WGM-15 Carbine

 

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The proliferation of the AR-15 rifle in every color, configuration and price point has left us with an over-saturated market. The most basic, bone stock, plain jane black rifles can be had for around 5 Hamiltons... heck, I can pick them up at Walmart all day long.  Unfortunately, they are for the most part all carbon copies of each other. Forged receivers, A2 birdcage flash hiders, and whatever furniture could be had at wholesale and slapped together on the factory line. Luckily for the distinguished (or professional) shooter, there are passionate rifle builders out there who continue designing and hand assembling finer AR-15 rifles that would make Eugene Stoner proud.

I recently received a carbine from WGM Tactical out of California to put to the test. WGM is a Type 07, Class 02 SOT FFL and manufacturer of AR15 style rifles, sound suppressors, AOWs, custom precision long range rifles, and gunsmithing service. I applaud them for enduring behind enemy lines and giving the gun control crowd nightmares by producing awesome 100% made in America black rifles.

The literature from WGM Tactical paints a pretty accurate picture of their vision and goals: "In todays market, a number of manufacturers use the term ‘mil-spec’, short for military specification. Why? Because everyone is under the impression, if the military uses it, it’s good enough for me. Fact is, ‘mil-spec’ simply means it is the bare minimum that the military will accept for a certain product. Here at WGM Tactical, we believe in going above and beyond, which is why our products are above 'mil -spec’. We believe in giving our customers a superior product. Each and every component is manufactured in the USA, and hand assembled and inspected by us. Which is why WGM Tactical warranties every rifle for any defects in materials or workmanship at no charge to the purchaser for the life of the product."  

The carbine comes as a sweet package in a Plano tactical case. Inside I found the WGM-15 carbine, OTIS cleaning kit, a QD sling, 2 Hexmag magazines, LULA Mag-loader, & eye and ear pro. Everything but the kitchen sink and ammo to shoot it with. The case itself has been plucked 'n pulled to fit each accessory which made running out to the range a breeze. No excuses to not go out and get some!

The first thing I noticed when I picked up the carbine was it's stout weight. The slab-sided billet receivers (which fit very snug together thanks to a tension screw), HBAR barrel, billet receivers and freefloat handguard make the balance seem heavy at first, but weighed in at only 7.4 lb total. The WGM-15 is 'huskier' than most AR-15s but the provided sling, hogue overmolded grip, stock and rubber keymod port covers keep the contact points between the shooter and the rifle pleasant. The weight also comes into play in the recoil of the rifle itself, or lack thereof.  The iron sights that come with the rifle are flip up style, which compliment the installation of any optic of your choice. The horseshoe front sight hood makes alignment with the rear aperture quick and instinctual. Utilizing only the flip-up iron sights, I was able to hit 8" steel plates easily with the lead splattered groupings staying close to the center.

The Allen Engineering muzzle brake did a phenomenal job at improving stability and cutting muzzle rise down almost completely. Slow fire of singles, as well as doubles and triples were very controllable and easy to keep the sights glued on target. The sharper readers may recognize it as the Ops-Inc 12th model, MK12 SPR, as seen from the 'Lone Survivor' movie. Unfortunately the .30 cal can I have is not compatible with the Allen, but the muzzle brake's mount half can be removed to expose the barrel's 1/2 x 18 threads. Having an AE suppressor would be ideal as you just unscrew the bushing and an Allen suppressor could be threaded on without tools or removing the muzzle brake. Makes me wish the NFA fairy would visit more often!

Being a California specific model, this specific WGM-15 came with the notorious bane of all gun owner's existences known as the "bullet button." Okay it's not really that bad, but makes you glad your current state of residence hasn't taken up a similar limitation (yet). To perfectly compliment the bullet button, the Hexmags WGM sent over also had 10 round limiters in them. Not only do reloads take twice as long, but the mags empty 3 times as fast. Thankfully I had some standard capacity Pmags to help boost that round count so I didn't get home too late.

