The DPMS Panther Arms Recon AR-15 was delivered several upgrades and accessories that more professional shooters are expecting in an AR-15. The addition of a heavy stainless steel barrel, Magpul MOE collapsible stock, Magpul MOE pistol grip, MOE front and rear back-up sights (BUIS), a low profile gas block and an AAC flash hider, makes the DPMS Recon more than an attractive AR-15; it is a rifle put together with the serious shooter in mind.
The DPMS Recon rifle was actually developed by one of the company’s technicians at home. He was playing around with parts and ideas of a rifle that he would like, and the Recon was born. The Recon has many of the features that the BlueSheepDog Crew recommend for any serious contender for a patrol rifle.
DPMS Panther Arms
Defense Manufacturing Procurement Services (DPMS) is the 2nd largest manufacturer of AR-15 rifles in the United States, according to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (BATFE). Under the Panther Arms name, DPMS has been offering their AR-15 rifles for 25 years. Starting as a machine shop company specializing in government contracts for M-14, M-16, and M-203 parts, founder Randy Luth quickly saw the benefits of being a sole source provider for complete rifles.
Since that time DPMS has acquired four patents for AR-15 innovations, and developed dozens of rifle options in nine different calibers. Configurations include value, standard, tactical, tactical precision, hunting, competition, long-range precision, hunting, varmint, and NFA restricted rifles. DPMS also provides California and other State Compliant rifles for those shooters in restrictive States.
More on the DPMS Recon
It should be no surprise to know that I am a big Magpul fan. I recognize there are a lot of other good AR-15 accessories on the market, but I really appreciate Magpul’s revolutionary innovation that really set fire to the polymer additions. In addition, I find the Magpul accessories very comfortable and far superior to standard AR-15 furniture.
The MOE stock seats much tighter than the standard AR-15 stock, and also has a superior butt stock pad. The collapsible positions and movement of the stock are also much better. The MOE pistol grip avoids the finger groove of the standard pistol grip that doesn’t account for many hand sizes. In addition, the MOE pistol grip is wider, with a very nice grip surface that not only feels better to the shooter’s hand it grabs better. Magpul BUIS complete the Magpul package and are very nice collapsible sights that I have found to be adequately accurate.
The Recon’s addition of a stainless steel heavy barrel is an outstanding upgrade. Some shooter’s want to keep the weight down and choose smaller and thinner barrels. I understand that sentiment, but I have found a heavy barrel to be more accurate and much greater at heat dissipation, which can correlate to longer barrel life. The AAC flash hider is a great finish to the barrel upgrades, and provides a better service than standard bird-cage designs, in my opinion.
Finally, DPMS includes a free-floated, mid-length quad rail hand guard that allows the shooter to complete the rifle with fore grips, lights, lasers or other additions. Free floating the hand guard assures there is no interference with the barrel’s natural harmonics during firing, and also ensures that heat is dissipated better. I am a big fan of mid-length configurations over carbine or rifle length options. Not all shooter’s are the same size, and for me, the mid-length gives me more control over the fore end of the rifle, and a much more natural gripping point. It also allows me to attach accessories where they are best suited for my needs – not too close, and not too far away.
The BlueSheepDog Crew have talked before about a true patrol rifle needing a red dot, or magnified optic, and a light to be complete. The DPMS Recon is ready to carry the shooter’s preferred additions, in a position that best suits the individual.
DPMS Recon Specifications
- Caliber – 5.56mm NATO
- Upper Receiver – Forged 7075 T6 A3 Flattop
- Lower Receiver – Forged 7075 T6
- Overall Length – 37.0 inches
- Collapsed Length – 33.25 inches
- Barrel Length – 16.0 inches
- Barrel Configuration – Mid-length HBAR bead blasted 416 Stainless Steel
- Twist Rate – 1:9
- Weight – 7.65 pounds (unloaded)
- Stock – Magpul MOE (Commercial size)
- Handguard – Mid-length, aluminum, 4-rail free-floated
- Pistol Grip – Magpul MOE
- Front Sight – Magpul BUIS, polymer, folding (adjustable elevation)
- Rear Sight – Magpul BUIS, polymer, folding (adjustable windage)
- Fire Control – Standard AR-15
- Flash Hider – AAC
- Includes – (1) aluminum magazine
- MSRP – $1,129.00.
DPMS Commitment to Those Who Serve
DPMS recognizes what made them who they are – those who serve in the military, and later those in law enforcement. As such, DPMS offers a 10% Military/LEO discount and free shipping on any of their rifles. Officers will need to provide proof of employment and a FFL Dealer to receive the rifle for proper transfer. We appreciate a company that appreciates those who serve.