What I hate about AR15 rifles

This is the NGSW video I talk about: • US Army's NGSW Program...
At Desert Tech we love firearms innovation, we are always going against the grain and bypassing traditional designs. We are always doing amazing and fun stuff on the range and hope you enjoy this video!
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[@DesertTechUT]

Two more things I like about the AR15 that I forgot to mention: 1. I love all of the great trigger options for it. 2. I love the inline stock that helps with controlability.

[@mrshort2379]

Agreed. However ihave a challenge for Desert Tech. Why not go ahead, and do a redesigned AR-15, without all of the things you hate, redesign, engineer and manufacture, a better version. As such without rear charging, and buffer tubeless. But still able to use all the commonality of aftermarket parts, barrels, triggers and accessories etc. while still maintaining a low cheap PSA priced AR-15, but in your image.. that how you overthrow the AR Market, while at the same time knocking the AR of its throne and introducing a better more ergonomic version of the AR platform. If anybody could pull it off it would be y'all at Desert Tech. The key to the AR-15 Market is its low cost, availability and plethora of parts, and accessories to build or buy it the way the end user wants it to be, or look. without the giant $1k plus pricetags, of other available platforms. Also there are those of us, that would love to have a better platform, but absolutely just cannot afford it.

[@bambideluxe]

I wish the MDR and SRS had options for 2 stage triggers! They’re great otherwise but I just personally dislike single stage triggers.

[@Nom_AnorVSJedi]

Please do a vid on why you hate the AK47. Besides it being commie of course.

[@paulbarclay4114]

@@mrshort2379 because after 50 years its pretty optimized already to the extent that its not, look at the SIG SPEAR LT that basically the pinnacle of 556/300blk you arent going to be able to improve on that design

[@richardescareno2433]

You made some valid points on the AR-15 platform, and it's good to make changes going forward. The AR-15 platform can be learned very quickly ,even a small man or woman can operate it effectively with some training & repel multiple attackers. Just ask Kyle Rittenhouse. It definitely saved his life.

[@humanbass]

The best thing about the DI is that it makes the gun light and low recoiling.

[@popinmo]

and thats why its the best

[@DesertTechUT]

I agree with both statements! 👍🏻

[@Sergi762]

Cleaning them, however, is NOT.

[@Iceh4wkvideos]

Is just pros and cons like all things in life.

[@DJ-jq8if]

The low recoil comes from the buffer system. The recoil is closer to your body. Much like a bullpup.

[@sam7mag]

I would add a 7th metric into the performance criteria: Serviceability -how fast and easy can the product be cleaned and repaired in field conditions. Overall good work, I like the engineering mindset that Desert Tech uses in the development of their products.

[@DesertTechUT]

That too is an important metric that should be added to the list. Thanks for surfacing it! 👍🏻

[@ParrotTactical]

Loss of context is a huge piece. When it was adopted, the AR platform was light years ahead of the M14 and Garand it replaced. Bringing the recoil spring in line with the bore and DI piston reduced recoil in concert with a new intermediate cartridge leading to vastly improved full auto / burst performance vs the 308s. The use of aluminum and polymer were some of the first. So the AR was the greatest. Ergonomics were improved, and the construction let the aftermarket support it for years to come. Unfortunately, that context is lost and people still think it’s the greatest just because. It sucks to see institutional inertia repeating mistakes of the past as the SPEAR looks about as similar to the M4 as the M14 (widely accepted as a failure) was to the Garand before it. Glad companies like DT keep pushing the envelope, but more needs to be done to wake the public up to the fact that the AR deserves its laurels, but is now 80 years old. We see the Russians sticking to their old AK platform and failing to innovate with the AK-12 flop. Keep at it DT!

[@michaellowery928]

I second that emotion.👍

[@BobNissan-do5os]

They didn’t really fail with the ak 12 it’s still loved among many and is considered a war trophy the only thing the did wrong was the trigger group fire selector waht ever you want to call it and remember the ak had the ar beet easily in Vietnam

[@saent21]

I watched Garand Thumb's review of the General Dynamics/True Velocity RM277. Very interesting and forward-looking NGSW candidate in a bullpup profile. Check it out.

[@bradleychilders811]

You are a breath of fresh air in many ways, thank you! . I couldn’t agree more on what is wrong with the ar15.

[@DesertTechUT]

Thanks!

[@kanegallagher9533]

Simplicity should be top on the list. The fewer breakable parts, the better. 2nd should be serviceability- bc no matter how well designed a product, eventually they break. Easily attainable quality parts and components as well. No gunsmith needed level as a baseline for design. That might aid in reliability too.

[@DesertTechUT]

Simplicity usually leads to reliability for sure. As far as the order of importance each military tender generally weighs each think differently. Just depends on what the end user decides he wants the most.

[@tinybatmanname9476]

A lot of good points I never really thought about. Being in the military, you’re so used to the AR platform rifles, that you just accept and go with everything. Never shot an mdr but i’m interested now, and to see whether I fully agree or not.

[@DesertTechUT]

Our new WLVRN rifle is the next generation after the MDRX. kzbin.info/www/bejne/mIfEq32lnbyfrNksi=JlG_nCf4APXw4FaM

[@michaellowery928]

@tinybatmanname9476, my thoughts exactly. I also see that in my father's generation and their M-14 which I used as an honor guard team member. The M-14 was a great gun, but the AR platform was a big leap in technology and modularity. Now I am a big fan of bullpups. I have them in shotguns and intermediate range rifles. I also own and love my ARs. Again, different platforms have different advantages and disadvantages...not necessarily better or worse...just different.

[@J_D_Rambro]

100%

[@ch4ndemic]

Really glad you highlighted the aspects of people erroneously associating gear a military adopts to be the best available, and the way US government policies have essentially stymied development of platforms other than the AR by reducing competition for one reason or another. The AR-15 isn't necessarily popular because of any things intrinsic to its design, but rather its adoption by the most funded military in the world, its lack of competition in the largest domestic firearms market, and the decades of iteration and innovation focused on the platform because of these factors. The fundamentals of the AR are essentially that it's direct impingement and has a buffer tube, this isn't what makes the AR platform good.

[@Sergi762]

The T charging handle is one of my most hated feature of the AR rifles. Having grown up with AK's, not having the side charging reciprocating handle is a huge problem. The DI gas system isn't my favorite to clean and maintain either, and the inability to use a side folding stock is aggravating. I am looking to get a 5.56 rifle to replace my AK-74N because of the 5.45x39 ammo situation. So, naturally, I have been looking at every 5.56 rifle out in the market right now to replace it, and you aren't wrong : the AR is smothering other rifles. Just because the Army wants it, does not make it worth the trouble. That same army bullsh*t cost the US soldier the FAL rifle. The FAL was, and is, a far better rifle overall than the M14.

