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Now, you can own a piece of special operations history. The Mk12 Mod 0 Special Purpose Rifle (SPR) offered now, exclusively at Charlie's, offers that rare opportunity. The Mk12 is rich in history, which started before the Global War on Terror, and then became an icon of the covert operators, as seen in the movie, American Sniper. The Mk12 is a favorite of military historians and clone rifle enthusiasts, as it is the first time an M16 style weapon was accurized to be a designated marksman or sniper rifle, and for the clone builder or collector, owning a Mk12 is something that is achievable. Other sniper rifles are harder to source and come with a much higher price tag. The truth is that every clone enthusiast has the Mk12 on his or her bucket list. Now, you can own one of the most authentic replicas available.
This deployment kit is not just another clone rifle. Charlie's, working closely with Potomac Armory, and all the parts manufacturers has pulled out all the stops, spent years in research and negotiating with suppliers, and has crafted the best recreation of the legendary Mk12 Mod 0. Bar none, this is the best Mod0 military clone-correct rifle available at any price. Every component, from the barrel to the handguard, has been carefully sourced to match the original specifications used by the Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC) Crane. It's as close as you can get to the real deal without a time machine or a SEAL contract.
At the heart of the Mk12 Mod 0 is its 18" Douglas barrel. NSWC Crane selected Douglas for their unparalleled quality and consistency. The 1:7 twist rate is optimized for heavy match-grade ammunition, specifically the 77-grain Mk262 round. This stainless steel barrel delivers exceptional accuracy, and with the period correct Gunkote gray finish, it's built to withstand the harshest operational conditions.
The PRI Gen II Carbon Fiber Handguard is the same as used 20 years ago. Its lightweight yet incredibly rigid structure provides a stable platform for the Harris bipod. The design's superior heat dissipation properties ensure sustained accuracy during prolonged firing sessions. Along the top is the "Swan Rail" that provides a continuous Picatinny rail from the receiver to the front sight. This is made as an exact replica to the original ARMS Swan Rail by Precision Resources.
Optics play a critical role in a precision rifle system. The Leupold TS-30 A2 2.5-8x36mm scope was chosen for its versatility and durability. Its magnification range allows for both close-quarters engagements and long-range precision shots. The illuminated TMR reticle ensures clear sight picture in any lighting condition, while its robust construction meets the rigorous demands of field operations. More importantly, Leupold made this scope available to Charlie's to be part of this unique deployment package. This Mark 4 scope is no longer offered commerically, but is yours with this special package.
A historically accurate clone offering would not be complete with out the "no stops" ARMS rings. A.R.M.S. has made a run of no-stop #22 rings just for us, and now this odd-ball piece of unobtainium is yours with the Mod0 limited edition deployment package! We've sourced the original design with a 180-degree lever turn, just like those used in the early days of the SPR program. This level of authenticity is rarely seen in Mk12 clones, setting your rifle apart from the rest.
And then, there is the foam. Charlie's team spent dozens of hours reseraching the correct layout of the foam. We talked with the suppliers who lived through the SPR program to find the purpose of every nook and cranny. We have commission this foam as being correct for the original SPR program, and then decided to utilize more modern high density polyurethane, as it is just better. Sometimes we have to stray from absoulte historical accuracy. The foam that came with the deployment kit in 2002 was junk, so we upgraded, but kept the geometries genuine. No, we did not use someone else's design. We did look at clone foam from others, and chose to stick with what our research told us was true to form.
As if this is not enough, we added all the accutiments that accompanied the orginal US Navy SEAL deployment kits: the original cleaning kit, cleaning rod, the bore guide used to snake the rod into the barrel, the orignial #40 rear flip-up sights, all of the USN paperwork that came with the kit, and added the authentic, but by and large never used Eagle TAS sling, as well as the more often used Blue Force Gear sling. And, we have the original dope card from the original publisher. Potomac contacted the person who originally made the dope cards for the SEALS, and received a limited number. This actually happened back in 2018, before others followed, and Charlie's has held on to these ever since.
To complete the Mk12 Mod 0 experience, Charlie's brings you the option of adding an authentic Ops Inc #12 style suppressor: the Allen Engineering AEM5. This isn't a replica. It's an authentic Allen Engineering AEM5: the current production version of the Ops Inc. 12th Model that was standard issue with the Mk12 Mod 0.
