Maxim Defense SCW Pistol PDW Brace (Gen 7)

The Maxim Defense SCW (Short Compact Weapon) Gen 7 brace is the current evolution of Maxim's ultra-compact PDW system and the most compact way to get a true PDW collapse on an AR pistol. The SCW adds just 4.0 inches to the rifle at its most collapsed position and extends to 8.75 inches across 5 positions. At 14.6 ounces, it is meaningfully lighter than the older 18.59-ounce CQB while delivering the same minimum-length philosophy.

The SCW uses a 7075 aluminum alloy housing with a MILSPEC hardcoat anodized finish and ships with Maxim's proprietary SCW buffer and spring. It is sold in caliber-specific configurations for 5.56 NATO, 7.62x39, and .300 BLK so the reciprocating mass matches the platform. The system installs on mil-spec AR15 lowers, but because the buffer is proprietary, it replaces the standard carbine buffer and spring rather than working alongside them.

At a $449.95 partner price, the SCW is a premium commitment to the Maxim ecosystem. For builders prioritizing the absolute shortest collapsed length on a vehicle gun, backpack gun, or covert build, it is the benchmark, and the Gen 7 weight reduction over the CQB makes it the stronger pick of the two Maxim braces.