The centerpiece of the AXR Series is the Modular Fire Control (MFC): the serialized component that constitutes the legal firearm. Complete one Form 4473 for the MFC, and you can swap it between different grip modules and configurations without additional paperwork or transfers.

This approach mirrors what SIG achieved with the P320, but PSA extends it across an entire product ecosystem. The same MFC that powers your full-size duty handgun can drop into a compact frame for concealed carry, an Icarus aluminum frame for competition, or even the AXR PDW for a quick-deploy carbine.

One caveat: the AXR Micro uses a different, smaller MFC that isn't compatible with the full-size variants. This is a physical constraint of the micro-compact form factor.

The AXR SSP (Short Stroke Piston) is an evolution of PSA's Jackal concept, what the company describes as "Jackal 2.0." Chambered in .300 Blackout with a 6.5-inch cold hammer forged, chrome-lined barrel, it's built for suppressed versatility. A key improvement over the original Jackal: the short-stroke piston system delivers a significantly lighter front end.

Important distinction: Unlike some expected Jackal updates, the AXR SSP receiver is proprietary and not compatible with standard AR-15 lowers. PSA has confirmed a future Jackal update will still adapt the milspec AR-15 platform, but the AXR SSP is a distinct, purpose-built design.

The upper receiver features a fixed length with a bolt-on monolithic Picatinny rail extending from rear to front, eliminating flex between the rail and handguard for better zero retention. The lower handguard is swappable to accommodate different barrel lengths, and users can swap barrels at home to change calibers (e.g., .300 BLK to 5.56).

The adjustable gas block has been simplified from the original Jackal's 8-position system down to 2-3 positions, optimized for suppressed use. Controls are fully ambidextrous: bolt catch/release, magazine release, and safety all work from either side. The ambidextrous charging handle is side-mounted and non-reciprocating, a feature retained from the Jackal. The bufferless system enables the AXR brace to fold left, collapsing the overall package to under 18 inches.

The AXR SSP will be available with three rear options: the AXR stock (with adjustable cheek riser), a brace, or a Picatinny section for user-supplied stocks. AR-15 triggers, safeties, and pistol grips are compatible, opening up the entire aftermarket for customization.

The rifle variant retains the exact same upper receiver as the .300 Blackout SSP but chambers 5.56 NATO with a 14.5-inch cold hammer forged, chrome-lined barrel. The longer barrel necessitates a longer handguard and extended top Picatinny rail.

PSA emphasizes the platform is "truly modular" with plans for multiple calibers, barrel lengths, handguard lengths, and top rails. The new E4 bolt features enhanced lug diameters specifically designed to support calibers like 6 ARC and 338 ARC, along with dual ejectors for improved reliability. The AXR stock features length adjustment and interchangeable cheek riser pieces for height customization.

PSA, operating one of the largest barrel manufacturing facilities in the industry, will produce their own barrels and has plans to collaborate with other manufacturers. The barrel extension differs from standard AR-15, but is similar enough that aftermarket production should be straightforward.

The AXR Shotgun uses a completely proprietary receiver, not based on the PSA 570 or any existing platform. It's designed from the ground up for the AXR ecosystem.

The 18.5-inch threaded barrel is designed specifically for suppressor use, with PSA mentioning compatibility with new AAC suppressors. AR-15 grip and safety compatibility opens up the entire aftermarket for customization, and the Radian Talon safety comes standard alongside the new AXR grip and folding stock.

Multiple barrel lengths and colors are planned for the production lineup.

The AXR handgun line demonstrates the MFC concept in its purest form. Four distinct configurations: Full Size, S, Compact, and x Icarus, all share the same serialized fire control unit. All variants use Gen3 Glock-compatible slides, meaning existing Dagger owners can buy an MFC and grip module to enter the AXR ecosystem using their current slides.

AXR handgun configurations (Credit: Palmetto State Armory)

The AXR S variant is particularly interesting: it combines a P320-compatible grip module with a Gen3 Glock slide on top. This means shooters with a stockpile of P320 magazines can use them while still benefiting from Glock-compatible internals and slides. The same MFC works across all variants, so swapping between Glock and SIG magazine ecosystems requires only a grip module change.

All variants will be available as complete guns, standalone grip modules, or the MFC by itself for those building custom configurations. PSA is also internally exploring steel frames, with Icarus metal frames available at launch. Pricing falls between the Dagger and Saber Dagger lines, keeping the platform accessible.

The AXR Micro breaks from MFC compatibility due to size constraints. It uses a smaller, dedicated fire control unit that won't swap into full-size or compact frames.

The Micro slide features deeper serrations than the full-size variants and includes a built-in compensator at the front. It accepts PSA's 15-round Micro Dagger magazines and will be available as a complete gun or standalone MFC configuration.

The AXR PDW transforms PSA's previous X9 concept into a production reality. It's a quick-deploy 9mm personal defense weapon that, critically, uses the exact same MFC as the full-size and compact handguns.

The PDW grip module includes an extra magazine holder and manual safety behind the trigger. The brace uses the same X57 system that deploys outward, with stock options available for SBR configurations. At launch, the PDW will be compatible with Glock magazines and uses the same Gen3-compatible slide as the handgun variants.

Modularity is extensive: configurations range from a slick slide to versions with charging handles, M-LOK, or Picatinny mounting options. The front end offers two configurations: a minimalist M-LOK attachment point for lights, or a longer lower handguard with built-in 1913 rail. All parts will be available à la carte, so users can build exactly the configuration they want at home.

An extended booster brings the barrel length past the handguard, and a new "gas pedal" design improves control. The ambidextrous charging handle integrates into the RMR footprint area, keeping the profile compact.