MRDS PDW from Zenith Firearms

The MRDS PDW belongs to the proprietary MRDS (Modern Roller Delayed System) family from Zenith Firearms, an American manufacturer that for years specialized in producing firearms based on HK systems. MRDS is a new platform built on the same operating principle, known, among others, from the G3 and MP5, but featuring modern enhancements. The first member of the MRDS family was the ZF56 carbine – a classic solution in a modern take.

Photos: Zenith Firearms

The MRDS PDW is essentially a “scaled-down” version of the ZF56, resized to suit 9×19 mm Parabellum and 10×25 mm Auto ammunition.

Users will be dealing with a modern layout reminiscent of the AR-15. The overall configuration is not the only reference to this popular platform – in the MRDS PDW, the same pistol grip and trigger mechanism are used, opening the door to the extensive aftermarket of compatible parts. Other modern features include full ambidextrous controls, stock mounting via a vertical rail interface, a long top mounting surface for optics, and an M-LOK handguard system.

Unlike the vast majority of designs based on this operating principle, in the MRDS PDW the moving assembly remains locked to the rear after the last shot. The MRDS PDW will be fed from Glock-pattern magazines or CZ Scorpion EVO 3 magazines.

Firearms from Zenith Firearms can also be seen in Poland thanks to Best Hunters – the store showcased, among others, ZF-56 carbines at Euro Target Show 2025 in Poznań.

Further details are available on the official Zenith Firearms website