[@J_D_Rambro]

All valid points and I agree with most of what you said; for me it was the first rifle I ever fired (USAF). Daily use and too many rounds down range to recall, helped me overcome/mitigate any of the rifles issues. As I am much older I have guns that are better and I like more than the AR, I will be joined for life to the AR, as it was my right hand for most of my time in service. On a separate note, soon as I can swing it I'll have your SRS in 300 winmag and a 338LM conversion kit!!!!

[@jameseroh6544]

Most of my rifle owning friends and relatives have AR15's. I am the Star Wars guy of the group, I like bullpups! I just don't like the way the AR platform feel like. The weight of my .308 MDRXCOM is fine with me. I do have the 20" .223 bolt kit. I own several lever guns and bolt actions that I like. One day I may own the SRS system, but I am not sure which barrel kits I will buy. Even though I prefer bullpups, I would be interested in a bolt action kit for an AR.

[@aaronfarnsworth7653]

There are some bullpup kits for AR uppers showing up now. Even when bullpups are heavier, they feel better balanced with the weight closer to you and as DT grinningly likes to show, they are one handedly controllable even on full semi-auto. 😁

[@RazvanMihaeanu]

How's the Quattro WLVRN project?

[@Patrick5]

drum mag....

[@cruzcontrol474]

@@Patrick5 bullpups and drums dont mix well.

[@Orudaiken]

They said the width of the magazine interrupts the transfer bar, thus making it impossible.

[@DesertTechUT]

Not possible unfortunately. 🥲

[@lopsidedpolygon]

@@Orudaikenthey should make a fly by wire electronic trigger to replace the transfer bar. sure the military market wouldn't want that, but us civvies buy stupid but cool gun shit all the time. 😂 hell, go full Halo and add an electronic ammo counter. 🤣 then it will be too cool for anybody to complain about the batteries or being fly by wire. alas... getting the investors to sign off on that sounds impossible 💀

[@rosswitte]

On the charging handle, we agree.

[@GRAE_GHOST]

The AR platform is outdated. I firmly believe the only reason the US military hasn't moved on from an AR platform is because #1 it's cheap & #2 it's convenient to not have to retrain personnel on new weapon systems.

[@matthewriegner5180]

No one wants to move past the ar platform because no one can afford to be guinea pigs for unreliable over priced products. Also because many of us want reliable part availability and not proprietary parts that basically leave you dead in the water if something breaks in the not widely tested "innovative" platform. I'm sure if something that was truly innovative came out people would consider going to it so long as it wasn't a 1 off manufacture patent thing. That's the issue with all the proprietary innovative stuff. It can't get market share cause only one company makes it and so it stays proprietary and small production.

[@jadon2709]

I’ve never experienced any of these issues you speak of with mine. They are a great AR for the money. And are much more accurate with sites. I see you don’t run them on many of your rifles…

[@secondhandevil]

I used to think desert tech was really cool. Having now viewed their youtube channel, I now think they're a lot less cool. What I've seen so far: "AR poops where it eats, 2007 dust test, birdcage hider bad." "AR-15 stifles innovation". "Lifetime warranty really means as long as we feel like servicing it." "Hey guys! Check out this neat rifle we tried to sell to the country the 9/11 highjackers came from!"

[@texasranger24]

So what you are trying to say is that... Desert Tech wants to make a HK433 in the USA? I mean that would be quite lovely.

[@DesertTechUT]

the 433 is sick! Love that rifle!

[@garrettsmitherman9823]

How did you not blink the entire video

[@DesertTechUT]

It's one of my hidden talents! 🤓

[@arturwelland7136]

100% agree on the innovation killer. Especially when guns are designed for military and American market, companies cater their ergos to work with the AR15, which limits the designs to a certain form factor. otherwise anericans will cry about having to learn a new manual of arms (oh no! The horror! 😱😱😱)

[@LRRPFco52]

Good designs last a long time. Superb designs last about 30-40yrs before being replaced. This one is going on 67 years if we don't count the AR-10, which turns 69 this year. There's more to it that other designers simply have failed to surpass in a meaningful way. The easiest one to throw out there is weight. Show me a lighter assault rifle for starters. (Hint: There isn't one.)

[@FierceMouse]

West Valley City!! Represent Represent!

[@frankopanklaric]

Nice title. Guaranteed clicks.

[@Stresscat1]

Yes. End the AR-15 charging handle. Styer and HK have better ideas, just pick one.

[@LRRPFco52]

It's funny, after 37 years of running ARs/M4s, I generally only touch the CH when I load up, and when I make clear, including running high-volume shoot training and deployments in all kinds of conditions ranging from desert to jungle to Arctic.

[@peterlowell7963]

AR-15 guys in shambles

[@JohnnyTurbo87]

In my opinion all innovation on the AR platform are band-aid fixes or work-arounds on outdated design considerations

[@DesertTechUT]

I agree with this statement 100%!

[@JohnnyTurbo87]

@@rottingravensblood9106 The AR-platform is 70 years old my guy

[@darthjoshua6663]

Like all things, there is a give and take. When it comes to reliability, I would say that the AR is definitely capable of far greater reliability than a off the rack colt M4. If you want the cream of the crop, get a KAC or LMT. Those things are engineered to perfection basically and will give you reliability in terms of stoppages on par with any other rifle in the world most likely. Also, there are many other ARs that are far in excess of quality to a Colt AR for the same price or even less. Colt simply charges what they want because they know enough people will buy them basically for the name and the fact the military buys from them. A cool AR that actually solves two or three gripes you had is the CMMG dissent. It gets rid of the buffer tube and has the recoil system all in the carrier area. This enables you to have folding stocks, and it also has a side charging handle. But it still maintains the wonderful recoil impulse and weight reduction. Another benefit of the DI system is decreased barrel harmonic disturbance. I could go on and on. One of the coolest things about the DI system in my opinion is how well it works in muddy environments. It is cool how even a low tier AR can chuck mud out of the action and in essence clean itself. Virtually all piston guns struggle with mud unless it’s a really sealed action. Needless to say, despite me being a general fan of the AR. I completely agree that it has contributed to a stagnation in firearms development for decades at this point. But at the same time it has kept the gun community alive with increasingly cheaper and cheaper ARs that are still quality. If you’re going to make a quality semi auto rifle at a cheap price, you need a massive market of parts and production and interest. The only guns that really come to mind are ARs and AKs. You need a go to in the industry if you want people to get into it at a very cheap price. It’s both done good and bad when it comes to development, but it seems that the stagnation has definitely ended. More new stuff has been coming out in the last five years than in like five decades.

