First Thoughts on the CMMG Inc. Dissent MK4 300 Blackout 10.50″, Left Side Charging Handle, Armor Black, OEM Zeroed Linear Comp, 9.60″ M-LOK Hand
The CMMG Inc. Dissent MK4 300 Blackout is a unique firearm that immediately piqued my interest. It’s a departure from the traditional AR platform, offering a compact and innovative design that aims to sidestep some of the legal uncertainties surrounding AR pistols. This firearm features a 10.5″ barrel chambered in 300 Blackout, a left-side charging handle, an Armor Black finish, and a 9.60″ M-LOK handguard, topped off with an OEM Zeroed Linear Compensator.
My interest in the CMMG Inc. Dissent stemmed from a need for a highly maneuverable and easily transportable platform chambered in 300 Blackout. I wanted something more compact than my standard AR-15 pistol, without sacrificing the modularity and performance I’ve come to expect. The braced pistol saga has been an absolute rollercoaster, and the Dissent’s design, entirely self-contained in the upper receiver, seemed like a forward-thinking solution.
The CMMG Inc. Dissent MK4 300 Blackout arrived in a sturdy cardboard box, well-protected with foam inserts. Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the solid feel and quality of the construction. The Armor Black finish looked clean and professional, and the overall weight felt well-balanced, hinting at its robust internals.
Compared to other 300 Blackout AR pistols I’ve handled, like the Daniel Defense DDM4 PDW and the Sig Sauer Rattler, the CMMG Inc. Dissent stood out for its lack of a buffer tube. This streamlined design promised a significantly shorter overall length. I chose the Dissent over those options because it offered a more complete solution to the brace issue, and frankly, I was eager to try CMMG’s radial delayed blowback system.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited by the innovative design and potential for enhanced portability, but I was also curious to see how the unique action would perform in real-world conditions. I was definitely excited to get it out on the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting CMMG Inc. Dissent MK4 300 Blackout 10.50″, Left Side Charging Handle, Armor Black, OEM Zeroed Linear Comp, 9.60″ M-LOK Hand to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the CMMG Inc. Dissent MK4 300 Blackout was at my local outdoor shooting range. I wanted to get a feel for the platform’s accuracy and reliability with a variety of 300 Blackout ammunition, both supersonic and subsonic. The weather was clear and dry, with a slight breeze, providing ideal testing conditions.
The Dissent proved surprisingly easy to use right out of the box. The left-side charging handle was intuitive, allowing for quick and efficient bolt manipulation without disrupting my sight picture. After a brief familiarization period, I was able to confidently run drills and assess its performance.
The only initial issue I encountered was a slightly stiffer-than-expected trigger pull. It wasn’t terrible, but definitely something I noticed, and something that could be improved with aftermarket parts. Beyond that, it ran flawlessly through a couple hundred rounds.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the CMMG Inc. Dissent has proven to be a reliable and capable platform. I’ve put several hundred more rounds through it, in different conditions, with no malfunctions. I even ran it suppressed with both subsonic and supersonic ammo.
The Armor Black finish has held up well, showing no significant signs of wear despite being bumped around in my range bag and used in slightly muddy conditions. Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward, similar to a standard AR-15, although the action requires a bit more attention due to its unique design. I make sure to pay attention to cleaning the bolt face.
Compared to my other AR pistols, the CMMG Inc. Dissent stands out for its compact size and smooth recoil impulse. The radial delayed blowback system effectively mitigates recoil, making it comfortable to shoot even with heavier supersonic loads. It definitely outperforms my direct impingement AR pistol in that regard.
Breaking Down the Features of CMMG Inc. Dissent MK4 300 Blackout 10.50″, Left Side Charging Handle, Armor Black, OEM Zeroed Linear Comp, 9.60″ M-LOK Hand
Specifications
The CMMG Inc. Dissent MK4 300 Blackout 10.50″ boasts several key specifications. It is chambered in 300 Blackout, offering versatility in ammunition selection. The 10.50″ barrel provides a good balance between compactness and ballistic performance.
The barrel features a 1:10″ twist rate, optimized for stabilizing both supersonic and subsonic rounds. The entire upper is finished in a durable Armor Black. Its 9.60″ M-LOK handguard allows for flexible attachment of accessories.
The core innovation is the CMMG Compact Action and Radial Delayed Blowback system. This design eliminates the need for a buffer tube, significantly reducing the overall length. The left-side charging handle offers ambidextrous functionality for improved ergonomics.
Performance & Functionality
The CMMG Inc. Dissent MK4 300 Blackout excels in its intended role as a compact and maneuverable 300 Blackout platform. Accuracy is surprisingly good for such a short barrel, easily achieving consistent groupings at 50 yards with both supersonic and subsonic ammunition. With good quality ammo, I can get approximately 1.5 MOA.
