Primary Weapons Systems MK116 MOD 2-M 16in bbl Upper Receiver Review

Let’s Talk About Primary Weapons Systems MK116 MOD 2-M 16in bbl Upper Receiver

The Primary Weapons Systems MK116 MOD 2-M 16in bbl Upper Receiver is not just another AR-15 upper; it’s a carefully engineered piston-driven system from Primary Weapons Systems (PWS), a company renowned for its innovative approach to AR platform enhancements. This upper receiver boasts a long-stroke piston system known for its reliability and cleaner operation compared to traditional direct impingement systems, along with a .223 Wylde chamber, making it a versatile option for various ammunition types.

My journey to the PWS MK116 MOD 2-M began with a search for increased reliability and reduced fouling. Direct impingement ARs, while incredibly popular, require consistent cleaning to maintain optimal performance, and after years of experiencing malfunctions in harsh environments, I wanted a system that could withstand serious abuse without constant maintenance.

The PWS MK116 MOD 2-M arrived well-packaged, and my first impression was dominated by the sheer quality of the finish and the solid feel of the components. The handguard felt incredibly sturdy, and the overall weight felt appropriate for a 16-inch barreled upper.

I considered the Daniel Defense MK18 upper and the Bravo Company Manufacturing BCM MK2 upper before settling on the PWS MK116 MOD 2-M. I chose the PWS for its long-stroke piston system and the reputation PWS has for soft shooting rifles.

Right out of the box, I was excited by the solid construction and the promise of enhanced reliability, the fit and finish were better than I expected and it felt as if it would out perform the DI systems I had used for the past ten years.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Primary Weapons Systems MK116 MOD 2-M 16in bbl Upper Receiver to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the PWS MK116 MOD 2-M at an outdoor shooting range, running it through a variety of drills with both 5.56 NATO and .223 Remington ammunition. The conditions were relatively mild, with temperatures around 70 degrees Fahrenheit and a slight breeze.

The PWS upper performed flawlessly, cycling smoothly with both ammunition types. The adjustable gas system proved incredibly useful, allowing me to fine-tune the rifle for optimal performance with different loads. There were no malfunctions in the first 300 rounds.

I was immediately impressed by the reduced recoil impulse compared to my direct impingement AR-15. The long-stroke piston system truly made a noticeable difference in felt recoil and muzzle rise, especially when firing rapidly.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, including training sessions in dusty conditions and a weekend survival skills course, the PWS MK116 MOD 2-M has continued to impress. The upper has shown no signs of wear and tear beyond minor cosmetic blemishes.

Cleaning the PWS MK116 MOD 2-M is noticeably easier than cleaning a direct impingement AR. The piston system keeps much of the carbon fouling out of the receiver, resulting in a cleaner and more reliable rifle. The long-stroke piston system can be easily removed and cleaned.

Compared to my previous direct impingement AR-15, the PWS MK116 MOD 2-M offers a significant improvement in reliability and ease of maintenance. The reduced recoil impulse also makes it more comfortable to shoot for extended periods.

Breaking Down the Features of Primary Weapons Systems MK116 MOD 2-M 16in bbl Upper Receiver

Specifications

• Caliber: .223 Wylde allows the user to shoot both .223 Remington and 5.56 NATO ammunition safely and accurately. This adds to the versatility of the platform as the user can shoot either round accurately.
• Barrel Length: The 16-inch barrel provides a good balance between maneuverability and ballistic performance. It is long enough to achieve good velocities while still being relatively compact.
• Muzzle Device: The FSC 556 compensator effectively reduces recoil and muzzle rise. This allows for faster follow-up shots and improved accuracy.
• Finish: The matte black finish provides a durable and corrosion-resistant coating. This finish holds up well to hard use in adverse environments.
• Color: Black provides a neutral color that blends in with most environments.
• Additional Features: The 3-Setting Adjustable Gas System allows the user to fine-tune the rifle’s performance for different ammunition types and suppressors. This is a crucial feature for optimizing reliability and reducing wear on the rifle.
• Condition: New directly from the manufacturer.
• Magazine Included: No magazine included.

Performance & Functionality

The Primary Weapons Systems MK116 MOD 2-M excels in performance and functionality. The adjustable gas system, coupled with the long-stroke piston, provides exceptional reliability, soft recoil, and improved accuracy, giving the user a rifle that inspires confidence.

The upper receiver’s strengths lie in its reliability, ease of maintenance, and reduced recoil. The weakness is the price; piston-driven AR-15s tend to be more expensive than direct impingement rifles.

It exceeds my expectations in reliability and ease of maintenance, and I would choose this rifle again based on those factors alone.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the PWS MK116 MOD 2-M is exceptional. The materials used are of high quality, and the upper receiver feels incredibly solid and well-built.

The PWS MK116 MOD 2-M is user-friendly, though some shooters may need a little time to familiarize themselves with the adjustable gas system. Once the gas system is tuned the rifle requires very little user input other than pulling the trigger.

Durability & Maintenance

The PWS MK116 MOD 2-M is built to last, with a durable finish and high-quality components designed to withstand heavy use. With proper care, this upper receiver should provide many years of reliable service.

The PWS MK116 MOD 2-M is also easy to maintain and repair. The long-stroke piston system can be easily disassembled for cleaning and lubrication, and replacement parts are readily available from Primary Weapons Systems.

Accessories and Customization Options

The PWS MK116 MOD 2-M is compatible with a wide range of AR-15 accessories, including optics, lights, and grips. The handguard features M-LOK slots for easy attachment of accessories.

While Primary Weapons Systems offers a variety of accessories specifically designed for their rifles, the PWS MK116 MOD 2-M is also compatible with many popular accessories from other brands, offering plenty of customization options.

Pros and Cons of Primary Weapons Systems MK116 MOD 2-M 16in bbl Upper Receiver

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Who Should Buy Primary Weapons Systems MK116 MOD 2-M 16in bbl Upper Receiver?

The Primary Weapons Systems MK116 MOD 2-M is perfect for shooters who prioritize reliability, durability, and reduced recoil, making it well-suited for tactical applications, competitive shooting, and serious recreational use. Its ability to run cleaner than a DI system and the fact that you can tune it with the adjustable gas block makes it a great choice for suppressed rifles.

This upper receiver might not be the best choice for budget-conscious shooters or those who prioritize lightweight builds above all else. Those who fall in this category would be better served with a DI upper.

A must-have accessory for the PWS MK116 MOD 2-M is a quality optic, such as a red dot sight or a variable power scope, to take full advantage of its accuracy potential.

Conclusion on Primary Weapons Systems MK116 MOD 2-M 16in bbl Upper Receiver

The Primary Weapons Systems MK116 MOD 2-M 16in bbl Upper Receiver is an outstanding product that delivers exceptional reliability, reduced recoil, and ease of maintenance. While the price may be higher than some other options on the market, the performance and durability justify the investment.

I would highly recommend the PWS MK116 MOD 2-M to anyone looking for a top-tier AR-15 upper receiver that will perform reliably in any situation. If you value reliability, smooth operation, and long-term durability, then the PWS MK116 MOD 2-M is an excellent choice. Upgrade your AR-15 today and experience the PWS difference!