How To Build Your Dream MK18 Clone - A Complete Parts List

Building a 10.3" MK18 is always alot of fun with limitless AR accessories to choose from. Do you know which core components to get?

In this ultimate build guide, we put together a best MK18 parts list for anyone building a SBR (NFA) or a pistol (non-NFA). It includes everything so you don't have to look anywhere else on the internet.

For around approximately $1500, you can build a bad ass MK18 with exact parts you want, and you can upgrade it even more later.

Let's check them out...

Table of Contents

Top 22 Parts To Make A MK18 Clone

Lower Receiver

Spike Tactical Lower (Any receiver will do)
DD Stock/Grip Set
Magpul UBR 2.0 (Buffer tube included) or VLTOR EMOD
Geissele SDE Trigger - Trigger makes a huge difference, be sure to check out our best AR15 drop in trigger guide
Anti Walk Pins
Geissele Super 42 Braided Buffer Spring
H2 Buffer (Normal Use) or H3 (Suppressed)
Geissele Lower Parts Kit
BCM AR Trigger Guard
Magpul BAD Lever
BCM Mil Spec Buffer Tube

For MK18 pistol builders, voiding NFA headaches by getting a pistol brace:

SB Tactical SBA3
Maxim Defense

Warning: Do not modify pistol brace configuration

The receiver brand doesn't really matter as long as it's from a reputable manufacturer and has proper Mil-Spec dimensions.

Most receivers are made at the same factory (Contiental Machine Tool) as any others, the difference is that the brand logo determines the price you pay. Please check out our upper receiver guide for more info.

Tip: You can tell where it is made by looking at the stamp on the receiver

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Our favorites upper & lower receivers:

Rock River Receiver
Aero Precision
Spike Tactical
BCM

If brand value is important to you, these are people's favorite:

LMT ambi receiver (Lewis Machine & Tool)
Battle Arms Development

You can mix and match !

Upper Receiver

VLTOR or BCM Upper
Bolt-Up System DD Barrel Nut Wrench
DD factory BCG or Nickel Boron
DD RIS II 9.55" Rail (Must Have!) Or Geissele MK8 Rail
DD 5.56mm 10.3" Gov Barrel
0.070" size Gas Block (unsuppressed)
Carbine Length Gas Tube
Geissele Airborne Charging Handle
Forward Assist
Surefire War Comp 556-1/2-28

Daniel Defense MK18 Build

The Daniel Defense MK18 is the official MK18 maker, and their rifles are adopted by the US spec ops in the global war on terror.

You can buy it or you can build it.

Easiest Option - Buy a Daniel Defense MK18 factory upper

Or purchase the factory MK18 pistol. (Local FFL Transfer Required)

The best thing that makes a DD MK18 is the unique RIS II quad rail, and there is no similar product on the market today:

If you want a legit DD MK18 specs ops are using the Daniel Defense RIS II rail is a must have handguard for your AR build.

DD RIS II Rail - The Real Deal!

Battle proven 6 bolt bolt-up system securely attaches the handguard to the upper receiver
2 piece design accepts M203 grenade launcher without additional parts
Seriously made for war
6061 T6 aluminum, durable & lightweight
Free float system, increases accuracy
Continous top rail

Optics For MK18

Iron sights are great, but adding an optic transform the MK18 into a serious combat machine! please check out our red dot sight guide or the LPVO guide for more information.

Common FAQs

Difference Between MK18 MOD 0 & 1

The MK18 MOD 0 development all started with a basic M4A1.

First it was just a shorter barrel, then it was the CQBR upgrades that added a larger gas port for better cycling, improved buffer system that are optimized for each ammo type.

Finally the MK18 Mod 1 is born, similar to the SOPMOD Block II, now the rifle has plenty of rail space for mounting accessories thanks to the free float RIS II handguard.

Basically...