Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
We got a chance to speak with Nathan from Mitchell Defense at Range Day. He showed us their latest AR iteration, the Shorty DOC. However, we mostly talked about what sets their rifles apart from the competition.
Mitchell Defense heavily emphasized their attention to engineering. One of the most notable achievements is a proprietary buffer system. However, they also utilize specialized bolt carrier groups, and a unique thermal fitting process for barrels being mounted to their uppers.
The proprietary buffer system caught my attention. It is fabricated from a flat wire spring treated to endure an impressive 200,000 cycles – a substantial improvement over regular carbine springs lasting only 6,000 cycles.
The thermal fitting process contributes to bolt-like accuracy, achieving sub MOA in the 10.3 model and a remarkable half MOA in the 16-inch rifles.
Explaining the thermal fitting process, Nathan highlighted how heating the upper receiver allows the barrel to be snugly fit in, ensuring a tight and accurate assembly – a notable departure from the often sloppy AR builds reliant on barrel nuts.
SEE ALSO: A Masterpiece in Firearms Engineering: The SOIDC DOC from Mitchell Defense
The Shorty DOC features include ambidextrous safety selectors, charging handle, and a right-side bolt release. Notably absent is a right-side mag release, a deliberate choice to prevent accidental mag drops when running in kit with the rifle slung.
Manufactured in Glenside, Pennsylvania, Mitchell Defense takes pride in being an all-American brand. They also use components like the B5 stock, grip, and Raptor charging handle. These ARs also feature a Geissele SSA trigger which are two-stage triggers.
The rifle’s rail options include a quad rail and an M-LOK rail, both equipped with QD inserts.
Priced at an MSRP of $2,000, the rifles are currently available for purchase with the option to backorder on Mitchell Defense’s website.