[@TweakRacer]

Like the video before watching it? 😂

[@hobbstactv2571]

Saying it's an "innovation killer" is one of the biggest reason I can't stand the AR. The market has become so sickeningly homogeneous and boring it almost makes a guy lose interest in the hobby. The AR is Schrodinger's Rifle: Possessed with a near infinite degree of variance while also being the most boring fuckin thing on the gun market.

[@danielhess39]

👍🏼

[@gerrygadget]

All those faults are solved by the Sub2000 ;-)

[@DesertTechUT]

LMAO!

[@Mikosah]

There's an easy fix both for the loose AR stock that grabs beard hair and for the slop between the upper and lower receivers- electrical tape. Just one layer or two of electrical tape on top of the buffer tube fills the gap. Similarly, shim the lower receiver with narrow strips of electrical tape on the top surfaces that should touch the upper. The further forward, the better. The best position I've found thus far is the front two corners of the mag well. Very small cut pieces, quarter inch squares of electrical tape should fit on the surfaces just above and behind the front takedown pin.

[@jimmiebourque2234]

I hate ar 15s for the same reason I hate glocks???their overrated 😂

[@cvnarasimhamurthy8060]

Can you guide me on any websites than guide me where I can learn the metallurgy and making of guns. I am from India.

[@DesertTechUT]

they don't exist unfortunately.

[@merleaber7373]

Porsche has the #1,3,4,7 fastest laps ever on the Nurburgring lol McLaren doesn’t show up until #8 😂

[@DesertTechUT]

Ar15 is top dog at 3 gun comps too. If Porsche would stop holding back their GT4 it would annihilate the 911!! McLaren’s F1 is considered the most innovative car in history that left everything in the dust and was light years ahead of everything. 😃

[@leoormesher2762]

so if the ar15 selector LOCATION isnt ideal (i understand the frustration of 90 degree and 180 degree rotations for semi or full auto, i hate that to, but there are solutions for that........) what is the ideal location? you mentioned the mp7..... but i know of no other weapon that has a better safety lever location..... even the ak has a similar location for the rotation, but of course thats a different kind of safety all together (having a full length finger lever and physically blocks bolt cycling in safe).... and i know your not about to say crossbolt is better... because crossbolt is aweful

[@aaronfarnsworth7653]

PSR made a hell of a crossbolt safety which could probably tickle DT's cyclic rate enjoyment and remove his 90 degree objections.

[@Echo7Kyle]

How many generations and names has your mdr had ? I can’t keep up, wolverine is an Ak movie reference or an animal generally

[@DesertTechUT]

MDR and MDRX. 👍🏻

[@Echo7Kyle]

@@DesertTechUT Wolverine is gen 3

[@standardhomosapiens]

Guy who sells ar competition will tell you why ar sucks, but first like and subscribe! The audacity.

[@DesertTechUT]

🤓

[@damiananthony246]

Someone had to say it

[@Mrgunsngear]

🍿

[@ravener96]

"What would desert tech do ar15" when

[@MatthewC176]

With Garand Thumbs RM277 video showcasing the incredible control-ability of the rifle I’m very curious to see what the WLVRN (in 308 specifically) looks like during a full auto mag dump!

[@DesertTechUT]

I just watched his video. That rifle is really controllable. Maybe we can do some videos with our sabertooth.

[@MatthewC176]

@@DesertTechUT I hope so! Need more content on the WLVRN platform asap! Hopefully Hunter will snag one to do a video soon and maybe one day Garand to follow!

[@themotivehunter]

What I hate about other rifles other than the AR-15 is the price!!!!

[@DesertTechUT]

I agree. Unfortunately 50 year old designs are cheaper to keep reproducing than it is to pay for the development and time it takes to creat the next generation rifle systems.

[@jechezeqel7376]

​​@@DesertTechUTif you offer the best bullpop rifle design 2000 or less, i would get 1.

[@MatthewC176]

@@jechezeqel7376check their gun broker, used last gen MDRs for cheap

[@ryanvancleave2418]

No, not going to like the video until I actually watch it and decide I do Like it....

[@TweakRacer]

Yeah, that is super weird he asks that at the start of all their videos 😂

[@AaronBullock-qb6vs]

Well if you don't like it then why don't you create an overpriced mediocre bullpup rifle....

[@DesertTechUT]

Did you watch the video?

[@neverskipslegday7118]

The question I have is. Will the .308/6.5creed Wolverine work with 25 round Pmags and or drum mags to that 2k no stoppage mark?

[@herknorth8691]

I want to get one of those "It has been XX days since a workplace accident" signs but have it say "It has been XX days since I heard the phrase 'shits where it eats' in reference to an AR15".

[@benjaminnevins5211]

Yet goes 2000 rounds just fine without cleaning 😕

[@iterationfackshet1990]

@@benjaminnevins5211yep, all that carbon build up actually helps with the function of the gun since it acts as the perfect dry lubricant. Of course you need to clean it from time to time but it “shitting where it eats” actually helps it.

[@jovakhiin]

11k views and only 830 likes?! Jesus people, if your gonna watch a video and like it hit the like button!

[@emperorbobarino]

A Few Things: 1)The biggest weakness the entire AR family has is it's relative fragility in 'over the beach' testing. 2)The velocity loss due to chopping the barrel is operational requirements intersecting with the inherent weakness of 5.56, not an AR family one. 3)It's old (at least 64 years depending on how you count) and has modernized better than all it's peers and many of it's alleged successors. 4)Point 3 needs to be taken with the added context that all of that modernization has occurred effectively outside it's design envelope. 5)A lot of people think that it's the best, because for them, it is. For many, whether they verbalize it, or not, the fact is that they want to buy in to the logistical train surrounding the standard issue rifle of their country. That log train effects everything around it, well in to the civilian sector. It means all my accessories and enablers are going to be geared to it (the AR fam), it means most ammunition being produced will be 5.56 and .223. These are just a few things your are accessing by buying an AR. There isn't an industry behind a single one of the other 5.56 weapon systems the way there is just for the AR family. 6)Item 5 has more to do with the AR being an innovation killer than anything. 7)Have a good day and best of luck with your business.

[@DesertTechUT]

Great points!

