PWS MK214

[DavidinSA]

Re: PWS MK214

DMack,
Thanks for the reply.

I think either the MK216 or MK116 will fit my "needs" well based on the feedback I have read with the MK216 having my primary interest.

I grew up hunting with a .22 hornet,22LR and 22short. The last deer that gave its life to me for food I killed with a 22short pistol at 30 paces. Took me over an hour and alittle blessing to move close enough for the shot. Hunting was a necessity growing up to eat.
I have a background in engineering. Mechanical/Fluid and thermal Science with occasional work in ballistics over the years. Also have a machining/fabrication background. Most of my life has been in research.
Shot 10mm glock in IDPA many years ago and just love the round.

Just looking for something different to shoot that also has a practical side to it. Kind of a "do it all" rifle like you said.
The 308 cartridge has always been an excellent round but recoil has always been alittle stout for me to enjoy it in the field for long periods of shooting. With the advancements in muzzle breaks and design, I feel that the 7.62/308 is within the acceptable realm now.
Some of the ballistic work i have done supports the benefits of a heavier round like the 308 vs the 5.56 depending on your needs.
In untrained/limited trained hands the 5.56 is a great weapon round. Get enough barrels pointed at your target and sheer volume can make up for many things.
My interest hedges toward learning long distance shooting but i also want a practical firearm for close in multiple target shooting.
I feel the MK216 or SCAR 17 fits that bill.

Your time and comments are very much appreciated.

Thanks
David

 

[DMack]

Re: PWS MK214

Cross thread post from my MK114 thread:

Ok, aparently the "secret" is out. Ten out of Ten HARD USE dudes prefer the PWS MK1 and MK2 series rifles. I hoped to keep this a closely guarded secret of those in the know, but it's out now.

On to more serious things. As you have all figured out... I am a trainer. I take training VERY seriously. I am in the business of providing men and women in uniform, with life saving tools to add to their tool box, that will save their lives in a gunfight. I can not rely on fancy methods that will disappear in their darkest hour.

We had an issue on the range this Friday. I was not there for this evolution, for I was off doing other things, but this is the gist of the AAR (After Action Report).

During our Cover Drill (Carbine Course) we had a shooter experience a Negligent Discharge. Some call it Accidental Discharge, some call it Unintentional Discharge, whatever the vernacular you choose, he sent a round down range without meaning to.

Here is the issue.

The shooter was using a rifle that was not his own. The rifle had a MAGPUL BAD Lever installed on the bolt release, and it was installed correctly.

The shooter has a BAD Lever on his personal rifle, but admittedly, is not completely skilled with it's function.

The shooter had been running "up" drills, reaction drills, etc... all day with zero issue. When the shooter was introduced into a sensory overload scenario, high stress, shooting from cover type drill... the shooter engaged targets from cover, and ran his gun dry. He was now at bolt lock back, and had to perform an emergency magazine change.

With external stress being induced, the shooter changed magazines, and released the bolt with his trigger finger / ala BAD Lever. The lever functioned as intended, dropping the bolt, and loading a new round in the chamber. However, the shooter "hooked" his finger into the trigger well, and created a ND.

This took the shooter by suprise. It took the safety officer by suprise. It took the whole line by suprise.

The shooter finished the drill, and a hot wash was conducted.

The BAD Lever did not "cause" this ND, no more than a SERPA Holster causes ND. What happened was, falure to train to what I like to call, "SUBCONSCIOUS COMPETENCY".

The shooter had not built in the level of awareness into his subconscious, that he allowed his trigger finger to move from his BAD Lever, down to the trigger without raising his muzzle to his target.

This is unacceptable in training, it is unacceptable in combat.

Please don't think of me slamming on the BAD Lever. The lever functioned perfectly. However, the SHOOTER was at fault. He had not trained to the level of compentency requried to operate the weapon system safely under stress.

My own experience with the BAD Lever is what it is. I ran them for a long while, and since I RARELY experienced type 1 or type 2 malfunctions, I mostly used it during training. Once I picked up an AR without the BAD Lever, it was immediately evident. My trigger finger had become accustomed to doing other tasks outside of it's intended mission... launching bullets.

Now, I do not use them. I do SO many demonstrations, I can not afford to NOT be proficient without the lever.

I hope this makes sense.

The take away is this:

Train. Train on your gear. Train it until it is imbedded in your subconscious. Train to the level of subconscious competency. Keep your head in the game, until it is time to remove your head from the game. Train some more. When you think you are ready, keep training.

Now, on to our regularly scheduled programming...

