500 Round Review: Griffin Armament MK2 12 with LPVO & Suppressor

Published on January 6, 2025
Duration: 17:55

This review of the Griffin Armament MK2 12.5-inch pistol AR-15 highlights its suppressor-optimized design and ambidextrous controls. The reviewer emphasizes the critical importance of proper lubrication, noting that initial unsuppressed malfunctions were user error due to a degreased and dry bolt. Once lubricated, the firearm ran flawlessly both suppressed and unsuppressed, demonstrating the effectiveness of Griffin's fixed gas block and buffer system when properly maintained.

Quick Summary

The Griffin Armament MK2 12.5-inch pistol AR-15 is a suppressor-optimized firearm with fully ambidextrous controls, including a highly praised right-side bolt release. Initial unsuppressed malfunctions were due to user error from a lack of lubrication after spray painting; once properly lubricated, the rifle ran flawlessly suppressed and unsuppressed. The reviewer highlights its lightweight design and excellent value, though suggests upgrading the milspec trigger.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Griffin Armament MK2
  2. 01:21Full Disclosure & Setup Overview
  3. 01:49Griffin Armament MK2 Specs
  4. 02:06Ambidextrous Lower Receiver Features
  5. 02:31Suppressor Optimized Design Explained
  6. 02:57Forend Grips & Heat Mitigation
  7. 03:14Griffin Armament Snatch Charging Handle
  8. 03:30Component Overview: Muzzle Device & Suppressor
  9. 03:52Griffin Armament Scope Mount (GPM)
  10. 04:37Offset Red Dot Setup
  11. 04:53Lower Receiver Components: Grip & Trigger
  12. 05:11SB Tactical SBA3 Brace
  13. 05:45Range Results: 500 Round Test
  14. 05:53Unsuppressed Reliability Issues
  15. 07:09Switching to Suppressed Fire
  16. 07:39Investigating Malfunctions: User Error
  17. 08:07Spray Painting & Lubrication Lesson
  18. 08:35Key Takeaways: Suppressor Optimization
  19. 09:41Bolt Lock Back Issues
  20. 10:45Griffin Armament MK2 Pros & Cons
  21. 11:10Pro: Ambidextrous Lower Receiver
  22. 12:22Pro: Overall Value & Price
  23. 12:56Con: Fixed Gas Block
  24. 13:22Con: Milspec Trigger
  25. 14:02Scope, Mount & Setup Pros/Cons
  26. 15:16Griffin Armament M4 SDL Suppressor Review
  27. 16:00Conclusion & Final Thoughts
  28. 17:13Brace vs. Stock Recommendation

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key features of the Griffin Armament MK2 12.5-inch pistol AR-15?

The Griffin Armament MK2 features a suppressor-optimized design with a fixed gas block and buffer, a fully ambidextrous lower receiver with an excellent right-side bolt release, and comes standard with heat-mitigating forend grips. It's also noted for being a lightweight platform out of the box.

What caused the initial malfunctions in the Griffin Armament MK2 review?

The initial unsuppressed malfunctions, primarily failures to feed, were attributed to user error. The reviewer had spray-painted the rifle and failed to properly lubricate it afterward, leaving the bolt and chamber degreased and dry, which is critical for the firearm's function.

How does the Griffin Armament GPM scope mount enhance usability?

The Griffin Armament GPM scope mount is highly versatile, offering multiple mounting points on its top, 45-degree left, and right sides. This allows users to easily attach accessories like offset red dots, rangefinders, or other tactical gear, providing flexibility for different shooting scenarios.

What is the reviewer's biggest gripe with the Griffin Armament MK2?

The reviewer's biggest gripe is the standard milspec trigger, which they found to be a significant drawback on an otherwise high-value rifle. They recommend upgrading to a high-end aftermarket trigger, such as a Geissele SSA-E, to match the rifle's quality.

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