Italy’s Service Rifle, ARX-160 / a very bizzare rifle, but still Italian perfection 🇮🇹

Published on September 12, 2021
Duration: 19:41

This review of the Beretta ARX-160, Italy's service rifle, highlights its unique design, including the integrated GLX-160 grenade launcher and extensive use of polymer. Expert analysis covers its short-stroke gas piston system, cold hammer-forged barrel, ambidextrous controls, and ergonomics, noting both its strengths and some peculiar design choices.

Quick Summary

The Beretta ARX-160 is Italy's service rifle, known for its unique design featuring a short-stroke gas piston, cold hammer-forged barrel, and extensive polymer construction. It offers ambidextrous controls and can integrate the GLX-160 grenade launcher, though the launcher has a heavy trigger pull.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Shooting Montage
  2. 01:41Beretta ARX-160 & GLX-160 Overview
  3. 02:37Design & Operating System
  4. 03:41Muzzle, Gas, and Barrel Details
  5. 07:02GLX-160 Grenade Launcher Functionality
  6. 08:51Handguard & Ergonomics Analysis
  7. 10:08Ambidextrous Controls Demonstration
  8. 14:28Trigger & Pistol Grip Assessment
  9. 16:10Stock & Barrel Profile Discussion

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Beretta ARX-160?

The Beretta ARX-160 is the service rifle adopted by the Italian armed forces. It features a short-stroke gas piston system, a cold hammer-forged barrel, and extensive use of polymer in its 2008-era design. It is also designed to integrate with the GLX-160 grenade launcher.

What are the key ergonomic features of the ARX-160?

The ARX-160 boasts fully ambidextrous controls, allowing for tool-less swapping of the charging handle and ejection side. The safety selector and magazine release are also ambidextrous. Its adjustable stock accommodates body armor, and the handguard, though thick, aids heat management.

How does the GLX-160 grenade launcher function on the ARX-160?

The GLX-160 is an integrated grenade launcher with a unique unlocking mechanism using plastic tabs and an automatic ejector. However, it requires a very heavy trigger pull to fire.

What are the main technical specifications of the Beretta ARX-160?

The ARX-160 is chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO and operates via a short-stroke gas piston system. It features a cold hammer-forged barrel for durability and performance, and supports ambidextrous controls and an adjustable stock.

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