Brownells XBRN177E2 Retro Rifle

Published on March 22, 2020
Duration: 8:01

This review covers the Brownells XBRN177E2 retro rifle, a faithful reproduction of the original 1967-era carbine. The reviewer highlights its light weight (under 6 lbs), true-to-type features like the XM177 moderator (pinned and welded to meet 16-inch barrel requirements), and M16A1 receivers. It was used successfully in the Desert Brutality competition's retro division. Accuracy testing revealed a preference for lighter bullets (40-55 grain) with the 1:12 twist rate, struggling with heavier 69-77 grain rounds.

Quick Summary

The Brownells XBRN177E2 is a retro rifle faithfully reproducing the 1967-era carbine, featuring a 12.7-inch barrel with a 1:12 twist rate and a pinned/welded XM177 moderator for legal compliance. It weighs under 6 lbs and performs best with lighter 40-55 grain ammunition, struggling to stabilize heavier rounds.

Chapters

  1. 00:10Introduction to the Brownells XBRN177E2
  2. 00:21Brownells Retro Rifle Line
  3. 00:32Original Service History (1967-1982)
  4. 00:44Barrel Length and Twist Rate
  5. 00:54XM177 Moderator and Legal Compliance
  6. 01:05M16A1 Receivers and Finish
  7. 01:13Bolt and Stock Features
  8. 01:26Competition Use: Desert Brutality
  9. 01:51Retro Division Requirements
  10. 02:16Rifle Performance in Competition
  11. 02:25Weight and Handling
  12. 02:42Iron Sight Assessment
  13. 03:07Impact of Sights on Competition
  14. 03:21Ammunition Used (Minutemen Munition)
  15. 03:34Accuracy Testing Overview
  16. 04:14Accuracy: Minutemen Munition 55 Grain
  17. 04:37Accuracy: Winchester White Box 55 Grain
  18. 04:54Accuracy: PMC Bronze 55 Grain
  19. 05:11Accuracy: Frontier 55 Grain
  20. 05:27Accuracy: Lighter Loads (40 Grain)
  21. 05:50Accuracy: Heavier Loads (69-77 Grain)
  22. 06:16Bullet Stabilization Issues
  23. 06:36Overall Impression and Value
  24. 06:51Military Accuracy Standards (3 MOA)
  25. 07:15Cool Factor and Historical Significance
  26. 07:25Where to Purchase and Price
  27. 07:36Conclusion: A Piece of History

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Brownells XBRN177E2?

The Brownells XBRN177E2 is a retro rifle designed as a faithful reproduction of the original carbine used by the US military from the late 1960s through the early 1980s. It features historical accuracy in its design and components.

What are the key technical specifications of the Brownells XBRN177E2?

The XBRN177E2 has a 12.7-inch barrel with a 1:12 twist rate. The XM177 moderator is pinned and welded to achieve a legal 16-inch barrel length. It features M16A1 receivers and a CAR stock.

How does the Brownells XBRN177E2 perform with different ammunition weights?

The rifle's 1:12 twist rate favors lighter bullets. Accuracy testing showed better results with 40-55 grain ammunition, while heavier 69-77 grain bullets were not stabilized and performed poorly.

What is the weight of the Brownells XBRN177E2?

When configured without accessories, the Brownells XBRN177E2 is very light, weighing approximately 5 pounds and 13 ounces. This makes it a handy and maneuverable rifle.

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