(Spoiler... stand by for a VERY detailed review on the PWS DIABLO).

Cheers!

DMack

 

[DMack]

Re: PWS MK214

David,

For what you intend to do with this rifle, I feel the MK216 will fit your needs brilliantly.

I have run the SCAR (both 5.56 and 7.62) and I can assure you, the MK2 series rifle feels "home" to me. It has substantially less felt recoil over the Scar Heavy.

The FN SCAR is a fine weapon. No one will doubt that. But, the MK214 / MK216 feels, points, functions, acts like a traditional AR. IT feels smaller and lighter than it is, points well, is very accurate, but... the felt recoil is where it shines. The LONG STROKE piston system is fantastic.

You will be happy with either rifle... but if you are "used" to running a traditional AR system, the MK2 series rifle will immediately bond with you.

I happen to be very partial to the PWS System, because I have used them very hard, and they have never let me down.

Best of luck in your choice... if you ever have a question... please feel free to ask me. I do not know everything... never will claim that. But, I have a lot of experience, and I know a lot of people that have much broader knowledge than I do. If I can't give you the answser, I assure you, I can link you to someone who can.

Best wishes,

Darren

 

[DavidinSA]

Re: PWS MK214

DMack,

Thanks for all your input. Very valuable.
I spent most of my life filtering through information to find truth and it is obvious that the information you provide is valuable. Not like many "reviews" done by others.
Having spent time in reverse engineering, product design, developmental research, I have built items that are on the space station, in the bottom of the oceans and protecting our boys along the borders of hostile countries. I was involved in the investigation to discover the cause of the damage to the Space Shuttle Columbia tragedy.
I say all this as a compliment to you that i find your information refreshing and trustworthy.

I am in agreement that the MK216 is the right choice for me.
Thanks for all your help and professionalism towards me in making this decision.
Look forward to reading more of your experiences with these weapons.

Thanks

 

[Dr. Dre]

Re: PWS MK214

Dmack,
I have to agree with SanAntonioDave. You are always very clear and concise. To your point about knowing your equipment and training. I have both an MK214 & 114 and I do realize that I need to put a lot more rounds down range to become competent.

 

[DMack]

Re: PWS MK214

Update:

I was on the LONG range this week, running our .50 Barrett rifles, but also doing some carbine / bolt gun work. We had steel and military pop up targets all the way out to 900 yards, and had some "tank" type pop ups out at 1250 and 1650 respectively.

I was running M118LR in the PWS MK214, along with some FGMM 168 grain. I was able to hit 11x13" steel targets with boring repeatability at 800 yards... WELL outside of the intended use of this rifle. From 600 and in (on steel) this rifle basically shoots itself.

The US Optics SN3 1.8-10 shines like a beacon in the night. That optic REALLY gives me full ability to exploit the MK214. I am very much in love with the GAP MIL reticle on the 1.8-10.

The rifle and DOPE are spot on, and now I have data on 168 grain FGMM as well as M118LR out to 800 yards. Using the SN3 with the GAP MIL reticle, once I dialed in for 300, I just used holds from that point on. Transitions were seamless... and almost too boring.

I put a total of 260 rounds through the MK214 in two days, and it brings the round count up to just shy of 1900 so far. Zero issues with the crown on the barrel, and I am such a huge fan of the PWS Precision Rifle Compensator. It really works on this rifle, in the aplication I am using it.

I'm getting a little "peening" on the buffer... but, it seems to be due to the fact that the pressure of the BCG coming back and the buffer spring pushing the BCG back into battery, is causing some "peening" on the outside edge of the buffer as it strikes the retaining pin. No effects thus far, just noting it.

Mounting the US Optics SN3 on the Badger AR riser and using LOW US Optics 30mm rings, seem to be the perfect setup.

The more I shoot this rifle, the better I get with it. I'd like to take credit for it, but I can't. This rifle still outshoots me.

Take care, more information to come.

 

[Onemoretime]

Re: PWS MK214

DMack,
Were you using a bipod or shooting off a ruck?

800 yards for a 14" rifle is pretty outstanding. Sounds like Minute of Chest at 800 yards.

Me likey.

 

[DMack]

Re: PWS MK214

OMT,

I was shooting off of my Harris Bipods, using a TAB Gear rear woobie. I'm using the US Optics SN3, 1.8-10... it's Minute of Chest all day out to 800.

In all fairness, I've learned to shoot this rifle. At first, I was not consistent with it. Now, it does what I ask... 600 and in, it's MOA or better. Definitely loves the M118LR, but it's hungry. The accuracy I get out of it, with the soft recoil pulse, makes me fast on the trigger.

