The Desert Tech MDR (Micro Dynamic Rifle) project caused quite a stir when it was unveiled at the SHOT Show several years ago. It was certainly a very ambitious project for a small private company to undertake, but also the kind of radical leap-ahead design that only a small private company could get away with.
Desert Tech’s ambitions to develop the most capable and flexible Battle Rifle of the Future have certainly faced a number of setbacks and challenges along the way, and it seems that Silverback Airsoft has also run into some roadblocks with their MDR AEG project as well. Nonetheless, according to their latest update – posted yesterday – they are persevering and ploughing ahead. Their update follows:
While the mass production of MDR has started last year, multiple local and international events have made the task considerably longer than expected. Given the current circumstances, we estimate that the MDR AEG will hit the market within 6 to 9 months, but it could be longer if the situation deteriorates in our production areas.
What we can tell you at this stage:
- It will be the latest version of the MDR, the MDR-X, in 7.62mm version
- Length: 700mm
- Weight: 2.6KG (with magazine, without battery)
- 420mm inner barrel (brass, 6.05mm bore)
- It will be available in Black and FDE
- It takes G&P/ A&K type SR-25 mags, will be delivered with a polymer 80 rounds midcap
- The 10mm ball bearing gearbox is partly proprietary but most V2/V3 gear sets and piston body will be compatible with slight modifications
- Computerized trigger and motor control, Dean (T-Plug) connectors
- Battery bay can accommodate Li-Po stick/AK type batteries (7.4V or 11.1V)
- There are plans for MDR-C (compact version), 5.56mm adapters kits, barrels kits, handguards and many other things, but later
Check out this 3D presentation of the MDR-X for a detailed visual explanation of its features:
We will make another update end of July to keep you advised on the ETA and other details of the MDR-X.