What is a Personal Defense Weapon (PDW) | Video

When it comes to firearms, we often think of pistols, rifles, and shotguns. But there’s a unique class of weapons that fills the gap between a handgun and a full-size rifle: the Personal Defense Weapon, or PDW. If you’re a well-informed gun owner, you’ve likely heard of these, but many people still don’t quite understand what they are and what makes them special.

What is a PDW?

A PDW is designed for people who need a weapon that’s more effective than a pistol but smaller and easier to carry than a rifle. Originally created for military and law enforcement personnel, PDWs are meant for defensive roles where portability and firepower are equally important. Think about vehicle crewmen, mechanics, or medics—people who need to focus on tasks but also need a reliable weapon in case they’re suddenly under attack.

PDWs are compact, lightweight, and often feature the firepower of a submachine gun or small rifle. The goal is to provide a firearm that can be used in close quarters or for quick engagements at medium ranges, typically up to 200 meters.

Can American Gun Owners Legally Own a PDW?

For civilians, owning a PDW can be legal as long as you follow certain rules. The main issue with many PDWs is barrel length. Many PDWs, especially those with shorter barrels, fall into the legal category of a Short-Barreled Rifle (SBR). Under the National Firearms Act (NFA), owning an SBR requires specific registration with the ATF and a $200 tax stamp.

However, there’s another option that doesn’t require as much paperwork. Pistol braces are accessories designed to stabilize a firearm like a PDW without converting it into an SBR. As long as the firearm is equipped with a brace instead of a stock, and follows specific guidelines, it can be legally considered a pistol rather than a rifle. This allows gun owners to enjoy the benefits of a PDW-style firearm without going through the ATF registration process.

If you want to equip your PDW with a stock instead of a brace, you’ll need to file the proper paperwork with the ATF and register the firearm as an SBR. This involves filling out a Form 1, submitting fingerprints and photos, and paying the $200 tax stamp fee. Once approved, you can legally own the firearm as an SBR.

Full-Auto PDWs and ATF Regulations

It’s important to note that full-auto PDWs are much more difficult to legally own in the United States. Since 1986, the Firearm Owners Protection Act (FOPA) effectively banned the civilian ownership of new fully automatic weapons. This means that, to legally own a full-auto PDW, you would need to acquire a machine gun that was registered before this cutoff date. Even then, you must go through an extensive and costly process with the ATF, including an additional registration and licensing scheme, which many view as an unconstitutional infringement on Second Amendment rights.

In short, while you can own a semi-automatic PDW relatively easily with the proper paperwork or a pistol brace, acquiring a fully automatic PDW requires significant legal hurdles and expense.

Types of PDWs

PDWs can come in a few different forms, each offering distinct advantages depending on the user’s needs. These types include:

Ground-Up Designs

These are firearms built from scratch with PDW requirements in mind. They are compact, lightweight, and often use proprietary cartridges. Some well-known examples include the FN P90 and the HK MP7. Both were designed to be small enough to carry easily, yet powerful enough to stop threats. However, the proprietary ammo they use can sometimes be harder to find and pricier than more common calibers like 9mm.

Stocked or Braced Pistols

A stocked pistol is essentially a handgun that’s been modified with a stock for better control and accuracy. For instance, some people add a stabilizing brace or stock to a Glock or a Sig Sauer P320. These setups give you more control than a regular pistol but are still easy to carry and conceal.

Mini Submachine Guns

Some PDWs are miniaturized versions of submachine guns. They usually fire pistol-caliber rounds but are designed to be smaller and more maneuverable. The MP5K and Uzi Pro fall into this category. These are great for personal defense in tight spaces and can be easily stowed away when not in use.

Miniaturized Rifles

Another class of PDWs includes scaled-down versions of rifles. The Honey Badger and the MCX Rattler chambered in .300 Blackout are prime examples. These weapons provide the power of a rifle in a much smaller package. While they offer great firepower, they can be a bit louder and create more muzzle flash due to their shorter barrels.

Why Would You Want a PDW?

For everyday Americans, a PDW can be the perfect middle ground between a home defense pistol and a full-size rifle. If you want something compact that you can keep in a vehicle or a go-bag, a PDW gives you better accuracy, range, and firepower than a handgun but is easier to handle and store than an AR-15 or AK-47.

PDW Options for Gun Owners

Here are some great PDWs that you can buy in the U.S. today:

• FN PS90 – A civilian version of the military P90, this weapon is known for its futuristic design and its use of the 5.7x28mm round. It’s compact and offers good range for a defensive weapon, though the ammunition can be harder to find.
• Kel-Tec P50 – Chambered in 5.7x28mm, this futuristic-looking firearm offers great ballistics in a compact design. Its unique top-loading magazine and sleek profile make it an intriguing option for those looking for something different.
• PSA AK-V – A 9mm AK-style PDW that has gained popularity for its rugged design, reliability, and affordability. The AK-V provides excellent performance and can easily be equipped with a pistol brace.
• Sig Sauer P320 Flux Legion – This is a top pick for those looking to convert a handgun into a highly capable PDW. The P320 Flux system adds a brace, providing improved stability and accuracy. It’s lightweight, concealable, and offers the ability to shoot quickly and accurately.
• Sig Sauer MCX Rattler – Known for its sleek design and chambering in .300 Blackout, the MCX is a fan favorite. It offers excellent firepower in a compact frame. Be prepared for a louder shooting experience due to the short barrel.
• B&T APC9 – This Swiss-made PDW is compact, accurate, and designed for easy use in close-quarters defense. A 9mm PDW that’s small enough to stow away and quick to deploy when needed.

Conclusion

A PDW is an excellent option for anyone looking to fill the gap between a handgun and a rifle. Whether you’re concerned about home defense, keeping a compact weapon in your truck, or just want something new for your collection, there are plenty of great choices out there. Consider your needs—whether it’s ammo availability, size, or firepower—and pick the PDW that best fits your situation.