Make no mistake... this is not a LaRue OBR, GAP-10, or the likes. It's a short barreled battle rifle, that has amazing versatility.

All I have to do is change optics, and I have a heavy hitting truck gun, spotter's rifle, entry gun, or just all around do everything.

Enough people have shot this thing, and seen me shoot it to know I'm just not eye candy and fluff.

It is a great running little rifle... I just wish I could afford to feed it the diet it wants!

Shooting off the bag, is where it shines. If you want tight, pretty groups with it at 100 yards, shoot from the bag. But, if you want realistic transitions on steel at distance, I run bipods. The recipie for this rifle is working... it works so well, I don't want to change anything.

Cheers!

DMack

 

[Onemoretime]

Re: PWS MK214

I've read about some technical differences in loading this rifle on the bipod... can you explain the technique?

 

[DMack]

Re: PWS MK214

OMT,

Lemme see if I can 'splain it properly...

When I started running this rifle, from bipods, I would lean into it, locking the butstock into my shoulder pocket, as I would my bolt gun. I was not getting consistent grouping, and started stringing my shots. Once I figured out that I was most likely inducing barrel torque into the barrel nut area, I backed off of that.

Now, I just let the rifle rest on the bipods, naturally. I ride the rear woobie as normal, I just don't lean into the bipods. I do notice a slight movement as the barrel heats, but it is only about a .25 MOA shift at 100 yards, and it's consistently 2 O'Clock. Now, I have to have run several rounds throug it quickly to cause this... but, I am still able to shoot my dot drill during my reindeer games that I put the teams through.

Loading a magazine, and mounting the gun, firing on a 1" black dot, then unmounting the gun, doing silly stuff, getting back on the gun, firing at a 1" black circle... I'm able to hit the circles with regularity.

The short / stiff countour of the barrel, along with the HUGE gas block, make this a fairly stiff combination. But, because it's not a free floating tube / monolithic upper... it is possible to induce some stringing by pushing into the bipods. That forward torque is transferred into the lower rail, that is attached to the front gas block, and rearward, near the barrel nut. It's not much, but it can cause you to string your shots.

Once you relax behind it, have good, sound follow through, the rifle is a dream to shoot. You don't have to "drive" it. You just maintain sight picture, squuueeeeeezzzzeeeee the trigger, and keep your eye on target as the rifle resets itself. Out at 500 yards and beyond, it is very common to keep the cross hairs on target throughout the recoil pulse.

This rifle shoots very softly.

Ok, hopefully, that cleared things up a bit. Is this rifle easy to shoot? Yes... and no. It does not shoot like a traditional AR-10, does not shoot like a bolt gun... it does feel very unique. Now that I have "gotten on with it"... I am getting very repeatable results.

Cheers!

DMack

 

[Onemoretime]

Re: PWS MK214

Very nice... I had thought I read something about needing to mount the bipod close to the receiver to effectively use one.

What I want is a rifle I can use for urban engagements/CQB but also drop a scope on real quick and shoot MOC out to 800ish.

Sounds like this is it. Have you posted the weight all kited up?

 

[DMack]

Re: PWS MK214

OMT,

I have definitely run the bipods mounted up near the magazine well, and it did help a bit. But, the rifle is so short, I found that the bipods mounted far back, would induce cardiac / respiratory input into my optic... in short, since the pivot point was moved back, the rifle became very susceptible to small movements. So, I put them back out front, and just learned to let the rifle run itself.

The Geissele SD-E trigger is DEFINITELY something to take a look at. The trigger helps get the accuracy that I am experiencing. The US Optics SN3 is also a key factor, along with the PRC and the Long Stroke Piston design...

I hope I have helped with your questions.

Now, I am on the quest to see "why" this rifle just does not shoot the 168 as well as it does the 175.

On the weight... fully kitted, with the US Optics SN3 TPAL 3.2-17, with bipods, and magazine, it weighed 12.9 pounds on my digital scale at work. Now that I have the US Optics SN3 TPAL 1.8-10 on it, it is about a half pound lighter...


Cheers,

DMack

 

[BattleAxe]

Re: PWS MK214

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: DMack</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Now, I am on the quest to see "why" this rifle just does not shoot the 168 as well as it does the 175. </div></div>

Not surprising D. The 168's take off faster but lose more energy in transit. Couple that with the short barrel and it makes sense. All my .308's act the same and you can see it in a ballistic program when you run the down range numbers.

