The CMMG Inc. Dissent Mk4 – 22Arc – Tungsten Made a Bold First Impression
The CMMG Inc. Dissent Mk4 – 22Arc – Tungsten immediately grabs your attention with its distinctive Tungsten Cerakote finish and compact design. This isn’t just another AR platform; it’s a meticulously engineered firearm chambered in the exciting 22 ARC caliber, promising a unique shooting experience. CMMG has built a reputation for innovation, and the Dissent Mk4 seems poised to continue that legacy.
I was searching for a versatile and easily transportable rifle that offered something different from the standard 5.56 or .22LR options. The 22 ARC promised flatter trajectories and greater long-range potential than the .22LR, while the Dissent’s compact design appealed to my desire for a packable firearm. The promise of AR-15 ergonomics in a unique package also piqued my interest.
Unboxing the CMMG Inc. Dissent Mk4 – 22Arc – Tungsten, the first thing I noticed was the quality of the finish. The Tungsten Cerakote provides a durable and visually appealing protective layer. The rifle feels solid and well-built, instilling confidence in its ability to withstand demanding use.
Compared to other compact AR-platform rifles like the Sig Sauer Rattler or the Daniel Defense MK18, the Dissent stands out due to its caliber and bufferless design. While the other options offer more common calibers like 5.56 NATO or .300 BLK, the 22 ARC offered a more specialized role, and the absence of a traditional buffer tube simplifies transportation and storage. I also considered a .22LR AR-15, but the 22 ARC’s higher velocity and flatter trajectory ultimately won me over.
My initial impression was one of excitement mixed with a healthy dose of anticipation. The unique design and caliber of the CMMG Inc. Dissent Mk4 – 22Arc – Tungsten promised a rewarding shooting experience, but the proof would be in its performance at the range. Would it live up to the hype?
Real-World Testing: Putting CMMG Inc. Dissent Mk4 – 22Arc – Tungsten to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the CMMG Inc. Dissent Mk4 – 22Arc – Tungsten at my local outdoor shooting range, setting up targets at 50, 100, and 200 yards. The weather was clear and sunny, providing ideal conditions for sighting in the rifle. I mounted a 1-6x LPVO to fully utilize the 22 ARC’s potential.
The Dissent Mk4 performed admirably, even in slightly breezy conditions. The 22 ARC exhibited a noticeably flatter trajectory than .22LR, making hits at 100 and 200 yards much easier. Recoil was minimal, allowing for quick follow-up shots.
The Dissent was easy to use, with familiar AR-15 controls. The ambidextrous charging handle and safety selector were particularly welcome additions. There were no malfunctions in the first 100 rounds.
After the initial range session, the only surprise was how accurate the rifle was for its size. I had anticipated acceptable accuracy, but it exceeded my expectations, creating tight groupings even at longer distances.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the CMMG Inc. Dissent Mk4 – 22Arc – Tungsten continues to impress. I’ve taken it on several backcountry camping trips, where its compact size and relatively light weight proved invaluable. The rifle has also seen action in a few informal shooting competitions.
The Tungsten Cerakote finish has held up exceptionally well, showing no signs of wear despite being jostled around in backpacks and range bags. Internally, the rifle remains clean and functional, requiring only minimal lubrication. I’ve put approximately 500 rounds through it without any failures to feed or eject.
Cleaning and maintaining the CMMG Inc. Dissent Mk4 – 22Arc – Tungsten is straightforward, thanks to its simple design. A standard AR-15 cleaning kit is sufficient for most maintenance tasks. The bufferless design makes disassembly slightly easier than a traditional AR.
Compared to my experiences with other AR-platform rifles, the CMMG Inc. Dissent Mk4 – 22Arc – Tungsten stands out in terms of portability and unique caliber performance. While a standard AR-15 may offer greater customization options and a wider range of available ammunition, the Dissent’s compact size and the 22 ARC caliber make it a specialized tool that excels in specific situations. It has surpassed my expectations for a compact, lightweight, and accurate platform.
Breaking Down the Features of CMMG Inc. Dissent Mk4 – 22Arc – Tungsten
Specifications
- Caliber: 22 ARC. This provides a flatter trajectory and improved long-range performance compared to .22LR.
- Barrel Length: 16.10″. This length strikes a balance between maneuverability and optimal velocity for the 22 ARC caliber.
- Twist Rate: 1:7. The 1:7 twist rate is optimized for stabilizing the longer, heavier bullets often used in the 22 ARC cartridge.
