LMT Defense Rifles and Components

About LMT Defense

Lewis Machine & Tool Company, operating as LMT Defense, has been providing precision engineered weapons and modular weapon systems to military and law enforcement since 1980.

Founded by Karl Lewis in Milan, Illinois, the company was established with the mission to provide the US Military, law enforcement and government agencies with high-quality weapons, components and modular weapon systems that meet or surpass expectations.

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, LMT secured significant government contracts and emerged as a key supplier for military forces worldwide, with Karl Lewis personally designing the revolutionary Monolithic Rail Platform in response to growing demand for quick-change barrel systems.

Today, LMT Defense serves military forces in over 45 countries worldwide and has become synonymous with precision engineering and design excellence, particularly for their pioneering work in modular weapon technology.

The company remains committed to manufacturing 100% USA-made products that comply with the Berry Amendment and maintain ISO 9001:2015 registered manufacturing standards.

Popular LMT Defense Features

Monolithic Rail Platform (MRP) Technology

• The only true monolithic rail platform milled from a single solid piece of aerospace aluminum forging, providing unmatched durability and accuracy.

Quick-Change Barrel System

• Patented barrel system allows removal and installation within seconds using two T-30 locking bolts with return to zero capability.

Fully Ambidextrous Controls

• MARS rifle systems feature true ambidextrous bolt catch, magazine catch, and safety selector for left and right-handed operators.

Modular Design Capability

• One receiver can utilize multiple barrels of varying length, material, and caliber for maximum versatility and quick caliber changes.

Cryogenic Stress Relieving Process

• All barrels undergo proprietary cryogenic stress relieving and chrome-lining processes to ensure exceptional accuracy and longevity.

360-Degree Barrel Engagement

• The MRP system provides complete 360-degree engagement around the barrel extension, eliminating traditional threading issues that can affect accuracy.

Best-Selling LMT Defense Products

MARS-L 5.56 Rifle System

• The light version of the Modular Ambidextrous Rifle System featuring fully ambidextrous controls and proven reliability in combat conditions.

MRP Monolithic Upper Receivers

• Available in M-LOK and Quad Rail configurations with 18.5 inches of uninterrupted Picatinny rail space for maximum accessory mounting options.

Quick-Change Barrels

• Available in multiple calibers and lengths from 10.5" to 20", featuring chrome-lined bores and proprietary coatings for extended service life.

MWS 308 Rifle System

• The Modular Weapon System in .308/7.62 NATO caliber, popular with designated marksmen and precision shooting applications.

MARS-H Heavy Platform

• Designed for larger calibers including 7.62/.308, 6.5 Creedmoor, and other full-power cartridges with the same ambidextrous features as the MARS-L.

M203 Grenade Launchers

• Available in 9" and 12" configurations for both rail-mounted and standalone applications, recently awarded a $17 million US government contract.

Popular Uses for LMT Defense

Military and Special Operations

• LMT Defense rifles serve military forces in over 45 countries worldwide, including the Swiss Armed Forces and New Zealand Defense Force as their standard infantry rifle.

Law Enforcement Applications

• SWAT teams and police departments rely on LMT platforms for urban environments, close quarters battle scenarios, and high-stress operational requirements.

Precision Shooting and Hunting

• The modular design and exceptional accuracy make LMT rifles ideal for competitive shooting, hunting applications, and designated marksman roles.

Multi-Caliber Platform Needs

• The quick-change barrel system allows users to switch between calibers and barrel lengths in minutes, making it perfect for varied shooting requirements.

High Round Count Environments

• LMT rifles are built to exceed the abuse of combat conditions and maintain accuracy through extended high-volume shooting sessions.

LMT Defense FAQs

QUESTION: Are LMT Defense barrels compatible with standard AR-15 rifles?
ANSWER: No, LMT barrels are designed specifically for MRP platforms and require LMT-specific barrel extensions for the quick-change system.

QUESTION: What torque setting is required for LMT barrel changes?
ANSWER: The MRP locking screws should be torqued to 140 in/lbs using a T-30 head for optimum performance.

QUESTION: Can I use both 7.62x51 NATO and .308 Winchester ammunition in MWS rifles?
ANSWER: Yes, both cartridges are compatible, though commercial .308 runs slightly higher pressures but remains within safe operating limits.

QUESTION: Are LMT Defense rifles made in the USA?
ANSWER: Yes, all LMT Defense products are 100% USA made and comply with Berry Amendment requirements for government contracts.

QUESTION: How long do LMT barrels typically last?
ANSWER: Barrel life depends on heat exposure and maintenance rather than a set round count, with proper care and cleaning being crucial for longevity.

QUESTION: Are LMT barrels cold hammer forged?
ANSWER: No, LMT barrels are not cold hammer forged but undergo a proprietary cryogenic stress relieving process for enhanced accuracy.

QUESTION: Can I switch between different calibers on the same LMT receiver?
ANSWER: Yes, the modular design allows one receiver to utilize multiple barrels of varying caliber, length, and material with quick changes.

QUESTION: Does LMT offer warranty coverage on their rifles and components?
ANSWER: Yes, LMT Defense provides comprehensive warranty programs and maintains a dedicated service and repair department.