CMMG Dissent

CMMG Banshee: The Most Popular Pistol-Caliber AR Platform

The CMMG Banshee is the flagship product line — AR-style pistols chambered in pistol calibers including 9mm, .45 ACP, 10mm, and 5.7x28mm. The Banshee uses CMMG’s Radial Delayed Blowback system, which dramatically reduces the bolt velocity and felt recoil vs. standard blowback PCCs like the CZ Scorpion. The 5.7x28mm Banshee is particularly popular — it pairs one of the flattest-shooting pistol cartridges with CMMG’s refined action in a compact AR-pistol package. Barrel lengths run 5″ to 8″ depending on configuration, and most models are suppressor-ready with threaded muzzles.

CMMG Dissent: The PDW-Inspired Folding Platform

The CMMG Dissent takes the Banshee concept and adds a folding stock/brace mechanism that collapses the overall length dramatically — making it one of the most compact AR-pattern PCCs available. The Dissent uses the same RDB operating system as the Banshee in a package designed for vehicle carry, storage, and PDW applications. Available in 9mm and 5.7x28mm, the Dissent represents CMMG’s answer to platforms like the Maxim Defense MD9 for buyers who want a folding, suppressor-ready PCC in a familiar AR ergonomic package.

CMMG Radial Delayed Blowback: Why It Matters

Standard blowback PCCs operate by using the mass of the bolt to resist rearward movement until pressure drops — requiring a heavy bolt that contributes to felt recoil. CMMG’s Radial Delayed Blowback uses a rotating bolt head that must cam out of engagement before the bolt can travel rearward, adding a mechanical delay that reduces bolt velocity and felt recoil by up to 40% vs. standard blowback. The practical result: the Banshee and Dissent are noticeably softer-shooting than comparable blowback PCCs, cycle more reliably with a wider range of ammunition including subsonic loads, and are less finicky about suppressor use.

CMMG 5.7x28mm: The Flat-Shooting PCC Caliber

CMMG was an early adopter of the 5.7x28mm cartridge in the AR-pistol format, and their 5.7x28mm Banshee remains one of the best platforms for this cartridge. The 5.7x28mm fires a small-diameter, high-velocity projectile (40gr at 2,000+ fps from a 5″ barrel) that is exceptionally flat-shooting with very low recoil. It’s the same cartridge used in the FN P90 and Five-SeveN. For suppressor use, subsonic 5.7x28mm loads are available that run hearing-safe through a quality can. Since January 1, 2026, the NFA $200 tax stamp has been eliminated, making suppressed CMMG builds more accessible.

CMMG Resolute: The Rifle-Format Option

The CMMG Resolute extends the lineup to traditional rifle-length configurations in both pistol calibers and intermediate rifle cartridges (5.56 NATO, .300 Blackout). The Resolute uses the same RDB system in longer-barrel configurations that better suit hunting and longer-range applications. For buyers who want CMMG’s refined operation in a rifle rather than a pistol-format package, the Resolute provides the option. See our AR-15 rifles page for comparison with other 5.56 options, and our pistol-caliber carbines page for PCC alternatives.