The CMMG Dissent 22 ARC 16.10″ 6061-T6 Aluminum – Midnight Bronze Made a Bold First Impression
The CMMG Dissent 22 ARC 16.10″ 6061-T6 Aluminum – Midnight Bronze isn’t just another rimfire rifle; it’s a statement. Offered by CMMG, this firearm boasts a unique blend of AR-platform familiarity and .22 ARC’s low-recoil fun, all wrapped in a striking Midnight Bronze finish. The compact design and monolithic upper receiver promise a versatile and accurate shooting experience.
My journey to the CMMG Dissent began with a search for a versatile training tool. I wanted something that mirrored the ergonomics of my AR-15 but offered significantly reduced recoil and cost per round. The Dissent’s promise of AR familiarity with .22 ARC affordability immediately caught my eye.
Unboxing the CMMG Dissent 22 ARC was an experience in itself. The Midnight Bronze finish is truly stunning, and the 6061-T6 aluminum receiver feels incredibly solid. The weight felt perfectly balanced, and the overall fit and finish screamed quality craftsmanship.
Compared to other .22 AR-style platforms like the Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22 or the Tippmann Arms M4-22, the CMMG Dissent stood out due to its monolithic upper and more refined aesthetics. While the others are great plinkers, the Dissent seemed a step above in terms of build quality and intended use. I chose the Dissent for its potential as both a training tool and a fun range companion.
My first impression was pure excitement. The CMMG Dissent 22 ARC felt like a serious piece of hardware, despite being chambered in .22 ARC. It felt like a scaled down AR, ready for some serious range time.
Real-World Testing: Putting CMMG Dissent 22 ARC 16.10″ 6061-T6 Aluminum – Midnight Bronze to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the CMMG Dissent 22 ARC primarily at my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was mild, around 70 degrees Fahrenheit with a slight breeze, providing ideal shooting conditions. I ran several different brands of .22 ARC ammunition through it, from standard velocity to high velocity rounds.
The Dissent performed flawlessly in these conditions. It was incredibly easy to use right out of the box, requiring minimal familiarization. The controls mirrored my standard AR-15, making the transition seamless.
The only surprise was how quiet it was with certain ammunition. Standard velocity rounds were almost whisper-quiet, making it an excellent choice for backyard plinking or introducing new shooters to the sport.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the CMMG Dissent 22 ARC has proven to be remarkably reliable. I’ve put hundreds of rounds through it with only a handful of malfunctions, all of which were easily cleared. The malfunctions were traced back to a particular brand of ammunition.
The Midnight Bronze finish has held up exceptionally well, showing no signs of wear or scratches. The aluminum receiver feels as solid as it did on day one. Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward, thanks to the AR-platform design.
Compared to my previous .22 LR rifles, the CMMG Dissent offers a superior shooting experience. The improved accuracy, familiar controls, and robust construction make it a clear winner in my book. It has surpassed my expectations in both performance and reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of CMMG Dissent 22 ARC 16.10″ 6061-T6 Aluminum – Midnight Bronze
Specifications
The CMMG Dissent 22 ARC 16.10″ 6061-T6 Aluminum – Midnight Bronze boasts some impressive specifications. It is chambered in .22 ARC, offering low recoil and affordable ammunition. The rifle features a 16.1-inch barrel, providing a good balance between maneuverability and accuracy.
The receiver is constructed from durable 6061-T6 aluminum, ensuring long-lasting performance. The entire rifle is finished in a distinctive Midnight Bronze Cerakote, offering excellent corrosion resistance and a unique aesthetic. It accepts CMMG 22 ARC magazines.
- Caliber: .22 ARC
- Barrel Length: 16.1 inches
- Receiver Material: 6061-T6 Aluminum
- Finish: Midnight Bronze Cerakote
- Magazine Compatibility: CMMG 22 ARC Magazines
These specifications contribute to the Dissent’s excellent handling and performance. The aluminum receiver keeps the weight down, while the Cerakote finish protects against the elements. The .22 ARC caliber provides an enjoyable and affordable shooting experience, perfect for training or recreational use.
