{"id":118355,"date":"2019-11-30T16:02:34","date_gmt":"2019-11-30T21:02:34","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/?p=118355"},"modified":"2019-11-30T16:02:34","modified_gmt":"2023-09-06T06:52:53","slug":"brownells-resurrects-another-classic-with-the-brn-180-full-review","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/brownells-resurrects-another-classic-with-the-brn-180-full-review\/","title":{"rendered":"Brownells Resurrects Another Classic With the BRN-180 (Full Review)"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"714\" title=\"Brownells Resurrects Another Classic With the BRN-180 (Full Review)\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Feature-2-1024x714.jpg\" alt=\"Brownells Resurrects Another Classic With the BRN-180 (Full Review)\" class=\"wp-image-118357\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Feature-2-1024x714.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Feature-2-150x105.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Feature-2-400x279.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Feature-2-768x536.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Feature-2.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>If the latest fashion trends are any indication, the maxim \u201ceverything old is new again\u201d has never been truer, and the wonderful world of firearms is no exception. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Brownells recently released an entire stable of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.brownells.com\/.aspx\/bapid=606\/ClientPage\/brownells-retro\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"brownells-resurrects-another-classic-with-the-brn-180-full-review\" title=\"Brownells Resurrects Another Classic With the BRN-180 (Full Review)\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">Retro Rifles<\/a> spanning the last six decades, and the line\u2019s success has uncovered a serious nostalgia for Vietnam-era firearms. Where our parents pined for the wood and steel of the M1 Garand, this generation looks back on the first polymer space guns and says, \u201cNow those were the days\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The BRN-180 was perhaps the most anticipated of Brownell&#8217;s old-school firearms. Based on the AR-18\/AR-180 of the 1960s, the BRN-180 upper uses a self-contained recoil system that allows the action to cycle without a buffer spring (hello, folding stock!). The piston-operated design is ultra-reliable, and best of all, the unit will function on any mil-spec AR-15 lower receiver.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I\u2019ve had a great time taking the BRN-180 for a spin. While\nits accuracy leaves something to be desired, it functioned flawlessly with a\nwide variety of .223\/5.56 cartridges, and the action design allows for a\nsuper-compact defensive option.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"615\" title=\"Brownells Resurrects Another Classic With the BRN-180 (Full Review)\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Feature-1-1024x615.jpg\" alt=\"Brownells Resurrects Another Classic With the BRN-180 (Full Review)\" class=\"wp-image-118394\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Feature-1-1024x615.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Feature-1-150x90.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Feature-1-400x240.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Feature-1-768x461.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Feature-1.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption><em>The BRN-180 fits on any mil-spec AR lower receiver.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Specifications <\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>BRN-180\u2122 has 16&#8243; barrel with matte black Nitride finish<\/li><li>BRN-180S\u2122 has 10.5&#8243; barrel with matte black Nitride finish<\/li><li>AR-180 piston operating system<\/li><li>Compatible with current mil-spec AR-15 lowers<\/li><li>Machined 7075 T6 aluminum receiver &amp; handguard &#8211; hardcoat anodized finish<\/li><li>.223 Wylde chamber<\/li><li>Nickel-Teflon coated bolt<\/li><li>Button rifled bore; 1-8&#8243; twist<\/li><li>1\/2&#8243;-28 threaded muzzle<\/li><li>Replica 3-prong AR-180 flash suppressor<\/li><li>Molded polymer ejection port cover<\/li><li>MSRP: $799 &#8211; $827.99<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The AR-18\/AR-180: A\nBrief History<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>ArmaLite developed the AR-18\/AR-180 in an ultimately\nunsuccessful attempt to correct one of the costliest mistakes in firearms\nmanufacturing\/R&amp;D history.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>According to <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"an official document (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/drive.google.com\/file\/d\/1sJO7hRlhM0GHR-BsgJHoMVAAavDnIWfK\/view?usp=sharing\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"brownells-resurrects-another-classic-with-the-brn-180-full-review\" title=\"Brownells Resurrects Another Classic With the BRN-180 (Full Review)\" target=\"_blank\">an official document<\/a> outlining the company\u2019s tortured journey, ArmaLite began developing the AR-15 after a nearly successful attempt to convince the Army to adopt the AR-10. Military brass was curious about the AR-10\u2019s space-age design, and they wanted to see a smaller caliber version. ArmaLite was happy to oblige, but the company was discouraged when international militaries passed on the AR-10, and executives had already decided to focus on the military rather than the commercial market. So, they licensed designs and trademarks of both the AR-10 and AR-15 to Colt in 1959. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Whoops. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Needless to say, ArmaLite regretted selling to its competitor what would become one of the most iconic rifles in world history. The AR-18 was the company\u2019s attempt to break into the military market without violating the AR-15\u2019s design.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"602\" title=\"Brownells Resurrects Another Classic With the BRN-180 (Full Review)\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Flash-Hider-Best-1024x602.jpg\" alt=\"Brownells Resurrects Another Classic With the BRN-180 (Full Review)\" class=\"wp-image-118399\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Flash-Hider-Best-1024x602.