Mk 18 Mod 1 CQBR

Daniel Defense · Carbine · In Production · 2009

Also known as: CQBR, Close Quarters Battle Receiver, Mk18

Overview

The Mk 18 Mod 1 CQBR is a select-fire carbine chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO, produced by Daniel Defense since 2009. Featuring a 30-round magazine capacity, this carbine offers generous firepower for duty use and home defense.

Specifications

Weight (empty)2722 g (96.0 oz)
Weight (loaded)3292 g (116.1 oz)
Overall Length679 mm (26.73")
Folded Length679 mm (26.73")
Barrel Length262 mm (10.31")
Action TypeGas Operated Direct Impingement
Firing MechanismHammer Fired
Trigger TypeSingle Stage
Trigger Pull32 N (7.2 lbf)
Magazine Capacity30 rounds
Magazine TypeDetachable Box
Muzzle Velocity777 m/s (2549 fps)
Muzzle Energy1210 J (892 ft·lbf)
Effective Range350 m (383 yd)
Maximum Range3200 m (3500 yd)
Rate of Fire800 rpm
Barrel RiflingRight Hand
Rifling Twist178 mm (7.01")
Number of Grooves6
Frame MaterialAluminum Alloy
Barrel MaterialSteel
Stock MaterialPolymer
FinishHard Anodized

Calibers

Features

Base model

M4a1-Carbine

Service history

Operators

Conflicts

Production

Production years: 2009-present

Produced by Daniel Defense for US Special Operations Command

Origin

Country of origin: United States

Notes

The Mk 18 Mod 1 addresses shortcomings of the earlier Mk 18 Mod 0, which used the Knights Armament M4 RAS rail system. The RIS II rail system is lighter, stronger, and provides better heat management during sustained fire. The short 10.3-inch barrel reduces muzzle velocity but significantly improves maneuverability in vehicles, buildings, and confined spaces. When used with a suppressor, the weapon achieves an optimal balance of compactness and noise reduction. The Mk 18 platform has become one of the most widely cloned and imitated firearms in the civilian AR-15 market.

Background

The Mk 18 became the weapon of choice for US Navy SEAL Team Six and other tier-one units operating in the dense urban environments of Iraq and Afghanistan. Its compact profile made it ideal for vehicle operations, building clearing, and VIP protection details. The weapon gained legendary status in the special operations community for its reliability and effectiveness in close-quarters combat.