Brownells Satisfies the Cloner Itch with the New XM177E2 Complete Clone Upper

Brownells continues to meet the demand of firearm enthusiasts by providing faithful renditions of iconic firearms. Known for its meticulous attention to detail, Brownells has produced clones of the M16 platform, AR-18 (with some modifications), and the XM177. Now, the Iowa-based company is expanding its XM177 clone family with the introduction of the XM177E2 Complete Clone Upper.

The XM177E2 upper receiver features the iconic moderator flash hider, designed with ports around its radius. While this muzzle device functions as a flash hider on the Brownells model, it was technically considered a suppressor on the original E2 models.

The moderator flash hider is pinned and welded to either an 11.5-inch or 12.7-inch barrel. Brownells chose the 12.7-inch length so that, once pinned and welded, it meets the 16-inch rifle requirement. The barrel is available with a 1:12 or 1:7 twist rate to accommodate different bullet weights.

The XM177E2 also includes authentic components such as the M16A1-style receiver, ejection port, A1 carrying handle, and black carbine handguards.

Below is the full product description from Brownells on the new XM177E2:

Product Description

Based on popular carbine configurations, these XM177E2 Upper Receivers are ready for your next retro build.

The muzzle of the XM177E2 Upper Receiver is capped by the classic XM177E2 moderator-inspired flash hider, with ports around its radius. This muzzle device is a flash hider, unlike the original XM177 muzzle device, which was technically a suppressor.

The flash hider is attached to a lightweight 11.5-inch or 12.7-inch barrel. Why 12.7 inches? The 12.7-inch model has its muzzle device pinned and welded in place, allowing the overall length of the barrel to reach the required 16 inches for a rifle.

Barrels are available with a 1:12 or 1:7 twist. Select 1:12 if shooting 55gr bullets, and 1:7 if shooting 62gr or heavier. The front sight base is not F-marked, meaning the round, tapered front sight post is properly aligned with the carry handle rear sight. The black carbine handguards closely emulate the original CAR handguards. These barrel assemblies feature a tapered slip ring, which is correct for carbines of this type.

The upper includes a proper ejection port cover, with a flat external “bump” (not just an off-the-shelf A2). The receiver is the correct M16A1 style, with a forward assist but no shell deflector. The rear sight is the standard A1 aperture, easily adjustable with a cartridge or tool. The included bolt carrier group is a proper manganese phosphate mil-spec BCG, with a chrome-lined interior.

Key Features of the XM177E2 Complete Upper Receivers:

• M16A1 upper receiver without shell deflector

• XM177 flash hider with proper grenade ring

• 11.5-inch or 12.7-inch 5.56x45mm NATO barrel

• 12.7-inch configuration features a pinned and welded muzzle device, making it 16 inches+

• 1:12 or 1:7 twist, with chrome bore and chamber

• M16A1 ejection port cover

• Tear-drop forward assist

• A1 rear sight assembly

• Magnetic particle inspected and high-pressure tested

• Carbine black polymer handguards with heat shields

• Manganese phosphate mil-spec bolt carrier group with Carpenter 158 bolt

The XM177E2 Complete Clone Upper is available now for $804.99. For a limited time, you can take advantage of a 15% discount by using the code BB15 at checkout. Whether you’re a collector, a cloner, or just someone who appreciates finely crafted retro firearms, this upper is an excellent addition to your collection.