The story behind this suppressor is as captivating as a Tom Clancy novel. Phil Seberger, the innovator at Ops Inc, revolutionized suppressor design by applying electrical engineering principles and sound harmonics.
| "We approached suppressor design not just as a mechanical problem, but as an acoustic engineering challenge... It's about manipulating sound waves, not just gases." |
- Phil Seberger |
Ron Allen was the master craftsman who turned Seberger's acoustic theories into reality back in the 1990s. His precision machining skills were crucial in translating complex designs into high-performance suppressors. The result was the 12th Model suppressor, which set new standards for signature reduction and point-of-impact shift minimization.
After Seberger's passing in 2010, Ron Allen continued the Ops, Inc. legacy through Allen Engineering. The AEM5 was born as a direct copy of the Ops Inc. 12th Model, maintaining the same exceptional performance that made its predecessor the choice of special operations units worldwide. Ron's name is known throughout the military clone community as well as suppressor manufacturers across the US. Ron is a legend.
While there are other suppressors on the market that attempt to replicate the performance of the AEM5, this is the genuine article. It's not a knockoff or an imitation; it's the real deal, crafted by the hands that built the originals. No change in materials. No change in design. No change in manufacturing methods. This is the same suppressor that a Navy SEAL sniper would have received in 2001 or 2002.
These suppressors are from Ron Allen's last personal production run. Each one represents the culmination of decades of experience and refinement, a true piece of suppressor-making history. Ron's suppressors are made in Nevada. Ron has since passed the manufacturing batton off to Alex at Trajectory Arms, who produces the same exacting excellence, working under Ron's mentoring, and continues AEM5 production from Utah. There is no difference between an Allen AEM5 made in Nevada or made in Utah, but for this special limited run, we are featuring a Ron Allen made suppressor (Nevada), which gives a little extra nostalgia lift.
When paired with the Mk12 Mod 0, this suppressor you might say is purpose made. The sound reduction is as good today as more modern technologies, and the over the barrel design creates a positve seal to improve the performance of the precision rifle itself.
The Mk12 Mod 0 SPR emerged in the late 1990s as a response to the evolving nature of modern warfare. Special operations forces found themselves in situations where the M4 Carbine's effective range was insufficient, but full-sized sniper rifles were too cumbersome.
Development began with the 5th Special Forces Group collaborating with the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit and NSWC Crane. What started as the Special Purpose Receiver concept eventually evolved into a stand-alone weapon system.
| "The Mk12 changed our operational capabilities overnight... Suddenly, we had a familiar platform that could reach out and touch targets at distances we couldn't before." |
- a Navy SEAL operator
|
A critical component of the Mk12's success was the development of the Mk262 ammunition by Black Hills Ammunition. This 77-grain Open Tip Match (OTM) round was specifically designed to maximize the potential of the SPR. Steve Houghton, Chief of Ammunition Engineering at NSWC Crane, stated, "The Mk262 was a game-changer. It extended the effective range of the 5.56mm platform beyond what we thought possible."
Interestingly, early Mk12s were built on M16A1 lowers from the 1970s due to parts shortages during the rapid build-up for the Global War on Terror. The Navy wanted to have newer M4 lowers mated to the new special purpose upper recievers, but there were not enough available, as the Army had large contract deliveries for their M4A1 carbines, so the guys at Crane had to improvise.
| "We had a stockpile of M16A1 lowers from the 1970s, slated for destruction. We repurposed those for the early Mk12s." |
- a Crane armorer |
The Mk12 Mod 0 first saw combat in Afghanistan in 2002. Its ability to deliver precision fire at extended ranges while maintaining the familiarity of the M16 platform quickly made it a favorite among special operations units. A former Delta Force operator noted, "The Mk12 gave us capabilities we didn't have before. It was like having a sniper rifle that handled like our M4s."
The suppressor, designed by Phil Seberger and crafted by Ron Allen, was a crucial component of the Mk12's success. Seberger's background in electrical engineering brought a unique perspective to suppressor design. A former colleague remarked, "Phil's designs were revolutionary. He treated the suppressor as an acoustic instrument, not just a series of baffles."