Speaking of round count, this WGM-15 has been a naughty girl. Before my date with her, she's had 9,500 rounds fired without a single cleaning or drop of lube (other than the first lubrication at assembly). I've never been with a rifle with this much... experience. The previous shooting sessions used ammunition ranging from wolf, military surplus, match grade and custom loads. Rapid fire, slow fire, and suppressed. WGM told me that they only have one report of a misfeed (attributed that to his magazines) and one report of a stuck case at about 6,000 rounds that has not replicated itself yet.  Their goal is to not clean or lube the rifle until it simply will no longer function. Now that's something I can get behind!

The trigger on this WGM-15 was a vast improvement from most AR's single stage triggers. The 4lb setting breaks cleanly and the reset is shorter than what I'm used to, which made for quick follow up shots. I tested the rifle using exclusively American Eagle 55gr FMJ in my testing, which is all I had an abundance of. I fired a total of 300 rounds over the course of two days. Like I previously mentioned, that bullet button and CAstrated magazines slow things down a bit, but I didn't experience any malfunctions while setting that round count up to 9,800. The barrel, handguard, and rifle overall got very warm, partly due to the beaming sun. Smart men bring gloves to range day.

My overall final impressions of this carbine are thats it's a battle-worthy improvement over the 'mil-spec' mass produced AR-15 pattern rifles out there. The tolerances are all superb, and the components built and chosen add up to a rugged, improved evolution of America's favorite black rifle. If you are looking for a true beast in .223/5.56 thats not all marketing hype and lego parts, take a closer look at what WGM Tactical is building behind enemy occupied territory.

Firearms Insider Reviews – 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: WGM Tactical rifles are built with pride, quality, and the serious shooter in mind. They offer a great deal of quality and precision, all together in one convenient and economical package.

Target Market:  Serious shooters, Law Enforcement

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

• 7075 Billet Aerospace Aluminum Receiver
• Slab side upper reciever, forward assist and brass deflector eliminated for weight reduction
• Oversize trigger guard
• Mil-spec, Type 2 hard anodized, low gloss finish
• Anti-rotational trigger and hammer pins
• Ambidextrous safety lever
• Tension Screw (allows for a tighter fit between receivers)
• Hogue pistol grip& Hogue 6 position overmolded buttstock
• Commercial spec buffer tube
• One piece drop in trigger assembly (adjusted to 4 pounds, 4.5 pounds on law enforcement models, 3.5 on our 3 gun models)
• Fluted 16" match grade barrel (also available 14.5" pinned and welded to 16")
• Barrels are 4150 Chromoly, melonite coated for wear and corrosion resistance, HBAR profile, mid-length gas system. (Spiral fluting also available at additional cost)
• Chambered in .223 Wylde, allows for use of .223 or 5.56NATO cartridges while retaining the utmost accuracy. (Also available in .300 Blackout, ..458 SOCOM and .50 Beowulf)
• Note - .458 and .50 barrels are NOT fluted.
• M4 style feedramps.
• Fully adjustable gas block, allows user to custom tailor to different ammunition loads, with or without sound suppressor, etc.
• Free float keymod handguard, (Also available as MLok)
• Back-up flip up iron sights
• Armageddon Tactical Ambi charging handle (Design redirects blowback gases away from shooters face, particularly beneficial when firing suppressed)
• Allen Engineering muzzle brake, improves stability and lowers recoil. WGM-15 and FNA-15 rifles are designed to work with the Allen Engineering AEM-5 sound suppressor. (Formerly Ops-Inc 12th model, MK12 SPR, 'Lone Survivor' movie)
• Nickel Boron coated bolt, allows for minimal cleaning and lubrication
• Complete package comes in weatherproof Plano tactical case, OTIS cleaning kit, eye and ear protection,GunVault locks, quick detach sling, 2 HEXMAG magazines, LULA Mag-loader

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  NP3 or custom colors available at additional cost.

What others are saying?: "I have completed 2 separate new firearms purchases as well as several times of using Bill for some gunsmith work.  When it comes to wanting information or training, Bill or his wife will gladly take the time to explain things to you in way you will understand them.  Both purchases went smoothly.  They are a little hard to get a hold of if it is the day before or the day after a gunshow in the area, but that is understandable.  I would much rather do business with a small business like this, dealing directly with the owners, then through a large store where they are impersonal." Yelp User Review

Price point:

• MSRP: $2103

I need it now! Availability: Call WGM Tactical at 530-636-AR15

Our Rating:

Pros:

• Billet receivers with no Forward Assist
• Tension screw takes up tolerances between receivers and is hidden when pistol grip installed
• Commercial buffer tube (better tolerances than milspec)
• Best warranty around: If it breaks, WGM replaces the entire thing!

