Murdoch & Co SA80 Family of Rifles | Shot Show 2026

This video details the extensive upgrades from the L85A1 to the L85A2 by Heckler & Koch, addressing critical reliability issues. It highlights specific component changes like the trigger, charging handle, bolt, and receiver modifications. The L85A3 is presented as an upper receiver upgrade focused on improved welding and optics mounting.

This video provides an in-depth look at the EIW97, an experimental electronic variant of the SA80 rifle, presented by Jonathan Ferguson of the Royal Armouries. The EIW97 explored electronic ignition and programmable fire control to enhance lethality and hit probability, featuring specialized ammunition and a significantly reduced cyclic rate for improved accuracy. Expert Murray discusses its origins as a mid-1990s research program investigating future weapon systems.

The Aly & Kaufman AKB-23 is a bullpup conversion kit for the Brownells BRN-180, designed to replicate the feel and ergonomics of the British SA80/L85 rifle. Utilizing the AR-180's mechanical lineage, the kit offers an affordable way to experience the bullpup platform. It features a milled aluminum lower and 3D-printed furniture, with assembly requiring integration of the BRN-180 upper. Performance is noted as reliable, providing an authentic handling experience.

The Aly & Kaufman AKB-23 is a bullpup conversion kit for the Brownells BRN-180, designed to emulate the British L85/SA80. It features a milled aluminum lower with an AR-15 fire control group, connected via a trigger transfer bar. The 3D-printed furniture mimics the L85's ergonomics, and range testing confirms it captures the rifle's feel and accepts SA80 magazines.

The L85A1, a British bullpup rifle, was tested for reliability and handling. While accurate, it exhibited historical issues like inconsistent ejection and a failure to extract/eject. The rifle is strictly right-handed, and the SUSAT optic's short eye relief poses a safety concern during recoil.

The L98A1 Cadet Rifle, a manually-operated variant of the SA80, was designed for British cadets to ensure safe training without semi-automatic capabilities. It features a unique side-mounted charging handle replacing the standard gas system and utilizes a standard L85 bolt. Specialized iron sights are included, adjustable up to 500 meters.

After 1,000 rounds, the Taurus G2C proves surprisingly reliable for its budget price, experiencing only one stovepipe and a few light primer strikes. While its accuracy is outmatched by the Sig Sauer P365, it offers a decent trigger and second-strike capability. Despite past brand issues, the G2C is recommended as the best sub-$250 pistol, though saving slightly more for brands like Ruger or Canik is advised.

This review focuses on the Palmetto State Armory (PSA) PA-10 Generation 2 as a budget-friendly AR-10 option. The host details how purchasing upper and lower assemblies separately saved money, resulting in a total build cost of $578. Key specifications include an 18-inch 416R stainless steel barrel, a 15-inch M-Lok rail, and a Magpul MOE stock, highlighting the value available in the current market.

The GForce Arms GF25, manufactured by Radikal in Turkey, is an AR-style semi-auto shotgun tested over its first 200 shells. It requires high-velocity loads (1400+ FPS) for reliable cycling, with only two malfunctions reported. While featuring AR-15-like controls and a 20-inch barrel, drawbacks include a very hot handguard and outdated KeyMod slots. Its affordability makes it an interesting option for budget-conscious shooters.

After 500 rounds, the Taurus G2C is praised for its appealing design, superior to stock Glocks and Shields, and its exceptional affordability, often found under $250. The trigger, initially criticized, is now a favorite due to its second-strike capability, crisp break, and short reset enabling rapid follow-up shots.