Sons Of Liberty GunWorks

What Sons Of Liberty GunWorks does

Sons Of Liberty Gun Works (SOLGW) is a privately held, premium American manufacturer of AR-pattern rifles, components, and accessories headquartered in San Antonio, Texas, founded in 2013. The company designs, machines, and assembles complete rifles across three core families - the flagship MK1 (CAR 11.5-inch and Recce 14.5-inch), the M4 L89 series, and the M4 EXO3 series - plus collaboration/signature rifles (OB1 with Christian Craighead, SAGE Dynamics) and a precision platform (South Laredo Precision Rifle, or SLPR). Its core technology centers on the patent-pending Drivelock barrel nut and handguard system developed with Icon Defense, which uses three independent wedges and dual steel anti-rotational dowels to clamp the rail with claimed 2x shearing force resistance; a proprietary 7-sided M-LOK rail architecture; barrels in 416R stainless and Chrome Moly Vanadium with polygonal 3-groove rifling and .223 Wylde chambers; and nitrided/QPQ corrosion-resistant finishes. Component catalog spans upper receiver groups, barrels (Fighting, SPR Precision, P3 Recce), handguards/rails (M89, L89, L89A ARCA, EXO3), bolt carrier groups, triggers (LFT, L2S), charging handles, and accessories.

SOLGW makes money through six streams: complete firearm sales ($1,449-$3,199), individual AR-15 components and parts, a custom shop and gun builder program, paid armorer courses ($500 for 2-day LE/MIL classes across multiple U.S. cities), branded merchandise/apparel, and a planned factory ammunition line. The business runs a three-channel go-to-market: direct-to-consumer e-commerce on sonsoflibertygw.com with FFL transfer, a tiered dealer network (Platinum, standard) plus national wholesale through RSR Group, and a dedicated LE/Government sales team handling direct procurement. Customer segments are law enforcement and government (over 200 agencies across 36+ states plus a SOCOM contract and Bexar County SWAT), civilian/military professional shooters (via MIL/LEO/EMS discount program verified through VerifyPass), competition shooters, AR-15 builders, and dealers/distributors. The company is led by CEO Nate Horvath (appointed February 2025, ex-Staccato CEO and U.S. Marine Corps veteran with a Stanford MBA) alongside co-founders Mike Mihalski and Kyle Grothues, with Sean Murphy joining as VP of Sales & Marketing in June 2025.

Name

Sons Of Liberty GunWorks

Legal name

Sons Of Liberty Gun Works

Website

https://sonsoflibertygw.com

Company type

Private

Founded year

2013

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

11–50 employees

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Firearms Manufacturing

NAICS

Small Arms, Ordnance, and Ordnance Accessories Manufacturing (332994)

SIC

Ordnance & Accessories, (No Vehicles/Guided Missiles) (3480), Sporting & Athletic Goods, Nec (3949)

akta.pro primary industry

Military Weapons Integration & Stores Management (IMABAMAG)

akta.pro secondary industry

Firearms & Ammunition Retail (CRAMAKAA)

Keywords

• AR-pattern rifles
• Precision rifle barrels
• Tactical rifle components
• AR-15 handguards
• Firearms manufacturing

Headquarters

HQ city

San Antonio

HQ country

United States

HQ region

North America

Offices1 record

Markets served

GTM type

B2B and B2C

Offering type

Hardware or Manufacturing

Cost components

Supply Chain, Personnel, Operations, Technology or R&D, Marketing or Sales, Infrastructure