 

[Onemoretime]

Re: PWS MK214

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: DMack</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
I have definitely run the bipods mounted up near the magazine well, and it did help a bit. But, the rifle is so short, I found that the bipods mounted far back, would induce cardiac / respiratory input into my optic... </div></div>

That is what I was thinking. Thanks!

 

[RonPogi]

Re: PWS MK214

Update for Today Feb 19: PWS MK216

Hornady 168gr HPBT Match
Reloader 15 - 42.7gr
Case Length - 2.005
COAL = 2.805-2.807
Brass = Assorted (308/7.62x51)

100 yards 5 shots

 

[CCCCanuck]

Re: PWS MK214

Anyone know someplace that has a MK214 in stock? PM me if you have a source.

 

[Dr. Dre]

Re: PWS MK214

Contact J&R Sport Supply in Livermore California. I was there today and they had some in stock, claim to sell more PWS than anyone else. It a small shop but they jumped on the PWS band wagon before anyone else. They always seem to have PWS's in-stock.

I'm not sure if what they had in-stock was a 214 or 216. They might be willing to ship to NY.

Give them a call: 925-443-9691

Disclaimer: I have no affiliation with this store other than the fact that I purchased my mk114 & several other hand guns from them. Just trying to help out.

 

[DMack]

Re: PWS MK214

UPDATE:

I have an order in cue, to get a US Optics 1-8x Dual Reticle... I will mount that on this MK214 and give it a go. The 1.8-10 SN3 that it wears right now, is almost absolutely PERFECT (well, it IS perfect)... but, the 1-8x being a TRUE 1x would give me the up close capabilities of a true battle rifle, and the 8x would let me stretch out to 600 yards on my type of targets with ease... this rifle really shines at 600 yards and in.

Stay tuned... I most likely won't get my hands on the 1-8 for a few more months.

Cheers!

DMack

 

[DMack]

Re: PWS MK214

Ron,

That is nice shooting partner... are you still shooting from the bench, or are you shooting prone now? Your rifle seems to like that load...

Thanks for your continued input... it's always welcomed in this thread.

Any more MK2 owners? Post up!!!

Cheers!

DMack

 

[RonPogi]

Re: PWS MK214

Dmack,

I shoot both bench and prone but I usually do bench coz shooting prone at Angeles Shooting Range hurts my cervical spine. The line of sight becomes angled about 15deg going up specially @200 yards and above.

 

[jonthomps]

Re: PWS MK214

Dmack-
I'm in the market for a new carbine (undecided on 5.56 or 7.62) and have found your reviews of both the MK1 series and MK2 series rifles very insightful. I'm new here (as you can see) but I wanted to let you know how much I appreciate your unbiased assessment of these systems. I'll most likely never use it as hard as you have, but it's nice to know they will handle whatever I dish out.

 

[DMack]

Re: PWS MK214

JT,

Thank you Sir... When I set out to do these reviews, Lowlight was graceful enough to allow me to do them. Even though they are not "precision rifles" per se... I felt I could bring some light to a not well known brand.

When I started the thread on the MK114, I was skeptical at best. I really liked the way the rifle felt, but it wasn't until I started running the gun hard, that it really started to shine.

Just about any modern day rifle (AR) platform will work admirably with the proper set up and maintenance... and I was definitely not a Piston Rifle Kool Aid Drinker... but, since I started, I have become a huge fan of the PWS rifle and the Long Stroke Piston System. The rifles just plain work.

Being in the line of work that I am in, I have to rely on my gear in order to train the men and women that are out there working the streets every day. There is no way I would slant data or information if they took my review to heart and bought the gear to rely on. It can't let them down.

I don't get kickbacks from anyone... and I try to tell it like it is. Early on, it was difficult to keep my opinion neutral, but I have learned not to get involved in the "Piston vs DI" or "Brand L" vs "Brand P" vs "Brand N" sort of thing... I just want to get the information on the gear that I use, and get it out to the consumer in the most clear, concise, and complete manner possible.

I will forever be grateful for Sniper's Hide for allowing me to use the forum to do these reviews.

There are plenty of VERY knowledgeable people on here, and I too have learned a lot from them. I've also met some friends that will be friends for life from this forum.

So again, thank you for your words. If there is anything I can help you with, please don't hesitate to ask.

You won't go wrong either way... either a MK1 or MK2 series rifle. Maybe just get both? LOL

I warn you though... to shoot a PWS rifle, is to love it. To love it, is to buy more... it's a never ending circle...

Best of luck Brother.

Be safe out there.

