Description
The Maxim Defense PDX SPS 556 Pistol is one of the shortest practical AR-pattern pistols available, with a 5.5-inch 5.56 NATO barrel, a HATEBRAKE muzzle booster and Maxim’s SCW Pistol System at the rear. This black configuration ships with a 20-round magazine and an ALG Combat Trigger.
Maxim Defense PDX SPS 556 Pistol Overview
The PDX was designed as a personal defense weapon: as small as possible while still firing a rifle cartridge. Maxim uses titanium, 17-4 stainless steel and 7075 and 6061 aluminum to keep weight down and durability up. The upper has an HK-height top rail for a more rigid optic mount, and the short M-Slot compatible handguard leaves room for a light. Overall length is under 19 inches, and Maxim lists the PDX at about five pounds eleven ounces. This version is sold under item number MXM-50803.
HATEBRAKE and Blast
The HATEBRAKE muzzle booster helps the short gas system run reliably and keeps blast directed forward, but there is no getting around physics: a 5.56 round fired from a 5.5-inch barrel produces intense noise and concussion. Hearing protection is mandatory, and shooters beside you will notice. This is a common reason PDX owners add a suppressor, which is an NFA item requiring an approved ATF Form 4 and state legality.
Ballistics From a Short Barrel
Expect a large drop in velocity compared with a 16-inch rifle, often several hundred feet per second. That reduces range and changes terminal performance, so choose defensive loads designed for short barrels. Inside typical home-defense distances, the PDX still delivers far more energy than a handgun.
SCW Pistol System
The rear of this pistol uses Maxim’s SCW Pistol System rather than a standard brace housing. It keeps the overall package compact and works with the PDX’s short reciprocating parts. Federal rules on braces and similar devices have shifted in recent years, so follow current ATF guidance and any state rules on how it may be configured and used.
Controls and Trigger
An ALG Combat Trigger provides a clean, durable single-stage pull without the fragility of some match triggers. Manual safety and AR-standard controls mean anyone familiar with an AR-15 can run it immediately. The 20-round magazine fits the compact profile better than a 30-rounder, and standard AR magazines also work.
Is It Right for You
The PDX costs considerably more than a typical AR pistol, and you are paying for compact engineering and premium materials. If your priority is the smallest possible 5.56 package for a vehicle, home or suppressor host, it is one of the best options. If you want long-range accuracy or low noise without a can, a longer barrel serves you better.
State Laws and Ownership
Pennsylvania buyers complete a PICS check at the receiving dealer and AR pistols are legal in the state. Several states ban or restrict AR-pattern pistols, threaded barrels, or pistols over a certain weight, and some localities have their own rules. Check your state and local laws before ordering.
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Maxim Defense, made in the USA
- Model: PDX with SCW Pistol System (SPS), MFG # MXM-50803
- UPC: 680017508036
- Caliber: 5.56 NATO
- Barrel: 5.5-inch, 1/2×28 threads
- Muzzle: Maxim HATEBRAKE muzzle booster
- Trigger: ALG Combat Trigger
- Materials: 6Al-4V titanium, 17-4 stainless, 7075 and 6061 aluminum
- Rail: HK-height top rail, M-Slot compatible handguard
- Overall length: about 18.75 in.
- Magazine: One 20-round
Before You Buy
Federal law requires handgun buyers to be at least 21 years old to purchase from a licensed dealer and to pass a background check. This pistol ships to your local FFL, where you complete ATF Form 4473. Suppressors and SBR conversions are regulated separately under the NFA.
Who It Is For
The Maxim Defense PDX SPS 556 Pistol is a great fit for experienced shooters who want the most compact 5.56 package for home defense, vehicle carry or as a dedicated suppressor host, and who understand the noise and velocity tradeoffs of a very short barrel.
Buy the Maxim Defense PDX SPS 556 Pistol at MAG5 Firearms
MAG5 Firearms is a family-owned FFL in Collegeville, Pennsylvania. Order the Maxim Defense PDX SPS 556 Pistol online and ship it to your local FFL dealer, or browse our full selection of firearms for more pistols. For factory details, visit Maxim Defense.
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