The action is smooth and reliable, cycling flawlessly with a variety of ammunition types. The OEM Zeroed Linear Compensator effectively directs muzzle blast forward, making it more comfortable for the shooter and those nearby. The stiff trigger, though a slight drawback, does not significantly detract from the overall performance.
The Dissent largely exceeded my expectations. I was expecting some growing pains with the new system, but the CMMG Radial Delayed Blowback system is impressively refined.
Design & Ergonomics
The CMMG Inc. Dissent’s design is centered around compactness and functionality. The absence of a buffer tube is the most noticeable feature, contributing to its streamlined profile. The Armor Black finish is both aesthetically pleasing and provides excellent corrosion resistance.
The 9.60″ M-LOK handguard offers ample space for mounting accessories such as lights, lasers, and foregrips. The left-side charging handle is well-positioned and easy to manipulate, even with gloves. The weight is well-balanced, making it comfortable to hold and shoot for extended periods.
The Dissent is very user-friendly, although those accustomed to traditional AR-15 platforms may need a short adjustment period. Once familiar with the action and controls, it becomes a natural and intuitive platform to operate. The grip is also standard AR15-pattern, so users can customize that easily.
Durability & Maintenance
The CMMG Inc. Dissent appears to be built to last. The materials used are of high quality, and the construction is robust and well-executed. The Armor Black finish provides excellent protection against corrosion and wear.
Maintenance is relatively straightforward, similar to a standard AR-15. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential to ensure optimal performance. The action, due to its unique design, requires a bit more attention during cleaning to ensure all components are properly lubricated. I recommend using a high quality CLP.
Accessories and Customization Options
The CMMG Inc. Dissent MK4 300 Blackout includes an OEM Zeroed Linear Compensator. The 1913 Picatinny rail end plate allows for the attachment of various stocks or braces (depending on current legal restrictions). The 9.60″ M-LOK handguard provides plenty of space for mounting accessories.
The Dissent is compatible with most standard AR-15 accessories, including triggers, grips, and magazines. The end user can also use most muzzle devices threaded for 5/8×24. Due to its AR15 pattern, it is a highly customizable platform.
Pros and Cons of CMMG Inc. Dissent MK4 300 Blackout 10.50″, Left Side Charging Handle, Armor Black, OEM Zeroed Linear Comp, 9.60″ M-LOK Hand
Pros
- Compact and Maneuverable: The absence of a buffer tube makes it incredibly easy to transport and deploy in confined spaces.
- Reliable Radial Delayed Blowback Action: Smooth recoil impulse and reliable cycling with a variety of ammunition.
- Left-Side Charging Handle: Allows for quick and efficient bolt manipulation without disrupting sight picture.
- M-LOK Handguard: Provides ample space for mounting accessories.
- Durable Armor Black Finish: Offers excellent corrosion resistance and a professional appearance.
Cons
- Stiffer than ideal trigger.
- Price point might be prohibitive for some buyers.
Who Should Buy CMMG Inc. Dissent MK4 300 Blackout 10.50″, Left Side Charging Handle, Armor Black, OEM Zeroed Linear Comp, 9.60″ M-LOK Hand?
The CMMG Inc. Dissent MK4 300 Blackout is perfect for individuals seeking a highly compact and maneuverable 300 Blackout platform. It’s ideal for tactical applications, home defense, or anyone looking for a lightweight and easily transportable firearm. It would also be a good fit for those who want to suppress their firearm and shoot subsonic rounds.
This may not be the ideal firearm for budget-conscious buyers or those who prefer traditional AR-15 platforms. The slightly stiffer trigger might also deter those seeking a competition-grade trigger pull, though aftermarket options are available. It’s also not ideal for long-range shooting, given the short barrel length.
A must-have accessory would be a quality optic, such as a red dot sight or holographic sight. A weapon-mounted light is also highly recommended for tactical or home defense applications. An upgraded trigger would be another excellent enhancement.
Conclusion on CMMG Inc. Dissent MK4 300 Blackout 10.50″, Left Side Charging Handle, Armor Black, OEM Zeroed Linear Comp, 9.60″ M-LOK Hand
The CMMG Inc. Dissent MK4 300 Blackout 10.50″ is an innovative and well-executed firearm that offers a unique solution to the challenges of building a compact 300 Blackout platform. Its reliable action, compact design, and user-friendly features make it a standout in its class. While the price point may be a barrier for some, the value proposition is strong for those seeking a top-tier, highly maneuverable firearm.
The price is indeed justified by the innovative design and high-quality components. It offers something that a regular AR-15 pistol simply can’t.
I would highly recommend the CMMG Inc. Dissent to anyone looking for a compact and reliable 300 Blackout platform. It’s a testament to CMMG’s commitment to innovation, so go check it out!