DMack

 

[Mbordo]

Re: PWS MK214

The PWS MK216 is accurate, but mine sufferes from cycling issues. I have sent it back to PWS for warranty work, they sent it back with lots of wear marks on the foward assist and ejector ramp (proof they fired it) and it still jams.
I run factory Federal and Remington 150 or 155 grain HPBT. The bolt also closes when an empty mag is removed, this is bad news for quick changes!
I'm not sure I will keep it as another guy at the range built his own SR25/AR10 for half of what I paid and it ran perfectly.

 

[DMack]

Re: PWS MK214

Mr. MOA

That is unfortunate. What did PWS say to you when you sent the rifle in? Were they able to get the rifle to not feed properly? What type of malfunctions are you having? Fail to Feed? Fail to Extract?

What type of magazines are you using?

I have put over 2,000 rounds through my MK214 with not a SINGLE issue. I have fired the following:

NATO 7.62x51 FMJ 147 grain
Federal Gold Medal Match .308 168 grain
Federal Gold Medal Match 7.62x51 175 grain
Privi Partisan Match .308 168 grain (experienced some blown primers)
Hornady TAP .308 in 155 and 168 grain

I have had ZERO issues, save from the blown primers on the Privi Partisan 168 grain. That was widely reported as an issue with that lot of ammo.

I urge you to add some more information. How many rounds have you put through the rifle? How do you clean it? Are you running .308 or 7.62x51?

My MK214 lost the set screw that holds the bolt catch in place... and my bolt would not stay back. Once I replaced the set screw and used loc-tite, it has not had an issue.

In the end, they are machines. What I can say is this... PWS will stand behind their products 100% and then some. If there is legitimately something wrong with your rifle, they will make it right with you.

I can say this with COMPLETE confidence. I really hope it works out for you.

 

[Mbordo]

Re: PWS MK214

WOW, All great and relative questions!
When I first got the rifle from the store, I brought it home, drooled, and then cleaned it with Hoppe’s #9 solvent, and lubricated it. I use the standard stuff for cleaning, same way we did it in the military.
When I first took the rifle out to the range, the range master and I were discovering that the spent case was left in the chamber and the new bullet was being pushed into the back of the old brass; This happened three times. I used my cleaning rod to push the spent case out of the chamber. Other issue was (is) that the round was half way up the ramp and the bolt was in the side of the brass. I am still experiencing this issue. I also had a problem with the brass case not fully ejecting, but I didn't have that issue this last time out.
I am using .308 Federal (LE308T1, 165gr) and Remington (R308WI, 150gr) ammo, the factory stuff. I have not tried the military ammo nor any reloads. I make reloads for my 700BDL PSS, but they are matched to the rifle for accuracy and I am not there yet with the MK216.
The guy at PWS was apologetic and took down all the info, opened up a warranty case #, and asked me to send it back to them with the provided UPS label he sent me. Very easy to deal with!
Response from PWS: "Cleaned chamber, touched up feed ramps. headspace good. Test fired with our 308 ammo and Remington express core in a 20rd. magpul mag. No issues. Retest fired with same ammo and customers mag with no issues. Shipped back to customer 2/21/12."

I asked them about the magazine the rifle was supplied with (10 round, A.S.C. llc, New Britain, CT) and if they have a better option, I would be willing to buy it. PWS said the magazine I have is fine.
Yesterday I put 60 rounds through it and had five or six cycling issues (took pictures this time), where the brass did not chamber and I had to use the charging handle to get it to seat, or the bolt went into the side of the brass while it was half way up the ramp. The other issue is when the last bullet is fired, the bolt needs to (MUST) stay locked back; when I dropped the mag the bolt went forward, We all know that is not good! Adds a whole lot of time to changing magazines.

 

[RonPogi]

Re: PWS MK214

Mr. MOA,

That happened to my Diablo some ammo jams but what I want is that all ammo should run flawlessly. I grind the plastic end of the buffer weight (around 0.035"), after that everything went flawlessly

Ron

 

[DMack]

Re: PWS MK214

You should not have to "grind" anything, or make any modifications to the rifle other than cosmetic.

When I first got my MK214, I did notice a "sticky" chamber. I had a few fail to extract issues very early on, within the first 100 rounds. However, using an M1A chamber tool and a mop, I was able to really clean the chamber and the issue with the stickiness went away. I don't know if it was due to the isonite treatment, or what... but, I have had zero issues with any of the ammo I have run in it. The only mags I use are PMAGS, so I can't speak for the other mags.

