BRN-180 by Brownells

Published on June 14, 2021
Duration: 19:49

This review of the Brownells BRN-180 upper receiver and BRN-180M lower receiver highlights its modern interpretation of the AR-180 piston-driven platform. The reviewer details its compatibility with AR-15 lowers, its performance with suppressors, and provides extensive accuracy data for both 5.56 NATO and 300 Blackout calibers. Key features like the M-LOK handguard and compatibility with folding braces are discussed, alongside minor criticisms like the charging handle design.

Quick Summary

The Brownells BRN-180 is a modern, piston-driven clone of the AR-180, known for its excellent suppressed shooting performance and compatibility with AR-15 lowers. While it offers a smooth recoil impulse and features like an adjustable gas block, its retro-accurate charging handle can be abrasive.

Chapters

  1. 00:05Introduction to the BRN-180
  2. 00:15What is the BRN-180?
  3. 01:07BRN-180 Upper and Lower Receivers
  4. 01:28BRN-180 Disassembly
  5. 03:34Handguard and Piston Access
  6. 03:56Shooting Suppressed
  7. 04:40Flash Comparison: Stock vs. Surefire
  8. 05:40Suppressed Shooting with Surefire SOCOM
  9. 06:14Recoil Impulse Suppressed
  10. 07:085.56 vs. 300 Blackout Suppressed
  11. 08:00Adjustable Gas Block (Version 2.0)
  12. 08:45BRN-180 System Integration
  13. 09:56Compactness and Deployment
  14. 10:14Downsides of the BRN-180
  15. 10:34Malfunction: Bolt Override
  16. 11:08The Charging Handle
  17. 12:18Accuracy Testing: Is it a Quarter MOA Gun?
  18. 12:53300 Blackout Accuracy Groups
  19. 14:445.56 NATO Accuracy Groups
  20. 16:26Thoughts on Accuracy Groups
  21. 16:50Overall Thoughts on the BRN-180
  22. 18:33BRN-180s on Coast to Coast Tour
  23. 19:09Supporting Kit Badger

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Brownells BRN-180?

The Brownells BRN-180 is a modern interpretation of the AR-180, a piston-driven rifle designed by Eugene Stoner. It features updated materials and design elements, offering compatibility with AR-15 lower receivers and enhanced performance, especially when suppressed.

How does the BRN-180 perform with a suppressor?

The BRN-180 is highly regarded for its suppressed shooting performance. Reviewers often describe the recoil impulse as exceptionally smooth and pleasant, making it one of the nicest suppressed 5.56 firearms they have experienced.

Can the BRN-180 upper receiver be used on an AR-15 lower?

Yes, the BRN-180 upper receiver is designed to be compatible with any mil-spec AR-15 lower receiver. Because it utilizes a piston system, it does not require the traditional buffer tube, buffer, or spring found on direct impingement AR-15s.

What are the main drawbacks of the BRN-180?

A significant drawback mentioned is the charging handle, which is a retro-accurate knurled metal design that can be abrasive to the hands and snag on gear. Bolt override has also been noted as a potential, though difficult to clear, malfunction.

Related News

All News →

More Reviews Videos You Might Like

More from Kit Badger

View all →