Revenue model

1. Complete Firearms Sales: Sale of complete rifles including MK1 family (CAR, Recce), L89 rifles, EXO3 rifles, M4 variants, OB1 Craighead signature rifle, and Sage Dynamics collaboration rifle. Sold directly to consumers via e-commerce with FFL transfer, through dealer network, and via government/LE procurement.
2. AR-15 Components and Parts: Sale of individual components including upper receivers, lower receivers, barrels (Fighting, SPR Precision, P3 Recce), handguards/rails (M89, L89, L89A ARCA, EXO3), bolt carrier groups, triggers (LFT, L2S), charging handles, gas blocks, muzzle devices, and buffer systems. Sold through e-commerce and dealer network.
3. Custom Shop and Gun Builder: Custom Shop services and custom gun builder program allowing customers to configure rifles to specification. Higher ASP custom builds.
4. Armorers Courses and Training: Revenue from paid armorers courses and training events. Classes offered in multiple locations (San Angelo TX, Troy MI, Oakland CA, Hammond LA) at $500 for 2-day LE/MIL courses. Supports customer education and brand engagement.
5. Factory Ammunition: SOLGW announced plans for factory ammunition on the horizon (April 2024 announcement), representing a potential future revenue stream.
6. Merchandise and Apparel: Sale of branded merchandise including apparel (hoodies, shirts, hats), patches, stickers, flags, and collectibles.

Pricing tiers

Go-to-market motion3 records

Distribution channels4 records

Marketing channels8 records

Core offering

Sons Of Liberty Gun Works manufactures and sells AR-pattern rifles, components, and accessories, organized around three core rifle families (MK1, M4 L89, M4 EXO3), operator/collaboration signature rifles (OB1 with Christian Craighead, Sage Dynamics, The Tactical Games), and standalone parts (handguards, barrels, bolt carrier groups, triggers, upper receiver groups, charging handles, armorer tools). The company also runs an SOLGW Custom Shop for configured builds and provides paid armorers courses for LE/MIL customers.

Product overview

Sons Of Liberty Gun Works (SOLGW) is a premium American firearms manufacturer based in San Antonio, Texas, specializing in AR-pattern rifles, components, and accessories. The company's product portfolio centers on three core rifle families: the MK1 (flagship rifle featuring revolutionary Drivelock barrel nut technology), the L89 series (premium handguard system rifles), and the EXO3 series (duty-grade rifles with third-generation rails). SOLGW operates a modular architecture approach where customers can purchase complete rifles or configure builds using compatible components including precision barrels (SPR, P3 Recce, Liberty Fighting), handguards (M89, L89, L89A ARCA, EXO3), upper receiver groups, triggers (Liberty Fighting Trigger, Liberty 2-Stage), bolt carrier groups, and accessories. The company also offers limited edition collaboration rifles with operators and trainers (OB1 with Christian Craighead, SAGE Dynamics), custom shop builds, and apparel. SOLGW has earned a U.S. SOCOM contract for the MK1 rifle and maintains strong relationships with law enforcement agencies across 200+ agencies in 36 states.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Brands

• SOLGW: Primary brand name abbreviation for Sons Of Liberty Gun Works, used in product branding and company communications.

