Brownells Retro Rifles: Colt Air Force Model 601 Clone Rifle Review

Published on January 23, 2018
Duration: 28:39

This review covers the Brownells Retro 601 Clone Rifle, focusing on its historical accuracy and modern performance. The video details the zeroing process, accuracy testing with various ammunition types, and a comprehensive breakdown of the rifle's unique features, highlighting its retro design elements. The presenter, an experienced shooter, provides insights into the rifle's handling and historical context.

Quick Summary

The Brownells Retro 601 Clone Rifle accurately replicates historical features like the duckbill flash hider and green handguards. It features a 1:12 twist barrel and a non-fenced lower receiver, omitting modern additions like forward assists. While performing well with standard ammunition, it struggles with heavier bullets due to its twist rate.

Chapters

  1. 00:06Introduction to Brownells Retro Line
  2. 00:21The 601 Clone Explained
  3. 01:12First Shots & Zeroing Process
  4. 01:52Sight Adjustments (Windage & Elevation)
  5. 03:53Long Range Shooting (319 & 517 Yards)
  6. 06:23A1 vs A2/A4 Sights
  7. 07:02Period Correct Magazines
  8. 08:29100 Yard Accuracy Test Setup
  9. 09:15Testing Winchester 69 Grain Match King
  10. 10:30Barrel Twist Rate Discussion (1:12 vs 1:14)
  11. 11:09Testing Federal M193 Ball Ammunition
  12. 11:34History of the 601 and its Issues
  13. 13:10Testing Browning BBX Varmint 50 Grain
  14. 14:41Accuracy Results Analysis
  15. 15:23Front Sight Advantage
  16. 16:16Keyholing with Heavy Ammunition
  17. 17:54Distinct 601 Features (Flash Hider, Barrel)
  18. 19:34Handguards & Heat Shields
  19. 20:02Receiver Retainer & Lower Receiver
  20. 20:20Lower Receiver Fencing Explained
  21. 21:01Upper & Lower Receiver Material
  22. 21:08Trigger, Pistol Grip, and Stock
  23. 21:39Rear Sight & Charging Handle
  24. 22:15Safety Markings & Stock Length
  25. 22:35End Plate & Sling Swivel
  26. 22:54Front Pin & Receiver Separation
  27. 23:13Bolt Carrier Group (BCG) Details
  28. 23:33Forward Serrations & Chrome Finish
  29. 24:10M4 Feed Ramps Absence
  30. 24:21Reliability & Recoil Impulse
  31. 24:50Price Point & Value Comparison
  32. 25:57Target Audience & Collector Appeal
  33. 26:11Conclusion & Q&A

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key historical features of the Brownells Retro 601 Clone Rifle?

The Brownells Retro 601 Clone replicates historical features like the duckbill flash hider, green bakelite-style handguards, a non-fenced lower receiver, and a triangular charging handle. It also omits modern additions like forward assists and M4 feed ramps, aiming for historical accuracy.

How does the Brownells Retro 601 Clone handle different ammunition types?

The rifle performed well with standard 55-grain M193 and 69-grain match ammunition, achieving groups around 2 inches at 100 yards. However, it experienced keyholing with heavier 73-grain bullets, indicating the 1:12 twist rate is not optimal for them.

What are the main differences between the 601 clone and modern AR-15s?

Key differences include the lack of a forward assist, a non-captive front takedown pin, a triangular charging handle, a non-fenced lower receiver, and a specific front sight post design. The rifle also features a 1:12 twist barrel and a duckbill flash hider, distinguishing it from contemporary models.

What is the price and value proposition of the Brownells Retro 601 Clone Rifle?

Priced at $1,209, the Brownells Retro 601 Clone is positioned as a more affordable option compared to some other high-end retro AR-15s, like certain Colt offerings. Its value lies in its historical accuracy, chrome-lined barrel, and faithful reproduction of the original 601 features.

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