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Flash-Hider-Best-150x88.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Flash-Hider-Best-400x235.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Flash-Hider-Best-768x451.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Flash-Hider-Best.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"559\" title=\"Brownells Resurrects Another Classic With the BRN-180 (Full Review)\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Charging-Handle-1024x559.jpg\" alt=\"Brownells Resurrects Another Classic With the BRN-180 (Full Review)\" class=\"wp-image-118400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Charging-Handle-1024x559.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Charging-Handle-150x82.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Charging-Handle-400x218.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Charging-Handle-768x419.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Charging-Handle.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"681\" title=\"Brownells Resurrects Another Classic With the BRN-180 (Full Review)\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Internal-Springs-2-1024x681.jpg\" alt=\"Brownells Resurrects Another Classic With the BRN-180 (Full Review)\" class=\"wp-image-118707\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Internal-Springs-2-1024x681.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Internal-Springs-2-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Internal-Springs-2-400x266.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Internal-Springs-2-768x511.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Internal-Springs-2.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption> <em>The AR-18\/180 featured a three-pronged flash hider, side-charging handle, and dual operating rods, all of which Brownells has incorporated into its design. The action design allows the rifle to function without the buffer tube or spring. <\/em> <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cIt was obvious from Army purchases of the AR-15 that Fairchild [ArmaLite\u2019s parent company] had erred in selling the AR-15,\u201d ArmaLite\u2019s document explains. \u201cTo recover from that error, ArmaLite set about to develop a new rifle that wouldn\u2019t violate the Stoner gas system patents, which now belonged to Colt. The result was the AR-18, which began development in 1963.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The new .223 caliber rifle featured a stamped sheet metal\nreceiver to reduce production costs and differed from the AR-15 in two primary\nways. First, it used dual operating springs on rods in the receiver, which\neliminated the need for a buffer spring and allowed it to use a folding stock.\nSecond, it used a Tokarev-style sliding gas cylinder under the handguard to\navoid violating the Stoner gas system that had been sold to Colt. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The company was hopeful its new rifle could replace the\nAR-15, but by that time Colt\u2019s rifle was already too entrenched. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cThe AR-18 was highly regarded, but didn\u2019t find the favor that it could have,\u201d the company says. \u201cEven as ArmaLite marketed the new small-caliber rifle, FN and HK were selling more traditional 7.62mm rifles around the world. Colt was selling AR-15s. The AR-18 remained somewhat prone to breakage, and never enjoyed the success ArmaLite expected.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Much more can be said about the history of this unique rifle, but here&#8217;s the bottom line: even though it had features to recommend it over the AR-15, the AR-18\/180 was an unfortunate case of too little, too late for the AR&#8217;s namesake company. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Brownells\u2019 Take on\nthe Classic<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Now Brownells has resurrected and popularized the quirky rifle, but they\u2019ve made some changes. Brownells\u2019 Director of Product Management Paul Levy told me via email that the upper was designed by Primary Weapons Systems and FM Products after he and his team told them they wanted to adapt the AR-18\/180 upper to a standard AR-15 lower. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"637\" title=\"Brownells Resurrects Another Classic With the BRN-180 (Full Review)\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Handguard-Removal-2-1024x637.jpg\" alt=\"Brownells Resurrects Another Classic With the BRN-180 (Full Review)\" class=\"wp-image-118391\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Handguard-Removal-2-1024x637.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Handguard-Removal-2-150x93.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Handguard-Removal-2-400x249.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Handguard-Removal-2-768x478.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Handguard-Removal-2.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"646\" title=\"Brownells Resurrects Another Classic With the BRN-180 (Full Review)\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Clip-1024x646.jpg\" alt=\"Brownells Resurrects Another Classic With the BRN-180 (Full Review)\" class=\"wp-image-118392\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Clip-1024x646.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Clip-150x95.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Clip-400x252.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Clip-768x484.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Clip.jpg 1299w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"585\" title=\"Brownells Resurrects Another Classic With the BRN-180 (Full Review)\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Piston-Cup-4-1024x585.jpg\" alt=\"Brownells Resurrects Another Classic With the BRN-180 (Full Review)\" class=\"wp-image-118393\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Piston-Cup-4-1024x585.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Piston-Cup-4-150x86.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Piston-Cup-4-400x229.