The Lightest 300 Blackout PDW There Is

Published on August 25, 2023
Duration: 33:18

This review of the GQ Armory Paladin Black Edition 300 Blackout PDW highlights its lightweight design and feature set, but also details significant reliability issues. The firearm experienced failure-to-feed problems attributed to specific ammunition types and a critical bolt catch malfunction. While the gun offers premium features, potential buyers should be aware of its sensitivity to ammunition and potential component failures, particularly the bolt catch.

Quick Summary

The GQ Armory Paladin Black Edition 300 Blackout PDW is criticized for its ammunition sensitivity and a critical bolt catch malfunction. While designed to be the lightest on the market, its extreme weight savings may impact reliability, and it requires careful ammunition selection and potential component replacement for dependable operation.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro & Previous Issues
  2. 01:32Initial Impressions of the Paladin
  3. 02:28Introducing the GQ Armory Paladin Black Edition
  4. 03:23Relationship with GQ Armory
  5. 04:48About GQ Armory
  6. 06:01Paladin Series Variations
  7. 07:01Understanding the Paladin's Purpose
  8. 08:11Lightest 300 Blackout PDW Claim
  9. 09:00Critique on Lightweight Focus
  10. 10:53Bolt Carrier Group Analysis
  11. 11:33Lack of Dust Cover Concerns
  12. 13:21Feature Set Overview
  13. 13:32Lower Receiver Details
  14. 14:58Trigger Performance
  15. 15:44Critical Issues: Failure to Feed
  16. 17:01Ammunition Sensitivity Explained
  17. 19:44Critical Issues: Bolt Catch Failure
  18. 20:53Bolt Catch Diagnosis and Replacement
  19. 22:39Ambi Safety and Stock/Brace
  20. 23:20Upper Receiver Specs
  21. 24:05Handguard Design
  22. 24:52Bolt Carrier Group Coating (TDC)
  23. 27:28Suppressor and Muzzle Device
  24. 28:04Price and Value Proposition
  25. 29:03Final Thoughts & Field Stripping
  26. 29:57Shooting Impressions & Maintenance
  27. 30:32Overall Assessment: Mixed Bag
  28. 31:10Finicky Nature of 300 Blackout PDWs
  29. 32:10Firearms Legal Protection Mention

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main criticisms of the GQ Armory Paladin Black Edition 300 Blackout PDW?

The primary criticisms include significant ammunition sensitivity leading to failure-to-feed issues and a critical malfunction with the bolt catch not locking to the rear. Its extreme lightweight design, while a selling point, may also contribute to reduced reliability in adverse conditions.

How does the GQ Armory Paladin address the 300 Blackout's reputation for being a picky caliber?

The Paladin features an adjustable gas block from Q, allowing users to tune the gas system for specific ammunition types. However, the firearm still demonstrated sensitivity, performing best with full-power factory ammunition and struggling with certain reloads and round-nose projectiles.

What specific component failed on the GQ Armory Paladin during testing?

A critical failure occurred with the bolt catch, identified as a Battle Arms component. The nub on the bolt catch was too short to reliably engage with magazine followers, preventing the bolt from locking to the rear after the last round was fired.

Is the GQ Armory Paladin suitable for home defense given its issues?

Based on the review, the Paladin's ammunition sensitivity and the critical bolt catch malfunction make it currently unsuitable for home defense until these issues are resolved. Reliability in critical situations is paramount, and these problems need to be addressed first.

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