Just another AR…this is what we hear all the time when so-called “experts” talk about new lines of AR-15s. However, there are circumstances where a new AR-15 line really surpasses expectations. Mitchell Defense has accomplished just that.
When it comes to rifles, there are many companies that don’t manufacture anything. As a matter of fact, most of them are just in the assembly business using the cheapest parts possible to pump out a rifle that goes bang. And then there are companies that are meticulous about every aspect of the rifle, using milled billet uppers and lowers and only the highest quality parts they can find. Now, price does reflect this, but to the truly seasoned shooter, those items make all the difference in the world.
When it comes to firearms that can be trusted in the most critical moments, the Mitchell Defense GWOT DOC Line 5.56 Rifle surpasses all expectations. This exceptional rifle line has been meticulously designed to ensure unwavering reliability and unmatched accuracy. No compromises have been made in its pursuit of perfection. Let’s dive into what makes this rifle so special.
At the core of the DOC line is a meticulously crafted Bolt Carrier Group (BCG) that serves as the beating heart of these rifles. The Mitchell Defense BCG has undergone precision grinding both internally and externally, resulting in a near-frictionless surface that guarantees long-term reliability. Its black nitride finish enhances lubricity and provides superior corrosion protection. The bolt, machined from 9310 steel and subjected to proper heat treatment, has undergone MPI (Magnetic Particle Inspection) and shot peening processes to ensure unrivaled strength and durability. The BCG is fully auto-capable and is also fully made in America.
The rifle features a billet lower that incorporates advanced features designed to enhance performance. The enhanced buffer tube includes position drain holes that efficiently remove water in maritime environments, preventing gas buildup and facilitating smoother BCG cycling. The carrier support extension guides the BCG into the extension, eliminating carrier tilt and excessive wear. Moreover, it secures the buffer pin in place, preventing recoil from causing it to back out. Working in perfect harmony, the MD H1 buffer and stainless steel cryo-treated flat wire buffer spring eliminates the “twang” noise and increases forward pressure, significantly improving reliability.
The rifle also has a billet upper receiver that is machined from 7075-T6 aluminum. This ensures optimal cycling and a flat extension face that provides a secure barrel seat, perfectly aligning with the upper receiver. To further enhance durability and guarantee bolt-like accuracy, the barrel, and upper receiver are thermal fit, resulting in an exceptionally tight connection that leaves no room for error. This is one thing that only the best of the best rifle manufacturers will do. If you’ve never shot a rifle that has been thermal fit…you are missing out.
The GWOT DOC Line features a 15-inch handguard made from 6061 T6 aluminum. It incorporates Mlok slots at 3, 6, and 9 o’clock positions, as well as 45-degree cuts. As with most Mlok handguards, you have plenty of room for mounting accessories. The top rail offers a full-length Picatinny rail for additional customization. The handguard is equipped with front and rear anti-rotational QD points on both sides. Its retention system and anti-rotational tabs prevent any unwanted movement during use, which offers the shooter some extra security against unwanted movement.
Basic specifications of the GWOT DOC Line include a 16-inch barrel featuring a 1:8 twist and a 223 Wylde Hanson profile. However, the rifle we had in for testing was the SOIDC version that came with the carbon fiber-wrapped barrel. The rifle comes with a mid-length gas system and a pinned non-adjustable gas block. The barrel is constructed from 416R stainless steel and finished with QPQ, eliminating the need for chrome lining. It has been meticulously tested for HP (High-Pressure) and MPI (Magnetic Particle Inspection) to ensure outstanding performance. Additionally, a flash hider is included to mitigate recoil and muzzle rise, allowing for greater control and accuracy.
We took the rifle to range, honestly expecting a positive shooting experience, and that’s exactly what we got. We paired the rifle with a Lucid Optics L-7 scope and boy was it effective. Our range only reached out to 200 yards, but the rifle had pinpoint accuracy producing a 2-inch grouping…and I’m not even a good shot.
We used basic Federal 5.56 range ammo to start but got our best performance from Hornady red dot 75 grain NATO BTHP. It just seemed to really like the ammunition and it truly ate everything we threw through it.
We even did a magazine test using standard military aluminum magazines, P-Mags and Hexmags. The Mitchell Defense rifle did not care what magazine you put in it; it ran flawlessly.
This rifle is a truly well-made machine. If you are looking for a top-of-the-line AR 15, Mitchell Defense should be highly considered. To be honest, it’s one of the smoothest shooting AR-15s on the market today, and in my opinion, it’s a true cut above any other AR manufacturer.
Check them out only at www.mitchelldefense.com