[@AlexLee-dc2vb]

the WWSD made me realize just how much missed potential is in the AR

[@DesertTechUT]

Yup

[@dothwalrus370]

I will say I regretted buying one. The handling is very nice, but shooting it was less so. Mine was severely over gassed even using cheap 223. I also had issues with the trigger not resetting. I ended up putting a lot of money into the rifle to try and remedy these things, adjustable gas block, tungsten weights, new trigger, but it just didn't work out. Putting one together myself may have been a better option, but I have come to appreciate turn-key designs, especially at the price. I have an old SP-1 that I inherited that is a fantastic shooter. I ended up just selling the WWSD and bought a new Colt. Despite the hate new Colt gets, the rifle seems to be just as nice as the SP-1.

[@Glove513]

There is a video of a handloader getting a DI AR to function with 160 grain 6.5 Grendel subsonic suppressed. That implies a replacement cartridge for 300 Blackout, 5.56mm and most .308 rifle in military use. Could an MDR be made to cycle both regular and subsonic 6.5 Grendel?

[@MurrayC]

If you've only had a SA80 the AR15 seems perfect!

[@armstrong2052]

I bet!😂

[@benjaminnevins5211]

large oof

[@abelincoln8885]

What the frack were the Brits thinking with that design? If they were going to switch from 7.62 to 5.56 ... they should have immediately considered their version of the FN FNC or M16A2. And if they wanted to develop their own bullpup ... learn from the Steyr AUG, FN FNC & M16 ... to make the SA80 ... with a bufferless AR upper with a side charging handle ... with an AR or bullpup lower. Then you focus on impoving the upper and lower ... with the upper focused on weight, recoil, & accuracy .. and the lower focused on wieght, AR controls, trigger. The MDR ... should have began as an bufferless monolithic piston AR upper ... for an 18 in barrel, side charging handle, not T handle & forward assist .... that can be mated to any AR lower ... or ... an MDR bullpup lower. The Steyr AUG .. should have been redeveloped into ... into a AR upper & bull pup lower .. with Steyr offering offering a piston AR with folding stock ...and a bullpup lower. And then focus on reducing weight & recoil, and improve accuracy ... with the AR upper .... and ... reduce weight, add AR finger controls, and AR triggers with the BULL pup lower. Again. what the frack were the Brits thinking with the SA80? Should at the very least worked with Steyr on a better AUG if they really wanted a bullpup ... otherwise adopt the FN FNC or M16 A2.

[@jackaubrey8614]

@@abelincoln8885 Ok, where to begin..... 1. The Government of the time were in the process of trying to sell off Royal Ordinance at any cost (to fit in with Government Policy on privatisation) and pushed the designers to get something, anything, into market as Royal Ordinance had no "new" products on offer. So, it was a rush job for the benefit of stock market pricing.... 2. "And if they wanted to develop their own bullpup ... learn from the Steyr AUG" - ever heard of EM2? It predates the AUG by about 30 years and was, to all intents, very good. Unfortunately it was designed around an intermediate cartridge that was scuppered by the US Army unilaterally choosing 7.62x51 and basically forcing this onto NATO. Thanks US... 3. "The Steyr AUG .. should have been redeveloped into ... into a AR upper & bull pup lower" - you're talking as if the modularity in small arms design that we seem to take for granted now has been around for the last 50 years or so. It hasn't. 4. "..what the frack were the Brits thinking with the SA80?". I handled and fired the pre-production prototypes of SA80 - they were reliable and incredibly accurate rifles but like all prototypes needed some "fettling" as experience in their use increased and some issues were discovered. However, what really killed them was that they were (with the sale of Royal Ordinance) put into production at the lowest possible cost (profits are a thing in private industry). The rest is history.

[@AverageJoe4063]

I'm with you on the charging handle. Worst location ever! The original top design was better. Although with the advent of pic rails a side or forward charger is the best. :-) Although dirtier, having the bolt be the piston was really brilliant. It reduces system weight and barrel whip, improving accuracy and reducing muzzle rize. The use of forged aluminum and plastic parts was also revolutionary. I wish modern manufacturers would use more space age materials, making stronger and lighter guns able to handle higher chamber pressures. We are starting to see this with suppressor companies and companies like BSF with their carbon fiber barrels. If they were able to mate their design a with maraging steel barrel, that would be incredible!!!! Replacing steel components with titanium and aluminum components with carbon fiber composites or high tech carbon fiber reinforced polymers like PEEK would go a long way to improving the weight, performance, durability, and reliability of firearms. :-)

[@DesertTechUT]

I think that sounds really great myself! I agree on the DI comments. Ingenious design.

[@LRRPFco52]

The trigger charger from the OG ArmaLite AR-10s was trash. * It got piping hot and would burn your fingers. * It required a channel cut into the top of the receiver that allowed debris ingestion. * It made optics mounting a mess. These are the reasons they got rid of it on the AR-15 as well. The Dutch were already designing CH improvements on their AR-10s, to include a folding latch on the right side of the rear of the shaft for airborne troops. Everything is a design/performance compromise. Do you want: * Best ergonomics * Debris ingestion resilience * Simplicity Pick one carefully. AR-15 gives you 2 of those, which is extremely rare. For examples: G3/Hk33 suck for ergos, simplicity, and debris ingestion. AK sucks badly for ergos and debris ingestion, but is simple. FAL is awesome for ergos, but sucks for debris ingestion and is so-so for simplicity/complexity, depending on model. AR is user-replaceable too, the others aren't.

[@errortaptoretry6019]

The XM8 example is just not true. Firstly, the XM8 was a problematic design that is known for quickly overheating especially the polymer upper receiver. Secondly, the test you are referring to used issued, potentially worn out M4s versus brand new FN Scars, HK 416s, and HK XM8s. “Coincidentally” the rifle the preformed the best did not use STANAG magazines.