Cons:

• No brass deflector built into receiver (lefties shoot with your mouth closed)

Score: 8.5 Great

Featured FFL:

For FFL services I choose Promised Land Firearms in Toulon, IL.

Ryan's Links:

Gun & Gear Review Podcast

Hunter of Design

Magpul CTR Stock

The collapsable stock is a defining feature of the iconic AR-15. The original design was simple: 6 positions achieved with a latch, lots of loose wobble and very little comfort to the shooter. Since the commercial availability of M-4 type rifles to civilians, the market for improved stock design exploded. There are many different manufacturers of collapsible stocks with different aesthetics, but few companies have gained the recognition and customer loyalty of Magpul Industries.

Magpul's original collapsible stock that was very popular was the MOE (Magpul Original Equipment) Many rifle manufacturers were producing rifles from the factory equipped with the MOE stock and other furniture in the MOE line. While the MOE stock was a great design, sleek and easy to install yourself, it began to fall out of favor as new common features were becoming a standard on riflestocks. That, and more discerning users could notice a small amount of play/wobble between the MOE stock and the receiver extension tube.

Enter the Magpul CTR (Compact/Type Restricted). An evolution of the MOE stock, the CTR brings two new features to the table. The first is a friction lock that is designed to take up some of that wobble and play of its predecessor. Performance of the friction lock may vary depending on the buffer tube's dimensions, tolerances, etc. On my milspec extension tube, the CTR when locked is very nearly rock solid with no discernible play, while the MOE on the same tube has a small amount of rattle to it. 

The second additional feature Magpul added to the CTR is an ambidextrous quick-detach sling swivel port. Whereas the MOE only has slots for slings to be run through the rear or forward facing base of the stock, the ability to utilized QD swivels on the CTR greatly adds to the end user's options customization. Many rifles have QD attachment points on handguards or receiver extension endplates, and having the ability to alter the sling's attachment points at the push of a button is a great addendum to the flexibility of the platform.

The Magpul CTR stock and MOE stock share the same side mounting slots for mounting cheek risers to the stock. I have a LaRue Tactical RISR on my CTR, as it better aligns my dominant eye with an optic that is mounted on a taller base/rings. Unlike other cheek risers that are incompatible with AR15s due to interference with the charging handle when the stock is fully collapsed, the RISR has a reciprocating cheek piece that rides back with the charging handle when the LOP is set in the shorter positions. This of course isn't an issue with other rifle platforms that can make use of the Magpul CTR, like side charging rifles, modified AK-47/74's, or even chassis made for bolt action rifles.

For a modern, adaptable carbine/rifle that needs a collapsable stock for transport, storage, smaller framed shooters or shouldering whilst wearing body armor, a collapsable stock like the CTR is exactly whats needed. The addition of the friction lock and the QD port make it an excellent evolution of the MOE, and a widely used stock overall. If you are going to pick one up for yourself, just be sure you know whether your extension (buffer) tube is milspec or commercial. I consider the walk from the parking lot back to the store to exchange for the right stock to be a "walk of shame" for our hobby, especially if you've done it more than once like I have!

Firearms Insider Reviews – 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:  The CTR Stock is designed for light, snag-free, fast action with a friction lock system that minimizes excessive stock movement for enhanced weapon stability.

Target Market:  AR-15 owners, or other firearms that accept carbine-length receiver extension tubes.

