Brownells XBRN16E1 / Colt M16A1 5.56/.223 20” Rifle Retro Carbine AR-15

SOLD FOR: $1165

WOA#: WY230324AJ003

Make:  Brownells

Model: XBRN16E1

Serial Number: XBRN0142

Year of Manufacture: Modern

Caliber: 5.56 / .223

Action Type: Semi-Automatic, Direct Impingement

Markings:  The left side of the receiver is marked, “MOD. XBRN16E1 CAL. 5.56MM SER. XBRN0142 BROWNELLS INC MONTEZUMA, IA USA SAFE SEMI”.  The top of the barrel is marked “C MP 5.56 NATO 1/7”.  The right side of the charging handle is marked “C H”.  The right side of the gas block is marked “C” with an M within a bell forge mark.  The left side of the Bolt and Hammer are marked with a Colt “C” proof mark.

Barrel Length: 20” threaded.  21” with A1 flash hider.

Sights / Optics:  The front sight is an A2 post iron sight and the rear sight is A1 Type L-type flip aperture.

Stock Configuration & Condition:  This is a retro A1 style rifle with fixed polymer buttstock, triangular handguard, and checkered polymer pistol grip.  The LOP measures approximately 12.8” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate.  The stock rates in about Good overall condition. There are no chips or cracks.  The checkering is dulled and there are light scratches on the handguard and buttstock.  The barrel is an A2 barrel.

Magazine Quantity & Condition:  One Colt 30rd magazine in Very Good condition.

Type of Finish: Anodized

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion in the bore.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 70% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows aging, thinning, erosion, and operational wear on the upper.  The lower receiver is a modern production and is clean and free of wear.  This appears to be an original Colt M16A1 upper that has been fitted with an original M16A2 barrel.   The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Good condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Total of one magazine.

Our Assessment:  In beautiful condition that only retro style platforms can glow with, this AR-15/M16A1 build is the epitome of basic, but not in a bad way. Basic in this case means pre ban configuration, reliable, and ready to use.The XBRN16E1 was created by Brownells to be a faithful rendition of the original M16 rifle manufactured between 1959 and 1964.   The XBRN16E1 represents an almost true iteration of Eugene Stoner’s Original design and philosophy which propelled this design to become the most popular platform in the AR-15.  However, this rifle comes with a slight twist.  This rifle has been built with original Colt M16A1 and M16A2 parts.  With its solid A1 features and a much thicker A2 barrel, you can give this arm the 21st-century treatment at the range or keep it as a show-and-tell piece. Please see our specs below, our photos, and good luck on your bid!

Brownells XBRN16E1 / Colt M16A1 5.56/.223 20” Rifle Retro Carbine AR-15
Brownells XBRN16E1 / Colt M16A1 5.56/.223 20” Rifle Retro Carbine AR-15