The Ultimate 7.62×39 AR Build

Finding a reliable and accurate 7.62 AR rifle has been a challenge until now.

The Maxim Defense MDX-508 chambered in 7.62×39 is the answer to that challenge.

With the same heart and soul of the proven PDX, the MDX-508 features an 8.5″ barrel, ideal for when maximum concealment and compactness are important, but not as crucial.

Additionally, you get the firepower of a full-sized AK-47.

It’s designed for Close Quarters Combat due to its small size making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces.

It is offered in three calibers; 5.56 NATO, 300 BLK, and 7.62×39.

Although 5.56 NATO and 300 BLK are the most popular, for this article we’re taking a closer look at the 7.62×39 AR variant.

Maxim Defense MDX-508 | 7.62×39 AR

The 8.5″ barrel of the MDX-508 delivers higher velocities while the CQB system plays a key role in the compact size. The stock adds a mere 4″ to the end of the receiver with a full extension of 8.75″, providing complete comfort to the operator. Additionally, the proprietary bolt carrier group and buffer/spring combo ensure extreme durability and smooth cycling.

The MDX series of firearms are also equipped with the HATEBRAKE muzzle booster. This patent-pending muzzle device significantly reduces recoil, decreases the flash signature, pushes gasses and concussion waves downrange away from the operator, and improves overall performance.

One of the challenges when dealing with 7.62×39 ammo is the fact that it is steel cased and known for light primer strikes. Maxim Defense, again, took that into account and created a solution to that. The MDX-508 contains a more powerful hammer spring and enhanced length firing pin. These two small upgrades ensure that the steel-cased 7.62×39 ammo functions reliably in the MDX platform.

MDX-508 Features

• 7075-T6 Billet Upper and Lower Receiver 6061 Extruded Free Floated Handguard Maxim Defense Stock/Pistol Brace System
• M-Slot Accessory Attachment Points Nitride Coated Military Grade Barrels.
• Barrel Length of 8.5″ and overall length of 21.5″ to 23″.
• HATEBRAKE Muzzle Booster Device.
• Forward Hand Stop with M-RAX™ Spring Loaded Screws.
• Geissele® /ALG® Combat Enhanced Trigger System.
• Radian Ambidextrous Selector Switch.
• Radian Ambidextrous Charging Handle.
• Bilateral Magazine Release.
• Offset QD Sling Mounts.
• Available as a Pistol or SBR
• Each MDX-508 ships with one 20-round magazine

“Maxim Defense Industries Firearms are designed to dominate close-quarter encounters with maximum energy on target and handle the fierce demands of the Tier 1 Community. Our unprecedented concealability allows for the maneuverability needed in offensive/ defensive direct-action engagements” – Maxim Defense

Maxim Defense MDX-508 As Seen on SEAL Team CBS

The specific model used by Bravo Team was the SDX-508; a new integrally suppressed variant of the Maxim Defense MDX 508.

The weapon is seen fitted with the following accessories.

• EOTech XPS3
• EOTech G33 magnifier
• B.E. Meyers MAWL
• INFORCE WML flashlight
• Forward grip
• Backup sights

For the specific episode of SEAL Team CBS that we saw the Maxim Defense MDX-508 used, it was chosen for a specific mission set.

Mission dictates gear and since Bravo Team was being deployed to Venezuela, they needed a weapons system that used ammunition local to the area of operations.

That way if local police or military recover spent casings, they are 7.62×39 which is the common caliber for that region. Leaving an indigenous signature would give the illusion that the firefight was between local gangs, not a US Military unit.

7.62×39 Ammo For Sale

What are our recommendations for the best 7.62×39 ammo?

Well, if you’re running an AR platform chambered in 7.62×39 such as the MDX-508, then we recommend the Maxim Defense ammo. The Maxim Defense TUI ammo is optimized for a shorter barrel and is outstanding against soft targets.

Otherwise, Barnaul and Global Ordnance seem to run reliably in both AK platforms and 7.62×39 AR platforms.

Wrapping it Up

In addition to the MDX-508 rifle, it’s also offered in an AR pistol brace configuration, so if going through the tax stamp process isn’t of interest, no worries.

Either way, you’ve got yourself an incredibly powerful and reliable 7.62×39 platform for close-quarters battle, home defense, and as a truck gun.

 

*This article was originally published on RE Factor Tactical