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

• Drop-in replacement buttstock for AR15/M16 carbines
• A-frame profile shields the release latch to prevent accidental activation
• Friction lock system that minimizes excessive stock movement for enhanced weapon stability
• Ambidextrous QD sling mount
• 0.30" rubber butt-pad
• Sloping cheek weld combines a slim profile with user comfort
• Premium chrome-silicon lock spring provides positive locking and long service life
• Side mounting slots accept optional cheek risers for NON-AR15/M16 applications
• Compatible with Magpul ASAP® and other receiver-mount sling attachments
• Rear/Bottom - 1.25" sling loops
• Lanyard hole in toe for custom para-cord rigs
• Weight: 0.55 lb
• Length, Maximum: 6.90 in.
• LOP Adjustment Range: 3.25 in. - Collapsed: 10.70 in. Extended: 13.95 in.
• Mil-spec and Commercial-spec models.

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: Black, FDE, OD Green, Foliage Green, Stealth Grey

What others are saying?:

"Best solution I have seen so far for a rock-solid fitment. Can't stand a stock that has any wobble in it and this one doesn't. Achieved simply with a double-locking system that is by necessity very simple to use. Also light weight, good cheek weld and has the slots I need for sling of choice. Can't beat it." Brownells Customer Review

"The butt stock that came on my M&P Sport rattled in a way that no gun should. This product eliminated that problem. It was not difficult at all to put on, and feels great. " MidwayUSA Customer Review

Price point:

• MSRP = $59.95
• Retail = $56.95

I need it now! Availability:  Brownells, MidwayUSA and most local gun shops or outdoor stores.

Our Rating:

Pros:

• Very robust construction
• Easy Installation
• Friction lock takes up wobble that most 6 position stocks are cursed with
• Short LOP when fully collapsed
• Quick to deploy
• Rear QD sling point is a welcome addition

Cons:

• Commercial / Milspec labeling is very small and can easily pickup wrong size by mistake.

Score: 8.5 Great

Featured FFL:

For FFL services I choose Promised Land Firearms in Toulon, IL.

Ryan's Links:

Gun & Gear Review Podcast

Hunter of Design

Vortex Viper PST 1-4x24mm Scope

 

Yet another Vortex optic has snuck itself into my collection, this time its the variable low-power option of the Viper 1-4x24mm. This scope is at home on top of almost any carbine or low to intermediate range rifle. While 4x magnification isn't generally enough for MOA sized groups past 100 yards, this scope is meant for efficiency and speed. Weighing in at 16.2 ounces, this optic isn't the lightweight in it's class... but it's built with the same strength, glass clarity and dependability of the other scopes in the Viper PST line, which is to say very impressive for the price point.

For the same cost of a military-grade red dot scope, this Viper gives you the benefit of both a red dot and a low power scope.  The TMCQ (Tactical Milling Close Quarter) MOA (Minute of Angle) reticle is designed for close to mid-range shooting situations, as well as effectively estimating ranges, holdovers, and windage for longer pokes. At short range distances inside of 25 yards I could shoot with both eyes open at the lowest 1x magnification setting, using the reticle's thick circle and illumination with a 10 brightness setting rheostat. One major issue with most red dots or even holographic sights is that under intense bright conditions, the dot/reticle can almost disappear if you aren't in the shade. The Viper has a reticle with a thick 22 MOA circle thats etched onto the glass. I have actually rarely used the illumination as it's not often been needed, however it is useful and well executed. The clicks on the rheostat are very positive, with each step in between brightness settings being an off setting, so its easy to activate the illumination to the last setting used by one click either left or right. The thick circle glows bright and fills the role of a 1x red dot very nicely. At 1x, the distance for eye relief is a generous 4 inches, which again draws comparison to the function of a red dot.

At intermediate ranges between 50–175 yards, the extra magnification helps despite being only 4x. Zeroing the optic at 100 yards as opposed to 50 yards will lessen hold over needed at 200 yards, you just have to remember your point of impact will be between 1-2 inches lower than point of aim at closer ranges. While a 1-4x scope would seem underpowered for distances approaching 200 yards and beyond to most shooters, the reticle subtensions on this Viper are set MOA (minutes of angle) and make compensating bullet drop an easy task as long as you understand what your bullet is doing, in terms of velocity and inches of drop.  The lines of the reticle are thin, so if you are not accustomed to fine lines and small numbers, or have 'old, tired eyes' you may find yourself passing this scope over. But the thin width of the lines makes for finer aiming, and hopefully smaller groups on paper. There are 30 minutes worth of holdover dash marks on the reticle for both elevation and windage, which could lend itself to the 5.56 55 grain bullet reach outwards to 600 yards as far as drop is concerned, with plenty of windage marks. A simple brushing up on the MOA system of measurement and getting to know your gun's caliber trajectory will get you the most out of this reticles potential.

