Retro rifles and their accessories are a great addition to any gun enthusiast’s collection. These are rifles that have been manufactured over 50 years ago and are recognized by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (BATFE) as “Curios & Relics.”
The original classics come with an expensive price tag, but thanks to replicas that are now available in the market, you can have it at a lower price, complete with great features.
So if you’ve wanted to get your hands on an AR-180 upper receiver replica, you don’t have to look any further because this BRN-180 is perfect for you.
This article will be looking at all the features that make the BRN-180 a great choice among all the others in the market and why it’s a worthwhile investment.
BROWNELLS – BRN-180
One of the biggest companies in the gun manufacturing industry has just given the classic AR-180 upper receiver a major update. If you’re a gun enthusiast, you’ll be familiar with this rifle; it was one of the best in its era. It was designed in 1963 by the most renowned gun specialists.
There’s no wonder why it’s sought after by many gun collectors. It offers great reliability and efficiency, and it also levels up your shooting game by enhancing your shot’s accuracy.
The BRN-180 is one of the latest addition to the many retro rifles and parts that have been manufactured by Brownells, a very well-known company for its quality guns and retro rifles.
Their long experience in this field is one of the reasons why this upper receiver is one step ahead when it comes to performance. This has successfully combined the classic look with 21st-century features. There are a lot of things to like about this, so let’s get started.
Durability
When it comes to durability, you will be able to count on this. It is made with high-quality materials that give it the strength to withstand the wear and tear that comes with frequent use. Longer service life is also possible because it is less likely to get damaged by forceful recoils.
The receiver is made with a 7075 T6 aluminum alloy, which is very prominent for its shear and tensile strength. This is even used for heavy-duty applications like in aerospace industries. Although it’s not similar to the original’s construction, which only uses a spot-welding and sheet-metal, it ensures a much stronger build.
As for its 16-inch barrel, it is made of 4150 carbon steel, which enhances its durability. It also makes it more resistant to fatigue and gives it a higher impact resistance. A Nitride finish tops it off to make it resistant to corrosion.
Convenience
Despite its strong build, it is reasonably lightweight so you can freely carry it around. Your performance will not be affected because of any unnecessary weight.
The handguard has a good grip and it’s also very durable. And the matte black finish gives it a sleek look; it closely resembles the original AR-180 upper receiver.
It has standard muzzle threads that let you easily swap to a muzzle device of a modern AR-15 rifles in case you encounter any issues.
Compatibility
You don’t have to worry about looking for a lower receiver that will suit this because it is compatible with any standard mil-spec AR-15 lower receiver. And because it uses a .223 Wylde for its chamber, you can have more flexibility when choosing your ammo.
The chamber will be able to safely handle a .223 Remington and also the military-type 5.56mm NATO. It also uses a Picatinny rail, which is a military standard used for firearm accessories. This rail is compatible with several mounts, so if ever you prefer to install a scope to improve your range, it will be easier.
Suggested Article: Best 1911 Pistol
Performance
Since it uses a .223 Wylde chamber, it will be able to enhance your shooting accuracy significantly. Unlike other chambers, the .223 Wylde has a smaller space between the chamber and the barrel, which is known as the free bore diameter. It only has a .2240 bore diameter.
Users also noted the increase in range when using this upper receiver. With you’ll be able to have a longer range and accuracy advantage.
Adding to its overall performance is its three-prong flash hider that is a replica of the original. The prong at the bottom prevents any muzzle blast from kicking up dust signatures.
Additional Features
There are many additional features that this receiver has for you. And you’re sure to find all of these handy.
It uses the exact operating system as the original for its gas piston, which is very robust and is more reliable. And similar to the original, its bolt carrier is designed to ride smoothly on a guide rod pair.
There is also a polymer buffer complete with molded steel plates that are responsible for capturing the guide rods. This is already built-in, and it acts to buffer the carrier at the rear. Everything is modeled after the AR-180, including the bolt design down to the extractor it uses.
Suggested Topic: Scope Leveling System
Cost-Effectiveness
Price is a very important factor, and it’s usually what we first notice in a product. Well, the good news is unlike original classic rifles and other retro rifles in its class this is a lot more affordable.
There will no longer be any need for you to overspend just to get your hands on a retro rifle with great quality. Because this has all the features you’re ever going to need with that classic AR-180 design. This will be able to give you much more value for your money, and it’s a very great investment.
PROS
CONS
Related Guide: Handguns Review
Frequently Asked Questions
It will be easy to find a lower receiver for the BRN-180 because it is compatible with any standard mil-spec AR-15 lower receiver.
These two classic rifles have their advantages and disadvantages. They were both designed by great gun specialists and offer great accuracy and reliability. AR-180 is less likely to get jammed and fail, whereas the AR-15 has higher compatibility when it comes to parts.
This offers you more flexible ammo choices and you can either go with a 223 Remington or the military-type 5.56mm NATO.
This is designed exactly like the original. It has the same classic look and has even retained most of its features. Some features are added to further enhance its performance. Overall it’s an upgraded copy of the AR-180 upper receiver.
Yes, you will be able to use it under any weather thanks to its nitride finish.
Final Words
The BRN-180 guide has shown this upper receiver’s performance that is at par with the original AR-180. It also comes with a few innovations that give you a classic design complementing 21st-century features. Whether you’re a gun collector or not, this will be a great addition to your gear.