It was at SHOT Show 2019 when Brownells unveiled Retro Rifles, a tribute to Eugene Stoner and the renowned rifles he created, which leads us to this review of the BRN-10A. Built with modern materials, on modern machines, the BRN-10A is an authentic recreation of the original AR-10 design featuring polymer furniture colored brown to mimic the original fiberglass used. From the bolt carrier group to the charging and carry handles, all parts included are as close to the original as possible while providing interchangeability with some modern AR-10 components. To learn more, watch American Rifleman’s Mark Keefe as he examines a faithful copy of that first AR-10 designed by Stoner in this NRA Gun of the Week video.
Specifications:
Manufacturer: Brownells Inc.
Model: BRN-10A
Chambering: .308 Win.
Action Type: gas-operated, semi-automatic, center-fire rifle
Barrel: 20"
Receiver: 7075 T-6 aluminum
Magazine: 20-round detachable box
Sights: post front, A2-style adjustable rear
Trigger: single-stage; 5-lb., 1-oz. pull
Stock: fixed brown polymer
Weight: 8 lbs., 9 ozs.
MSRP: $1,699
Additional Reading:
The AR-10 Story
Brownells At-Home Dream Rifle Build: A Lightweight AR-Style Carbine
The Case for the 20"-Barreled AR-15 Rifle
SHOT Show 2018: Brownells Retro AR-15 and AR-10 Rifles
NRA Gun of the Week: Brownells BRN-10A Rifle
More like this from around the NRA
Latest
Rifleman Review: Mossberg 990 Aftershock
In 2025, Mossberg added to the non-NFA, shotshell-firing firearm category with its 990 Aftershock, which uses a semi-automatic operating mechanism while still maintaining a compact form factor.
Next-Gen Micro Red-Dot: The Steiner MPS 2.0
Steiner Optics has introduced the next-generation version of its Micro Pistol Sight, a red-dot optic that first hit the market in 2021.
Rifleman Interview: Banish Suppressors
The “Plinkapalooza” event in May saw a rimfire extravaganza, with hearing protection from Banish suppressors.
Hunting for the “Grail” Gun in the Modern Era
To really enjoy hunting for “that gun,” burn shoe leather instead of your mouse pad.
5 New Rimfire Suppressors for 2026
Generally speaking, rimfire suppressors tend to be less-expensive than their centerfire counterparts, providing an entry point in the world of suppressor use for many firearm enthusiasts.
Top Firearm Manufacturers Estimated from ATF Report
Orchid analyzed the ATF’s Annual Firearms Manufacturing and Exportation Report for 2024 (the most recent data available) and compiled a list of the industry’s top 30 domestic firearms manufacturers.
Interests
SECTIONS
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
EXPLORE MORE NRA PUBLICATIONS
