So, I've had my shiny, new MCX for a couple of weeks now, and must say that I am truly impressed with the innovation that this carbine represents. From the captive, dual-spring/operating rod system that allows a folding and/or collapsing stock, to the quick-change barrel, to the replaceable steel inserts for high-wear areas of the upper receiver, to the rigid, dual-length handguard; this rifle is clearly a ground-up re-think of the AR platform. Optimized for both 5.56mm/.223 cal and .300 Blackout, the Sig MCX is a genuine game-changer in the AR arena. Weighing in at just over 6 lbs in the standard 5.56mm, 16" Carbine configuration with the provided iron sights, the MCX is lighter than all but the most minimalist of AR-15 "boutique guns" on the market. Did I mention that the ergonomics are outstanding? Well, the ergos are fantastic. No sharp edges, a comfortable pistol grip and a smooth Keymod handguard all combine to make for a very comfortable ride. Even the minimalist butt-stock which some have complained about is (in my mind) an excellent compromise between comfort, weight and bulk with a decent cheek-weld.
The SIG MCX will require more live-fire testing before I am willing to give it my unreserved stamp of approval, but I must say that first impressions are extremely positive at this point. I am going to go bold here, and state my opinion that the SIG MCX is the game-changing, piston-driven, AR-variant that the ACR and XCR aspired to be but failed due to weight (ACR), accuracy (XCR), or a combination of both. There are numerous, detailed reviews on line from the likes of Nut'n Fancy (
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pnOMx_H1Hts) or a lady reviewer (
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eorJWpjazSo), so I am not going to repeat what has already been said. Quite frankly, they say it better than I ever could hope to - the MCX is quite frankly the new "must have" AR platform. That's it, that's all.
Bottom line? The SIG MCX is a genuine evolution within the AR world. I say this without even having experienced the quick-change calibre capability. If that is anywhere as slick as the innovative features of the basic 5.56mm carbine, then there will be no disappointment. The SIG MCX represents a paradigm shift in the design of AR rifles. Quite frankly, it makes all of my other ARs look and feel "fat & clunky" in comparison.
Enough talking and more pics. Here's mine fitted with a Vortex Razor HD II 1-6X optic in a 30mm American Defence quick-release mount. Other changes include the muzzle device which I swapped out from the SIG 3-prong "phantom style" flash-hider to a Daniel Defence "Enhanced" version, the addition of a Phase 5 Tactical Bolt Release for faster Right Hand manipulation of the bolt/carrier, a Surefire X300 Ultra light and a Magpul Vertical Railed Foregrip..
The only down-side to report thus far is an overly heavy (but still quite crisp) trigger. That said, it is a standard AR configuration and will soon be sorted out with a replacement. Next up after that will be a .300 Blackout calibre conversion kit with the 9" (optimized for .300 B/O) barrel. With the 9" barrel and folding stock, the MCX will give my micro AR's a real run for their money!