Brownells BRN-180 Gen 3 9" Upper .300 AAC Blackout 1:6 w/BCG&CH, Black

The third generation BRN-180 upper receiver introduces a series of detailed enhancements, primarily informed by user feedback and extensive testing. These updates significantly improve the Gen 3's ergonomics, adaptability and reliability. Importantly, the core features of the BRN-180 remain unchanged, including the reliable short-stroke gas piston operating system derived from the AR-180, the buffer tube-free bolt carrier assembly and the robust construction. The Gen 3 maintains compatibility with standard mil-spec AR-15 lower receivers, as well as those designed for buffer-tubeless uppers and picatinny mount stocks. For existing Gen 1 or Gen 2 owners, rest assured that these models remain among the most advanced and dependable AR-15 type upper receivers available. The Gen 3 builds upon this foundation, offering enhanced features. Notably, the charging handle has been relocated to the left side of the receiver and is now non-reciprocating, eliminating concerns about moving parts near the user's face. The slot for the handle is sealed with a rubber gasket, ensuring smooth operation while protecting the receiver's interior from contaminants. The previous "dogleg" charging handle has been replaced with a more ergonomic design that provides additional clearance for optics. The Gen 3 also features a new retention system that prevents the guide assembly from ejecting unexpectedly when the charging handle is pulled with the upper separated from the lower receiver. For maintenance, a simple button press allows for easy removal of the rods and bolt carrier assembly. On the right side, an AR-15 style shell deflector has been added behind the ejection port. The traditional flip-up ejection-port cover is replaced by a carrier-attached cover. This design ensures the ejection-port is sealed when the bolt carrier assembly is in battery and automatically opens to eject spent shells, then reseals. These enhancements provide superior protection against external dust, dirt and debris intrusion into the Gen 3's receiver. Constructed from flat wire, this component provides enhanced force to ensure the bolt carrier is fully engaged in the battery position, even when the firearm is significantly fouled and requires thorough cleaning The charging handle is repositioned away from the ejection port area, thereby eliminating the risk of a metal component being ejected with each shot fired The left side placement facilitates an improved distribution of tasks between the firing and support hands The handle is now angled downwards, facilitating an easy grip without requiring awkward hand positioning around the optic This design also simplifies the manual locking of the bolt The charging handle slot, if left open, would attract dirt, dust and debris To address this, we have sealed it with a specialized swish-inspired rubber gasket This gasket allows the handle to move freely while effectively preventing the ingress of foreign matter The AR-15 type cover has been replaced with a cover integrated into the bolt carrier assembly This cover operates in conjunction with the action and effectively seals the gap behind the carrier when the bolt is in the forward position Manual manipulation is not required Access the lever through the opening in the handguard to switch between suppressed, normal and adverse gas settings No tools are required Additionally, the lever can be easily disassembled for cleaning once the handguard is removed The contact surface between the handguard and the barrel, which was already substantial, has been extended This results in a highly rigid handguard attachment with minimal flex, providing a very stable foundation for aiming devices A socket cup has been integrated into the top rear of the handguard to enhance versatility in sling attachment The socket cups feature a hardened steel insert to prevent the swivel from wearing down the surrounding aluminum of the handguard When the upper receiver is pivoted open or detached from the lower receiver this mechanism prevents the guide rod and recoil spring assembly from ejecting from the rear To remove the recoil assembly, simply press the release button A flange positioned directly behind the muzzle threads allows for the installation of muzzle devices on 3/4 inches OD barrels without requiring the special adapters that were necessary for previous 180 generations, ensuring a seamless transition from the .600 inches OD Barrel A protrusion diverts the carrier laterally upon entering the battery position to prevent rearward bounce This mechanism ensures the carrier is fully seated in the battery when the firing pin is released, thereby eliminating the risk of light primer strikes The receiver incorporates a full-length steel cam path, which minimizes wear from the significantly harder steel carrier