[@mobilegamersunite]

Yep, AR10 FTW! 308 all day! 😂

[@miketully9905]

I'm not into the AR15 platform at all. I despise the nose heavy balance, especially when you start to throw the balance even farther forward wit a silencer, and/or useful accessories like lights, lasers, laser range finders, and especially dangley bipods. My brother loves his AR15, and I don't think he'd trade it for a brand new Ferrari. I'm certainly interested in the new WLVRN, but frankly I really don't want to give up the forward eject of my MDRX. It adds weight to a rifle that's heavy to begin with, but the one I have has yet to give me any problems. And since I only see out of my left eye I like the fact that I don't even have to change it to a right handed gun when I let friends shoot it. I didn't buy my MDRX for home defense and so I'm a little disappointed that I didn't start right out with the 20" .223 barrel. I'm going to add a 20" .308 barrel soon, and if I can get my hands on one I'll add a 20" .223 barrel soon after that. I just don't have the need to give up the extra muzzle velocity for a shorter O.A.L.. I'll keep the BLK LBL bipod intended for the 16" barrel so I doubt the extra 4" of barrel will make a noticeable difference in front end weight when I'm shooting .223. Grrrr. I imagine I'll have to go aftermarket for a 20" 6.5CR barrel. And I have to say I'm not thrilled about that. I'll no doubt at all eventually go for the WLVRN for the decease in weight, and if it really turns out to actually be "30% more accurate", AND more reliable that my reliable 'ol MDRX, that would be more than enough to put up with having a left handed only gun. (I know it can be switched over, but the changeover looks like a pain in the... yeah.) A consistent 30% gain in accuracy would be an incredible feat if it's actually been pulled off. My MDRX is no slouch in the accuracy department. A 30% increase in accuracy that independent reviewers start to show wouldn't surprise me, (DT has some ass kicking engineers), but it would impress the living hell out of me. I ran our R&D department for 37 years. So I know. I've been there. A full and consistent 30% improvement in pretty much anything at all is tough. It's getting that last 5% to actually get to 30% that's where all the sweat and head banging comes into it. But even if it turns out to be more like a 20% increase in accuracy, AND lighter, AND more reliable. I'm gonna want me a WLVRN.

[@FDCNC]

Let's set the record. 99% of all the problems stated have been solved by many companies. Ergonomics: The charging handle was at the most ergonomic position ever at the time of it development which was under the charging handle and then was moved to its current position at the rare. The safety can always be made more ergonomic but to say the MP7 has a good safety is just bananas, that thing would always catch on gear to the point that some guys modified it with a dremel tool. Reliability: The weapon is very reliable, problems start to occur as you cut down the barrel which was solved early on by the Taiwanese with the T65 and most common known the HK416. The problem was first truly solved by LMT with their enhanced BCG in the MK18 until colt built the MK18 upper. Lets also make it clear that the M4/MK18 cost less than $1000 so you can't compare it with a HK416 which is above $2000 and use more durable metals. Durability: Many companies already solved all the durability issued mentioned in the video. Mobility: There is not a single LE/MIL organization that shoots with the stock of a gun folded unless they can control the weapon properly such as an MP5. Folding stocks are for concealment of the weapon, storage, transportability and movement. Lethality of the MK18 was mainly solved with MK262 MOD1 ammo from black hills and if you're shooting a short gun, ballistics of a 5.56 at close ranges is not a the top of the list. Survivability: Many companies already solved all these problems. The 3 shot burst trigger group was not favored by any of the colt engineers or even stoner himself because of the problems stated and no special operations group used it because it caused problems with the consistency of the trigger pull on semi-auto. Most rifles were converted to full auto as burst was useless. The XM8 test was said to be deceitful as the tested M4s were not new rifles. (Statement from a Colt Employee) Overall I agree that the AR15 has absolutely murdered innovation of firearms to a level never seen before. Never has so many manufacturers, countries, governments and militaries try to copy as many features from one gun and reproduce it in history. Its to the point that if our major enemies had a chance to use, it they would

[@Sergi762]

Then what do you say to the user who wants a quality side charging system?

[@alexcapps9290]

@Sergi762 side charging sounds great on paper but the second you start running it you will realize it has a lot of issues

[@christianlequoix7473]

Get one. There are dozens of options. But with years in the most unfriendly places on earth, and the use of dozens of different rifles.... side charging isn't always the best option. A moving handle is a fast way to get jacked up in a gun fight. As an ambidextrous shooter, you'll appreciate not having one. If you're ever wounded in your hand/ arm, the charging handle on the right side is also a problem. Good luck.

[@Sergi762]

@@christianlequoix7473Fair enough.I'll keep my eyes open.

[@jjjr.1186]

​@@Sergi762 many companies make side charging ar15s. Faxon. Bear Creek. Are 2 that immediately come to mind.

[@carlmichaelx]

Are you hiring?

[@DesertTechUT]

Watch our website as we post all job openings there.

[@plaguebomb2712]

​@@DesertTechUTso that's a no😊

[@thelittledetailscr7231]

Are you hiring psychologists? I can't do anything else.

[@randominternetguy]

​@@DesertTechUTthanks!

[@alexcapps9290]

This video is absolute trash 1. Charging handle location: realistically when running the AR you only run the handle when initially charging it and clearing it. Neither of these actions have to be done quickly. The positive of this, the handle is out of the way and doesn't interfere with optic mounting (see SCAR) 2. Safety: the rifle in question may have a stiff selector but I've never really seen anyone have difficulty with the selector lever, the 180 to full auto was a deliberate design to prevent a user from accidentally going into full auto. Interesting you don't like this feature and yet the mdr uses an almost identical system minus the 180 FA 3. Bolt release: you said it all, it works. It's not fancy or sofisticated, there are faster ways but as you stated it is easy muscle memory. It was designed to be an effective defensive armament first not a race gun 4.rear sling mount: there are a multitude of ways to mount slings on this platform but I think it's a bit silly to knock the rifle for not having a factory way to interface with a component designed long after its introduction. That being said several aftermarket lowers have remedied this deficiency 5. Reliability: there is a ton of data on both sides of this. The test you refer to from 2007 was a bit of a joke since it was more of a magazine test than a rifle test. The extreme dust test was setup to give the xm8 and its seamless polymer magazines every possible advantage in hopes to get approval for adoption. Of the failures recorded by the m4 893 of them were magazine related stoppages due to usgi mags design. On top of that the tests weren't even conducted concurrently with even remotely similar temp and humidity. It's a junk test designed to pad a pocket and even congress called them out for it. 6. Durability: you can literally use the buffer tube to do push ups and not harm the rifle unless you are using a polymer (trash) lower. Flimsy barrel mount is entirely dependent on what handguard you are running, the standard m4 design does not suffer from this and meet its designed accuracy specs in all positions. This is hilariously bad info Mobility: this has time and time again proven to be a non issue in all but the most specific circumstances (like secret service details). Note: the law tactical side folder does allow the weapon to fire folded but cannot be cycled until the rifle is unfolded. Gas porting: this is a non issue with modern components like adjustable gas blocks and properly ported barrels. Jesus this guy gets his info from the 80s Oh the good one: DI POOPS WHERE IT EATS, guess what else it does? It removes foreign debris from the action (mud tests). It also makes the rifle lighter and simple, keeps recoil nice and low. The only valid gripe I have is when shooting suppressed without an adjustable gas block. Surviveability: are we serious concerned about a stock or the upper and lower rattle when most guys are running velcro flap pouches. The 3 round burst trigger was a mistake, they should have just kept the original full auto, I agree there. Innovation killer: its not it is the standard and a pretty damn high one at that. You listed all of these things that are supposedly so bad about the AR but fail to mention that no one has made anything even remotely comparable to it at anywhere close to the standard price of entry for a mid range rifle. Again you repeat bogus stats and flawed testing but yet the market again agrees that no one has beat the AR platform in all areas most importantly cost.

