I would not lose sleep over the quality of anything from Daniel Defense.
Of the two I’d opt for the LMT. Not knocking DD. I prefer to run 11.5 guns, but if I could have only one MK18 clone it would be this one.
Yes, the MK18 over gassing issues have abated. It all depends on what you want. The LMT MK18 Mod 0 upper is perfect for a Mod 0 build. Brownells’ stripped DD MK18 uppers are a great deal too. Don’t order from the gunbroker guy. Get a LGS to direct-order from LMT. Or wait for a REPUTABLE online vendor to stock them. Best of luck!
If anyone wants to roll their own with the same base:
https://www.bravocompanyusa.com/LMT-10-5-M4-Carbine-Upper-Receiver-Group-p/lmt%2010.5%20urg.htm
Out of stock, but you can add your own accessories when you get your hands on one.
BCM has been OOS for over a year, perhaps several years. But, might as well get on the notification list.
Maybe. The collectors are very loud, not sure how deep they actually are.
Is the Daniel Defense MK18 upper over priced for $1000?
Agreed 100%. DD has commented on what it would take to get orders, and the list gets pretty short when it is put up or shut up time. They are looking for MOQ of at least 100 units, of which they barely get into double digits. Most of the sales would probably be guys looking to flip them anyway.
Depends on your wants and needs.
What’s this?
A sensible, correctly gassed, legit Mk. 18 upper made from a reputable company at a fair price? With sights, rails, and everything?
See this is why I will always have an LMT something in my life.
They got contracts for their MWS from UK, NZ, and IIRC Australia; yet sell their commercial MWS at a fair price. As well as their MARS for NZ. Nothing going to heads, no massive layoffs, make one holy hell of a stock that has been around since the late 90s that you can buy whenever and when I needed a Bolt they were helpful.
LMT is a class act.
considering only quality vs. cost. Best quality vs. reasonable market price? I would get the LMT, no idea when they’re gonna be available though. Might as well get the cheaper DD mk18 upper and get the sights myself. I’m gonna install magpul pro BUS and aimpoint on it anyways.
+1
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I’m pretty sure that BCM doesn’t carry lmt uppers anymore, they just haven’t removed them from their website for some reason. They haven’t had stock in years(I was signed up for notifications for one of them). Same with their own SAM-R upper. It says something about coming in 2010 or 2011. I don’t think they have made any new ones in years which sucks as I want one.
Are you hung up on a 10.5", building a Mk18 rifle, or just wanting an short gun?
Im not saying not to get the LMT (I have one myself), but it sounds like this is your first foray into SBR’s, and personally I would grab a BCM or Sionics 11.5" with the rail of your choice and drive on, with enough $$ left over to throw an Aimpoint on top.
If you goal in an MK18 and soon, a DD may be the easiest way to get in.
might be better to buy from brownells and get your own BCG, CH, and muzzle brake:
They have 10% off and free shipping coupon.
Get a Radian arms charging handle, BCM BCG, and an AAC suppressor ready muzzle flashhider.