Best 7.62×39 AR: Maxim Defense MDX-508

Until recently, it was difficult to find a trustworthy and precise 7.62 AR rifle.

Fortunately, the Maxim Defense MDX-508, which is chambered in 7.62×39, provides a solution to this challenge.

The MDX-508 incorporates the same spirit and essence of the established PDX, but boasts an 8.5" barrel that is optimal when concealment and compactness are valuable, but not as critical.

Furthermore, this rifle delivers the might of a full-sized AK-47.

Maxim Defense MDX-508 SPB

$2,499.99
at Guns.com
Prices accurate at time of writing

This rifle’s compact size makes it ideal for maneuvering in confined areas, making it well-suited for Close Quarters Combat.

This rifle comes in three calibers: 5.56 NATO, 300 BLK, and 7.62×39. While the 5.56 NATO and 300 BLK versions are the most commonly used, this article focuses on examining the 7.62×39 AR variant.

Maxim Defense MDX-508 | 7.62×39 AR

The 8.5" barrel of the MDX-508 delivers higher velocities while the CQB system plays a key role in the compact size. The stock adds a mere 4" to the end of the receiver with a full extension of 8.75", providing complete comfort to the operator.

Additionally, the proprietary bolt carrier group and buffer/spring combo ensure extreme durability and smooth cycling.

The MDX series of firearms are also equipped with the HATEBRAKE muzzle booster. This patent-pending muzzle device significantly reduces recoil, decreases the flash signature, pushes gasses and concussion waves downrange away from the operator, and improves overall performance.

One of the challenges when dealing with 7.62×39 ammo is the fact that it is steel cased and known for light primer strikes. Maxim Defense, again, took that into account and created a solution to that. The MDX-508 contains a more powerful hammer spring and enhanced length firing pin. These two small upgrades ensure that the steel-cased 7.62×39 ammo functions reliably in the MDX platform.

MDX:508C

$2,495.00
at Maxim Defense
Prices accurate at time of writing

MDX-508 Features

  • 7075-T6 Billet Upper and Lower Receiver 6061 Extruded Free Floated Handguard Maxim Defense Stock/Pistol Brace System
  • M-Slot Accessory Attachment Points Nitride Coated Military Grade Barrels.
  • Barrel Length of 8.5" and overall length of 21.5" to 23".
  • HATEBRAKE Muzzle Booster Device.
  • Forward Hand Stop with M-RAX™ Spring Loaded Screws.
  • Geissele® /ALG® Combat Enhanced Trigger System.
  • Radian Ambidextrous Selector Switch.
  • Radian Ambidextrous Charging Handle.
  • Bilateral Magazine Release.
  • Offset QD Sling Mounts.
  • Available as a Pistol or SBR
  • Each MDX-508 ships with one 20-round magazine

"Maxim Defense Industries Firearms are designed to dominate close-quarter encounters with maximum energy on target and handle the fierce demands of the Tier 1 Community. Our unprecedented concealability allows for the maneuverability needed in offensive/ defensive direct-action engagements" – Maxim Defense

Maxim Defense MDX-508 As Seen on SEAL Team CBS

The specific model used by Bravo Team was the SDX-508; a new integrally suppressed variant of the Maxim Defense MDX 508.

The weapon is seen fitted with the following accessories.

For the specific episode of SEAL Team CBS that we saw the Maxim Defense MDX-508 used, it was chosen for a specific mission set.

Mission dictates gear and since Bravo Team was being deployed to Venezuela, they needed a weapons system that used ammunition local to the area of operations.

That way if local police or military recover spent casings, they are 7.62×39 which is the common caliber for that region. Leaving an indigenous signature would give the illusion that the firefight was between local gangs or terrorist organizations, not a US Military unit.

Best 7.62×39 AR Ammo

Suppose you use an AR rifle that is chambered in 7.62×39, such as the MDX-508. In that case, we suggest using Maxim Defense ammo. Their TUI ammo is specifically designed for shorter barrels and is highly effective against soft targets.

Alternatively, if you use both AK and 7.62×39 AR platforms, Barnaul and Global Ordnance ammunition have proven to be dependable.

RELATED – Top 5 AK-47 [7.62×39] Ammo Choices That Are Actually Available

Maxim Defense 7.62×39 TUI

Maxim Defense 7.62×39 TUI

$38.99
at Guns.com
Prices accurate at time of writing

Barnaul 7.62×39 Soft Point

Barnaul 7.62×39 SP

$11.99
at Guns.com
Prices accurate at time of writing

Global Ordnance 7.62×39 FMJ

Global Ordnance 7.62×39 FMJ, 1000 Rounds

$349.99
at TrueShot Gun Club
Prices accurate at time of writing

Yugoslavian 7.62×39 Surplus Ammo Crate

Military Surplus Yugoslavian 7.62×39 FMJ, 400 Rounds

$175.60
at TrueShot Gun Club
Prices accurate at time of writing

Wrapping it Up

Apart from the MDX-508 rifle, it is also available in an AR pistol brace configuration.

Therefore, if you are not interested in going through the tax stamp process, that is not an issue.

In any case, you have access to an exceptionally robust and dependable 7.62×39 platform, suitable for close-quarters combat, home defense, and as a truck gun.


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