MY IMPRESSIONS
This is a hefty rifle. If the “LT” indicates lightweight, then I am glad that I do not have to lift the full-size XM7 rifle. Although, compared to a standard M1 Garand rifle, it is not that bad. With a folding stock, the overall length is considerably shorter, making vehicle exits much easier. Made possible by its short-stroke piston operating system, the action promises greater reliability and less gas blowback when suppressed than a standard AR-15 platform.
SIG’s Tango MSR 1-6x24 riflescope is my choice of optic for the MCX-Spear. Its variable power 1-6 magnification is just right for close quarters up through 100 yards, and it includes a lighted reticle with 11 brightness settings for any low-light condition. The one-piece SIG scope mount supplied with the Tango is marked with the required torque settings for the base and rings, making it a snap to install. The reticle is clearly marked with graduations for elevation and windage to make hold-over easier.
Although based on the AR-15/M16 platform, the MCX-Spear’s features make it easier to manipulate and shoot. My favorite new feature is the bolt release lever mounted on the RIGHT side of the receiver. This handy switch allows me to release the bolt with my trigger finger without moving from shooting position. The rifle is clearly designed to be ambidextrous, as the safety and magazine release can be worked easily from either side.
The most important design feature of the MCX-Spear is its short-stroke piston action, which offers two great benefits. First, it allows the stock to be folded, reducing the overall length by a quarter. Next, the lack of a receiver gas tube means no gas will back up into the shooter’s face while firing with a suppressor.
Suppressor Ready
Although not required, the SIG MCX-Spear LT is designed to be shot with a suppressor. Its hammer-forged 16-inch barrel includes a tapered, threaded muzzle that allows the SIG suppressor (and other brands) to self-center as it is threaded onto the barrel. No crush washer is required. I like this idea.
Made from durable titanium, my Banish 223 suppressor is light and adds only 7 inches to the length of the rifle. Most 5.56 chambered rifles are very loud, and the Banish 223 can reduce the sound signature greatly. Suppressors are the way to go when firing any high-powered rifle.
The Tango MSR scope is quick to get on target. The MCX package with scope and suppressor comes up to my eye quickly, and despite its weight, it will an intuitive shooter.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Weight: 7.5 pounds (9 pounds with Tango MSR scope)
- Overall Length: 32.5 to 35 inches; 26.5 inches folded
- Length of Pull: 13 inches
- Trigger Pull: 5.5 pounds
- Barrel Length: 16 inches
- Action: Short-Stroke piston
- Picatinny Rail: 20 inches
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Finish: Cerakote
ACCURACY TEST
My favorite place to shoot from a bench is Tucson Rifle Club, where I have a solid bench shaded from the sun and distances from 100-200 yards. For this accuracy test, I planned to shoot three-shot groups suppressed, unsuppressed, offhand, and from a tripod using Federal Green Tip 62-grain bulk ammo.
My first three-shot group at 100 yards was a respectable 2 inches. The report was loud and the muzzle blast from the short three-prong flash hider was severe. Next, I replaced the flash hider with my Banish 223 suppressor. It snugs up to the tapered muzzle shoulder quickly. Again, three shots formed a nice group at 100 yards, but the sound was much reduced, with zero muzzle blast.
Next was some offhand shooting on steel at 100 and 200 yards. The MCX Spear is no lightweight, but it fits me well. The flat-faced, two-stage SIG trigger may break at over 5 pounds, but it feels much lighter and is easy to feel. This helps greatly in making first-shot hits. Each hit on steel rewarded me with a pleasant “ding.” I love shooting steel.
If you are a little wobbly while shooting offhand, try the Vortex Switchback Carbon tripod. It is remarkably light and will steady your aim. Height adjustable from prone, sitting or standing positions, it is a great aid to hunters or target shooters. The included rifle cradle will accept and lock most rifles and handguns solidly in place.
This test rifle has had fewer than 100 rounds fired through it and is not broken in properly for best accuracy, but it is accurate enough for action shooting and small game varmint hunting. I feel accuracy will improve with time, and custom reloaded ammunition could bring out tighter groups. Reliability was excellent, as there were no failures to feed or eject during my test.
PROS & CONS