My bolt locks to the rear, every time... with the exception to the time when the set screw on the bolt catch fell out, and I had to put it back in with lock tite.

Again, I would urge you to keep on this with PWS. If you are not 100 percent satisfied, they will make it right with you.

The only thing I can see as a variable with your rifle... is the magazine. Get a few PMAGS and try them. See if you have the same problem.

I have never used anything but PMAGS in my MK214 so I can't speak on this subject. However, my MK1 series rifles do not care how they eat. They just eat.

Let me know how this unfolds for you...

Cheers!

 

[DMack]

Re: PWS MK214

Wait... your rifle was supplied with what kind of magazine? Did you purchase it new from PWS? All PWS rifles are shipped with a MAGPUL PMAG... MK1 series comes with a 30 round PMAG, MK2 series rifles come with a 20 round PMAG.

Go get yourself a PMAG and don't look back. Try that magazine in the weapon, and I bet your issues go away.

Let me know.

 

[Mbordo]

Re: PWS MK214

Hi DMack,
I have no plans on making any modifications to the tool, that’s PWS's job. I too noticed the grease at the head, but thought since they tested it, all’s good. I did clean the rifle, but didn’t go after it as aggressively as you mentioned, certainly something to try.
I received an e-mail back from PWS, and once again very accommodating, non-argumentative, non-accusatory. Just have to love being treated like a person!
I’m taking it down to the store where I bought it tomorrow, the owner (also a great guy) wants to check it out for himself.
Per your question about the mag I have, … I live in a state where fascism (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fascism) is fashionable, they wear it proudly like a badge of honor as they drive their pretentious vehicles. Can you guess where I live? Definition included just in case there is any confusion as to what fascism is.
Anyway, PWS said the magazine I have is fine (they tested it) and I have to believe them as I offered to buy a 10 round PMAG and they didn’t further the offer.
I’ll keep you posted!

 

[DMack]

Re: PWS MK214

I contacted Stacey at PWS about your issue. So, we can tap this from both sides...

I don't work for PWS, but I really take their products to heart. I've had HUGE success with them, and I know their customer service is second to none.

I'm very interested in your issue... and hope that this gets figured out quickly. The information is very valid. This helps current owners, or future owners if they have the same issue.

Best of luck in this... I know you will have a satisfactory solution.

v/r

DMack

 

[Mbordo]

Re: PWS MK214

Hi DMack,
I brought the MK216 in and my good man at the local store said the rifle is "half cycling", the bolt goes back far enough to eject the spent round but not far enough to fully get behind the next bullet in the magazine. This makes complete sense, and explains why the bolt would close when the magazine is released.
It's good they are able to identify the issue. Now they need to run a little gage R&R on the product and determine what exactly in the design is causing issues. Perhaps they would like to hire me to help them resolve the issues

I love to shoot and do math, kind'a twisted eh.

Thanks for all you do!!

Mr.MOA

 

[DMack]

Re: PWS MK214

Mr. MOA... here's something to check. Look at your Enhanced Buffer Tube. There is a large hex screw at the base and two very small ones up top. The buffer tube may have loosened, putting the carrier / buffer into a bind. Or, it may be torqued incorrectly, and causing binding.

Cycle your action with the charging handle. The bolt carrier should move SMOOTHLY to the rear, and not drag...

This happened on my MK114 around 16,000 rounds or so, the hex screw backed out a bit. I put them back in with blue Loc Tite, and it's worked fine since.

As stated, they are machines. We have to stay on top of them.

Now, if the bolt carrier is cycling without binding, and the EBT is tight, then it is a gas port issue. These things are test fired at the factory before leaving, but not a whole magazine.

I hate that you are having issues with your rifle... but, I am very confident you will find the issue. It's unfortunate... because they really are very good rifles.

 

[DMack]

Re: PWS MK214

I will be out on the MPMG (Multi Purpose Machine Gun) Range at work tomorrow... shooting pop up targets out to 900 yards... Will be nice to stretch out the legs on this thing, and put my US Optics 1.8-10 SN3 to the test...

Will try my best to get some good pictures.

 

[Carlos Armas]

Re: PWS MK214

if 15 rounds is your limit like it is in NJ try getting Pmags from Rifle Gear.com the mod and pin a 20 rounds thats legal

 

[DMack]

Re: PWS MK214

Losman... no, we have no limit on mag capacity... I just find that the 20 round P Mag is a bit too long, to do anything from the bipod. A 10 round mag would be perfect. I'm LEO, and in Florida... we are AR Friendly here.

