founded in 2002
Phoenix, Arizona
- 2002 founded by aerospace engineer Frank DeSomma
- gas-piston AR15 systems
POF-USA
623-561-9572
pof-usa.com
About Patriot Ordnance Factory
Patriot Ordnance Factory (POF-USA) is a Phoenix, Arizona, maker of AR-pattern rifles and pistols for law enforcement, military and civilian shooters. Aerospace engineer Frank DeSomma founded the company in 2002. POF describes itself as the first U.S. company to make and sell gas-piston-operated systems for AR-style rifles. Its Regulated Short-Stroke Gas Piston System uses a piston that drives an operating rod, rather than venting gas directly into the upper receiver as a standard direct impingement AR does, which the company says reduces carbon fouling.
POF also became known for durable coatings such as NP3 and for nitride heat-treated barrels and gas blocks. In December 2017, the company moved into a new 27,000-square-foot factory and headquarters. Founder Frank DeSomma died in an auto accident in June 2020; NRA Publications and other industry outlets reported his passing.
Key Facts
- 2002: Founded in Phoenix, Arizona, by aerospace engineer Frank DeSomma
- Claims first U.S. production and sale of piston-operated AR-style rifles
- December 2017: Moves into a new 27,000-square-foot factory
- June 2020: Founder Frank DeSomma dies in an auto accident
Learn More
- AR15 Buyers Guide.com covers piston and direct impingement AR-15s
Sources
- Wikipedia: Patriot Ordnance Factory
- NRA: Patriot Ordnance Factory Founder Frank DeSomma Dies in Auto Accident
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