Primary Weapons Systems MK114 MOD 1-M Review: Not Your Average AR-15

For the last few months, I’ve had the pleasure of testing out the Primary Weapons Systems (PWS) MK114 MOD 1-M, and after several hundred rounds, it’s time for a review. 

While I’ve had the opportunity to shoot a couple of different PWS rifles over the years, this is the first I’ve spent quality time with, and I have to say, it’s been a blast…pun intended.

PWS does a fantastic job of offering high-quality, hard-use rifles that don’t break the bank. The MK1 MOD 1-M series delivers several upgraded features but keeps the overall design closer to mil-spec standards. It’s essentially a high-value line that is focused on performance and durability.

Before I dive into the review, I’d like to send a huge shoutout to PWS for supplying this rifle for review. 

I’ll start with the features and then move on to the performance.

Features

The largest selling features aren’t necessarily noticeable from a quick glance, and I’ll get into them shortly, but let’s start with the ones that jump out at you. 

Upon opening the box, you’ll find upgraded Bravo Company USA furniture and a Lancer L5AWM magazine, which was an unexpected change of pace from the typical Magpul or B5 Systems furniture and a PMAG. 

That’s not to say it’s a bad change at all, just different!

The free-float M-LOK handguard features a full-length Picatinny rail, which provides plenty of room for all your favorite accessories. 

However, I was disappointed that I did not find any backup sights included. This is not a big deal, as many rifles seem to not come with them anymore, but I feel like any rifle over $1,000 should include them—just my .02.

As I mentioned earlier, the MOD 1-M line has a more mil-spec design than the MOD 2-M line, so you’ll find a basic non-ambidextrous safety and bolt catch. 

They both functioned fine, but I wound up swapping them out for a Radian Talon ambidextrous safety and a Radian extended bolt catch to go along with the Radian Raptor charging handle that came with the rifle.

To finish touching on the obvious features, PWS includes one of its own FSC 556 muzzle devices. This thing is LOUD! However, it does a great job at mitigating recoil and muzzle rise. Your neighbor at the range may not like you afterward, but at least your rifle will be on target!

Now for the star features of the show: the forged 7075-T651 aluminum receivers, the 3-setting adjustable gas system, and the long stroke piston system. Together, they deliver an exceptionally durable and reliable rifle that sets it apart from many others. 

The long stroke piston system has many benefits, including reduced gas blowback, cooler operating temperatures, and cleaner action. This results in enhanced reliability and less cleaning needed. I’ll apply take less maintenance any day.

Lastly, once you throw in the versatile 1:8 twist .223 Wylde barrel, the accuracy is brought to the table and completes the package.

Specs

Caliber	.223 Wylde
Barrel Length	14.5 Inches
Twist Rate	1:8
Thread Pitch	1/2×28
Operating System	Long Stroke Piston
Weight	~6.75 Pounds

Range Report

All of the features in the world don’t mean much if the rifle doesn’t shoot well. 

There is no beating around the bush when it comes to the MOD 1-M; this rifle can shoot. I’ve put just shy of 450 rounds through it so far without a single malfunction. There have been a ton of random loads sent downrange with it, but the majority have been: 

• 62-grain PMC X-TAC 5.56 “Green Tips”
• 55-grain Fiocchi Range Dynamics 5.56 FMJBTs
• 55-grain Hornady Frontier 5.56 FMJs

The felt recoil is minimal, and the rifle is well-balanced, making it very easy to stay on target. I’d say the trigger is clean and repeatable, but it’s nothing special. I definitely would have liked to see a flat-face trigger installed, but this one gets the job done.

With all of my shooting so far taking place outside, it has seen its fair share of dirt, debris, and moisture and has yet to skip a beat. I’ve only been able to shoot it within 50 to 60 yards, but any gong, silhouette target, or 2-liter bottle has not been able to avoid damage.

Pros & Cons

Pros: 

• Long-stroke piston system is clean and reliable
• Tons of room for attachments (M-LOK and Picatinny)
• Bravo Company USA furniture
• Radian Raptor charging handle
• Minimal recoil and extremely well-balanced
• Versatile 1:8 twist rate

Cons: 

• Lack of ambidextrous controls (aside from the charging handle)
• The rifle doesn’t come with backup sights

Final Thoughts

I still have many more rounds to put through the MOD 1-M before I consider upgrading it to one of my home defense options, but I honestly don’t have any reason to believe it won’t be. It’s been reliable and accurate, and the 14.5-inch length makes it easy to maneuver.

I have a feeling this won’t be my last PWS firearm, as I’m already eyeing a MOD 2-M. 

As always, stay safe, train hard, and have fun.