Ever since its establishment, Daniel Defense has been known for the production of innovative, high-quality firearms. Both DDM4V7 and DDM4V7 Pro are part of the Daniel Defense lineup, in which the latter is the upgraded form (we’re talking longer barrel length, better trigger, etc.) of the former standard offering.
The Pro version has certain features that are honey for precision shooters, as opposed to the tactical all-rounder DDM4V7. But none of these two are particularly nice to the wallet.
Size and Appearance
The Pro is longer and heavier than the standard version.
| DDM4V7 | DDM4V7 Pro | |
| Length | 32 1/4″ – 35 ⅞” | 34 3/4″ – 37 ⅞” |
| Weight | 6.2 LBS | 7.4 LBS |
| Barrel Length | 16″ | 18″ |
| Barrel Profile | Government | Strength-to-Weight |
DDM4V7 Pro features a longer barrel which is better for target shooting than the shorter barrel of the DDM4V7. It provides greater time for the bullet to be influenced by the propelling force and in this way, the bullet comes out with a greater power than it would with a shorter alternative.
The longer barrel will also increase the accuracy of the rifle, especially if you’re using iron sights. For 300-400 yards, both would fare up beautifully but after 400 is where the 18″ barrel will truly shine.
However, it also adds to the weight of the rifle and the Pro is more than a pound heavier. For people with longer shooting sessions in mind, the weight is not a brick, but you’ll definitely feel it. However, many like the stability that extra weight offers.
The S2W (strength-to-weight) is more and, thus, it handles heat generated by rapid shots better than the lighter rifle.
Trigger
You get a factory mil-spec on the standard DDM4V7 and Geissele’s SD-3 on the Pro. The trigger also happens to be the most controversial part of the DDM4V7 since it is a high-end rifle. Now we don’t have anything against Mil-specs but a trigger like that on a rifle priced around $2k is a bit harsh, no?
If you buy it and can work with it like many, then you do you. But some people end up replacing the trigger later instead. On the Pro version, however, you get the Geissele Automatics Super Dynamic 3-Gun trigger and needless to say, this boy’s pretty fancy and comfortable.
Conceal, Carry and Draw
Neither is practical for concealment or drawing since these are long rifles designed for shouldering.
Also, considering the weight and length of both, you are going to be tiring yourself quicker while carrying the bulkier DDM4V7 Pro. DDM4V7 can also be maneuvered around a bit more easily during hunting sessions.
In close-quartered scenarios, the lighter, more compact standard DDM4V7 will always be better. The standard version is also better suited for home-defense as each and every pound matters in this situation.
Specifications
Gas System
The DDM4V7 has a mid-length gas system while the Pro has the rifle-length gas system. Rule of thumb in this case is: the longer the gas system (the longest your barrel can accommodate), the better.
Your rifle gets more time to function with longer gas systems, allowing smoother cycling. The mid-length gas system is fairly good too but it does not enhance the reliability and comfort as much as the rifle-length gas system.
The longer barrel length of the Pro made it suitable for the rifle-length system. It resulted in a reduced felt recoil, quicker follow-up shots and better reliability.
Muzzle Device
DDM4V7 has a Daniel Defense flash suppressor, which reduces the signature flash but may also be involved in slight recoil mitigation. The Pro, on the other hand, also has a muzzle climb mitigator Gen II, designed to reduce muzzle climb or recoil rise.
The muzzle climb mitigator allows quicker follow up shots and better control over the rifle during these shots, making it, again, an exceptional competitive rifle.
Price and Value for Money
Like I mentioned before, the standard DDM4V7 is by no means pocket-friendly. However, when compared to the Pro, it does cost less.
The DDM4V7 Pro was priced exactly the same at both Brownell’s and Guns.com, when I last checked. You can check its latest updated price by clicking on the links below:
- Daniel Defense DDM4V7 Pro (Brownell’s)
- Daniel Defense DDM4V7 Pro (Guns.com)
The standard DDM4V7 costs around $500 less than that. It is not available at Brownell’s, but you can buy it from Guns.com, where it is appropriately priced.
Usually, the difference in price is such that it offers a great deal for the Pro, in that the mere upgraded trigger can cost more than $200. However, some may also find the rifle overpriced, in which case they prefer the standard version, keep it as it is or instead choose to build a custom out of it.
Nevertheless, both rifles provide a decent value for your money. The DDM4V7 is one of the best AR-15s in the market, and its Pro version is nothing less than a treat (especially for the sharpshooters).
Similarities
Both rifles are chambered in 5.56mm NATO, and use the same cold hammer-forged barrel technology for greater accuracy and longevity. It doesn’t only sound theoretically savvy, it has made its mark on the field too.
Then there is the MFR 15.0 M-LOK rail, M-LOK attachment points and the ambidextrous Grip-N-Rip charging handle. Both rifles also boast of a Buttstock with QD points and a pistol grip.
Along with the ergonomic design, the materials and finishes involved in the construction of the different aspects of the rifles are high-quality. In the end, all of these parts are made and combined in the good ol’ USA.
Conclusion
One may call the DDM4V7 a well-made all-rounder, while the Pro has some significant upgraded features. The longer barrel, better trigger, muzzle and gas system all boil down to one conclusion: if you are a competitive shooter or have a few extra bucks in your wallet to spare for a better rifle, I highly recommend the DDM4V7 Pro.
It is still a better option in other cases too, unless you particularly dislike a specific factor e.g., it is overpriced in your area/out of your budget, or if you aren’t fond of the extra weight.
Some other eqaully in-depth rifle comparisons:
- Daniel Defense DDM4V7 vs DDM4V1
- Daniel Defense DDM4V7 Vs. DDM4V11 | Not Much Different
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- Beretta A300 Vs. A400 | The Best Semiauto Rifles on the Planet?
- Beretta A400 Upland vs Xplor-Which Semi-Automatic Shotgun Is Better?
- Sig Sauer Cross Vs. Christensen MPR- Clash of Titans
- CMMG Banshee 300 Vs. Daniel Defense DDM4