FightLite MCR
FightLite Industries · Machine Gun · Limited Production · 2002
Also known as: Ares Shrike, Ares Shrike 5.56, MCR-060, Modular Combat Rifle, Mission Configurable Rifle
Overview
The FightLite MCR (Mission Configurable Rifle), formerly known as the Ares Shrike, is a belt-fed conversion of the AR-15/M16 platform that operates from a closed-bolt with a side-mounted short-stroke gas piston. Capable of feeding from either standard AR-15 STANAG box magazines or M27-linked disintegrating belts (the same as the FN Minimi/M249), the MCR offers the firepower of a squad automatic weapon in a package that fits any milspec AR-15 lower receiver without modification. Now in its 6th generation, the MCR has been refined for sustained-fire reliability and is reportedly fielded in limited numbers by special operations units seeking a lightweight, suppressed alternative to belt-fed light machine guns.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 5125 g (180.8 oz) |
| Overall Length | 838 mm (32.99") |
| Barrel Length | 413 mm (16.26") |
| Action Type | Gas Operated Short Stroke |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Stage |
| Magazine Capacity | 200 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Belt |
| Muzzle Velocity | 940 m/s (3084 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 1767 J (1303 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 600 m (656 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 3600 m (3937 yd) |
| Rate of Fire | 850 rpm |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 178 mm (7.01") |
| Number of Grooves | 6 |
| Frame Material | Aluminum |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Polymer |
| Finish | Hard Coat Anodized |
Calibers
- 5.56x45mm NATO · primary · SS109 / M855 — also known as .223 Remington, 5.56 NATO
- .300 AAC Blackout — also known as 300 BLK, 7.62x35mm
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic, Full Automatic
- Feed systems: M27 Disintegrating Link Belt, Ar 15 Stanag Magazine, Soft Belt Carrier, Hard Belt Carrier 100 Round, Hard Belt Carrier 200 Round
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety
- Features: Quick Change Barrel, Dual Feed, Belt Fed, Stanag Magazine Compatible, M27 Linked Ammunition, Adjustable Gas Regulator, Picatinny Rail, M Lok Handguard, Ar Lower Compatible, Left Side Charging Handle, Suppressor Capable
Variants
- FightLite MCR-060 Dual-Feed Upper — Upper Receiver
- FightLite MCR-556-DF Dual-Feed Rifle — Complete Rifle
Service history
Operators
- Undisclosed Special Operations Forces
- African and Asian military markets
- United States civilian market · adopted 2002
Conflicts
- Global War on Terror (2001-present)
Production
Production years: 2002-present
Low-volume specialty production; civilian semi-auto, select-fire LE/military, and 6th-generation upgraded versions exist
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Designer: Geoffrey A. Herring
Notes
MSRP ~$8,400 USD. The dual-feed mechanism is derived from the WWII MG42 cam-and-pawl system. Civilian semi-auto-only versions and select-fire military versions both exist; only the upper need be replaced on a host AR lower.
Background
Originally developed in the late 1990s by Ares Defense as the 'Shrike,' the MCR was conceived to give a single soldier the suppressing firepower of a belt-fed weapon without the weight or footprint of an M249 SAW - and crucially, it bolts onto the lower receiver of any AR-15 made since 1963.