DRD Tactical previously came out with their break down 7.62x51mm Paratus rifle, and now they have a 5.56x45mm version. We featured the Aptus on TFB TV with Edward O if you want to give that a look. It should be coming to the U.S. civilian market in Spring of this year, with both SBR and full length variants. Although both are just a barrel change away, so if you purchase the 16″ version and like it, you should be able to file your SBR stamp and then receive the 7.5″ SBR variant. In addition to 5.56×45, the company also has a .300 BLK barrel available that can be used in the same platform.

The majority of the Aptus parts are AR compatible, except for the proprietary bolt carrier (bolt head is AR) and receiver. But the trigger components are compatible with any AR trigger systems out there on the market so fitting a Geissele in wouldn’t be an issue. There isn’t a standard T shaped charging handle, instead a left sided non-reciprocating lever. The finish might appear to be a one-off display model, but no this is the actual production line finish with the companies “Hard Coat Type III Anodize Black Finish”. There is another finish under “NiB Battle Worn™ Finish”.

Breaking down the rifle is quite simple, popping a latch on the righthand side, unscrewing a pin, sliding off the handguard and barrel group. The system comes with a sort of cap for this group to keep the chamber and gas tube safe while in storage. The top rail is monolithic, and the bottom rails are M-Lok, while the side rails appear to have picatinny attachments if those are necessary.

This photo is from Defense Review, showing the different barrel configurations-