CMMG has jumped on the .224 Valkyrie bandwagon with the Mk4 DTR2, optimized to make the most of the ballistically talented cartridge.
The scoop on the .224 Valkyrie and CMMG's new Mk4 DTR2:
- CMMG is one of eight gunmakers with rifles chambered for the .224 Valkyrie.
- The Mk4 DTR2 is optimized for long-range shooting.
- It boasts a 24-inch barrel with a 1:7 twist.
- It is decked out in Magpul furniture, including fully adjustable PRS Stock.
- Mk4 DTR2 build components are also available.
- The complete rifle has an MSRP of $1,700.
The .224 Valkyrie is still in its infancy and has plenty of growing pains to endure before it's cemented as tried-and-true. Despite its youth, Federal Premium's bundle of long-range joy has already attracted its fair share of admirers.
And why not? The ammo maker hasn't been shy in ballyhooing the potential of its small-bore hot-rod. The company claims the round maintains supersonic velocities out to 1,300 yards, outperforming nearly everything in its class — 22 Nosler, .223 Rem., and 6.5 Grendel. Additionally, it pegs its performance at the heels of the 6.5 Creedmoor, while producing less recoil along the way.
That's quite a package, one that hasn't only turned long-range shooters' heads, but also gunmakers. With only scant factory-loaded ammunition on the shelves and SAMMI certification expected this month, no less than eight manufacturers have announced rifles chambered for the Valkyrie. And given the .224's main concept is extending the range of AR-style rifles, it's little surprise CMMG is among the cartridge's early adopters.
The Missouri rifle-smith has made a name for itself keeping abreast of the latest trends in the black rifle market. In turn, its Valkyrie offering — the Mk4 DTR2 — fits right into its ethos. And the rifle should have what it takes to end up on many interested shooters' short lists for something to launch the new round.
More than anything, CMMG has turned its eye to configuring the rifle so it milks the full ballistic potential out of the Valkyrie. A quick gander at the Mk4 DTR2 and it's obvious what this means — barrel and plenty of it.
In all, the medium-taper stainless steel barrel is 24 inches, capped with CMMG's SV Brake. This makes it an overall large rifle, especially compared to other AR-15s at 44.5 inches in length and 9.2 pounds unloaded. In size and heft, that's more the territory of a wood-stocked bolt-action. But, the long barrel has a purpose, allotting plenty of bore for all the powder from the Valkyrie's necked down 6.8 SPC/.30 Rem. parent case to burn. As an added benefit, it also provides a stable platform for long-range shots, one certain not to produce much recoil — a plus for multiple-shot strings.
Given the Valkyrie shoots heavy-for-caliber bullets — 60-grain to 100-grain — the barrel also has a faster twist rate — 1:7. And shooters won't have to wait to run the full spectrum of projectiles through the Mk4 DTR2, since Federal has already released a good selection of ammunition, including: Gold Medal Sierra MatchKing, 60-grain Nosler Ballistic Tip Varmint, 100-grain Fusion MSR and 75-grain American Eagle TMJ.
In addition to the chambering, the Mk4 DTR2 also has a beefed up bolt to handle the larger case and more powerful load. Additionally, the gun utilizes 6.8 SPC magazines — it comes with two 10 rounders — given the wider cartridges do not stagger correctly in a .223 Rem./5.56 NATO magazine. The Mk4 DTR2 comes outfitted with a Magpul MOE pistol grip and a PRS Stock, which is fully adjustable with .8 inches of play in the comb and 1.4 inches in length of pull. The rifle comes with a Geissele SSA 2-Stage Trigger standard and boasts CMMG's RML14 M-LOK handguard and new Ambi Charging Handle.
The company is also offering a standalone Mk4 DTR upper group, bolt carrier group and barrel for the Valkyrie, opening the door for individual builds. Price-wise, the Mk4 DTR2 is at the upper end of the AR market, with an MSRP of $1,700. The upper group runs $900, carrier group $175 and barrel $260. But given its configuration, the Mk4 DTR2 might be price right for those itching to put the Valkyrie to flight.
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