By:Tim Seargeant

With the release of the new Echo 1 MTC it begs one very obvious question, why? The MTC is so similar to G36c, and yet it is so different. The fact of the matter is both AEGs are great options for both field and CQB play, each with their pros and cons. This article is going to address some of the differences and explore their purpose.

First, let’s look at the G36c, a futuristic looking gun that has found its niche as one of the best CQB AEGs available. The barrel is just short of 10” long, which is perfect for CQB because it’s plenty accurate for the average CQB engagement range as well as for those occasional long shots. The hand guard comes with the bottom rail section for a vertical grip but is also equipped with threaded holes for the addition of side rails. The top rail is equipped with 20mm weaver rail for mounting optics like red dot sights and/or holographic sights, and it runs the length of most of the gun. One major feature that puts the G36c above the rest is the fact that every operation on the gun is ambidextrous; the magazine release is right in front of the trigger guard, the charging handle swivels to both sides, and the fire selector is on left and right side of the gun. However, the icing on the cake, when it comes to the G36c is the stock; the stock folds to the right side of the gun, transforming it from a full length carbine to a super compact rifle in seconds. With the stock folded the right fire selector is no longer accessible, but the charging handle and magazine release are still useable from both sides. The Echo 1 G36c seems perfect in every way, then why would anybody want to change it?

The answer is simple, to mold it to fit the needs of the user. The fact that the G36c is already built very well works for arguments for and against modifying it. Some might say that the G36c doesn’t need any changes at, and some might say that since the G36c is so well built it provides an excellent platform to build upon. Both opinions are correct, it just depends on who is using it. The MTC comes with a 6 position LE stock; however any stock that utilizes the M4/M16 buffer tube will work on. The buffer tube system eliminates the folding stock feature but it does open many other doors for many different types of stocks. For example, by having an adjustable stock instead of a fixed folding one the user can adjust the length based on their preferences and comfort. The M4 Magazine well on the MTC is something that you’re either going to love or hate. If you already have an M4 or M16 your current magazines will fit perfectly with the MTC. On the other hand the G36 Ready Mag system is no longer employable, a feature that drastically cuts down reload time.

Internally both guns are identical. The take-down of the MTC may differ slightly due to the different stock and magazine well, but any tech that knows the G36c will easily be able to figure out the MTC. As stated before, both guns are excellent and each will find their way into the hands that can utilize them according to their needs.