At SHOT Show 2024, Senex Arms introduced their Modular Bullpup Light Rifle 15 (MBLR-15). Developed by engineer Brandon Makowski, the company’s unique offering in the bullpup rifle category garnered attention for its versatility and use of familiar components.

On the SHOT Show floor, Brandon displayed a number of potential configurations for his design. The variations, which differ in overall length, handguard size, and barrel length, are each suited to different use cases, reflecting the modular nature of the MBLR-15. Among the designs presented were:

– A 28.1″ OAL model featuring a full-length handguard and an 18″ barrel capped with an AZ muzzle device.
– Another 28.1″ OAL variant with a mid-length handguard and an 18″ barrel, but this time with an A2 muzzle device.
– A more compact 21.6″ OAL model with what Brandon refers to as a Shon Plus length handguard and an 11.5″ barrel, also sporting an AZ muzzle device.
– The shortest in the lineup, a 20.1″ OAL with a base-length handguard and an A2 muzzle.

The MBLR-15 has a quick change barrel system and a quick detach handguard with MLOK slots. The rifle uses a Modified AR15 fire control pack utilization but a stock AR18 bolt.

On display were a couple of his Gen 2 prototypes, which suggests that Brandon is actively refining the model based on feedback and testing.

One notable aspect of the MBLR-15 is that while it is not a conversion kit for an existing AR15, it is compatible with a wide array of AR15 parts. These include:
– AR15 barrels
– Gas blocks
– Gas tubes
– Cam pin
– Firing pin
– Gas key
– Pistol grip
– Modified fire control system trigger
– Other minor parts

Brandon’s decision to incorporate these commonly available components could prove beneficial for end users, simplifying the process of customization and repairs.

Senex Arms’ MBLR-15

It’s always encouraging to see engineers like Brandon bring new designs, especially when they manage to integrate versatility with familiar parts, to the market.

It will be interesting to see how the market responds once Senex Arms secures the necessary backing and moves towards mass production of the MBLR-15.