Daniel Defense DD4 X1
Daniel Defense · Rifle · Prototype · 2026
Also known as: Project Hunter
Overview
The Daniel Defense DD4 X1 is a premium semi-automatic AR-15-style rifle unveiled at SHOT Show 2026 to mark the company's 25th anniversary. Developed around the technology of the British special forces 'Project Hunter' program, it borrows the rigid bolt-up barrel system from the DD5 platform, adds a DLC-coated bolt carrier and a tungsten recoil-management weight, and integrates carbon-fiber heat shields beneath the handguard. The entire rifle wears an IR-defeating Cerakote finish to suppress its thermal and night-vision signature, positioning it as Daniel Defense's top-tier offering.
Specifications
| Action Type | Gas Operated |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Stage |
| Magazine Capacity | 30 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Effective Range | 500 m (547 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Frame Material | Aluminum |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Polymer |
| Finish | Cerakote |
Calibers
- 5.56x45mm NATO · primary · 5.56mm NATO — also known as 5.56 NATO, .223 Remington, 5.56x45mm
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety
- Features: Carbon Fiber Heat Shield, Ir Defeating Cerakote, Dlc Bolt Carrier, Tungsten Recoil Weight, Bolt Up Barrel System, Free Float Handguard, M Lok, Ambidextrous Controls
Production
Production years: 2026-present
Announced at SHOT Show 2026; civilian release planned for Q3 2026
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Notes
Full specifications had not been officially published at the time of its SHOT Show 2026 reveal. Expected to reach the civilian market in Q3 2026 at roughly USD 3,000. Numeric specs are intentionally null pending official release.
Background
Daniel Defense unveiled the DD4 X1 at SHOT Show 2026 to celebrate its 25th anniversary, drawing directly on engineering done for the British 'Project Hunter' special forces rifle program even though the platform was developed for export and the commercial market.