SHOT Show 2019: Brownells BRN-180 Upper

by
posted on February 1, 2019
brownells_white_ar180_upper.jpg
Over the last few years I've seen some gun companies turning their platforms inside out (in some cases literally) in order to produce an AR-15 with a folding stock. Some of these folding options will fire with the stock folded while others will not. There are designs that even go so far as to expose the inner workings of the rifle when folded, which seems problematic for use in dirty conditions.

Rather than developing something new, Brownells has tackled the AR folding stock problem by revisiting an existing, if somewhat forgotten, design and giving it a modern twist with the new BRN-180 upper assembly.

Based on the original 1960s era AR-180, this upper employs a robust short-stroke piston system, a three prong flash hider, a  reciprocating side charging handle and a twin internal guide rod system replacing the typical AR buffer assembly. This upper has been configured to drop onto any mil-spec AR-15 lower assembly with desirable modern updates including a  .223 Wylde chamber, 1:8 twist rifling, and an easy to remove M-Lok handguard. 

Manufactured with completely new materials and thoroughly-modern methods, this upper has a suggested retail price of $799, making it one of the most affordably priced piston driven options currently on the market. Look for the BRN-180  upper listed under product number #078-000-483 on the Brownells website.

Latest

Global Defense SA 9 01
Global Defense SA 9 01

New For 2024: Global Defense SA-9

Made in Turkey and based on a local product designed for law-enforcement and military units, the Global Defense SA-9 features AR-15-style features in a compact, large-format pistol configuration.

Preview: American Ace: Joe Foss, Fighter Pilot

With its unique construction and rich illustrations, Hector Curriel’s American Ace: Joe Foss, Fighter Pilot provides a new angle on Foss’ early years and his military service.

The Armed Citizen® May 10, 2024

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Preview: Mastermind Tactics Appendix Carry Pillow

The Appendix Carry Pillow from Mastermind Tactics is a DIY upgrade for any Kydex AIWB holster.

Gun Of The Week: Ruger Super Wrangler

Ruger's Super Wrangler, a spinoff of the Single-Six revolver, takes what made the original Wrangler fun and exciting and cranks it up a notch with a convertibility feature for .22 WMR.

Range Tested: EAA Girsan MC9 Disruptor

While European American Armory Corp. is known for its affordable handguns, the MC9 Disruptor has been designed to provide as many features as possible at an incredibly affordable price.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.