Shown is the author firing the Battle Arms Development lightweight rifle. Notice the Fortis rail and SHIFT™ vertical grip. Also the Israeli made Ultimag polymer magazine.

By Christopher R. Bartocci

Throughout the industry, many companies have come up offering “enhanced” components for the AR15/M16 family of weapons. One such company has experienced rapid popularity and growth is Battle Arms Development, Inc. or commonly referred to as BAD or Battle Arms. The company was officially launched on Independence Day, July 4th, 2009 as an online retail store. This 100% made American product company was founded by George Huang and Roger Wang. George has multiple patents either granted or pending. George’s background is really not what you would think of when you think about a firearms or firearms component designer. His degree in Architectural Engineering from Penn State University is not strange but the fact that he worked for twenty years on projects such as Disney’s Studio Paris, Disney’s California Adventure, LEGOLAND, Universal Studios Island of Adventure, Galaxy Casino Macau and Thunder Valley Casino is a bit odd in this industry. As it would be, George wound up designing lightweight carbines and other advanced small arms components because George was an avid firearms enthusiast. One particular pet peeve of George’s was not being able to find adequate firearms tools or components that suited his needs, so he went on to design his own. In 2013 George retired from the entertainment industry and went to work full time on BAD. He now spends full time designing the next level of AR components and other small arms products. One of George’s short term goals is to build a factory rifle with 95% of its components designed and manufactured by BAD, Inc. He is
well on his way.

The first product introduced by the newly formed Battle Arms Development Company was the BAD-T1 “The Armorer” multi-tool and gauge for the M14/M1A/M1 rifle. This multi tool is manufactured from 41L40 chrome-moly steel and brass and weighs .42 pounds. It actually fits in the storage compartment in the USGI M14 buttstock and commercial M1A rifles. This is truly a multi-tool which includes: trigger guard take down, .30 cal muzzle wear gauge, throat erosion gauge, M1 Garand throat erosion gauge, trigger group takedown tool, extractor removal tool, 3/8” hex gas nut wrench, bolt roller greaser, 1/4” hex socket for standard bits, gas piston holder, rear sight screw driver with torque handle, large flat head screw driver and flash hider alignment gauge, to just name a few of its functions. This product was quickly followed up by the BAD-T3 & BAD-T4 Gas Cylinder Lock Wrench for the M14/M1A/M1 Garand and Smith Enterprises Gas Lock Front Sight.

The next and perhaps the flagship product for Battle Arms Development, Inc. is the Ambidextrous Safety Selector BAD-ASS and the Combat Ambidextrous Safety Selector or BAD-CASS that is available in selective fire version. These are made in the traditional 0°-90° throw or the 0°- 50° short-throw variations. In recent years the short-throw lever has gained popularity. Lower receivers come marked for the use with this lever. These high quality components are manufactured from billet steel bars on a CNC Swiss machine. Some models are finished with manganese phosphate. The material was recently upgraded to 416 stainless steel for the center of the safety. Although this costs two times more than previously, it is worth the cost. This is coated in a PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) ZrN process with a gold finish which is ultra hard and lubricious to give the safety its buttery smooth operation. The levers are held on each side by a T10 torx screw. The levers can be changed to one of nine that are offered by BAD including shorter levers, crank levers and also different color levers. This popular accessory has been offered by Original Equipment Manufacturers such as War Sports Industries, Rainer Arms, Spike’s Tactical, San Tan Tactical, Remington Arms, Wilson Combat, Adams Arms, Aero Precision, Seekins Precision and Midwest Industries.

The BAD-EPP (Enhanced Pivot Pin) and BAD-ETP (Enhanced Takedown Pin or collectively called the BAD-EPS (Enhanced Pin Set) are another popular offering. These pins fit all mil-spec lower receivers and have a patent pending pivot pin and takedown pin design, improved gripping surface and pull strength without the use of oversized heads. The low profile pin heads have low drag and have a lower profile than mil-spec pin heads. The pin tips are extended +0.030 over the mil spec pins which noticeably aids in pushing/pulling the pins, without any undue protrusion. There are bullet tip guides on the left side of the pins to aid in pushing out tight pins. These pins come with KNS hardened stainless steel detents, 17-7 nickel plated stainless steel springs and one high strength neodymium magnet for hassle free magnet assisted installation of the Enhanced Pivot Pin. These pins are also offered in Titanium and come in raw finish as well as matte black IONBOND PVD finish.

In August of 2014, Battle Arms Development Company entered the AR-receiver market with the introduction of their BAD-15 forged lower receiver. BAD did not want to come out with just another copy of the lower, only if they could present an improved one. The receiver is made from high quality aerospace grade 7075 T6 aluminum raw forging. No seconds or improperly heat treated forgings accepted. The magazine well is cut by way of ultra precise wire EDM process for consistency and reliability rather than traditional broach or CNC cut. This is an expensive enhancement which is usually a 30 minute process on a wire EDM machine that bills at $100 to $120 per hour. This costs more than some finished receivers on the market. The magazine well consistency will be identical from receiver number 1 to receiver number 10,000. Precision reamed-to-size holes for the pivot pin, takedown pin, hammer pin, trigger pin and safety selector holes, these are not simply drilled to size. The receiver extension threads are machined with high precision and low stress helical threading rather than drilled and tapped. The logo is 3D high power, deep laser engraved on a $150,000 German laser engraving machine that truly engraves, not superficially etches or burns only through the anodizing. Text and fire markings are engraved prior to anodizing and are razor sharp image quality. The caliber is marked “Multi” for build versatility. Legacy selector stops are removed. Pictogram selector markings are done for both 90° or 50° short-throw safeties. The receiver has a deep beveled magazine well and all sharp edges are de-burred by hand. The receiver is definitely a step above the rest in both fit and finish.

