PWS MK116 Mod 2-M
Primary Weapons Systems · Carbine · In Production · 2017
Also known as: MK116 MOD 2-M, MK1 Mod 2
Overview
The PWS MK116 Mod 2-M is a premium piston-driven AR-15 carbine chambered in .223 Wylde, offering exceptional accuracy and reliability. Manufactured by Primary Weapons Systems in Idaho, this rifle features their proprietary long-stroke gas piston system with a 3-position adjustable gas block, allowing optimal performance in various conditions including suppressed fire. The 16.1-inch barrel is made from 41V50 chromium-molybdenum-vanadium alloy steel and is hand-lapped for precision. The rifle utilizes a 15-inch PicLok handguard that combines M-LOK mounting slots with Picatinny rail sections, providing versatile accessory mounting while maintaining a slim profile. Standard features include a BCM Gunfighter stock and pistol grip, Radian Raptor ambidextrous charging handle, and an enhanced H2 buffer. The .223 Wylde chamber provides superior accuracy with both .223 Remington and 5.56mm NATO ammunition. Unlike traditional direct impingement AR-15s, the long-stroke piston system keeps heat and fouling away from the bolt carrier group, significantly reducing cleaning requirements and enhancing reliability.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 3084 g (108.8 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 3654 g (128.9 oz) |
| Overall Length | 889 mm (35.00") |
| Folded Length | 787 mm (30.98") |
| Barrel Length | 409 mm (16.10") |
| Action Type | Gas Operated Long Stroke |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Stage |
| Trigger Pull | 30 N (6.7 lbf) |
| Magazine Capacity | 30 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 914 m/s (2999 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 1672 J (1233 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 500 m (547 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 3600 m (3937 yd) |
| Rate of Fire | 800 rpm |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 203 mm (7.99") |
| Number of Grooves | 6 |
| Frame Material | Aluminum Alloy |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Polymer |
| Finish | Hard Anodized |
Calibers
- .223 Wylde · primary — also known as .223 Wylde chamber, 5.56/.223 hybrid
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety Selector, Half Cock Notch
- Features: Collapsible Stock, Accessory Rail, Rotating Bolt, Flat Top Receiver, Picatinny Rail, M Lok Handguard, Free Floating Rail, Adjustable Gas Block, Ambidextrous Controls, Flared Magazine Well
Service history
Operators
- Law Enforcement · as MK116 Mod 2
- Civilian Sport Shooters · as MK116 Mod 2-M
Production
Production years: 2017-present
Manufactured in-house by Primary Weapons Systems in Boise, Idaho
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Designer: Primary Weapons Systems
Notes
The MK116 Mod 2-M eliminates the forward assist found on mil-spec AR-15s, as the piston system makes it unnecessary. After 2,200 rounds of testing, reviewers documented 1.25-1.5 MOA accuracy at 100 yards with match-grade ammunition and zero malfunctions. The rifle remained functional after 2,000 rounds without cleaning, demonstrating the inherent reliability advantages of the piston system. The PWS long-stroke piston design differs from short-stroke systems (like HK416 or Adams Arms) by having the op-rod attached directly to the bolt carrier, similar to the AK-47 design. The 3-position adjustable gas block allows fine-tuning for different ammunition types, suppressor use, and environmental conditions. Weight is surprisingly manageable for a piston rifle at 6.8 lbs, without the typical front-heavy balance. The rifle comes with a proprietary Radian Raptor charging handle specifically designed to work with PWS's piston system.
Background
The MK116 Mod 2 represents PWS's commitment to advancing piston-driven AR technology, building on lessons learned from earlier MK1 designs. The rifle gained recognition in the competitive shooting community for its accuracy and reliability, with many 3-gun competitors adopting it for its soft recoil characteristics and minimal maintenance requirements.