A Year with the Desert Tech MDRX (Review)

Published on March 25, 2021
Duration: 23:34

This review of the Desert Tech MDRX, presented by James Reeves of TFB TV, offers a critical look at its development, reliability, and unique features. Reeves, an experienced firearms journalist, details the rifle's journey from its 2014 SHOT Show debut through production delays and reliability improvements, culminating in the MDRX variant. The review highlights the rifle's modularity, accuracy potential, and bullpup advantages, while also addressing significant drawbacks like the hot gas block and a complex forward-ejection jam.

Quick Summary

The Desert Tech MDRX review highlights its bullpup advantages like a 16-inch barrel's performance in a compact size, sub-MOA accuracy potential, and caliber modularity. However, it notes significant drawbacks including a hot gas block rail, a concussive muzzle brake, and a critical forward-ejection jam issue if not cycled aggressively, leading to a recommendation for the MDRX-SE variant for reliability-focused users.

Chapters

  1. 00:15MDR Debut & Development
  2. 03:27Reliability Issues & Company Response
  3. 05:22The MDRX Evolution
  4. 07:49Bullpup Advantages & Accuracy
  5. 12:19Caliber Conversions & Suppressor Use
  6. 17:04Negatives & Technical Gripes
  7. 19:00The Forward Eject Jam

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main advantages of the Desert Tech MDRX bullpup rifle?

The MDRX offers the velocity and fragmentation range of a 16-inch barrel in a compact, submachine gun-sized package. It features a high-quality, approximately 4.4 lb trigger and true ambidextrous controls, making it a versatile bullpup platform.

What are the common reliability issues associated with the Desert Tech MDRX?

Early production models faced issues like short-stroking and ripped case rims due to an improperly tuned gas system. A critical flaw in the forward ejection system can cause jams if the action isn't cycled aggressively, often requiring pliers to clear.

How does the Desert Tech MDRX-SE compare to the standard MDRX?

The MDRX-SE (Side Eject) is presented as a more reliable, lighter, and cheaper alternative to the forward eject MDRX. It is recommended for users who do not require true ambidexterity but still want the MDR platform's benefits.

What are the key upgrades in the MDRX compared to the original MDR?

The MDRX (Extreme) features a stronger polymer chassis with higher glass concentration, an improved trigger, and a redesigned gas block. These upgrades enhance its ruggedness and ability to pass military-grade immersion tests.

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