The Most Affordable Lightweight AR-15? ⚖ Faxon ION Ultralight Rifles! [Review]

Published on November 19, 2020
Duration: 5:27

This review of the Faxon ION Ultralight AR-15 platform highlights its exceptionally light weight, coming in under five pounds. Key features include a forged receiver set, carbon fiber handguards, an adjustable gas system, and a Hyperfire single-stage trigger. The reviewer notes good reliability and accuracy at 100 yards, with a minor hiccup of light primer strikes on the pistol variant. The integral brake on the rifle variant is a consideration for suppressor use.

Quick Summary

The Faxon ION Ultralight AR-15 is exceptionally lightweight, weighing under five pounds, thanks to features like carbon fiber handguards and a lightweight BCG. It offers good reliability and accuracy, with a notable Hyperfire trigger and adjustable gas system, though the rifle's integral brake limits suppressor compatibility.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Giveaway Announcement
  2. 00:11Introduction: Pew Pew Tactical
  3. 00:17Introducing Faxon ION Ultralight Rifles
  4. 00:59Receiver Set and Finish
  5. 01:12Ergonomics and Controls
  6. 01:21Grips and Braces
  7. 01:27Aesthetics and Design
  8. 01:40Adjustable Gas System
  9. 01:48Weight and Lightweight Components
  10. 02:02Barrel Profile and Optics Mounting
  11. 02:10Optic Pairings
  12. 02:19Included Accessories and Case
  13. 02:29MSRP and Giveaway Details
  14. 02:49Range Test Setup
  15. 02:53Ammunition and Magazines Used
  16. 03:05Range Performance: Reliability
  17. 03:10Perceived Recoil and Handling
  18. 03:13Charging Handle and Bolt Lock
  19. 03:18Magazine Compatibility
  20. 03:23Minor Hiccups: Light Primer Strikes
  21. 03:31Trigger Performance
  22. 03:43Comparing Rifle and Pistol Variants
  23. 03:54Loudness of the Rifle Variant
  24. 04:03Accuracy at 100 Yards
  25. 04:11What the Reviewer Likes
  26. 04:28Shortcomings and Considerations
  27. 04:41Integral Brake Limitation
  28. 04:58Overall Conclusion
  29. 05:11Sign Off: Pew Pew Tactical

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Faxon ION Ultralight AR-15 so lightweight?

The Faxon ION Ultralight AR-15 achieves its low weight through several design choices, including a lightweight bolt carrier group, super thin pencil barrels, and the use of carbon fiber for the handguard. Both variants weigh under five pounds.

What are the key features of the Faxon ION Ultralight rifles?

Key features include a forged receiver set, carbon fiber handguards with an American flag motif, an adjustable gas system, Magpul grips, and a Hyperfire single-stage trigger. The pistol variant includes an SBA3 brace.

How does the Faxon ION Ultralight perform at the range?

The ION rifles demonstrated good reliability, running over 300 rounds of steel-cased ammo without major issues. Perceived recoil was manageable despite the light weight, and accuracy was solid at 100 yards.

What are the main considerations or drawbacks of the Faxon ION Ultralight?

A minor hiccup was a few light primer strikes on the pistol variant. The rifle's integral brake is not removable, limiting suppressor use, whereas the pistol has a threaded barrel suitable for suppressors.

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