AR-16 Style Hand Guards For The BRN-180

Playing with some ideas I have had floating around in my head as well as trying out some a new filament color, Army Green.

For those not familiar, the AR-16 was a prototype designed by Eugene Stoner when he still worked at ArmaLite. The furniture was wood but I always liked the shape of the hand guard. The part that stands out for me is the hand stop and the metal heat shield that sticks out the front.

I decided to give it a go and designed a couple prototypes.

photo sourced from gunlab.net
photo sourced from gunlab.net

So far I am very pleased with the outcome. The goal will be to creat one hand guard that works for both the long and short versions of the BRN-180. The green might not be your cup of tea but it photographs well. It will certainly be available in basic black.

What do you all think? Leave me your comments below and no this isn’t an April fools joke. I actually posted an article!

What Has BigRix Been Up To?

Lots of new products over at ar180parts.com. The newest prototype is the hand guard set for the BRN-180 rifle.

This is the first prototype, literally hot off the press. I already have a shorty hand guard on the site but I’ve had lots of folks asking about a version for their long bois.

What do you all think? Let me know in the comments below.

New Filament, Nicer Prints

I recently discovered ASA filaments and they are producing some outstanding prints.

Shown here is my N1 pistol brace and the Fusion pistol grip. The ASA filament requires more work on the front end but will require less work for you. Many folks who have purchased from me before run their parts as is, so I strive to make them as nice looking as possible.

For those that want to sand and paint there parts to make them look ‘less 3d printed’ they will have another option, acetone vapor smoothing. Exposing ASA to acetone vapors will melt the outer layers together and the parts become smooth as glass. I will be experimenting with this process over the next few weeks and report back my findings.

For those that are interested here is a link to an article that outlines the process.

https://rigid.ink/blogs/news/acetone-vapor-smoothing

I almost forgot to mention the BRN180 butt stock kits are available now in case you haven’t heard.

These parts and many more are available in my store.

Design Changes

Just a quick update on the Fusion “paperweight” and the Fusion grip.

The Fusion grip will now be printed as a slickside. It will require little to no sanding and polishing by you and for most it will be used as is. Bolt it on and go!

The Fusion “paperweight” has eliminated the buffer detent hole. Don’t worry, it will still work with your AR15 upper but will be a bit more fiddly when taking down for cleaning. Most are planing to use this with their BRN-180 upper and this will make it an even more perfect match.