While this isn't a magical do-it-all scope, the ability to engage targets from 25 yards to 600 yards (depending on caliber/load) is within the realm of possibility for this scope. It's understandable how this scope has become a favorite of competitive shooters when drilling close range cardboard targets one minute and knocking down steel targets at 100+ yards the next. The 30mm tube lets in more light than 1 inch tubes conventionally, and the glass clarity is on par with the rest of the Vortex Viper PST family, which is arguably also equivalent or surpassing of most competitor scopes, certainly those who fall below the price point. You do get what you pay for when shopping for scopes, and a lifetime guarantee and overall quality and longevity you get from a Vortex optic is one of the best bangs you can get for your buck these days.

Firearms Insider Reviews – 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:  The Viper PST (Precision Shooting Tactical) riflescope boasts features associated with top-tier riflescopes, and delivers the performance and features tactical shooters demand at an economical price.

Target Market:  Range Shooters, Hunters, 3-Gun Competitors

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

• Extra-low dispersion (XD) glass increases resolution and color fidelity, resulting in crisp, sharp images
• Proprietary coatings increase light transmission with multiple anti-reflective coatings on all air-to-glass surfaces
• TMCQ (Tactical Milling Close Quarter) is a hashmarked ranging reticle using MOA-based subtension lines for ranging, holdover, and windage corrections
• 220 total minutes of adjustment for elevation and windage each
• Field of View: 98(1x)-27.5(3x) feet at 100 yards
• Eye relief approx 4 inches.
• Reticle protected between two layers of glass for optimum durability and reliability
• Illuminated reticle provides precise aiming under low-light conditions
• Ultra-hard, scratch-resistant coating protects exterior lenses from scratches, oil and dirt

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: Capped and Uncapped versions

What others are saying?:

 "Bolted this baby on my 20" flattop and couldn't be happier! Zeroed in easily and hasn't missed a beat in aprox 1000 rounds. Battery life is good, still on the original. Acquiring sight picture while illuminated is QUICK! Reticle is very fine and clear allowing me shoot 100yd moa groups off the bipod at will. Customer service is stellar at Vortex, friendly folks on the phone. " - Stickman User Review, vortexoptics.com

"The reticle is easy to see and a great size. While the illumination is not visible in daylight, it does provide a contrast in a situation where the crosshairs would otherwise get blacked out. Perfectly illuminated for night time. I love the "CQ" part of the reticle which is, in my humble opinion, better than the solid round EOTech reticle that tends to be "too busy" for my taste. The glass is very clear, and in fact in 1x it's clearer than some red dots I've used! The 1x is a true one 1x. Knobs are easy to grasp, adjust, set markings to zero, re-zero, etc., etc. Clear markings all around including magnification knob. All around, I can't find anything to complain about, and I expect my next scope will be a higher power Vortex PST MOA for my .308 bolt action. Can I give a better endorsement than that?" jkrispies user, brownells.com

Price point:

• MSRP = $579.00
• Retail = $499.00 at Brownells

I need it now! Availability:  Readily available online at Brownells and most sporting goods stores.

Our Rating:

Pros:

• Design and Function are a perfect match for a carbine to midlength AR-15 platform, especially in the weight department
• Glass is very clear for a 24mm objective
• Eye relief is approx 4 inches
• Reticle can both serve as a 1x Red Dot or capable of mid range shooting
• Water/fog/shock proof
• Nice tactile and well marked turrets
• CRS Zero stop feature
• Great Warranty, lifetime no questions asked.

Cons:

•  Illumination of center circle/dot of reticle is okay, but does not fully illuminate elevation hashes all the way to 30 MOA on either end, but does illuminate the full width of the windage marks.

Score: 9.0 Amazing

Featured FFL:

For FFL services I choose Promised Land Firearms in Toulon, IL.

Ryan's Links:

Gun & Gear Review Podcast

Hunter of Design