HM Defense

Let’s start with this. HM Defense is our premium line of AR rifles. We are “that” sold on them and we think that if you put one in your hands, you’ll agree with us.

This Defender is the next step up from the Guardian version. The Defender adds the Monobloc barrel, an improved stock and an enhanced grip.

If you’re not familiar with the HM Defense brand, it’s likely because 90-95% of their production has been going to US and allied military, law enforcement and the special operations community. They’re just beginning to open up commercial production and that creates a great opportunity to own a battle-proven AR platform rifle that looks as great as it shoots.

We think that the build quality of these rifles is equal to or better than some of the more well-known commercial brands that cost about twice as much. It’s not just our opinion, either. Our customers that have purchased these have come back to us as raving fans of HM Defense as well. Yes, they look great, but here’s a couple of things that you won’t immediately notice that make for a better, longer lasting rifle.

The barrel: In the HM Monobloc Barrel, the gas block is part of the same stock as the barrel. It’s literally a part of the barrel and eliminates malfunctions that come from a loose or out of alignment gas block and the harmonic vibration that can come from that. The result? Greater accuracy.

The bolt: If there’s a weak point in the AR design, it’s in the bolt. Typical AR bolts have the cam pin hole going all the way through the bolt. That leaves just the two side walls of the bolt to absorb the recoil and twisting stress of normal firing. The HMB bolt shortens the cam pin, eliminating the need to bore all the way through the bolt. That gives you strength on three sides, eliminates friction on the firing pin and results in smoother operation, in addition to a bolt that will last significantly longer.

That’s a lot of words to describe two key differences in these rifles but we have a great deal of respect for a company that spends their money to produce a better product, instead of just adding “flash” to catch your eye. These rifles are “lookers”, for sure, but there’s a lot of quality beneath the surface also.

Don’t take our word for it. Here’s what Sootch has to say about it:

Barrel:  4150 Chromoly, 16”, 1:8 twist, mid-length gas system, match grade, triple honed, button rifled

Rail:  15”, free float 1913 Picatinny rail, 6061-T6 aircraft grade aluminum, M-LOK compatible

Color:  Black cerakote

Lower receiver:  Forged 7075-T6 lower

Upper receiver:  Forged 7075-T6, M4 feed ramp

Components:  M16 bolt carrier group with HMB bolt, Mil-Spec components & trigger, custom trigger guard, dust cover, CNC machined muzzle brake

End plate:  Custom Quick Disconnect end plate

Furniture:  Mil-Spec HM multi-position collapsible stock

Magazine:  1 included