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Piston-Cup-4-768x439.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Piston-Cup-4.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption> <em>The handguard can be easily removed by field stripping the rifle and removing a small U-clip. This allows access to the piston system and Piston Cup. The BRN-180 comes with two cups &#8212; one for suppressed and one for un-suppressed use.   <\/em> <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The engineers started with modernizing the handguard. On the original rifle, only the top portion of the handguard could be easily removed to access the gas system. On the BRN-180, the entire free float handguard can be removed from the front of the rifle, which allows the Standard Piston Cup to be swapped for the Suppressed Piston Cup (on the BRN-180<em>S<\/em>, the gas system is fully adjustable). Users simply field strip the rifle, pull down on the U-clip located near the front of the receiver, and slide off the handguard assembly. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Engineers also had to shorten the bolt carrier because the AR-15 lower has a shorter length of travel than the AR-180. Shortening and lightening the bolt carrier necessitated slight modifications to the gas and recoil system to guarantee reliability (which I found to be excellent \u2013 more on that below). <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n<p>Otherwise, beyond the machined rather than stamped aluminum receiver, Brownells and their partner companies remained faithful to Eugene Stoner\u2019s original design. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cWe\u2019re big\nfans of Eugene Stoner\u2019s work,\u201d Levy told me. \u201cI had recently purchased an\nAR-180 and really appreciated how simple the operating system was. There have\nbeen adaptations of the AR-180 type gas system to the AR platform, but none had\nretained the recoil system in the upper. By keeping a good portion of the\noriginal design aesthetics, such as the charging handle and flash hider, we\ncould also pay homage to that original configuration, and capture interest from\nthose that wanted a reproduction AR-180.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>So, How\u2019s It Shoot?<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Every evaluation of a semi-automatic rifle comes down to two basic priorities: reliability and accuracy. I\u2019ll start with reliability. The BRN-180 ran flawlessly even with the wide variety of ammunition I used during testing. I shot from the prone, kneeling, and standing positions; I shot off-hand, and I dumped a few mags with no malfunctions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"634\" title=\"Brownells Resurrects Another Classic With the BRN-180 (Full Review)\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Shooting-1024x634.jpg\" alt=\"Brownells Resurrects Another Classic With the BRN-180 (Full Review)\" class=\"wp-image-118395\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Shooting-1024x634.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Shooting-150x93.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Shooting-400x248.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Shooting-768x476.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Shooting.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption><em>I didn&#8217;t run into any reliability issues with the BRN-180.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>While Brownells didn\u2019t reinvent the wheel with the BRN-180,\nthey did adapt the original design for a standard AR-15 lower. The fact that\nthe new system functioned so well testifies to the excellent R&amp;D of\nBrownells and its partner companies as well as their quality control standards.\nIf you (like me) hesitate to purchase \u201cnew\u201d firearms until manufacturers work\nout the inevitable kinks, you can rest easy with the BRN-180. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Users can expect the upper to continue running, too. Unlike the direct gas systems used in most AR-15\u2019s (more accurately called \u201cinternal piston systems\u201d), the BRN-180 uses a gas piston operating system. The piston system replaces the hollow gas tube with a spring-loaded rod that moves back and forth and is powered by gas from the bore. Rather than feeding the gas into the bolt carrier group, the gas moves the piston, which in turn cycles the bolt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In theory, the system is more reliable because it keeps the hot, carbon-filled gas out of the receiver. A cleaner receiver means fewer malfunctions, and a cooler receiver means fewer problems related to overheating. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"603\" title=\"Brownells Resurrects Another Classic With the BRN-180 (Full Review)\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Bolt-Springs-2-1024x603.jpg\" alt=\"Brownells Resurrects Another Classic With the BRN-180 (Full Review)\" class=\"wp-image-118402\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Bolt-Springs-2-1024x603.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Bolt-Springs-2-150x88.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Bolt-Springs-2-400x236.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Bolt-Springs-2-768x452.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Bolt-Springs-2.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"622\" title=\"Brownells Resurrects Another Classic With the BRN-180 (Full Review)\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Bolt-Springs-4-1024x622.jpg\" alt=\"Brownells Resurrects Another Classic With the BRN-180 (Full Review)\" class=\"wp-image-118403\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Bolt-Springs-4-1024x622.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Bolt-Springs-4-150x91.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Bolt-Springs-4-400x243.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Bolt-Springs-4-768x467.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Bolt-Springs-4.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"672\" title=\"Brownells Resurrects Another Classic With the BRN-180 (Full Review)\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Piston-Cup-1-1024x672.jpg\" alt=\"Brownells Resurrects Another Classic With the BRN-180 (Full Review)\" class=\"wp-image-118404\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Piston-Cup-1-1024x672.