The New Bushmaster Bravo Zulu

Published on April 10, 2022
Duration: 13:06

This review of the Bushmaster Bravo Zulu rifle, a re-entry into the AR space by Franklin Armory, details its features and performance. The rifle is chambered in 5.56 NATO with a 16-inch, 1:8 twist barrel and a mid-length gas system. Testing included adverse conditions with snow and wind, demonstrating reliable operation. Accuracy was acceptable, with the rifle stabilizing 77-grain ammunition effectively. Suppressor testing showed minimal gas system disturbance.

Quick Summary

The Bushmaster Bravo Zulu is a 5.56 NATO AR-15 featuring a 16-inch, 1:8 twist barrel and mid-length gas system. It performed reliably in adverse condition testing, including simulated snow ingestion. Accuracy tests showed effective stabilization of 77-grain ammunition, and suppressor testing revealed minimal gas system disturbance.

Chapters

  1. 00:39Introduction to Bushmaster Bravo Zulu
  2. 01:02Bushmaster's Return to AR Space
  3. 01:12Bravo Zulu Technical Specifications
  4. 02:00Adverse Condition Testing Setup
  5. 03:07Accuracy Testing - 55 Grain
  6. 05:12Accuracy Testing - 77 Grain
  7. 06:07Ammunition Stabilization Analysis
  8. 06:13Mid-Length Gas System & Suppression
  9. 06:22Suppressor Testing Procedure
  10. 07:02Suppressed vs. Unsuppressed Performance
  11. 07:31Suppressor Test Results Summary
  12. 08:10Critiques and Potential Improvements
  13. 08:36Anti-Rotation Tabs Discussion
  14. 09:20Handguard Mounting Mechanism
  15. 10:07Rail Serrations and Sharp Edges
  16. 10:40QD Sling Mounts Analysis
  17. 11:21Castle Nut Staking and Locking Compound
  18. 11:37Two-Stage Trigger Preference
  19. 12:30Conclusion and Viewer Feedback

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key specifications of the Bushmaster Bravo Zulu rifle?

The Bushmaster Bravo Zulu is a 5.56 NATO rifle featuring a 16-inch barrel with a 1:8 twist rate and a mid-length gas system. It includes an M-LOK handguard with ambidextrous QD points and a monolithic flat top rail.

How did the Bushmaster Bravo Zulu perform in adverse condition testing?

During adverse condition testing, the Bravo Zulu was subjected to simulated snow ingestion by dropping an empty magazine in snow, loading it, and cycling a round. The rifle demonstrated reliable operation throughout this challenging test.

What was the accuracy performance of the Bushmaster Bravo Zulu?

Accuracy testing with 55-grain and 77-grain ammunition showed that the Bravo Zulu effectively stabilizes 77-grain loads, producing round holes with no signs of destabilization. The group size improved when shooting heavier ammunition.

Does the Bushmaster Bravo Zulu run well suppressed?

Yes, suppressor testing with both 5.56 and 30 caliber suppressors indicated that the Bravo Zulu operates well suppressed. There was minimal disturbance to the gas system, with no significant impact marks or primer smear observed.

What are some critiques of the Bushmaster Bravo Zulu's design?

Critiques include the handguard's anti-rotation mechanism relying on set screws in aluminum, sharp edges on the handguard near the receiver, and QD sling points mounted in plastic on the stock. The reviewer also expressed a personal preference for single-stage triggers over the included two-stage model.

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