SIG MCX

SIG MCX History

The classic automatic weapon series AR-15 maintains a global presence. Many manufacturers have adopted different forms of rifle series, but the inner workings of this rugged weapon system remain.

This is the case with the relatively new SIG-Sauer MCX series of automatic weapons, which utilize a traditional short-stroke pneumatic piston (rotating bolt) mechanism. Like other modern SIG products, the MCX is billed as a highly modular weapon system that can be customized in a number of ways to meet customer needs.

The series was launched in 2015.

This broad tactical value means that the MCX can also be designed to accommodate multiple cartridge types, depending on configuration. The typical rifling is 5.56x45mm NATO, but other rifling styles include 7.62x39mm Soviet and .300 ACC Blackout Round (7.62mm x 35mm).

All forms fire from a 30-round detachable magazine (STANAG model) deployed in front of the trigger group. The action can be used for half-fire and selective fire to suit operator needs (and market constraints).

Externally, the MCX is in traditional AR-15 styling. The shoulder rests are collapsible, fold over the receiver, and extend and retract while still absorbing a lot of recoil.

Above the top of the receiver is the long tube section of the Picatinny rail for mounting sights or special optics and targets. The front end has a large number of perforations to effectively cool the barrel.

All controls are located near the trigger area for easy access (including ambidextrous manual safety). The barrel protrudes slightly beyond the forearm and is equipped with a standard three-hole flash suppressor. The barrel is user replaceable to match the in-game cartridge.

The entire system weighs between 2.6 and 2.7 kg and measures 35.7 inches in length with the stock fully extended. The standard carbine-shaped barrel measures 16 inches.

The MCX SBR is the "Short Barrel Rifle" model (hence the name), this variant uses a 9" barrel. The MCX pistol with SBX is a semi-automatic pistol model with a 9" barrel - essentially a very compact carbine.

The MCX Low Visibility Assault Weapon (LVAW) is a short-barreled, silenced model intended for military and law enforcement use only.

The MCX-MR was once a "mid-range" product in the competition for the US Army's Compact Semi-Automatic Sniper System project (won by Heckler and Koch). It is designed for 7.62x51mm NATO. With its 16-inch barrel, it can be used in the Designated Marksman (DM) role.

The newer MCX VIRTUS range includes "Patrol", "Pistol" and "SBR" forms.

The current (2017) operators of the MCX series include Singapore (special police), the Netherlands (ship special forces) and the UK (police special forces). The Dutch received their MCX rifles in November 2016.

Specification

Roles

Dimensions

Performance

Changes