The Mk12 Mod 0, with its suppressor, represents a pivotal moment in firearms history – a time when the lines between assault rifle and sniper rifle blurred, giving birth to a new category of weapon. Today, we might call the Mk12 a DMR. It can function as a standard infantry weapon, but also reach out beyond the range of the M4A1 and take precision accurate shots under 1 MOA at 600 yards.
| "The Mk12 SPR program demonstrated the untapped potential of the AR-15 platform. It paved the way for a new generation of precision semi-automatic rifles." |
- Chris Bartocci, in The Black Rifle II |
In conclusion, the Mk12 Mod 0 is more than just a rifle; it's a piece of military history. This recreation offers enthusiasts and collectors the opportunity to own a meticulously crafted replica of this iconic weapon system, complete with period-correct components and the option to add a genuine Allen Engineering suppressor. It's a chance to experience firsthand the innovation and excellence that defined a new era in special operations weaponry.
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Barrel | Douglas 18" Stainless Steel, 1:7 twist, with USN Gray Gunkote exterior |
| Upper Receiver | Colt M4 Flat Top |
| Lower Receiver | Colt M16A1 Military Replica |
| Handguard | PRI Gen III Carbon Fiber |
| Gas System | Rifle Length |
| Bolt Carrier Group | Colt M16 Full Auto Profile |
| Trigger | Geissele SSA-E |
| Optic | Leupold TS-30 A2 2.5-8x36mm, current production |
| Scope Rings | ARMS #22 low rings WITHOUT STOPS |
| Backup Sights | ARMS #40 rear, PRI flip-up front |
| Muzzle Device | OPS Inc. Brake and Collar |
| Stock | Colt A1 Fixed |
| Weight (without optic) | Approximately 9 lbs |
| Overall Length | 37" (with A1 stock) |
| Accuracy Guarantee | 0.50 MOA with match-grade ammunition |
Buying and shipping through Charlie’s is easy, but there is some information you need to know. This item must ship to FFL holder. No civilian exceptions.
1) Check your state laws to make sure the federally regulated item you want to purchase is legal in your state.
2) Find your FFL… Have your dealer send us a copy of their FFL and SOT info to Charlie’s (Make them earn their fee!!!)
3) Be patient! You should hear from our compliance department within 3-4 business days. If not, feel free to reach out for a status update.
That’s it! We try to make this process as simple as possible for our customers. Please click the “Buying a Firearm” tab at the top of this page for more information.
This firearm cannot ship to California, unless to a qualified law enforcement agency or individual officer.
NOTE: The free shipping option does not apply to full AR pistols, rifles, or ammunition
THIS IS A SERIALIZED FIREARM. It must ship to a Federal Firearms License holder. No civilian exceptions.
Buying and shipping through Charlie’s is easy, but there is some information you need to know. Only a federally licensed firearms dealer may receive a firearm or federally regulated serialized item (like a receiver or suppressor). We cannot ship these items directly to you. Please follow these steps to process your transaction:
1) Check your state laws to make sure the federally regulated item you want to purchase is legal in your state. Your FFL dealer should be able to give you all of the necessary information regarding your state specific laws. But, if we ship to your FFL, and there is a legal issue, we cannot accept a return. So please make sure that you know and follow your local and state laws.
2) A quick google search will show you what Federal Firearms Licensed (FFL) dealers are in your area. When you are ready to purchase, contact the FFL dealer you would like to use and get their shipping address. During the check-out, put YOUR address in the “billing” section and the FFL DEALER’S address in the “shipping” section. If you don’t know your FFLs address, that’s okay. You can send the information later.
3) After check out, make sure to contact your FFL dealer to ensure they will receive your shipment for you (most do this for a small fee, but you should always double check).
4) Have your dealer send us a copy of their FFL to FFL@CharliesCustomClones.com. Charlie’s does not reach to your FFL (MAKE THEM EARN THEIR FEE!!!)
5) Be patient! In order to ensure we remain compliant with all federal laws, our compliance department is kept separate from our sales and operations team. Please allow a few days for our compliance officer to verify all of your dealer’s documents and ensure all federal laws are being observed. You should hear from our compliance department within 3-4 business days. If not, feel free to reach out for a status update.
That’s it! We try to make this process as simple as possible for our customers, but if you are unfamiliar the process or have any other questions, please visit our How to Buy a Firearm page for more details.
California and New York residents please, click here. The process may be different due to state specific laws.
NOTE: The free shipping option does not apply to full rifles, unless purchased with a riflescope. If you choose free shipping at check-out, we will bill you for shipping later.
Potomac Armory
Precision Reflex (PRI)
Precision Reflex (PRI)
Allen Engineering