Reviving PSA DPMS Panther Arms: Exclusive Insights from PJ at CANCON Carolinas 2025 | Retro AR Classics, Modern Builds & Red Dot Optics Mastery
- Rick Hogg
- 6 hours ago
- 4 min read
DPMS Panther Arms Revival: A New Era Under Palmetto State Armory
DPMS Panther Arms, a legendary name in the AR world since the 1980s, has roared back stronger than ever. After ownership shifts, including time under Remington, Palmetto State Armory (PSA) acquired and revitalized the brand, focusing on reliable, American-made firearms that blend heritage with contemporary value.
Live from CANCON Carolinas 2025 at the Clinton House Shooting Complex in South Carolina, the premier fully suppressed range day event, On The Range Podcast hosts Rick Hogg founder War HOGG Tactical and Mark Kelley founder Kelley Defense interviewed PJ (P.J. Smith), a passionate DPMS representative. PJ shared the brand's exciting comeback story, highlighting how DPMS delivers high-quality AR-15s, AR-10s, pistols, and more at accessible price points without sacrificing performance.
At warhogg.com, we prioritize gear that supports consistent training and real-world reliability. DPMS fits this ethos perfectly, offering shooters dependable platforms to build skills incrementally, whether for range sessions, home defense, or professional use.
Honoring Retro AR Classics in the Modern Revival
DPMS's legacy includes iconic models that defined practical AR platforms, from early LR-308 designs to classic small-frame .308s and competition-ready Panthers. PJ reminisced about these roots during the podcast, explaining how the revival honors that heritage while updating for today's demands.
Retro elements, like carry handles, A2 grips, quad rails, and classic furniture, are making a strong return. Models such as the "Kitty Kat" pistol with its C7 FSB and quad rail evoke 90s nostalgia, while maintaining modern compatibility. These nods appeal to military veterans familiar with legacy systems and enthusiasts chasing vintage aesthetics in a functional package.
PJ noted the trend toward retro-modern hybrids, blending throwback looks with M-LOK handguards, enhanced triggers, and suppressor-ready threading. For shooters searching "retro AR-15 revival," DPMS delivers authentic classics upgraded for reliability and versatility.
Modern DPMS Innovations: DR-15 Series, Kitty Kat Pistols, and More
The current DPMS lineup showcases thoughtful evolution. The DR-15 series stands out as a flagship, 16" 5.56 NATO rifles with 1/7 twist barrels, phosphate or nitride finishes, 13.5" M-LOK handguards, and B5 furniture options. Priced around $799–$900 MSRP, these rifles feature polished triggers, adjustable stocks, and rock-solid construction for high-volume use.
Compact offerings like the "Kitty Kat" AR pistols (7.5" barrels in 5.56 or .300 AAC Blackout, with CAR braces and quad rails) shone at CANCON demos. These short-barreled builds excel in suppressed configurations, delivering maneuverability for tactical drills or home defense.
PJ highlighted suppressor-friendly features across the line, no minimum barrel restrictions on many models, and compatibility with popular accessories. Rick Hogg, leveraging his Special Operations background, praised the value: affordable entry into quality AR platforms encourages frequent, effective training.
Other notables include Oracle II rifles, .350 Legend variants, and emerging pistol configurations. DPMS's focus on dealer distribution through dpmsinc.com ensures local availability and support for FFLs.
Red Dot Optics Tips: Optimizing DPMS Builds for Fast, Accurate Shooting
A major discussion centered on pairing red dot optics with DPMS rifles and pistols. PJ and the hosts offered practical guidance for enhancing speed and precision:
Zeroing Strategies - 50/200-yard zeros for versatile performance across ranges.
Mounting and Co-Witness - Lower 1/3 co-witness for backup irons; absolute co-witness for quick transitions.
Optic Recommendations - Durable, battery-efficient models like Aimpoint (use code warhogg25 to save with Aimpoint), Trijicon or Vortex, prioritize shake-awake and long runtime for extended sessions.
Recoil Management - Red dots reduce perceived recoil on DPMS platforms, enabling faster follow-ups in dynamic drills.
Avoiding Hype - Focus on proven performers that hold zero under abuse, not flashy features.
For tactical training, red dots shine on suppressed DPMS setups at events like CANCON, improving target acquisition in low-light or rapid-fire scenarios. Mark Kelley shared combat insights, stressing optics that maintain cheek weld and support team communication.
Tactical Training Advantages with Revived DPMS Platforms
DPMS rifles and pistols excel in training. Lightweight, reliable cycling, and modularity support high-round-count sessions without excessive wear. Suppressor-ready designs reduce signature and recoil, ideal for CANCON-style suppressed shooting.
PJ emphasized user feedback driving improvements, resulting in rifles that handle abuse while staying budget-friendly. Veterans benefit from familiar ergonomics with modern upgrades; law enforcement appreciates duty-ready features at entry-level costs; civilians gain approachable tools for skill-building.
At warhogg.com, we see DPMS as ideal for incremental progress, pair with quality ammo, dry-fire drills, and consistent range time for measurable gains.
Reliability, Safety, and the Road Ahead for DPMS
DPMS prioritizes safety through rigorous testing, quality materials, and features like enhanced triggers for crisp, safe breaks. Full-auto-rated components in select uppers ensure durability under stress.
Looking forward, DPMS continues expanding, retro varminter builds, more caliber options, and collaborations teased at events like SHOT Show. The brand's revival under PSA promises sustained innovation while keeping American manufacturing core.
Conclusion: Equip Yourself with PSA DPMS for Lasting Performance
The live interview with PJ at CANCON Carolinas 2025 captured DPMS's vibrant resurgence, retro classics meet modern reliability in rifles like the DR-15 and pistols like the Kitty Kat, enhanced by smart red dot choices.
For shooters committed to growth, PSA DPMS offers unbeatable value and versatility. Listen to the full episode on ontherangepodcast.com, check dpmsinc.com for specs and dealers, and visit warhogg.com for more tactical reviews, training tips, and gear to help you be 1% better every day.
Join our On The Range Podcast Patreon "CREW" for exclusive access, tactical tips and stay tuned for future live recordings.
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