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Piston-Cup-1-150x99.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Piston-Cup-1-400x263.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Piston-Cup-1-768x504.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Piston-Cup-1.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"587\" title=\"Brownells Resurrects Another Classic With the BRN-180 (Full Review)\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Piston-Cup-2-1024x587.jpg\" alt=\"Brownells Resurrects Another Classic With the BRN-180 (Full Review)\" class=\"wp-image-118405\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Piston-Cup-2-1024x587.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Piston-Cup-2-150x86.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Piston-Cup-2-400x229.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Piston-Cup-2-768x440.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Piston-Cup-2.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption><em> I found the action and piston gas system to be super reliable. <\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>In practice, the advantages are more difficult to determine. Mark Westrom, the Vice President for Business Development and Sales at ArmaLite\u2019s parent company, Strategic Armory Corps, explained that junk (the technical term) from the bore still makes its way into the receiver via spent and extracted cases. Especially with a suppressor, gas and carbon travel both forwards and backward through the bore. Users should also be careful to clean the external piston and cylinder. Carbon buildup might not make it all the way to the receiver, but it does end up in the piston system. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Long story short: External piston operating systems like the one used on the BRN-180 might run somewhat cooler and cleaner than the more common AR-15, but they still need to be cleaned regularly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"722\" title=\"Brownells Resurrects Another Classic With the BRN-180 (Full Review)\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Piston-Cup-Crud-1024x722.jpg\" alt=\"Brownells Resurrects Another Classic With the BRN-180 (Full Review)\" class=\"wp-image-118406\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Piston-Cup-Crud-1024x722.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Piston-Cup-Crud-150x106.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Piston-Cup-Crud-400x282.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Piston-Cup-Crud-768x541.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Piston-Cup-Crud.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption><em>Piston systems still require cleaning, though perhaps not as much as direct gas systems. <\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Accuracy<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The BRN-180 ran like a top, but the upper won\u2019t be winning\nany long-range competitions. The BRN-180\u2019s 4150 carbon steel barrel sports a\n.223 Wylde chamber with a 1:8\u201d twist. Both the chambering and the twist rate\nallow the rifle to accommodate a wide variety of ammunition. A 1:8\u201d twist rate\ncan stabilize bullets between 55 and 77 grains, and the hybrid .223 Wylde\nchamber can (generally speaking) fire both .223 and 5.56 NATO cartridges safely\nand accurately.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>That\u2019s why I was surprised to learn that Brownells expects\n1.5-2 MOA accuracy out of the BRN-180. I\u2019ve owned and tested AR-15\u2019s that shoot\nin the 1 MOA range and cost significantly less, and I know my experience isn\u2019t\nuncommon. The BRN-180 has other good qualities that might justify the $800\nprice tag, but I wouldn\u2019t call it a tack driver.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"689\" title=\"Brownells Resurrects Another Classic With the BRN-180 (Full Review)\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Handguard-3-1024x689.jpg\" alt=\"Brownells Resurrects Another Classic With the BRN-180 (Full Review)\" class=\"wp-image-118407\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Handguard-3-1024x689.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Handguard-3-150x101.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Handguard-3-400x269.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Handguard-3-768x516.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Handguard-3.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption><em>The full-length M-Lok handguard includes tons of space for accessories along with a Picatinny rail. <\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>My testing confirmed Brownells\u2019 expectations. Both the 55g Hornady and the 73g Federal match averaged 1.8 inches, with only one or two groups out of five exceeding two inches. The 75g American Eagle barely squeezed into the expected 1.5-2-inch range, and the other two groups shot well beyond it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I shot all test groups from the prone position at 100 yards using a Caldwell Lead Sled. I used both a Vortex 3-9x and a Primary Arms 4-14x scope during testing, which had no effect on group size. The lower sported a Geissele Two-Stage Trigger.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"414\" title=\"Brownells Resurrects Another Classic With the BRN-180 (Full Review)\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Group-Chart-1024x414.jpg\" alt=\"Brownells Resurrects Another Classic With the BRN-180 (Full Review)\" class=\"wp-image-118356\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Group-Chart-1024x414.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Group-Chart-150x61.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Group-Chart-400x162.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Group-Chart-768x310.