Products and services

• MK1 Rifle Family SOLGW's flagship AR-pattern rifle family available in CAR 11.5-inch and Recce 14.5-inch 5.56 configurations with anodized or Cerakote finishes. Features the Drivelock barrel nut/handguard lockup system with dual steel anti-rotational dowels, weighs under 6 pounds, and is the variant that won the U.S. SOCOM Combat Assault Rifle contract. Sold direct-to-consumer (FFL transfer), through the dealer network, and via the LE/Gov Sales team.
• M4 L89 Series Rifles Premium AR-15 rifles featuring the L89 handguard system with 7-sided M-LOK attachment slots, titanium barrel nut, integrated steel QD sockets, and the Drivelock locking mechanism for maximum rigidity and accessory mounting flexibility. Sold through the same DTC, dealer, and government channels.
• M4 EXO3 Series Rifles Duty-grade AR-15 rifles featuring third-generation EXO rails with 7-sided M-LOK slots, steel barrel nuts, anti-rotation tabs, and solid lockup for optimized weight distribution and barrel rigidity. Available in multiple configurations with Liberty Fighting Barrels at $1,449-$1,549.
• OB1 Craighead Signature Rifle Collaboration 5.56mm rifle with former military operator Christian Craighead combining SOLGW manufacturing expertise with end-user operational experience in a purpose-built fighting rifle.
• SAGE Dynamics Collaboration Rifle Collaboration rifle with tactical training company Sage Dynamics featuring the L89 handguard system in a 12.5-inch configuration with gray Cerakote finish, built to the specifications of a respected firearms trainer and operator. Priced at $2,899+.
• South Laredo Precision Rifle (SLPR) 14.5" Purpose-built precision rifle combining match-grade accuracy with tactical reliability, featuring a 14.5-inch SPR Precision barrel achieving consistent 1/2 MOA groups with 416R stainless steel construction and SPR contour. Priced at $2,499.
• The Tactical Games Collaboration Rifle Limited edition 6.5-lb collaboration rifle between SOLGW and The Tactical Games designed for tactical athletes and competition shooters. Features Angry Patriot Black Anodized receivers, SOLGW BCG, 16-inch mid-length DI barrel, M76 14-inch Lite rail, Magpul components, and SOLGW NOX TTG compliant muzzle device.
• L89A ARCA Drivelock M-LOK Rail Premium handguard with integrated ARCA dovetail rail featuring RRS-Lock compatibility from Really Right Stuff, titanium barrel nut, 7-sided M-LOK slots, and integral steel QD cups. Available in 13.75-inch, 15.25-inch, and 16.75-inch lengths. Priced $350-$389.
• M89 'Heavy' Handguards for SR25/DPMS Pattern Heavy-duty handguards for large-frame SR25/DPMS High Shelf pattern rifles featuring titanium barrel nut, full-length M-LOK slots at 3/6/9 positions, integrated steel QD sockets, and Fast Slots for cable management in 11.5-inch to 16.75-inch length options.
• M89 Drive Lock Rail M-LOK Patent-pending Drivelock handguard using three independent wedges that interface with angular grooves in a proprietary barrel nut. Available in 9.5-inch to 15-inch lengths with M-LOK compatibility and exceptional rigidity. Priced $315-$330.
• L89 Drivelock M-LOK Rail 7-sided M-LOK handguard with titanium barrel nut, integrated steel QD sockets, and maximized cooling slots, built on the M89 Drivelock lockup system with 7.75-inch to 16.75-inch length options.
• EXO3 Seven Sided M-LOK Slim Rail Third-generation EXO rail featuring 7-sided M-LOK attachment slots, two alignment tabs, optional steel anti-rotation dowel, and steel barrel nut. Available in 10.5-inch and 13-inch lengths for maximizing stability and mounting options.
• Precision SPR 5.56/.223 Match Grade Barrels Match-grade precision barrels featuring polygonal 3-groove rifling with 1:7 twist and .223 Wylde chamber for accuracy with both match and duty ammunition, with 416R stainless steel construction. Priced at $349.
• P3 Recce Barrels Premium fighting barrels based on the SPR Match barrel design with 3-groove polygonal rifling, 416R stainless steel, and nitrided finish. Available in 11.5-inch carbine gas and 14.5-inch mid-length gas configurations with .750-inch gas journal and 5/8x24 threads.
• Liberty Fighting Barrels Duty-grade fighting barrels designed for reliable performance under demanding conditions, complementing the EXO3 and L89 rail systems.
• SOLGW Bolt Carrier Groups (5.56) 5.56mm Bolt Carrier Groups made from 158 Carpenter steel, High Pressure Tested (HPT), Magnetic Particle Inspected (MPI), with OCKS screws; also available in Nickel Teflon coated variants. Priced $185 (discounted from $205).
• Liberty Fighting Trigger (LFT) and Liberty 2-Stage Trigger (L2S) SOLGW's triggers — the single-stage Liberty Fighting Trigger (LFT) with consistent 5.5 lb pull for duty/defensive use at $59, and the two-stage Liberty 2-Stage Trigger (L2S) for precision shooting requiring clean, consistent let-off at $158.
• SOLGW Liberty Ambi Charging Handle Ambidextrous charging handle providing left and right-handed operation for improved handling flexibility on AR-pattern rifles.
• L89 5.56 Upper Receiver Groups Complete upper receiver groups built with L89 7-sided rails, forged uppers, Liberty Fighting Barrels, SOLGW 4140 gas block, and nitrided gas tube. Available in 11.5-inch, 14.5-inch, and 16-inch configurations with multiple muzzle device options. Priced $950-$1,050.
• EXO3 5.56mm Upper Receiver Groups Upper receiver groups featuring third-generation EXO rails, Liberty Fighting Barrels, forged uppers, and V2 gas blocks in 11.5-inch, 14.5-inch, and 16-inch configurations. Priced $575-$725.
• Broadsword 89 Upper Receiver Billet upper receiver with enhanced lockup for M89/L89 handguards featuring relief cuts for seamless integration that reduces rail flex and minimizes POI shift under bipod and barricade loading. Reinforced profile and forward-shifted forward assist for left-handed charging handle clearance.
• SOLGW Custom Shop and Gun Builder Custom build services allowing customers to configure rifles with specific components, finishes, and specifications, including higher-ASP custom builds beyond the standard catalog.
• SOLGW Armorers Course (LE/MIL) Paid 2-day armorers course offered for law enforcement and military customers at $500. Classes offered across multiple locations including San Angelo TX, Troy MI, Oakland CA, and Hammond LA. Open enrollment courses available at different price points.
• SOLGW Armorers Punch Set Professional armorer's punch set for AR-15 rifle assembly and maintenance. Priced at $111.
• SOLGW Apparel and Merchandise Branded merchandise including t-shirts, hoodies, hats, patches, stickers, flags, and collectibles featuring SOLGW logos and patriotic designs.

