Brownell's BRN 180 Accuracy Test

Published on October 16, 2021
Duration: 13:23

This video details an accuracy test of the Brownells BRN-180 upper receiver paired with an ADM True Ambi lower, Matador Arms Sidewinder stock, and a YHM Turbo T3 suppressor. The test involved five different ammunition loads fired by two shooters to assess group sizes at 100 yards. The BRN-180 upper, a modern take on the AR-180 concept, performed best with lighter ammunition, exceeding expectations for accuracy despite some build integration challenges.

Quick Summary

The Brownells BRN-180 upper receiver, a modern interpretation of the AR-180, showed its best accuracy with lighter ammunition, particularly the 55-grain Jesse James load. When suppressed with a 30-caliber can, it required the unsuppressed gas setting, leading to increased blowback but still functioning as a capable suppressor host.

Chapters

  1. 00:13Introduction to the BRN-180 Build
  2. 00:42Accuracy Test Setup and Methodology
  3. 01:42Ammunition Loads for Testing
  4. 04:08Accuracy Results: 55gr Jesse James
  5. 04:26Accuracy Results: Remington Ultimate Defense 62gr
  6. 04:50Accuracy Results: Winchester Deer Season 64gr
  7. 05:05Accuracy Results: Nosler Match 69gr
  8. 05:22Accuracy Results: PMC X-TAC 77gr
  9. 05:42Accuracy Results: 45gr Frangible Trainer
  10. 06:26Overall Impressions of the Build
  11. 06:55Tia's Thoughts on the Build
  12. 07:30ADM Lower Bolt Release Issue
  13. 08:01Performance with Suppressor
  14. 09:26Future Build Considerations
  15. 10:35Build Integration Challenges
  16. 11:30Key Takeaways on BRN-180 Accuracy
  17. 11:56Final Thoughts and Viewer Suggestions

Frequently Asked Questions

What ammunition performed best in the Brownells BRN-180 accuracy test?

The Brownells BRN-180 upper receiver demonstrated its best accuracy with lighter ammunition loads. Specifically, the 55-grain Jesse James ammunition from Ammo Inc. produced the tightest groups, exceeding the testers' initial expectations for the platform.

How did the BRN-180 perform with a suppressor attached?

When testing the BRN-180 with a 30-caliber suppressor, the firearm required the gas system to be set to 'unsuppressed' to cycle. Even in this setting, there was increased gas blowback, though the system was still considered a better suppressor host than a typical direct impingement AR-15.

What were the main ergonomic issues encountered with this BRN-180 build?

The build faced ergonomic challenges, including the ADM True Ambi lower's bolt release being partially covered by the dust cover, hindering access. Additionally, the Matador Sidewinder stock, while comfortable, significantly increased the length of pull, potentially affecting shooting posture.

Does the BRN-180 upper receiver favor heavier or lighter ammunition for accuracy?

Based on the testing, the BRN-180 upper receiver appears to perform better with lighter ammunition loads. While heavier loads showed some consistency, the 55-grain Jesse James load yielded the most impressive accuracy results, suggesting a preference for lighter projectiles.

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