NRA Gun of the Week: Daniel Defense DDM4 PDW

by
posted on July 3, 2020
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
The AR-15 design has again and again proven its worth as a trusted option in the market of firearms dedicated to personal defense. The DDM4 PDW from Daniel Defense is one such standout of gas-operated semi-automatic pistols based on the Stoner design. The pistol features a 7”, cold-hammer-forged chrome-moly-vanadium steel barrel chambered for the .300 BLK cartridge. Daniel Defense packed its DDM4 PDW with practical details that add to the user experience.

Right side of Daniel Defense DDM4 PDW pistol with text on image calling out make and model.

Daniel Defense partnered with Maxim Defense to include its adjustable CQB Pistol Brace. 4” of adjustments are available, and hook-and-loop straps at the rear are provided for securing the pistol the shooter's forearm. An enhanced buffer system is also provided by Maxim Defense to further increase reliability with all load types, whether supersonic or subsonic. A linear compensator is provided to direct muzzle blast and screws onto the barrel’s 5/8"x24 TPI muzzle threads.

Man wearing a ballcap and protective shooting gear shooting an AR-15 pistol on a shooting range.

The gun’s receiver is a CNC-machined Daniel Defense enhanced unit that features a flared magazine. The upper receiver is also machined from 7075-T6 aluminum. The M16-style bolt carrier group (BCG) inside is chrome-lined. Sending gas to the BCG is a low-profile gas block machined of hardened steel that is phosphate-coated.

Close-up view of the DDM4 PDW collapsing arm brace from Maxim Defense.

Wrapping the barrel of the Daniel Defense DDM4 PDW is a free-floating MFR XL 6.0 handguard machined from 6061-T6 aluminum. Daniel Defense supplies its Grip-N-RIP Charging Handle and Pistol Grip as well.

Black AR-15 handguard shown on dapled gray background.

To learn more about the Daniel Defense DDM4 PDW pistol, watch our NRA Gun of the Week video above.

Daniel Defense DDM4 PDW Specifications
Manufacturer: Daniel Defense
Model: DDM4 PDW
Action Type: gas-operated, semi-automatic, center-fire rifle
Chambering: .300 BLK
Receivers: 7075-T6 aluminum
Barrel: 7", cold-hammer-forged
Trigger: 6-lb., 13-oz. pull
Magazine: 30-round detachable box
Stock: Maxim Defense adjustable brace
Sights: none; Picatinny rail
Length: 20.75" to 24.75"
Weight: 5 lbs., 11 ozs. empty

MSRP: $1,865
danieldefense.com

Further Reading:
The Making of Daniel Defense

Selecting An AR
Tested: Daniel Defense DD5V1
Build Your Own AR from Scratch
M1A—The M14's Successful Sibling

Extras:






Latest

Henry New SPD Models 01
Henry New SPD Models 01

Henry Introduces Two New Special Products Division Rifles: The CRUSR & PREDATOR

Henry Repeating Arms' Special Products Division expanded its offerings with two new rifles in the fall of 2025, the CRUSR and PREDATOR lever-actions.

Preview: Duracell 3000L Tri-Power Lantern

The company renowned for its Coppertop batteries now offers a high-tech take on traditional camp illumination.

Gun Of The Week: Colt Kodiak

The Kodiak, introduced in 2024, is based on the company’s iconic Anaconda design, which was brought back to the market in 2021.

The Armed Citizen® Dec. 12, 2025

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

The French Charleville: Workhorse Of The American Revolution

Often overlooked, the French "Charleville" infantry musket was one of the most significant longarms of the 18th and 19th centuries and was integral to the success of the Continental Army during the American Revolution.

Lisa Tuason Appointed Interim CEO of Armscor/Rock Island Armory

Following the unexpected passing of Armscor President and CEO Martin Tuason in November, Lisa Tuason was appointed as interim CEO in early December, ensuring continued family leadership.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.