I don't like having to tip the rifle so much, and come off glass to change magazines... Shooting from certain angles off of roof tops, or under cars and such, makes me long for a shorter magazine...

it is, what it is though...

 

[RonPogi]

Re: PWS MK214

Dmack,
Have you notice my modify Pmag 7 rounds on my rifle pics @ page 6? take a look at my rifle @ page 6 there is a pmag magazine inserted to my rifle

 

[taseal]

Re: PWS MK214

After reading this, I'm trying to decide between this and GAP-10

One was meant to be a precision machine, and one was meant to be a battle ready rifle.

honestly though I think both seem to fill the role for the 2 purposes...

 

[DMack]

Re: PWS MK214

TASEAL:

Interesting choice of weapons... The GAP 10 is an amazing weapon... very accurate, and well built. But, it is not designed to be "carried" and used as a "battle rifle"... but, it can be used as such. Of course, barrel length and optics will be the deciding factor. In my opinion, the GAP 10 in 18" or 20" with a dedicated precision optic is where this rifle shines. It is CRAZY accurate, and easy to shoot.

Now, the PWS MK214 is NOT a precision rifle... it is designed out of the box, to be hand held, and carried into really crappy conditions. However, I found that it is CRAZY accurate as well, light, pointable, and easy to run hard. I think the PWS MK2 series rifle is a genuine "do anything" rifle. This is where it shines...

It's sub MOA at 100 yards easily, and MOA / MO-Man all the way out to 800 yards with 175 SMK's... and some trigger time. You can actually put a good trigger in the MK2, and have to optics... a close in optic and a precision optic on a quality mount system, and switch between the two.

Best of luck in your choice... I do not own a GAP 10, but a very good friend of mine (Battle Axe) has one, and I shoot his regularly. He is amazing with that rifle... and out to 600 yards, my MK214 will hang. His GAP 10 is more consistent at 850 yards than my MK214, rightfully so. But, ask him how easy his rifle is to carry around through the woods... he would default to the MK214.

He liked my MK114 so much, he bought one. I can see a MK214 in his future soon though... Just sayin.

Let me know if you have any questions for me. I will be glad to help you...

For record... I put the Bushnell 3.5-21 HDMR on my MK214 with the G2DMR reticle. It is mounted in the new Alamo 34 MM QD mount... and so far, I love it.

Can't wait to get some rounds behind it...

 

[taseal]

Re: PWS MK214

Thanks dmack.

That's the optic ill be using but with HDMR probably on a larue qd mount.

 

[DMack]

Re: PWS MK214

I will have it with me this weekend so you can see it first hand.

 

[SactoSniper]

Re: PWS MK214

Dmack,

Thank you for a great review. I was in the market for a 7.62 and had considered several others but your review led me to purchase the PWS MK 214.

Now I'm trying to decide on optics. I will most likely shoot within 600 yards. My range has targets out to 300 yards as well as a silhouette range with rams at 550 yards.

Would you recommend the US Optivs 1.8-10? What reticle? Ergo parallax?

Thanks!

Bill

 

[J Mack]

Re: PWS MK214

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Mr.MOA</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Hi DMack,
I brought the MK216 in and my good man at the local store said the rifle is "half cycling"
Perhaps they would like to hire me to help them resolve the issues

Mr.MOA </div></div>

Mr MOA did you get your issues resolved?

 

[DMack]

Re: PWS MK214

SactoSniper...

I have run several optics on the PWS MK214 and by far, my favorite is the USO SN3 1.8-10... hands down. It's small, has great field of view, and at 10x I can easily see targets well past the operational envelope of this rifle.

600 and in is where this thing shines... however, it is capable of hitting out to 850 and beyond. I have not attempted ranges beyond 850 yards yet... but one day I will.

I originally had the USO SN3 3.2-17 on it, but the optic was just very LONG... the 1.8-10 is perfect.

I'm using the MIL-GAP reticle (GAP-MIL?) and find that it is very user friendly.

I just put one of my Bushnell HDMR 3.5-21 on the MK214 to get some rounds behind it. The Bushy has the G2DMR reticle, which I really, REALLY like. But, this optic, with the sunshade on it, is like the USO 3.2-17... very long. It's fine without the sunshade.

I like the TPAL option on the USO scopes. I have not used the ERGO option for parallax. Also, the EREK knob is WELL worth the extra money they charge for it.

Give Jason Kyle a ring at USO, and spend some time talking about the options. He and I have spoken in GREAT detail about what I am doing with this rifle, and he is up on the pro's and con's. Just a very cool guy to chat with.