Performance & Functionality
The CMMG Dissent 22 ARC excels in its intended role as a training and recreational rifle. Its accuracy is impressive for a rimfire platform, easily capable of hitting targets at 50-100 yards. The recoil is virtually nonexistent, making it ideal for new shooters or those sensitive to recoil.
One of its greatest strengths is its AR-15-like handling. The controls are intuitive and familiar, facilitating seamless transitions between centerfire and rimfire platforms. The only area for potential improvement is the trigger, which could be upgraded for a lighter and crisper pull. Overall, the Dissent meets and exceeds expectations for a .22 ARC AR-style platform.
Design & Ergonomics
The CMMG Dissent 22 ARC boasts a well-thought-out design and comfortable ergonomics. The 6061-T6 aluminum receiver feels robust and well-made. The overall weight is manageable, even for smaller shooters.
The rifle is relatively user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve for those familiar with the AR platform. The controls are easily accessible and intuitive.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the CMMG Dissent 22 ARC is built to last. The durable materials and Cerakote finish ensure long-term reliability. Maintenance is simple and straightforward.
Regular cleaning and lubrication are all that’s needed to keep it running smoothly. The CMMG Dissent 22 ARC is designed for years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The CMMG Dissent 22 ARC comes with one magazine. The rifle accepts standard AR-15 pistol grips, allowing for easy customization. It also features a Picatinny rail on the upper receiver, perfect for mounting optics.
Aftermarket accessories are readily available, enhancing its versatility. I added a red dot sight for faster target acquisition and a more ergonomic pistol grip. The rifle’s compatibility with AR-15 accessories makes it incredibly versatile and customizable.
Pros and Cons of CMMG Dissent 22 ARC 16.10″ 6061-T6 Aluminum – Midnight Bronze
Pros
- AR-15 Ergonomics: Familiar controls and handling for seamless training.
- Low Recoil: .22 ARC caliber makes it ideal for new shooters or extended range sessions.
- Excellent Accuracy: Capable of hitting targets at reasonable distances.
- Durable Construction: 6061-T6 aluminum receiver and Midnight Bronze Cerakote finish.
- Customizable: Compatible with AR-15 pistol grips and Picatinny rail for optics.
Cons
- Proprietary Magazines: Requires specific CMMG 22 ARC magazines.
- Trigger Could Be Improved: Stock trigger is functional, but an upgrade would be beneficial.
Who Should Buy CMMG Dissent 22 ARC 16.10″ 6061-T6 Aluminum – Midnight Bronze?
The CMMG Dissent 22 ARC 16.10″ 6061-T6 Aluminum – Midnight Bronze is perfect for anyone seeking a versatile training tool or a fun recreational plinker. It’s ideal for AR-15 enthusiasts, new shooters, or anyone looking for a low-recoil, affordable platform. The AR familiarity makes it an easy step into the AR world.
This is not the right choice for those seeking a high-powered hunting rifle or a competition-grade target rifle. Also, anyone requiring complete parts interchangeability with standard AR-15 components should look elsewhere.
A must-have accessory is a quality red dot sight to enhance accuracy and target acquisition speed. Upgrading the trigger is also highly recommended to improve the overall shooting experience.
Conclusion on CMMG Dissent 22 ARC 16.10″ 6061-T6 Aluminum – Midnight Bronze
The CMMG Dissent 22 ARC 16.10″ 6061-T6 Aluminum – Midnight Bronze is an outstanding rimfire rifle that combines AR-15 ergonomics with the affordability and low recoil of the .22 ARC cartridge. The Midnight Bronze finish gives it a unique and stylish look.
The price is justified by its quality construction, reliable performance, and versatile design. It is an excellent value for those seeking a quality .22 ARC AR-style platform.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the CMMG Dissent 22 ARC to anyone looking for a fun, reliable, and accurate rimfire rifle. It’s a fantastic training tool and a joy to shoot. Go ahead, grab one, and experience the Dissent difference.