[@DesertTechUT]

Did you make it to the stuff I like about the ar15 at the end of the video? 😃 🍿

[@alexcapps9290]

@DesertTechUT yes I suffered through the hilariously bad info best I could and I know there are things that you like. Full disclosure I do like the MDR and feel it's the only bullpup on the market with an acceptable trigger

[@LRRPFco52]

Those M4 vs XM8 tests were faulty for sure. 10th Group knew something was effed up with the tests, so they did their own and saw no practical differences between M4A1, Hk416, and SCAR-L. I've done so much high-volume shooting with AR-15s, M16s, M4s, and M4A1s over the past 37 years that they are more of a gold standard for running through shoot courses. I've done CQM ranges where I put 1100rds through my M4 in 4 hours, zero malfunctions, and that was with a mix of old black or green follower mags, pre-SOPMOD improvements, pre-PIP M4, pre-Block II. If you're using Vismod-15s as a baseline for reliability, that isn't remotely-representative of a TDP carbine. XM8 did not bring any practical reliability, accuracy, or worthwhile benefits to the table.

[@alexcapps9290]

@LRRPFco52 thank you! The xm8 was an abject failure and I love how he was waxing poetic about it but complaining about a weak barrel interface on the ar15. Lmao the xm8 used a similar interface as the g36 which is polymer

[@LRRPFco52]

@@alexcapps9290 One cool thing about XM8 was system modularity, where you could convert into a PDW or LSW without tools, but AR has a lot going for it in the modularity dept as well. Units that use Hk MP5 or Hk33 family of weapons leave them in their factory configuration anyway, and don't swap lowers and receivers to make modular systems on-the-fly, so it's more of a marketing point than practical. G36 mags are a non-starter for the US if you've ever tried putting them in pouches.

[@CBThree]

AR 15/rifles = the five-shot revolver/handguns.

[@pauljoly7594]

I disagree about the use of the AR15 as The sporting rifle for a couple of reasons. First, European semi-auto rifle offer was very limited in the 2000's : Steyr AUG, AK variants, VZ58, Sig 550 family, HK G93 and SLR (FN FNC, FAMAS F1). Only the AUG is more ergonomic, handier but not cheaper than a M16 A2 style rifle (even in Europe). Alternatives in the US were also there : AR180, Bushmaster M17. Other alternatives exist today but, in my opinion, don't point as well as a "tube" rifle and their center of gravity is too much forward due to their gas piston systems.

[@watariovids1645]

I am happy that the first thing mentioned is the T charging handle. That thing sucks bad. I would way rather have any sort of Side charging handle reciprocating or otherwise.

[@alexcapps9290]

Run a side charger in a real course of fire with multiple shooting positions and you will wish you bever had it.

[@TweakRacer]

@@alexcapps9290Settle down, internet operator. Go tell that to all the targets of AK fire 😂

[@alexcapps9290]

@TweakRacer go run an AK at a 2 gun event then come talk some shit.

[@alexcapps9290]

Xm8 failed for so many reasons, no support for picatinny, not using stanag mags, no better performance except in skewed testing

[@popinmo]

i like all your complaints besides the last one the ar15 is common because it is a good weapon compared to things like the ak which isn't as modular and easy to work on and that's the real reason why the ar15 keeps winning its the common mans rifle its for everyone

[@BobNissan-do5os]

Ak is simple people just don’t know how to do anything more than See Buy Bolt on

[@Joeak74]

There is no such thing as a "perfect weapon".

[@DesertTechUT]

Nope not yet each has compromises. Like a balance beam scale you want more of this then you get less of that. It’s getting closer every year though.

[@mikecross2435]

I know what you meant when you compared DT to McLaren, but those super-cars don't have a percent of the durability that your guns have.

[@AmbGun]

Survivability...training gunfighters to make ambidextrous "optimal use if cover" is key. The ambidextral gunfighter requires a rifle with perfectly mirrored controls. The 7.62 MDR I tested was great at that.

[@christopherrobin8134]

A few good points, but man there are some big nitpicks strung throughout this video. However the point of the AR being an “innovation killer” is interesting. I don’t know if I would put the blame on the AR, because ultimately it’s the job of your company and similar companies to make a more compelling product than the existing go-to. But it is true that the AR, while imperfect, is so good that it simply doesn’t make sense to a consumer to choose a separate platform. Especially since the AR is not patent restricted, and the aftermarket is so vast. So while you have outlined some legitimate objections to the AR, the video kinda smells like cope because everyone wants an AR instead of your (and basically everyone else’s) rifles.

[@DesertTechUT]

It’s innovation killer because the military uses that platform, but it isn’t the best platform but because the military uses it, people are led to believe that it is the best platform. What other industry does the consumer market believe that what the government is using is the best? The Military wants the cheapest product that meets the bare minimum requirements they don’t want the best product.

[@christopherrobin8134]

@@DesertTechUT I disagree that the drive towards the AR is simply “because the military uses it.” That’s certainly part of it, and was probably the driving force in the days of unrestricted fuddlore, but the modern prepared citizen has a lot more info and a lot more options. The AR remains the go-to because it is a fantastic combination of traits, even with the present imperfections inherent to the platform. Name a platform that is better suited for prepared citizens in north America with cost considered as a factor.

[@jakek09]

I tuink you shpuld consider chambering it a line of short magnum cartridges like the 300 wsm or 6.8 western. I think youd stir a lot of attention as there are no ar platforms comercially made in that caliber and its an excellent ling range cartridge. Some good 20 rd mags and a solid scope mount and it would make an amazing long distance gun as you could have a full 22 to 26 inch barrel in a bullpup and have it be reasonable manageable.

[@watersloth288]

i will forever be a bullpup lover only have the aug but I'm hoping to get the wolvrn soon

[@DesertTechUT]

Me too! 😍

[@epwal3059]

Agree with everything said here except I can’t afford Desert Tech

[@TweakRacer]

Underrated comment #truth

[@bunker_ambient]

bullpup propaganda

[@MatthewC176]

In my opinion the move would be to make a dedicated 5.56 Direct Impingement version of the WLVRN as an entry level offering to really catch on and snag some AR users by being in the same price range ($1500-$1800 at most) This would make it even lighter, more accurate, softer recoiling, and simpler! Perhaps remove some features like quick change barrels to further reduce weight and cost But of course keep an adjustable gas block. Right now a bullpup is $2000 and up to get a decent rifle, even higher for the near if not perfect WLVRN, and less for a cheap bullpup that suffers in every way A good mid tier priced offering as described above would be killer from you guys!