Keep us posted on your progress.

What kind of trigger did you use? I think the trigger really makes this rifle shine. As stated, I use the Geissele SD-E, but that may not be your cup of tea...

Welcome to the PWS Family. I have no doubt that your rifle will run well for you.

Cheers!

DMack

 

[taseal]

Re: PWS MK214

Excuse grammar and spelling. Posting from my tablet and it loves to change words up on me

I was able to check out dmack's mk214... My thoughts on his

Wow! First, it's fairly light. It felt no heavier than a AR15. The quality is SOLID! The fitting of upper and lower wad perfect

I also have to say I loved the krylon job on it, it actually looks very well done.

I laid down on the rifle and my cheek weld was kind of low so i had to raise your head a little to get a good sight picture. This of course is a personal thing. The relief was perfect.

His geisselle trigger is just awesome. I never handled a rifle with a flat trigger like he had, but i saw the science and purpose to it and it works well. Something I'm going to consider myself. The initial pull is smooth, you know when you are about to get a clean break. The reset was superb. Good feedback.

The HDMR is a fantastic scope for this rifle. You have a broad range of magnification and without the sunshade it fits an ar well. We were able to dial to 18x and still have 10 mils for holdover. That'll take you just past 800

A huge benefit for this rifle compared to the gap10 I'm looking at is the fact that I'm a lefty... All my time shooting the M4 I've inhaled a ton of gas because well... It's right next to my face. Lol... This being piston operated, i won't really have that problem. I do wish it was ambi friendly with controls though. Especially mag release.

Overall it's just awesome. I want it. The only thing I'm curious on is the kind of recoil... I've heard it's miniscule so i need to feel it for myself. And im also curious on accuracy too. Again, I've heard sub moa but I'd like to try it myself.

That being said, it was an impressive rifle.

Oh, about the non free floating barrel thing... If I can shoot accurately (sub moa is amazing) I don't care if there is an anvil attached to it (a light anvil maybe... Lol) just remember not to load the bipod.

Thanks for letting me check it out dmack!

 

[DMack]

Re: PWS MK214

TASEAL,

As soon as we can get together... I want you to shoot the MK214 and feel it for yourself. However, as I told you... to shoot one is to buy one. To buy one, is to run it hard, and to run it hard, is to love it.

Is it the absolute best rifle out there? Well, no. If it were, everyone would buy it. But, it does everything so well, it's a perfect all around heavy hitter. With the MK214 you can change it from a close up heavy hammer, to a medium / longer range hammer just by switching out optics.

See ya soon.

 

[SactoSniper]

Re: PWS MK214

Dmack,

I am thinking about signing up for a local long range tactical rifle beginner clinic. This clinic will have us engage targets out to 1000 yards. Most of the guys I think are showing up with bolt guns. My AE is on order and won't get here in time. Do you think it's worthwhile to take the class with my MK214 or should I wait.

If you think it is a go, what factory loads would you recommend?

Thank you.

 

[BCP]

Re: PWS MK214

If it's sac valley probably 300, 600, 800, 1000. I don't see a 14" 308 going 1k with factory ammo but you will certainly get range time at closer distances. Just make sure they allow semis as sometimes the tactical crew out there is bolts only.

 

[SactoSniper]

Re: PWS MK214

BCP,

Yes it is at Sac Valley. It's their annual LR beginner clinic. I double checked with them and they said AR10's were fine. I wasn't sure if ballistically a 308 in a 14.5 inch barrel would be able to reach out to 1000 yards. I think they start at 200 and then slowly work out to 1000.

The class is limited to first timers so it'll be a group not used to shooting at those ranges.

 

[BattleAxe]

Re: PWS MK214

The 214 will be fine. At that distance you could likely expect 1.5 MOA. They really like the Fed 7.62 175's which is nothing more than a M118 clone. I shot 1MOA with DMack's 214 to 850 pretty consistently.

 

[BCP]

Re: PWS MK214

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: SactoSniper</div><div class="ubbcode-body">BCP,

Yes it is at Sac Valley. It's their annual LR beginner clinic. I double checked with them and they said AR10's were fine. I wasn't sure if ballistically a 308 in a 14.5 inch barrel would be able to reach out to 1000 yards. I think they start at 200 and then slowly work out to 1000.

The class is limited to first timers so it'll be a group not used to shooting at those ranges. </div></div>

Go for it. Just be sure to have a bipod, rear bag, sling and some sort of range pack because I think they walk the entire course rather than what the fat old F classers do (drive to the X yard line, then drive to the pits).