Quantifiable outcome

• 1/2 MOA groups achieved with 14.5" SLPR barrel across multiple ammunition types under independent testing
• +3 more outcomes

Named customers10 records

Segments5 records

Ideal customer profiles4 records

Technology focussed No

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Integration3 records

Feature8 records

Partnerships

Nine partnerships are on record, tiered flagship, core and minor.

• U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM)flagshipStrategic or Co-development Partner · 20 November 2025SOLGW awarded a contract by U.S. Special Operations Command for the Combat Assault Rifle (CAR) program. A select-fire variant of the SOLGW MK1 rifle with an 11.5-inch barrel was selected following a rigorous competitive evaluation to equip America's elite warfighters. This is the company's most significant government contract to date.
• Real Street TacticalcoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ Distributor · 25 June 2025Real Street Tactical announced as a new Platinum Dealer for SOLGW. Platinum dealers represent a higher tier of authorized SOLGW resellers with enhanced partnership benefits.
• Bexar County SWATcoreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 24 March 2025Sons of Liberty Gun Works announced a contract with Bexar County SWAT in March 2025. This contract places SOLGW rifles into active service with a major metropolitan tactical team in Texas.
• Gun Owners of America (GOALs Convention)minorGTM or Marketing Partner · 1 August 2024SOLGW announced attendance at Gun Owners of America's GOALs Convention (August 2025). This event participation serves as a marketing channel to reach the GOA membership base of 2A-supporting gun owners.
• StaccatominorGTM or Marketing Partner · 8 April 2024SOLGW partnered with Staccato (staccato firearms) for the Memorial Day Celebration of Freedom event at Staccato Ranch in Texas. Event featured SOLGW rifles available for test firing alongside Staccato pistols, with SOC-F silent auction support.
• The Tactical GamescoreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 7 September 2023The Tactical Games selected L9 Mfg. (SOLGW) as the official Tactical Rifle of DARC. Collaboration rifle released March 2023 at 6.5lbs, purpose-built for tactical athletes competing in The Tactical Games. The Tactical Games tests skills and readiness of tactical athletes across military, LEO, and civilian backgrounds.
• RSR Group Inc.coreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ Distributor · 27 March 2023RSR Group is a national firearms distributor with five sales centers across the U.S. and a Texas distribution center. SOLGW California-compliant rifles are distributed through RSR inventory. SOLGW is described as one of the fastest-growing brands at RSR, quickly moving to the top of the rifle category.
• Freedom Firearms / Freedom Trading Co.coreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ Distributor · 13 January 2023Freedom Firearms / Freedom Trading Co. is SOLGW's premier dealer supporting their Las Vegas Metro Range Day event. The dealer assisted with SOLGW's participation in the LVMPD Range Day 2023, a key LE outreach event.
• Really Right Stuff (RRS)coreTechnology or IntegrationL89A ARCA rails feature the RRS-Lock system from Really Right Stuff — an improvement over the standard ARCA lockup engineered and designed by RRS. The RRS-Lock allows rapid full-length adjustment while maintaining rock-solid positional security. This integration is a key differentiator for the L89A product line.