[@superanderson]

I almost unilaterally agree with these points, but it is impossible to have this conversation without acknowledging parts availability. I understand that it is separated from the gun itself, it is not a direct boon to the AR-15 platform. But is is to owners. It is a reality we live in where if I need to repair my firearm, I will have absolutely no issue doing so the same day.

[@randystrand908]

Ive been shopping options for a 308 platform. Then you guys come along... Maybe, JUST IN THE NICK OF TIME!!! The WLVRN sure looks intriguing... 🤔

[@ccfmfg]

I've pointed out exactly all these problems and more (To Include this "Varmint Ammo's" lack of Stopping power, it should have been equivalent to 6.8 REM SPC from day one)) with the M16 during a 24 year Military Service starting in 1977 and since as a Civilian. But No One with the Power to fix anything will listen because they don't give a shit how it will help at the Warriors level. It's small potatos and acceptable loses to them.

[@channeellll7623]

Talk me out of a 14” 6.5 CM battle rifle vs your WLVRN 20”…. Im realllllly wanting to risk the 2500 for that WLVRN… it just has to hold about 2 MOA

[@antonw-uw4ov]

The AR15 charging handle placement is great. It does the most important thing: it's out of the way. It's very rarely that that specific placement of the charing handel hinders a shooter in any meaningfull way. The MP5/G3 placement that a lot of companies has started doing is the worst in practice. It's in the way of the support hand in a lot of situation, it catches slings, and on the G3 it is a pain to charge while lyinging down. The Saftey is also great since it stays on safe while carring the rifle. I think the 45-degree saftey and such is something that only makes sense on paper and that it's gained popularity only among people how compete or only shoot at a range. Just as the charging handle the saftey is used much less than people think and it's ease of use or speed of use is secondary to it not being actuated inadvertently. About the bolt release: the speed reload is a USPSA/3-gun/IPSC thing. A 4 second reload vs a 5 second one is irrelevant when loading from web-gear/poches. And your left hand is already off the the gun since you are already reloading. A lot of these conclusions i suspect originate from range time and competition. In my experience some militarly important things get lost in that environment.

[@abelincoln8885]

Then you should have developed a bufferless, monnolithic AR 15/10 upper with side charging Handle and no T-handle & forward assist ... with with the same low weight, recoil, accuracy .. but greater reliability ... to be mated your own bullpup lower .... or .. an AR lower. You should have always ... developed this "Next Gen' AR upper .. specifically for your bullpup lower and your improved AR Lower. And then you could have offered your BAR-L & BAR-H to various military and Police forces .. and semi autos to the civilian market. Your MDR ... should have been bufferless AR upper .. mainly for a BULLPUP lower ... but can mate to any AR Lower. C'mon main. If you wanted a bullpup ... to replace the AR .. you had to start with with AR upper first ... but with the improvements .. that can be mated to any AR lower ... or ... your BP lower. And your upper will have at least the same weight, recoil, and accuracy ... and similarly priced AR uppers .. but is is mainly designed for your BP lower ... as the same weight, same triggers and mag release etc as the AR lower.

[@lukasethan6429]

I think you have a superior product on the market, Although at the time I can’t afford one. These are two applications where I think a Bull up design specifically your Bullpup design win out, but never does. 1. Sniper Systems. I have used a Steyr and Hellion And I think that just for making a sniper system compact, maybe with an integral suppressor is the future. There are less reloads and that is the complaint from anyone about Bull pups 2. Machine Gun Systems. Again, the problem is the reload for most people. Let’s be honest here. Reloads on M249’s, 240B’s SUCK. Imagine taking a nut sack attached to a partial magazine or a magpul drum Instead of using belts. Belts just freaking suck. They complicate every facet of the machine gun. They complicate loading, they complicate carrying, and they complicate function of the weapon. No one will agree that loading a bullpup is worse than a belt fed weapon. These will be the future, whether people get behind them or not someone will figure it out. No one wants to carry around a long ass SR 25. I didn’t. No one wants to carry around a long ass 240B. Ergonomics, light and simplicity will win the day, every time. I have several designs for weapons because I think high technology is simplicity, not complexity. So many of our systems today are so complex and they are high tech, but I feel like that is low tech. I feel like you’re on the right path to solving the problem with bull pups being integrated into mainstream. I like your weapon better than the others. I have a Hellion, eventually yours will be in my gun room. Respectfully and humbly.

[@michaelatkin9649]

I disagree with some of your assessments. Civilians don't go with the AR because of the military. It's cost, availability and parts. All why Civilians go with the AR. AKs are becoming popular because of the availability, and the ACR has become popular but that was shut down because of poor quality and management during manufacturing.

[@MrOtistetrax]

Unnecessary apostrophe’s s’uck.

[@peterlowell7963]

That’s whe’re you’re wr’ong

[@javasoldier5926]

dude prob you are good in sniper system but your arguments about AR15 cheek charging / handle / bolt release is miss-fire a lot))

[@Oskar2018]

Nick is the MAN! - always interesting videos, full proffesionalism and the passion for firearms. Keep up the good work!

[@DesertTechUT]

Thanks!

[@DaMedicWhoSezNi]

The whole idea of what the army uses is best is always screwing innovation. If the people who thought that always had decision-making power, we would still be running muskets because the army used them, and we never would have gotten to new better rifles like the m1903 or the Garand or eventually the ar15 itself. To think that we should just randomly stop innovating now is simply absurd.

[@Zerow45yw]

If i could get a wlvrn as cheap as an ar15, I'd for sure swap

[@joshgworks]

These are many of my own concerns, I kept the safety, decoupled the handguard from the nut, put all the recoil forces in the upper, and a few other things unseen. I enjoy these videos thanks.

[@Ascerian]

I agreed with the design criticisms of this platform, such as the buffer tube, safety and charging handle. Those are all legitimate weak points.

[@mikhailgregovszki7478]

It has a lot of good likes... but a couple dislikes in addition to what you said. Mags don't always lock in if there is a mag issue, dirt or debris, or an issue with the mag catch. Noticeable in snowy/icy conditions and muddy/sandy conditions. Just when you think it is in and fire, it can drop free. Also if you have a bad jam that may be easier to clear if you field strip, oh well too bad, you can't field strip the weapon if the bolt wont fully seat (or at least very close to) in battery.