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Group-Chart.jpg 1319w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption><em>The Wylde chamber can accommodate both 55g and 73g+ projectiles. <\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"719\" title=\"Brownells Resurrects Another Classic With the BRN-180 (Full Review)\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Target-Federal-1024x719.jpg\" alt=\"Brownells Resurrects Another Classic With the BRN-180 (Full Review)\" class=\"wp-image-118397\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Target-Federal-1024x719.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Target-Federal-150x105.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Target-Federal-400x281.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Target-Federal-768x540.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Target-Federal.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"738\" title=\"Brownells Resurrects Another Classic With the BRN-180 (Full Review)\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Target-Hornady-1024x738.jpg\" alt=\"Brownells Resurrects Another Classic With the BRN-180 (Full Review)\" class=\"wp-image-118398\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Target-Hornady-1024x738.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Target-Hornady-150x108.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Target-Hornady-400x288.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Target-Hornady-768x554.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Target-Hornady.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption><em>I&#8217;ve always had good success with both of these cartridges, and they didn&#8217;t disappoint in this case.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>I asked Westrom how the AR-180\u2019s accuracy compared to the AR-15\u2019s, and he gave the nod to the AR-15. While the average shooter might not notice a difference, the AR-180\u2019s design reduces accuracy such that a target shooter would take note. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201c[The piston system] has a spring that\u2019s under compression. It\u2019s trying to expand. As it does it\u2019s spreading the top of the receiver and the barrel. It\u2019s not detrimental to normal field accuracy, but it will make a difference for a target shooter,\u201d Westrom said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Brownells\u2019 iteration maintains that good-but-not-great accuracy\nstandard. The 55g Hornady will work for plinking, and the 73g Federal Match will\nhit targets out to extended ranges. But if you\u2019re looking for your next\nlong-range AR, the BRN-180 doesn\u2019t \u2013 and wasn\u2019t meant to \u2013 fill that void. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Final Shots<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Accuracy aside, the BRN-180 is just plain <em>cool<\/em>. The side-charging handle is an attention-getter at the range, and the three-prong flash hider is a nice (historically accurate) touch. The BRN-180 pairs well with a folding stock, but the 10.5\u201d-barreled BRN<em>-180s<\/em> would be even better. Since the action can cycle without the stock secured, the firearm could be deployed quickly in a self-defense situation, and the compact size makes it the perfect truck gun candidate. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"579\" title=\"Brownells Resurrects Another Classic With the BRN-180 (Full Review)\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Shooting-2-1024x579.jpg\" alt=\"Brownells Resurrects Another Classic With the BRN-180 (Full Review)\" class=\"wp-image-118408\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Shooting-2-1024x579.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Shooting-2-150x85.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Shooting-2-400x226.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Shooting-2-768x434.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/Shooting-2.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>With original AR-180\u2019s pushing $2,000, the BRN-180 gives the average gun enthusiast a taste of history without breaking the bank. Brownells\u2019 modern touches also mean that the rifle can function in almost any capacity you might use an AR-15, and its compatibility with Stoner\u2019s original design allows users to pair the upper with their preferred trigger, pistol grip, and stock. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&#8217;re worried that ArmaLite\u2019s quirky rifle is out of reach, check out Brownells\u2019 new offering. The AR-180 never lived up to expectations, but the BRN-180 will live up to yours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-heading\">For more information\u00a0visit Brownells <a href=\"https:\/\/www.brownells.com\/.aspx\/bapid=700\/ClientPage\/brownells-brn-180\" campaign=\"BRN_180\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\">website<\/a>.<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-heading\"><strong><em><a href=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/\" campaign=\"BuySellGA_Register\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\">Buy and Sell on GunsAmerica!<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/h2>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The BRN-180 was perhaps the most anticipated of Brownells old-school firearms, and it didn&#8217;t disappoint! I&#8217;ve had a great time taking the BRN-180 for a spin. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":54,"featured_media":118357,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_specdata_upc":"","_specdata_placement":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[872,7,694,593,37],"tags":[132,102,1032,1760],"featured":[],"hunt365":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-118355","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-gun-reviews-ar-15","8":"category-gunsamerica-authors","9":"category-gun-reviews","10":"category-jordan-michaels","11":"category-gun-reviews-rifles","12":"tag-buzz","13":"tag-feature-articles","14":"tag-gun-review","15":"tag-rifle-review"},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.3 (Yoast SEO v27.3) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Brownells Resurrects Another Classic With the BRN-180 (Full Review)<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"The BRN-180 was perhaps the most anticipated of Brownells old-school firearms, and it didn&#039;t disappoint! 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