Scale indicators7 records

Recent moves6 records

Expansion highlights6 records

Broad incumbents

• FN America: FN America manufactures military and LE firearms including the M4/M16 family and competes for USSOCOM contracts. Comparable to SOLGW on military program participation and AR-platform expertise, though at significantly larger scale.
• Staccato: Staccato is a premium 1911-pattern pistol manufacturer where incoming SOLGW CEO Nate Horvath previously led the 2018-2024 turnaround. Comparable as a premium-positioned, growth-oriented US firearms brand with strong LE endorsements, though focused on pistols rather than rifles.
• Sig Sauer: Sig Sauer is a large, established firearms manufacturer with extensive US military and LE contracts (including Army and SOCOM programs) plus a broad commercial product line covering rifles, pistols, optics, and suppressors. Comparable to SOLGW as a competing SOCOM contractor and broader LE/MIL supplier, though materially larger and more diversified.
• Heckler & Koch (HK) USA: HK is a major defense and LE firearms manufacturer with longstanding SOCOM and federal contracts (e.g., HK416). Comparable to SOLGW as a competing military rifle supplier, though at much larger scale and with a broader global product portfolio.

Direct peers

• Aero Precision: Aero Precision manufactures AR-15 components and complete rifles sold to civilian and LE customers through dealer and DTC channels. Comparable to SOLGW on modular component catalog, mid-to-premium price band, and similar operational scale.
• LaRue Tactical: LaRue Tactical is a Texas-based precision AR-15 manufacturer producing rifles and components for LE, military, and civilian markets. Comparable to SOLGW on premium positioning, precision/marksman product focus, and Texas manufacturing footprint.
• Geissele Automatics: Geissele manufactures premium AR-15 rifles, triggers, and components sold to law enforcement, military, and civilian markets through similar channels. Comparable to SOLGW on premium positioning, components-to-complete-rifles product mix, and the use of LE/MIL credentials as credibility anchors.
• Lewis Machine & Tool (LMT): LMT is a US-based firearms manufacturer producing AR-pattern rifles and components with strong law enforcement and military contracts, including USSOCOM. Direct comparable to SOLGW on platform focus, premium positioning, and LE/MIL customer base.
• Bravo Company Manufacturing (BCM): BCM manufactures premium AR-15 rifles and components, supplies LE agencies, and competes in the same premium civilian channels as SOLGW. Directly comparable on platform, customer segments, and dealer-distribution strategy.
• Daniel Defense: Daniel Defense is a premium American AR-15 manufacturer with strong law enforcement and military contracts (including USSOCOM). Directly comparable to SOLGW in product offering, target customer base (LE/MIL and civilian), and premium positioning, and is the most relevant benchmark for SOCOM contract validation.

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses5 records

Competitive moat5 records

Key risks6 records

Key highlights7 records

Customer concentration

• Xx.com/SonsOfLibertyGW
• Facebookfacebook.com/sonsoflibertygw
• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/solgw

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles4 records

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about Sons Of Liberty GunWorks