[@ericdavis1660]

Is this guy going take 20mins of my time telling me how bad the Stoner's design is, while beating the crap out of his lav mic? No, no he is not. Out.

[@MarketAndChurch]

I can't wait to try out the Wolverine. It's going to be my first DT rifle. The thing I like about the AR over a bullpup is how fast you can reload magazines. I guess with a lot of training I can overcome that.

[@TweakRacer]

You’re in luck! They use the same STANAG magazines, so it takes the same time to reload the magazines 😂

[@MarketAndChurch]

@@TweakRacer That's awesome, great to know.

[@tzephon]

"before we get into that please like the video..." He want people to "like" the video before watching it. Automatic thumbs down.

[@sir.dingullborn8326]

The bolt release comment was very odd, you hand is already off the hand guard for the reload so removing your hand to hit the bolt release is kind of dumb, and the safety is not the best but he's making it out to be far worse than it is, it is easy to take the safety off with your thumb with a full grip not like he showed, to put it back on ya you do need to move your hand but I'm fine with that because it removes you finger from the trigger, I mostly agree with the other points but he sounds like a sales man on a low budget commercial.

[@timewave02012]

Huge plus for the AR-15 is the feasibility of reliable

[@LuluBear974]

True Velocity RM277 bullpup controls ergonomics seems not bad at all.

[@sherlockholmes5087]

Great job Nick! Is it possible to integreat an recoil reducer on the end of your stock on the wylvrn and sabertooth? Mayby a combination of amourphus steel hat is shock reflekting and other new matireals like a schmall layer of non newstowns mass or crystals and rubber? I mean if you increase a bit of your weight but decrease the felt recoil of the .308 it will be great. Than you could have a feeling like an assould rifle but you shoot an battle rifle. With M993 or XM 1158 advanced armour pircing and powder for short barrels you have an gun for nearly all types of work on the battle field. I have this idea because of i shot a few times the old WW2 gun Fallschirmjägergewehr 42, and this had an spring on the stock too reducce the felt recoil and the top wandering of this short gun with the powerfull 8x57IS😮. Only a downgrade is that our triggergroup is a bit in movement but the reduce of recoil is great😊. You can see the difference on ,,Forgotten Weapons'' Channel the FG 42 in fully auto. I love your MDRX/wlvrn/saberthooth and i think, the .308 and mayby thr .277 is a big player on battlefield because of the wide using of body armour, drugs and high range of modern weapons and optics. Desert Tech❤

[@robertfansler7800]

The ArmaLite (version 15) really displays the poor design and engineering ideas of U.S. weapons manufacturing of the 1950’s, compared with the earlier firearms designs of European origin, such as CETME, FAL or even the AK. The “Forward Assist” is a “Rube Goldberg” example of inferior design of the weapon, you didn’t mention. A BandAid solution!😢

[@noahyoung2910]

There are two trains of thought I've heard about the incorporation of the Forward Assist into the AR/M16 design. I personally believe the first. First is it was only added because the original slab/slick side M-16s that the US fielded were not chrome-lined and GIs were not properly trained to service them(mostly due to how quickly the US wanted to put them into use). The environment of Vietnam on not properly serviced rifles caused pitting in the rifles which in turn caused jamming, so the FA was added to force the gun into battery. If this is the case its not really needed today as most modern ARs don't have that problem the early ones did (the T-91 is an example of that) Second is that it was added for more quietly putting it into battery after slowly riding the charging handle forward, or making sure its in battery after checking to see if you have a round already chambered. If thats the case then I could see the utility of it, but I feel it is very circumstantial. Eugene stoner didn't feel the rifle needed a FA so it wasn't incorporated. Also Colt initially offered the rifles to the US government with chrome-lined barrels, but the government initially deemed it unnecessary. So basically if the US government had listened to the manufacturers we likely wouldn't have the FA at all

[@warhawke223]

the AR is a target rifle tarted up to look like a combat weapon, always was

[@christopher7310]

I love his video. I have many of the same complaints for the AR. I've built four and probably owned twice that many in my lifetime. And the reason for that is they end up pissing me off so I get rid of them and then I find myself deciding to get another one. They are dirty, and after you buy the weapon you need to spend even more money on parts to make them reliable and ergonomically fit for you. After spending my life around many different types of shooters from military to law enforcement to civilian, I think the AR-15 has so many fanboys because it is the most "TACTICOOL" rifle someone can own without absolutely obliterating their bank account. Nowadays you can build a decent one for less than $1,000. Affordability and parts availability is what makes these rifles so popular. When I was growing up, everyone was shooting SKS's. Not because they were the best rifle. But because they were inexpensive and kind of resembled the then "TACTICOOL" AK-47. I also agree with you saying that people believe that if the military use it it must be the best there is. I was in the military. That is not the case. The military uses the best it can get for the lowest price possible. That's why the military still hasn't widely adopted 300 blackout for its shorter barrels. It's not so far and beyond better than 556 to justify the price and kit and logistic changes. It's also the reason why there are better weapons out right now that take the same 5.56 round that the military still has not adopted. Much as us poor citizens, they are very budget conscious. Why buy 500,000 great rifles when you can buy 2 million decent rifles for the same price? I understand that that is an over exaggeration, but the point still stands. AR-15 is the closest weapon a civilian can own that closely resembles military weapons. Within a budget that your average person can afford. The moment a better rifle comes out that can be made to look "TACTICOOL" that can be had for the same price, I have no doubt that there will be far less AR-15's being sold.

[@DesertTechUT]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts and experiences. 👍🏻

[@jimmiebourque2234]

I hate ar 15s for the same reason I hate glocks???their overrated 😂

[@NathanMyrick-r2c]

These are very valid points. The AR-15 was designed 70 years ago, and it fires an anemic cartridge. It's conventionalism at it's worst. Why would we stick with a buffer tube and cut down the barrel to reduce the effectiveness of said anemic cartridge? Oh, conventionalism, and we're too lazy to train soldiers on a new weapon system, and bullpups suck. Really? I'd take a Tavor over an M4 any day of the week. Why? Because it does everything an M4 will do, but more efficiently. Where Desert Tech fell off is when they produced the MDR for the civilian market without testing it to military standards. The Tavor was produced to military standards and then marketed to civilians without select fire. Desert Tech has great concepts, but the weapons they develop for the civilian market should be just as good, if not better, than their military counterparts.

[@Hornet135]

Anemic? Come on, man.