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

Simeon North Flintlock Pair Commodore Isaac Hull
Simeon North Flintlock Pair Commodore Isaac Hull

Simeon North: First Official U.S. Pistol Maker

Arguably the first official U.S. pistol maker, Simeon North began contracting to the U.S. government with 500 horse pistols in 1798. After subsequent success, North went on to supply the Horse Pistol of Model 1799 -1800 by the thousands, manufactured Hall rifles and more.

Preview: Ammunition, Demystified

Billed as “Hatcher’s Notebook for the 21st century,” Ammunition, Demystified: The (Non) Bubba’s Guide To How Ammo Really Works is intended for both advanced shooters and reloaders, as well as industry professionals.

James Wallace Elected As 76th NRA Director

James L. Wallace has been elected by the members to a one-year term ending in 2025.

Rifleman Q&A: Marlin’s Mixed Markings

I have this old gun I want to shoot, but I’m not certain exactly what I have, and the gun appears to pre-date any description in the Blue Book Of Gun Values. The gun measures 43" overall, has a 26 9⁄16" barrel and its markings are as follows:

New For 2024: Diamondback Self-Defense Revolver (SDR)

Diamondback Firearms' handguns were previously of a polymer-frame, semi-automatic design, but with the release of its Self-Defense Revolver in 2024, the company is taking a new tack.

Preview: The Headrest Safe Co. Slide Bundle

For the armed citizen seeking to discreetly secure a defensive handgun in a vehicle, the Slide Bundle from The Headrest Safe Co. provides the ideal solution.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.