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January 1, 2025Desert Tech MDR - Detailed Review
Price Range:
$2,500 - $3,500
Specification
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Manufacturer Name | Desert Tech |
Country of Origin | United States |
First Build Date | 2011 |
Action | Semi-Automatic |
Caliber | 5.56mm NATO / 5.45mm / .223 Remington |
Magazine Capacity | 30 rounds (standard) |
Barrel Length | 16 inches |
Overall Length | 26 inches (with stock extended) |
Weight | 3.86 KG |
Price Range | $2,500 – $3,500 |
Overview
The Desert Tech MDR (Micro Dynamic Rifle) is a bullpup-style, semi-automatic rifle that was designed for modern military, law enforcement, and civilian use. It was first introduced in 2011 and quickly gained recognition for its unique design and compact form factor. The MDR offers versatility, as it is available in various calibers such as 5.56mm NATO, 5.45mm, and .223 Remington.
The bullpup design places the action and magazine behind the trigger, resulting in a shorter overall length without compromising barrel length, making it ideal for maneuvering in tight spaces while maintaining effective range and accuracy. Its ambidextrous controls, interchangeable barrel system, and modular nature allow users to customize the rifle for different mission requirements.


Strength and Quality
Desert Tech is known for manufacturing firearms with excellent build quality, and the MDR is no exception. The rifle is constructed from high-grade materials, ensuring a robust and long-lasting weapon. The trigger mechanism is smooth, and the modularity of the rifle adds a level of customization that enhances the user experience. Additionally, the bullpup design reduces the overall profile without sacrificing barrel length or accuracy, making the MDR a formidable weapon in both combat and sport shooting scenarios.
Safety Features
The Desert Tech MDR is equipped with multiple safety features, including a manual safety switch that is easily accessible by both right- and left-handed shooters. Additionally, the bullpup configuration places the chamber behind the shooter, reducing the risk of accidental discharge while reloading or handling the weapon. The rifle’s robust construction and safe design ensure that it is highly reliable in various operational conditions.
Test Results
- Accuracy: The Desert Tech MDR has shown consistent sub-MOA (Minute of Angle) accuracy at 100 yards with high-quality ammunition. At longer distances, it remains highly effective for combat engagements up to 500-600 yards.
- Effective Range: The rifle performs optimally at distances of 300 to 600 yards. Beyond that, accuracy and terminal performance start to degrade slightly.
- Recoil: The bullpup design helps reduce recoil due to the rifle’s compactness and weight distribution, providing a manageable experience for shooters even during rapid fire.
- Strength: The rifle is made of high-strength polymer and steel components, ensuring durability under extreme conditions. It has performed well in various tests including extreme temperatures and harsh environments.
Merits
- Compactness: The bullpup design makes the MDR exceptionally compact without sacrificing barrel length, ideal for tight spaces like vehicles or CQB (close-quarter battle) scenarios.
- Modularity: The MDR features a modular design that allows for quick barrel changes, enabling users to switch calibers and barrel lengths depending on mission needs.
- Ambidextrous: All controls are ambidextrous, making it suitable for left- and right-handed shooters.
- Reliability: The MDR has earned a reputation for reliability, functioning well in a wide range of environmental conditions, from dust to heavy rain.
Demerits
- Weight: At 8 lbs, the rifle is heavier than some other modern rifles, which may be noticeable during extended use or carrying.
- Limited Aftermarket Support: While the MDR is modular, aftermarket parts and accessories are somewhat limited compared to more established platforms.
- Trigger Pull: Some users have reported that the trigger pull could be smoother, as it is a bit heavier than other rifles in the same category.
- Price: The MDR is on the higher end of the price spectrum, making it a significant investment for civilian buyers.
Maintenance
- The Desert Tech MDR features a self-cleaning gas system, making maintenance easier compared to traditional direct impingement systems.
- The rifle should be cleaned regularly, especially after extended use, to prevent buildup of carbon and residue, which can affect performance.
- The barrel and chamber should be inspected for signs of wear or fouling. The modular design makes it easy to replace the barrel if necessary.
- The action should be lubricated periodically to ensure smooth cycling, particularly for semi-automatic versions.
Comparison with Other Guns
Desert Tech MDR vs Other Rifles
Feature | Desert Tech MDR | FN SCAR 17S | HK G28 | IWI Tavor 7 | Kel-Tec RFB | Springfield Armory M1A |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Country of Origin | United States | Belgium | Germany | Israel | United States | United States |
Caliber | 7.62 NATO, .308 Winchester | 7.62 NATO | 7.62 NATO | 7.62 NATO | 7.62 NATO | .308 Winchester |
Effective Range | 800 m | 600 m | 800 m | 600 m | 500 m | 800 m |
Weight (Unloaded) | 3.86 kg | 3.6 kg | 5.6 kg | 4.1 kg | 3.63 kg | 4.4 kg |
Barrel Length | 16″ (standard) | 16″ or 20″ | 16″ to 20″ | 17″ | 18″ | 22″ |
Action | Gas-operated, short-stroke piston | Gas-operated, short-stroke piston | Gas-operated, short-stroke piston | Gas-operated, short-stroke piston | Gas-operated, forward ejection | Gas-operated |
Magazine Capacity | 20 rounds | 20 rounds | 20 rounds | 20 rounds | 20 rounds | 10 or 20 rounds |
Primary Use | Tactical, Multi-role | Military, Tactical operations | Military, Marksman rifle | Military, Tactical operations | Civilian, Tactical | Military, Civilian long-range |
Price Range (USD) | $2,500–$3,500 | $3,500–$4,000 | $4,500–$5,500 | $2,100–$2,500 | $1,800–$2,200 | $1,600–$2,200 |
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Yes, the Desert Tech MDR is legal for civilian use in the United States, provided it complies with local regulations, including restrictions on magazine capacity and barrel length in certain states.
The Desert Tech MDR is available in several calibers, including 5.56mm NATO, .223 Remington, and 5.45mm. The barrel can be easily swapped to accommodate different calibers.
The MDR is highly compact due to its bullpup design, making it shorter and more maneuverable compared to traditional rifles with similar barrel lengths. This makes it ideal for close-quarter engagements.