[@ThibaultR-or1cz]

Vertical grips are illegal ?

[@1robertcourtney]

Yes, a 90 degree one is on builds classified as a “pistol” instead of a sbr….looks too tactical 🤣

[@DucomaVet]

whats the barrel length?

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

@@DucomaVet 10.3

[@parkergotkicks7427]

3:40 “it can fit in a backpack” AYOOO ? 🤨🤨

[@ulflyng]

Hold on to your amendments! (edit) subbed

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

Thanks for the sub!

[@rudyroque4685]

Hey man hopefully KZbin doesn't temporarily ban you for showing the hush hush can install. They've been hitting all the medium and big channels on their old videos over dumb stuff.

[@sheepdog916]

Y TF is it clear? It’s YOUR life my guy 😂😂😂

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

K

[@magicwv]

damn shame… putting all this chinesium parts/ optics on a beautiful MK18.

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

I ran out of money for an eotech haha. It works well tho!

[@totempole21]

It's flat dark earth or the other one that they (Daniel Defense) came up with. I can't remember what they call it,off hand. OD Brown doesn't exist. Just saying. There is OD Green.

[@ExplorersWorkbench]

True

[@primetown956]

Anyone know what mix ratio and colors they use to achieve this color?