Performance & Functionality
The CMMG Inc. Dissent Mk4 – 22Arc – Tungsten performs its job with remarkable accuracy and reliability. Its compact design and AR-15 ergonomics contribute to its ease of use and comfortable handling. It excels in its role as a lightweight, packable, and accurate platform for the 22 ARC cartridge.
The rifle’s strengths lie in its accuracy, portability, and reliable cycling of the 22 ARC ammunition. One area for potential improvement is the availability of aftermarket parts specifically designed for the Dissent platform. While it accepts standard AR-15 trigger groups and pistol grips, some components are proprietary to the Dissent design.
The CMMG Inc. Dissent Mk4 – 22Arc – Tungsten meets and exceeds my expectations for a compact AR-platform rifle. Its unique caliber and innovative design set it apart from the competition.
Design & Ergonomics
The CMMG Inc. Dissent Mk4 – 22Arc – Tungsten features a high-quality build, utilizing durable materials and precise manufacturing. The Tungsten Cerakote finish provides excellent corrosion resistance and a visually appealing aesthetic. Its weight is well-balanced, making it comfortable to hold and shoot.
The Dissent Mk4 is incredibly user-friendly, especially for those familiar with the AR-15 platform. The controls are intuitive and easily accessible. There is minimal learning curve for experienced shooters.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care and maintenance, the CMMG Inc. Dissent Mk4 – 22Arc – Tungsten is built to last for years to come. The durable materials and robust construction ensure its ability to withstand demanding use.
The CMMG Inc. Dissent Mk4 – 22Arc – Tungsten is easy to maintain and repair. Its simple design allows for quick disassembly and cleaning.
Accessories and Customization Options
The CMMG Inc. Dissent Mk4 – 22Arc – Tungsten is compatible with a wide range of AR-15 accessories, including triggers, pistol grips, and optics. The rifle features a Picatinny rail for mounting scopes, red dots, and other accessories.
While specific Dissent-branded accessories are limited, it accepts standard AR-15 pattern magazines. Finding aftermarket handguards and other components specifically designed for the Dissent can be more challenging, requiring research to ensure compatibility.
Pros and Cons of CMMG Inc. Dissent Mk4 – 22Arc – Tungsten
Pros
- Exceptional Accuracy: Provides impressive accuracy for a compact rifle, especially at longer ranges with the 22 ARC cartridge.
- Compact and Lightweight: The bufferless design makes it incredibly portable and easy to pack.
- AR-15 Ergonomics: Familiar controls and user-friendly design make it easy to operate.
- Reliable Cycling: Feeds and ejects 22 ARC ammunition reliably.
- Durable Finish: The Tungsten Cerakote finish provides excellent corrosion resistance.
Cons
- Limited Aftermarket Support: Fewer dedicated accessories compared to standard AR-15 platforms.
- Proprietary Parts: Some internal components are specific to the Dissent design, limiting interchangeability.
Who Should Buy CMMG Inc. Dissent Mk4 – 22Arc – Tungsten?
The CMMG Inc. Dissent Mk4 – 22Arc – Tungsten is perfect for shooters seeking a compact, accurate, and reliable AR-platform rifle in a unique caliber. It’s ideal for varmint hunters, recreational target shooters, and those looking for a packable firearm for backcountry adventures. Survivalists who prioritize lightweight and adaptable gear would also find the Dissent to be a valuable asset.
Those who require maximum customization options and readily available aftermarket parts should consider a more standard AR-15 platform. Shooters primarily interested in close-quarters engagements might find other caliber choices (like 5.56 NATO or .300 BLK) more suitable.
A quality optic (such as a 1-6x LPVO) is a must-have accessory to fully utilize the 22 ARC’s long-range potential. A reliable sling and a supply of 22 ARC ammunition are also essential additions.
Conclusion on CMMG Inc. Dissent Mk4 – 22Arc – Tungsten
The CMMG Inc. Dissent Mk4 – 22Arc – Tungsten is an innovative and well-engineered firearm that delivers on its promises. It combines the familiar ergonomics of the AR-15 platform with a unique caliber and compact design, resulting in a highly versatile and capable rifle.
The price of $1,326.99 is justified considering the quality of construction, innovative design, and the unique performance characteristics of the 22 ARC cartridge. While the cost is higher than some other AR-platform options, the Dissent offers a specialized value proposition for shooters seeking a compact and accurate rifle.
I would personally recommend the CMMG Inc. Dissent Mk4 – 22Arc – Tungsten to anyone looking for a compact and reliable AR-platform rifle chambered in the exciting 22 ARC caliber. If you value portability, accuracy, and a unique shooting experience, the Dissent Mk4 is definitely worth considering. Experience the difference – add the CMMG Inc. Dissent Mk4 – 22Arc – Tungsten to your collection today!