
Walther PDP 9mm Review
December 14, 2024
Desert Tactical Arms SRS-A1 Rifle Review
January 1, 2025Desert Tactical Arms Covert - Detailed Review
Price Range:
$5,000 - $6,500
Specification
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Manufacturer Name | Desert Tactical Arms |
Country of Origin | USA |
First Build Date | 2000s |
Action | Semi-Automatic |
Caliber | 9mm |
Magazine Capacity | 10-15 rounds (depending on model) |
Barrel Length | 7.5 inches (for Covert model) |
Overall Length | 15.5 inches |
Weight | 5.4 KG |
Price Range | $5,000 – $6,500 |
Overview
The Desert Tactical Arms Covert is a high-performance semi-automatic rifle chambered in 9mm, designed for tactical and precision applications. Manufactured in the USA, it was first introduced in the early 2000s and quickly gained popularity due to its compact size, accuracy, and versatile design. The Covert model, specifically designed for portability and discretion, is equipped with a shorter barrel, making it more suited for close-quarter combat (CQB) and tactical operations.
This rifle is known for its modular construction, which allows for easy customization and maintenance. Its unique folding stock makes it compact enough to fit into small spaces while retaining the accuracy and power necessary for both law enforcement and military operations. The Desert Tactical Arms Covert is a top choice for professionals looking for a reliable, accurate, and highly portable rifle for tactical use.


Strength and Quality
The Desert Tactical Arms Covert is a top-tier rifle, built with the utmost attention to detail. The rifle features a fully adjustable stock, high-quality optics rail, and ergonomic controls, making it a comfortable and customizable option for a wide range of shooters. The build quality is exceptional, with a tight tolerance in every part, ensuring long-lasting durability and consistent performance. Its modular design allows for quick disassembly and reassembly, making it easier to maintain and upgrade over time.
Safety Features
The Desert Tactical Arms Covert is equipped with a manual safety switch that effectively blocks the trigger mechanism, preventing accidental discharges. Additionally, the rifle’s design ensures that the chamber remains secure even when loaded, further reducing the risk of mishaps. The rifle’s folding stock also ensures that it is more stable when deployed, preventing any unintended movements that might affect the shooter’s control over the weapon.
Test Results
- Accuracy: The Desert Tactical Arms Covert boasts excellent accuracy, delivering sub-MOA (Minute of Angle) precision with match-grade ammunition. It consistently groups within 1.5 inches at 100 yards.
- Effective Range: Due to the 9mm chambering and barrel length, the effective range of the Covert is approximately 300-400 meters, though with premium optics, it can be extended.
- Recoil: Recoil is minimal, with the design of the rifle and its short barrel mitigating much of the impact. This makes follow-up shots quick and accurate, especially in rapid-fire situations.
- Strength: The Covert is built to withstand harsh environments, featuring robust materials such as aluminum alloy and steel in its construction. This rifle is designed to perform reliably in extreme weather conditions, maintaining its accuracy and functionality.
Merits
- Compact Design: The folding stock and short barrel make the Covert an excellent choice for tactical situations that require mobility and stealth.
- Accuracy: The rifle delivers impressive accuracy at extended ranges for its size, with consistent groupings well within MOA standards.
- Customization: Its modular design allows for easy customization, offering users a platform that can be adapted to their specific needs and preferences.
- Durability: Constructed with durable materials, the Covert is built to handle rough environments and maintain reliable performance in all conditions.
Demerits
- Price: At $3,000 to $3,500, the Desert Tactical Arms Covert is relatively expensive, which may make it inaccessible for some buyers.
- Limited Caliber: The rifle is chambered in 9mm, which, while effective for tactical and precision use, may not provide the same range or power as larger-caliber rifles.
- Weight: While the Covert is compact, it is still relatively heavy at 5.5 lbs, which might be cumbersome for some shooters in prolonged use situations.
Maintenance
- Routine cleaning of the barrel and gas system is essential to maintaining accuracy and preventing buildup of carbon residue.
- Lubrication of the action and moving parts ensures smooth operation and prevents unnecessary wear on the rifle’s components.
- Inspect the folding stock mechanism and optics rail for loose screws or damage, as these parts may be prone to wear with extended use.
- Check the magazine and feed system regularly to ensure reliable feeding and proper function during rapid fire situations.
Comparison with Other Guns
Desert Tactical Arms Covert vs Other Rifles
Feature | Desert Tactical Arms Covert | Barrett MRAD | Sako TRG 42 | Accuracy International AXMC | Steyr SSG 08 | McMillan TAC-338 |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Country of Origin | United States | United States | Finland | United Kingdom | Austria | United States |
Caliber | .308 Winchester, .338 Lapua Magnum | .338 Lapua Magnum, .300 Norma Magnum | .338 Lapua Magnum | .338 Lapua Magnum | .338 Lapua Magnum | .338 Lapua Magnum |
Effective Range | 1,200 m | 1,500 m | 1,200 m | 1,500 m | 1,500 m | 1,200 m |
Weight (Unloaded) | 5.4 kg | 6.9 kg | 5.0 kg | 6.9 kg | 5.9 kg | 6.8 kg |
Magazine Capacity | 10 rounds | 10 rounds | 10 rounds | 10 rounds | 10 rounds | 5 rounds |
Action | Bolt-action | Bolt-action | Bolt-action | Bolt-action | Bolt-action | Bolt-action |
Primary Use | Military, Tactical operations | Military, Tactical operations | Military, Long-range precision | Military, Law Enforcement | Military, Precision shooting | Military, Long-range precision |
Price Range (USD) | $5,000–$6,500 | $6,500–$8,500 | $8,000–$10,000 | $12,000–$14,000 | $6,000–$7,500 | $7,500–$9,500 |
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
The Desert Tactical Arms Covert is best suited for tactical operations, precision shooting, and situations where portability, accuracy, and stealth are required.
The Covert stands out for its compact design, which makes it ideal for CQB, while still offering excellent accuracy at extended ranges. Its semi-automatic action ensures quick follow-up shots, and its modular design allows for easy customization.
While the Covert is on the higher end in terms of price, its exceptional build quality, accuracy, and modularity make it a worthwhile investment for those who require a precision rifle for tactical use.