Freedom To Boom Deals Extended!
12% Off Almost Everything w/ Code: FREEDOM12 Or Free Shipping On $99+ w/ Code: 99FREESHIP

Freedom To Boom Savings Extended!
12% Off Almost Everything w/ Code: FREEDOM12 or Free Shipping On $99+ w/ Code: 99FREESHIP

Daily Deal: Halo Optics K2000 10x42 Rangefinder Binoculars ~~$349.99~~ $299.99- Get Yours!

AR-15 XM16E1 LOWER RECEIVERS Reviews & Ratings

The Brownells XM16E1 lower receiver is a replica of the receiver on the original XM16E1 rifles developed for the U.S. Army in the 1960s. We worked with the folks at Nodak Spud to produce a receiver that replicates the exact contours and "partial fence" configuration of the original XM16E1, making it perfect for a Retro build replicating the early Army M16s (see Gun Tech Note™ below fore details) Each of our XM16E1 lower receivers starts life as a 7075 T6 aluminum forging that is precision-machined to final dimensions before receiving a gray hardcoat anodized finish that gives the best match to the color of the originals. Simple, engraved markings on this lower won’t detract from the period look and include the following:

Model: XBRN16E1
Cal: 5.56mm
Mfg: Brownells Inc.

Current-production AR-15 components will work perfectly with the Brownells XM16E1 lower receiver. NOTE: FFL required for purchase. Brownells Gun Tech™ Note: The original XM16E1 lower receiver was developed for the "improved" M16 rifles produced by Colt Manufacturing for the U.S. Army from 1964 through 1967. These receivers were found on the first M16 rifles issued to the troops in Vietnam, before the arrival of the M16A1. XM16E1 lowers were used on the first M16s with the forward assist, as well as various early M16 carbines. Features specific to the Brownells XBRN16E1 lower that make it a close replica of the originals include the proper front takedown lug profile and the contour of the metal surrounding the receiver extension. Also, the XM16E1 lower was the first with the "partial fence" above the magazine release and just below the ejection port cover. Most forged AR-15 "carry handle" lower receivers produced today have the A2 profile, which is incorrect for reproductions of early M16 rifles. This XM16E1 lower is the correct receiver for building reproductions of the following rifles:

XM16E1
Model 604
Model 605 Carbine
Model 606
Model 607 Carbine
Model 608 Survival Carbine
Model 609 "XM177E1" Carbine
Model 610 "XM177" Carbine

See all of our AR15s and AR15 parts here.

View Product

Write a review

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Stars

Sort by Filter by rating

Very Happy

I bought this in black to work with my NDS A1 upper. It is a perfect match in both finish and fit. My only complaint is that there is no correct roll pin available for the faux retainer pin hole at the rear of the receiver. Not a big deal. Don't forget to use the chromed bolt carrier group.

Perfect

Perfect, The trigger pocket walls are milled properly and so are the mag well walls. I also bought the the BRM-16A1 which is the same quality.

Not marked XM16E1 as shown on website

Catalog lists this lower as correct for XM16E1 retro rifle. Which it is a correct partially fenced lower receiver. Engraving on side of receiver next to MOD. is XBRN16E1. I would be happier if is was marked XM16E1. The XBRN16E1 is a model of Brownell's retro rifle.

Almost Perfect.

Originally wanted to make an XM16E1, but settled on the M16A1 lower when it was originally offered by Brownells. Back then the upper and lower were only offered in black. So when Brownells announced the XM lower and in both gray and black, I chose black to match my upper. The Finish is great. It looks excellent. Fit on the other hand has one small problem, there is a slight amount of slop in front pivot pin slot that the upper's front lug goes into. The older A1 lower from Brownells fits perfectly. It measures .502 of an inch. This XM lower is a tiny bit bigger at .5035 of an inch. That tiny bit makes the upper an lower rattle. Overall not out of spec, but compared to the A1 its slightly annoying. This is literally the only reason it wasn't five stars. So i'm being overly harsh but I cant give it a perfect five star rating if I dont find it perfect.