[SHOT 2019] NEW "MK1 PRO" Rifle and Pistol line From PWS
New pew for you
From the land of gems and potatoes come the new PWS MK1 PRO line. Unvieled to us at SHOT 2019, the PRO MK111 Pistol and PRO MK116 rifle still have the long-stroke piston and excellent features that PWS is known for, but differ in a key area: They cost 1/2 the price of the MK1 MOD2 line! This is achievable because the upper receivers are not forged and machined, but rather 6061 extrusions. Another difference is the PRO line comes with standard A2 flashers instead of the fancier compensators found on other PWS firearms. MSRP for complete guns is $995.95, and uppers are also available for $649.95.
Primary Weapons Systems Releases New MK1 PRO Line
Release date January 21, 2019
SHOT Show 2019- Primary Weapons Systems releases their newest line of firearms within the MK1/AR-15 platform; the MK1 PRO line.
The PWS MK1 PRO line features the tried and true PWS long stroke piston system. This line is perfect for shooters looking for a cost-effective piston system firearm without sacrificing the high-quality standards PWS has been known for over a decade. Featuring a 3-setting adjustable gas system for users with suppressors, free-float MLOK handguard, Radian Raptor charging handle, extruded upper receiver that integrates an extremely solid handguard attachment system, the MK1 PRO line has an assortment of features ideal for shooters of all levels. Available as a complete upper or complete firearm (both pistol and rifle configurations). As with all PWS complete upper receivers, they will fit seamlessly to any AR15 lower receiver with no need for add accessories. The PRO line is the best value on the market when it comes to piston driven operating systems, including high-end features and custom components. Adding to the overall value, the entire MK1 PRO line comes with the same performance expectations and lifetime guarantee as all PWS products.
MSRP for complete firearms: $995.95
MSRP for complete uppers: $649.95
PWS is currently manufacturing their PRO line in addition to their other product lines and are shipping to dealers as of 1/21. For more information on the PWS MK1 PRO line, please visit primaryweapons.com.
I’ve been fortunate enough to witness PWS’ prototype testing a number of times. They test the hell out of these firearms to make sure they won’t fail the consumer. If one is in the hunt for a well-priced piston driven AR, the new PRO line should be worth a look.
All images courtesy of PWS
Having always had a passion for firearms, Rusty S. has had experience in gunsmithing, firearms retail, hunting, competitive shooting, range construction, as an IDPA certified range safety officer and a certified instructor. He has received military, law enforcement, and private training in the use of firearms. Editor at Outdoorhub.com
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What effect would going with an extruded receiver instead of a forged one have on durability?
My brain dump on this article and PWS in general from my experience: I think the "PRO" name is a little misleading as this is more of an entry level PWS whereas "PRO" seems it would be top-of-the product list. I own several PWS rifles / pistols and they are solid guns with the long stroke piston. I was happy to see these going at a lower price point but don't feel the article captures the *real* reason properly. There's a lot more to it than the upper receiver - the features are closer to mil spec vs. the MOD 1 and MOD 2 which have ambidextrous controls, upgraded muzzle device, picmod rail, etc. I haven't seen an exact list of differences anywhere but can visually make out the lower end setup compared to MOD 1 and MOD 2 product lines. If you were to price the components the "PRO" line is missing it would be interesting to see where it actually falls in comparison.
I'm happy with PWS products but have learned they aren't user friendly as far as the barrels and gas blocks. I wanted to swap a caliber on a couple of guns. (5.56 to 6.5 Grendel, 5.56 to 5.45 and .308 to 6.5 CM) You cannot swap the barrels yourself - they have to be sent to the company and work performed at a cost. Furthermore, they will only do the change for something they produce. For instance, none of the 5.56 swaps I listed were possible. As for the 308, they can swap to 6.5 Creedmoor, however, the cost is quite high so I just went with a DI. I think I'm just spoiled being able to do just about whatever modification I want on an AR like many others I know.
Finally, the PWS line is fun to shoot and I like the ergonomics and performance. It's hard to put my finger on what I like about the firearms and never see any detailed benefit to know what your $1800+ rifle is getting you. I think that's been why their market is somewhat limited. It's the only long stroke piston AR I'm aware of and is designed very well. The recoil impulse is very manageable and tuned nicely. Even the MOD 2, with the scalloped upper / lower, picmod rail and other weight savings features is heavy for an AR simply because of the added weight with the piston system. Not overly heavy though. Compared to other short stroke piston ARs on the market, the PRO is priced closer to the Adams Arms which I feel are inferior to PWS.