Charlie's brings you and exclusive: A Mk12 Mod1 Near Clone upper, featuring a Daniel Defense factory built commercial variant of the famous Mk12 Mod1 Special Purpose Rifle. with Allen Engineering hardware added for AEM5 suppressor compatibility. An Exclusive at Charlie's Custom Clones. The DD variant differs from the military clone correct model, as DD has adapted the rifle to be apealling to the commercial market, and Charlie's has added the AEM hardware to have a better look and feel to the original Mod1, and making it compatible with the Allen Engineering Mk12 / Ops Inc. #12 suppressor.
The DD Mk12 new clone upper receiver group features an 18-inch Stainless Steel barrel with a chamber created during the Cold Hammer Forging process, which ensures the most precise alignment of the chamber to the bore possible. The barrel is DLC finished, which provides unheard of durability. Daniel Defense CHF barrels are highly sought after for their quality, durability and consistencies in manufacturing, which leads to consistencies in accuracy.
The MK12 barrel is engineered with a rifle-length direct impingement gas system and utilizes a MK12 gas block which is built by Daniel Defense to Crane (Naval Surface Warfare Division) Specifications for US SOCOM. The upper receiver is equipped with a 12 inch free floating Picatinny quad rail for your choice of optics and accessories. The charging handle is the upgraded DD ambi GRIP-N-RIP, which accommodates left- and right-handed shooters, and is finished off with a Daniel Defense Improved Flash Suppressor. Charlie's has custom fit an AEM collar and AEM brake, with a larger spacer, to fit the unique SPR profile of the DD barrel.
When you hear the term "SPR" (Special Purpose Receiver), it's easy to get lost in the jargon. In the military realm, SPRs serve as the go-to for spotters in sniper teams and as primary sniping tools when larger-caliber rifles are impractical. In the civilian world, they dominate shooting competitions and varmint hunting. But let's cut through the noise and focus on a platform that has not only stood the test of time but has also evolved: the Daniel Defense Mk12 Mod 1, especially when modified by Charlie's Custom Clones to accept an AEM5 suppressor.
Originally, the SPR was part of the USSOCOM's SOPMOD kit, designed to give Special Operations Forces an edge in long-range engagements. Over time, this concept matured into what we now know as the Mk12 family. While many claim to have originated the Mk12, its roots can be traced back to the early '90s, where Special Operations troops were already using highly modified CAR-15s.
Daniel Defense's Mk12 Mod 1 comes with a free-floated DDM4 Rail 12.0. This isn't just a rail; it's a commitment to accuracy. Free-floating means the rail doesn't make contact with the barrel, ensuring that your shots stay true, no matter how many accessories you mount.
The Mk12 sports an 18-inch, stainless steel, cold-hammer-forged barrel with a nitride surface treatment. This isn't just for looks; it extends the barrel's lifespan and offers near-complete corrosion resistance. The "Improved Flash Suppressor" from Daniel Defense isn't just a decorative piece; it's a functional component that genuinely helps in recoil management.
The 12-inch quad-rail freefloat tube isn't just beefy; it's a blank canvas. Whether you're mounting gun lights, bipods, night-vision devices, or even a drink holder, this rail has room for it all. Plus, it comes with quick-detachable sling-mount sockets, making it as versatile as it is robust.
The Mk12's upper receiver is more than just a piece of metal; it's a Daniel Defense-branded, standard forged-type flattop, complete with feedramp cuts and slot markings. This is the hallmark of quality and attention to detail.
While the standard Daniel Defense Mk12 barrels aren't designed to accept AEM5 suppressors, Charlie's Custom Clones has stepped in to fill that gap. Each brake is custom-fitted to ensure a properly mounted suppressor, adding another layer of versatility to this already impressive platform.
In summary, the Daniel Defense Mk12 Mod 1, especially when modified by Charlie's Custom Clones, is not just another rifle; it's a testament to what happens when engineering meets craftsmanship. It's a platform that respects its military lineage while pushing the boundaries of what's possible.
Pictures courtesy of Daniel Defense, Potomac Armory and @holtworks on Instagram