Reviving DPMS Firearms: Exclusive Interview with PJ at CANCON 2025 | Retro AR Classics, Modern Innovations & Red Dot Optics Tips
- Rick Hogg
- 1 day ago
- 4 min read
The Comeback Story: DPMS Panther Arms Rising Strong in 2025-2026
DPMS Panther Arms, an iconic name in the AR world since 1986, has seen its share of ups and downs, from pioneering practical AR-10 platforms to navigating industry changes under previous ownerships. But in recent years, DPMS has staged a strong revival, focusing on high-quality, affordable AR-15s, AR-10s, and emerging models that blend retro appeal with modern performance.
Live from CANCON Carolinas 2025 at the Clinton House Shooting Complex in South Carolina, the world's largest fully suppressed range day, On The Range Podcast hosts Rick Hogg founder War HOGG Tactical and Mark Kelley founder Kelley Defense sat down with PJ (P.J. Smith), a key figure and enthusiastic ambassador for DPMS. This episode captures the excitement of the event, where attendees tested suppressed DPMS builds like the Kitty Kat and other new releases hands-on.
PJ shared insider details on DPMS's resurgence, emphasizing reliable manufacturing, competitive pricing, and a lineup that appeals to both nostalgic shooters and those seeking budget-friendly yet capable rifles. At warhogg.com, we love gear that combines heritage with innovation, DPMS fits that perfectly, helping shooters improve incrementally through accessible, dependable platforms.
Retro AR Classics: Honoring DPMS's Legacy While Moving Forward
DPMS built its reputation on classics like the Oracle series, early AR-10s, and competition-ready Panthers. In the podcast, PJ reminisced about these foundational models while highlighting how the brand is reviving that spirit for today's market.Retro-inspired elements, think carry handles, classic furniture, and proven designs, are making a comeback, as seen in recent offerings and collaborations. PJ discussed how DPMS is tapping into nostalgia without sacrificing reliability, offering shooters a bridge between vintage AR aesthetics and modern features like M-LOK rails and enhanced triggers.
For military veterans and law enforcement who trained on older platforms, these retro nods evoke familiarity while incorporating upgrades for better ergonomics and accuracy. Civilians building their first AR find DPMS's classics approachable and forgiving, ideal for range practice or home defense setups.
Modern Innovations: Spotlight on DPMS's Current Lineup
DPMS's revival shines through fresh models like the DR-15 series, Oracle II, and compact offerings. The DR-15 16" M4 5.56 NATO with B5 furniture delivers a polished, ready-to-run rifle at an attractive price point, around $799 MSRP, featuring phosphate finishes, 1/7 twist barrels, and M-LOK handguards for easy accessory mounting.
PJ highlighted the Panther Pistol and upcoming compact variants, perfect for suppressed use at events like CANCON. These builds emphasize modularity, with options for QD mounts, enhanced lowers, and compatibility with popular optics and suppressors.
During the live interview, PJ stressed DPMS's focus on American-made quality, rigorous testing, and value-driven pricing. No-frills reliability meets modern touches like improved triggers and furniture, making these rifles excellent for high-volume training or duty use. Rick Hogg, drawing from his Special Operations experience, noted how such accessible platforms empower shooters to train consistently without breaking the bank.
Red Dot Optics Tips: Enhancing Accuracy on DPMS Platforms
A key segment featured practical advice on pairing red dot optics with DPMS rifles. PJ and the hosts discussed popular choices like Aimpoint, Trijicon, and Vortex models for fast target acquisition in dynamic scenarios.
Tips included:
Zeroing at 50/200 yards for versatile range performance
Co-witnessing with iron sights for backup reliability
Choosing durable, battery-efficient dots for extended sessions
Mounting heights that maintain a comfortable cheek weld on DPMS lowers
For tactical training, red dots reduce time to first shot and improve follow-ups, crucial for law enforcement drills or competitive shooting. PJ shared real-world insights from CANCON demos, where suppressed DPMS rifles with red dots excelled in low-light and rapid-fire tests. Mark Kelley added combat-proven perspectives, emphasizing optics that hold zero under recoil and abuse.
Tactical Training and Range Performance with Revived DPMS Rifles
DPMS rifles shine in training environments. Their lightweight builds, reliable cycling, and suppressor-ready designs make them ideal for suppressed range days like CANCON Carolinas.PJ explained how DPMS's revival prioritizes shooter feedback, resulting in rifles that handle high round counts with minimal issues. Reduced recoil from modern buffers and stocks aids in building muscle memory, while affordable pricing encourages frequent practice.
Veterans appreciate the familiarity of AR patterns with upgraded components; law enforcement values the duty-ready features at entry-level costs; civilians benefit from user-friendly designs that lower the barrier to proficient shooting.
At warhogg.com, we recommend DPMS for those chasing 1% daily gains—pair one with quality ammo and optics for consistent improvement.
Safety, Reliability, and the Future of DPMS
Safety remains paramount. DPMS incorporates robust materials and quality control to ensure dependable performance. PJ touched on full-auto-rated components in some uppers and compatibility with modern accessories for enhanced safety in training.
Looking ahead, DPMS continues expanding with retro-modern hybrids and potential collaborations. The brand's Instagram and events like CANCON showcase ongoing innovation, including compact pistols and enhanced uppers.
As regulations evolve and shooters demand more, DPMS positions itself as a go-to for American-made ARs that blend legacy with forward-thinking design.
Conclusion: Gear Up with DPMS and On The Range Podcast
This exclusive interview with PJ at CANCON 2025 Carolinas was a highlight, revealing DPMS's vibrant revival through retro classics, modern rifles like the DR-15, and practical red dot tips.
Whether you're nostalgic for early Panthers or building a suppressed setup, DPMS delivers value and performance. Tune into the full episode on ontherangepodcast.com or Apple Podcasts for the live energy.
Join our On The Range Podcast Patreon "CREW"Â for exclusive access, more tactical insights, reviews, and resources to help you be 1% better every day. Stay tuned for future live recordings.
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