Works with Radian ADAC Lower
Well build upper, and a nice deviation from generic AR15 platforms. Fits and functions well on a Radian ADAC lower. All ambi and bolt hold controls work, though the dust cover does occlude the right side bolt release on the ADAC
This upper feels butter smooth, and is plan and simple to field strip and clean.
Would you recommend this?
Yes, I would recommend to a friend
BRN-180
I thought I'd written a review previously but don't see it so here goes again. I've had mt 10 1/2" Brn-180 (300 Blackout caliber) for a couple years now. I put it on an Aero Precision M4 lower, and it fit perfectly. I've had it at the range several times and it shoots great. I put a Maxim Defense collapsible brace on mine, and it works well. The only issue, and a minor one at that, was the cranked charging handle. Occasionally, during ejection, the spent cartridge would hit the cranked charging handle and ricochet into my face. I solved that problem by replacing it with a straight one. Later I replaced the straight one with a folding "paratrooper" charging handle which doesn't protrude as far.
Would you recommend this?
Yes, I would recommend to a friend
I like it
Never had any issues, over 1000rds and it's running great. Handguard is nice and small (unlike some piston guns).
My new favorite AR-ish firearm
I am very happy with the fit, finish, and operation of this upper. Being a fan of the original AR-18 from the way back, I have been interested in the BRN-180 since its introduction, but I wasn't interested in being an early adopter. I am happy I waited for the 2nd Gen to come out. It appears they addressed the deficiencies of the 1rst Gen, kept the unique features, and added some nice improvements. I have mine on a KP15 monolithic polymer lower, (available here at Brownells) and it runs like a champ. I ran a mix of Wolf steel case 62gr HP, IMI M195, Wolf Gold 55gr FMJ, and some odds and ends I had loaded in mags laying about. Everything cycled fine, and shot quite consistently. The impression of the action is that it is quite smooth, and has surprisingly soft felt recoil. The KP Arms polymer lower is a great way to save weight, and have a solid, comfortable platform for everyday shooting. The short barrel with the OEM three prong flash-hider was less annoying than I expected. The flash hider works surprisingly well, and does provide a measurable amount of control of muzzle flip. I have not shot the upper suppressed yet, but the simple to use 2 position gas adjustment looks promising. All in all, a very pleasant and effective shooter.
Works great !!!!!
I have three of these. This one, a 300BO and a 223 rifle version. This one on a Armalite lower the BO on the new Silencerco lower and the rifle on the brn-180 billet lower. All have 1 piece drop in triggers and mil spec lower parts. Plastic ejection cover wont close on 1. I have swapped lowers around and fit and function is consistent. Ran a few different brands of ammo through them with a few failures in the first 100 rounds. After a break in and a good cleaning they run like a scalded dog. I dig the ability to use folding stocks / braces. There soft shooting , fun and reliable. I havent done any accuracy testing other than I can hit my targets out 100yrds with range ammo and flip up sights.
BRN-180S Gen 2 upper is "Good To Go"
A couple years ago, I bought a 16" BRN-180 upper assembly and I am very well pleased with it. I like it so much, that I wanted to do a pistol build using a BRN-180S upper assembly. I was elated when I was finally able to get the Gen 2 upper. I like the improvements. Just like my other BRN-180 upper, it is built like a tank.
Works great!!
Matched this upper with Aero lower and the fit was perfect. Works just like it should. So far have not had any issue right out of the box.
Accuracy
I was worried about accuracy Need less to say that is not an issue Sub MOA group at 100 yard Using 223 ammo loaded with 40nosler b-tips Functions great Head turner for sure at the range. Used a tavor muzzle shoulder ring to install a asr muzzle break and it seems to be working great.
Very fun, reliable
While the upper gets hot, it runs perfectly well. I love charging it on the side, and knowing it has that rugged piston system. Perfect performance so for!
Excellent design
This does fit multiple lowers, it is tight to be sure. It fits dpms pattern lowers and functions flawlessly. Always strip and clean it from the factory and add lube. The action is extremely smooth and quite compared to a traditional buffer tube...with no need for after market silent captured springs. The compact nature lends itself to many more uses while maintaining full function with folding braces folded. The cerakote fde finish is nice. The handguard is very close to the piston and barrel so it will heat up. I highly recommend this system, while using AR fitment and parts it is closer to the sig mcx or an ak with its entire recoil spring captured in the upper. All piston ARs should negate a buffer tube like this.
