Desert Tech MDRX
Desert Tech · Sniper Rifle · In Production · 2020
Also known as: MDRx, Micro Dynamic Rifle X, MDR-X, Desert Tech MDR
Overview
The Desert Tech MDRX (Micro Dynamic Rifle X) is a multi-caliber bullpup semi-automatic rifle that represents the evolved successor to Desert Tech's original MDR platform. The MDRX's bullpup configuration delivers a remarkably compact overall length of just 26 inches with a 16-inch barrel in 7.62 NATO, making it one of the shortest full-power battle rifles available. The rifle uses a gas piston operating system with a manual gas regulator and a seven-lug rotating bolt that locks into the barrel extension, providing reliable cycling across a wide range of ammunition types and suppressed/unsuppressed configurations. A key feature of the MDRX is its multi-caliber convertibility -- with barrel and bolt changes, the rifle can be configured for .308 Winchester, 5.56x45mm NATO, 6.5 Creedmoor, or .300 Blackout using factory conversion kits and included tools. The impact-resistant polymer outer shell provides durability while keeping weight to under 9 pounds.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 3946 g (139.2 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 4450 g (157.0 oz) |
| Overall Length | 661 mm (26.02") |
| Barrel Length | 410 mm (16.14") |
| Action Type | Gas Operated Short Stroke Piston |
| Firing Mechanism | Rotating Bolt |
| Trigger Type | Two Stage |
| Magazine Capacity | 20 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 790 m/s (2592 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 2965 J (2187 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 600 m (656 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 3500 m (3828 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 254 mm (10.00") |
| Frame Material | Polymer |
| Barrel Material | 4140 Steel |
| Stock Material | Polymer |
| Finish | Matte Black |
Calibers
- 7.62x51mm NATO · primary · 7.62x51mm NATO — also known as .308 Winchester, 7.62mm NATO, 7.62x51mm
- 5.56x45mm NATO · 5.56x45mm NATO — also known as 5.56mm NATO, .223 Remington
- 6.5 Creedmoor — also known as 6.5 CM, 6.5x48mm
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Ambidextrous Safety, Firing Pin Safety
- Features: Bullpup Configuration, Multi Caliber Convertible, Forward Ejection, Ambidextrous Controls, Adjustable Gas Regulator, Picatinny Rail, Suppressor Ready, Tool Free Barrel Change
Variants
- MDRX Micron — Compact
- MDRX 20" (.308) — Dmr
Production
Production years: 2020-present
Produced in West Valley City, Utah for civilian and law enforcement markets.
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Designer: Nick Young
Notes
The MDRX is the refined production version of the original MDR, incorporating user feedback to improve the trigger, ejection system, and overall reliability. The forward ejection option allows fully ambidextrous operation without concern for brass ejection, while side-ejection kits are also available. The rifle uses standard AR-10 (DPMS/SR-25) pattern magazines in 7.62 NATO configuration and standard AR-15 STANAG magazines in 5.56 NATO configuration. The 16-inch barrel achieves a 26-inch overall length -- comparable to an AR-15 with the stock fully collapsed, despite firing full-power 7.62 NATO ammunition. The Micron variant features an 11.5-inch barrel for ultra-compact configurations.
Background
The MDRX achieves what few rifles can -- full .308 Winchester power in a package shorter than most 5.56mm carbines. Its multi-caliber capability means a single rifle can be converted between four calibers in minutes with just included tools.