Brownells BRN-180 Gen 2 13.9″ and 14.5″ upper receiver assemblies ($849.99)
The Brownells short-stroke-piston operated BRN-180 is a collaborative effort between itself, PWS & FM Products, from which the collective obtained their inspiration from Armalite’s AR-180, originally developed back in the 1960s. Now in its second generation, the BRN-180 has recently become available in 13.9-inch and 14.5-inch complete upper receiver groups, ready to slap onto your AR-15 lower.
So, what differentiates the BRN-180 from a typical AR upper? Well, quite a bit, actually. The BRN-180 utilizes an entirely self-contained recoil system and can be mounted to lower receivers without a buffer tube, similar to SIG Sauer’s MCX/Spear LT. Mounted to a standard AR-15 lower, a folding stock is a Picatinny-rail adapter away; BRN-180 specific lower receivers already have a machined-in Picatinny rail. Recoil guide rods and the buffer are easily removed from the rear when separating the upper and lower receivers. Similarly, the bolt and carrier easily slide out after removing the charging handle at the rear.
Lightweight barrel profiles ride within the slim handguard, creating a very light and handy package — even with its piston operating system. The full-length top Picatinny rail sits low compared to other piston systems, allowing for broad compatibility with common AR-15 height optic mounts and iron sights. Barrels feature a 223 Wylde chamber for reliable function with the broadest spectrum of .223 Rem & 5.56 NATO ammunition. For more information contact Brownells; Tele.: (800)741-0015; Web: www.brownells.com
