CMMG Dissent Mk4 .350 Legend 16.1in Empire Profile Upper Group Review

What Makes CMMG Dissent Mk4 .350 Legend 16.1in Empire Profile Upper Group Stand Out?

The CMMG Dissent Mk4 .350 Legend 16.1in Empire Profile Upper Group offers a unique approach to the AR platform. This complete upper receiver chambered in the potent .350 Legend, manufactured by CMMG, boasts a 16.1-inch barrel with a medium-taper “Empire Profile” designed for optimal weight and state compliance. Its standout feature is the DISSENT operating system, eliminating the need for a traditional buffer tube, making it an intriguing option for those seeking a compact and versatile AR build.

For years, I’ve built ARs, tweaking everything from triggers to gas systems. I needed an upper that was powerful enough for deer hunting in states with cartridge restrictions, but also compact enough to be easily maneuverable in dense brush. The CMMG Dissent Mk4 .350 Legend 16.1in Empire Profile Upper Group seemed like a perfect solution.

My initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid quality. The finish on the aluminum upper receiver was smooth and even, and the barrel had a reassuring weight to it. The build quality seemed top-notch, as expected from CMMG.

Compared to a standard AR-15 upper receiver, the DISSENT’s bufferless system is the biggest difference, and what sets it apart from other .350 Legend uppers like those from Bear Creek Arsenal or Aero Precision. I was also considering a complete .350 Legend AR pistol, but the 16.1-inch barrel of the CMMG Dissent Mk4 .350 Legend 16.1in Empire Profile Upper Group offered better ballistics and complied with local hunting regulations. I picked this CMMG upper due to the combination of .350 Legend caliber, the bufferless design, and the barrel length.

I was excited to get this upper mounted and tested. The promise of a compact .350 Legend AR with reliable CMMG construction was definitely appealing.

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Real-World Testing: Putting CMMG Dissent Mk4 .350 Legend 16.1in Empire Profile Upper Group to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the CMMG Dissent Mk4 .350 Legend 16.1in Empire Profile Upper Group at my local shooting range and on a recent deer hunt in northern Wisconsin. At the range, I focused on accuracy and reliability, while in the field, I evaluated its maneuverability and handling. The range provided a controlled environment, whereas the hunt presented varied terrain and weather conditions.

The CMMG Dissent Mk4 .350 Legend 16.1in Empire Profile Upper Group performed reliably in both dry and slightly damp conditions. I didn’t experience any malfunctions during my initial range sessions. The ergonomics were good, and the recoil, while noticeable in the .350 Legend caliber, was manageable.

The first time I used it, I was impressed by how quickly I adapted to the bufferless system. The balance was different from a traditional AR, but I got used to it quickly. There were no immediate issues after the initial range trip or during the hunt, which was reassuring.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the CMMG Dissent Mk4 .350 Legend 16.1in Empire Profile Upper Group has held up well. I’ve put approximately 500 rounds through it, and I haven’t experienced any major issues. The finish still looks good, and there’s no noticeable wear and tear beyond normal usage.

The CMMG Dissent Mk4 .350 Legend 16.1in Empire Profile Upper Group has proven to be quite durable. The barrel and bolt show minimal wear, even after extended range sessions. Maintaining the upper is relatively easy; a standard AR-15 cleaning kit works perfectly fine.

Compared to other AR uppers I’ve owned, the CMMG DISSENT system offers a unique shooting experience. It does not feel drastically different, but the ability to fold or use brace options without a buffer tube is a plus. Its reliability and accuracy meet or exceed my expectations for a mid-range AR upper.

Breaking Down the Features of CMMG Dissent Mk4 .350 Legend 16.1in Empire Profile Upper Group

Specifications

• Caliber: .350 Legend – This provides significant stopping power for hunting medium-sized game.
• Barrel Length: 16.1 inches – This provides a good balance of velocity and maneuverability while meeting minimum length requirements.
• Barrel Profile: Empire Profile (Medium Taper) – Optimizes weight distribution without sacrificing rigidity or accuracy.
• Barrel Twist Rate: 1-16 – Stabilizes common .350 Legend bullet weights.
• Threads per Inch: Non-Threaded – Complies with state regulations restricting threaded barrels.
• Muzzle Device: CMMG Zeroed Muzzle Brake – Reduces felt recoil and muzzle rise.
• Fabric/Material: Aluminum – Keeps the upper lightweight.
• Handguard Length: 15 inches – Provides ample space for accessories and a comfortable grip.
• Gun Rail: M-LOK – Allows for easy attachment of accessories.
• Weight: 3.9 lb, 4 lb – Fairly lightweight considering the barrel length and caliber.
• Barrel Material: 4140 Chrome Moly Vanadium – Offers a good balance of durability and accuracy.
• Magazine Included: No – Requires separate purchase of .350 Legend magazines.

These specifications provide a versatile and compliant platform for various shooting applications. The CMMG Dissent Mk4 .350 Legend 16.1in Empire Profile Upper Group delivers both performance and functionality.

Performance & Functionality

The CMMG Dissent Mk4 .350 Legend 16.1in Empire Profile Upper Group performs admirably. It delivers acceptable accuracy at 100 yards with appropriate ammunition. The recoil is manageable, even for smaller-framed shooters.

Its main strength lies in its bufferless design, allowing for compact builds. The muzzle brake helps to mitigate the .350 Legend’s recoil, but it can be quite loud. Some improvement could be made with tighter tolerances between the upper and lower receiver, but that’s a minor point.

The upper meets my expectations for a hunting and defensive AR build. It is accurate enough for ethical shots on deer at reasonable distances.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the CMMG Dissent Mk4 .350 Legend 16.1in Empire Profile Upper Group is excellent. The aluminum upper receiver is well-machined and finished, as is the barrel. The weight distribution is comfortable, and the M-LOK handguard provides a solid gripping surface.

The upper is relatively user-friendly, but familiarity with AR-15 platforms is helpful. Installing it on a compatible lower receiver is straightforward.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the CMMG Dissent Mk4 .350 Legend 16.1in Empire Profile Upper Group should last for thousands of rounds. The 4140 CMV barrel is durable and corrosion-resistant. Cleaning and maintenance are standard for an AR-15 upper.

Accessories and Customization Options

The CMMG Dissent Mk4 .350 Legend 16.1in Empire Profile Upper Group comes with a CMMG Zeroed Muzzle Brake. The M-LOK handguard allows for the attachment of various accessories like lights, lasers, and grips. This platform is compatible with any AR-15 lower receiver designed to accept AR-15 magazines and modified to feed .350 Legend rounds (or with appropriate .350 Legend lower).

Pros and Cons of CMMG Dissent Mk4 .350 Legend 16.1in Empire Profile Upper Group