Battle Arms Development also offers a lightweight receiver set, the BAD556-LW. This comes with matching upper and lower receivers. Both are precision machined via CNC from solid billets of 7075 T6 aircraft grade aluminum. The lower receiver weighs just 6.84 ounces and the upper 6.31 ounces. Both receivers are patent pending. Both receivers have a MIL-A-8625F, Type III, Class 2, hard anodized flat black finish and laser engraved logos. Both receivers are compatible with any industry standard upper or lower receiver. All sharp edges are de-burred by hand. The lower receivers use pictograms for safety/selector markings and are set up for both 90° and 50° BAD-ASS/BAD-CASS selector levers. The magazine well is flared and beveled for easy magazine changing. The bolt catch has a screw instead of a pin, making for easier, non-marring installation. The rear takedown pin is held by a screw as well. The detent pin spring is trimmed down, inserted and the screw holds it in the receiver. The trigger guard is integral with the lower receiver. The upper receiver has machined T-marks and M4 extended feed ramp cuts. To save on weight, the upper receiver does not accept a forward assist. Not only is this good for weight reduction but a forward assist is not necessary on the rifle. Gene Stoner himself testified in front of a congressional defense subcommittee (Ichord Hearings) in 1968 to the fact it was not necessary nor desirable. If the bolt does not lock, a round should never be forced into the chamber. It should be removed. By forcing it into the chamber you are asking for bigger problems.

Along the same lines with the concept for a lightweight rifle, BAD introduced a new concept in a stock for the AR platform. It is the BAD-LBS-MIL or Lightweight Butt Stock – military specification receiver extension. This is the first of its kind. It’s such a simple idea to have a “Fixed” stock to attach to the standard carbine 2, 4 or 6 position receiver extension (buffer tube). The BAD-LBS-MIL uses an available component and allows the end user to switch out their heavier stock for a lightweight 3.0 oz butt plate (probably at least half the weight of a standard stock) for specific needs and to have the ability to return to a telescopic stock. With the use of heavy body armor, the extended stock is less practical. The LBS can even be placed on a longer A5 length receiver extension. The BAD-LBS-MIL is patent pending.

To go along with the BAD-LBS is the optional SABERTUBE™ receiver extension which is thicker in diameter than the Mil-Spec receiver extension for added strength and is dimpled to help reduce the weight. On average the SABERTUBE™ is .2 oz lighter than the Mil-Spec receiver extension. The SABERTUBE™ does not require a heavy steel receiver extension nut nor receiver extension end plate. It is also 1-inch longer than the Mil-Spec receiver extension but has better length of pull. BAD calls it a mid-length and a one size fits “most”. The SABERTUBE™ and the BAD-LBS are also sold as a kit.

Along with the lightweight, there is a really nice Titanium gas block, the BAD-LGB-Ti-625. Based on research, this 0.48 oz gas block is the lightest in the industry. This is actually lighter than the gas tube. The gas block is .625 inch diameter and is held in place by two hex screws. The one sent for test and evaluation is raw titanium.

As far as accessories go, another interesting gadget is the BAD-EMR or the Enhanced Magazine Release button. These are CNC milled from a billet of 7075 T6 aluminum. It is offered in anodized black, red, OD green, silver/clear, yellow lime, blue and light bronze finish. Also offered are Cerakote coated options in Magpul FDE and Smith & Wesson Red.

Battle Arms Development in collaborative efforts with Northtech Defense (NTD) have produced the LIGHTRIGID™ line of barrels. These are .223 Wylde chambered barrels (1 turn in 8 inch Right Twist) manufactured with a manufacturing process developed by BAD and NTD from tooling, gun drilling, contouring, reaming, etc. Every BAD barrel is double heat-treated/stress relieved, cryogenically treated and is meant to be a competition grade barrel. The barrels are dimpled to assist in location of the gas port, with the port on the gas block. The LIGHTRIGID™ line of barrels have a .625” diameter gas block journal and a mid length gas system designed around the BAD light rifle concept. As of this writing the barrels are offered in 14.5 and 16 inches. Soon to be released are 10.5 and 18 inch versions. Currently on the drawing board are .750 inch diameter gas block journal barrels with both rifle and carbine gas systems. Other calibers are in the works as well, including .308 Win, .300 Blackout and 6.8mm SPC II. BAD guarantees the sub-MOA accuracy capability of the barrel. Of course you cannot guarantee the shooter’s skill, proper installation and proper ammunition. BAD achieves consistent dime size accuracy at 100 yards, according to Huang.

Two rifles were built using Battle Arms Development components. One was based on the BAD lightweight rifle concept which utilized the billet receiver set, barrel and every component in the BAD Product line. The second was built on the forged lower receiver with BAD components.

Beginning from the rear of the Lightweight BAD build is the SABERTUBE™ pistol receiver extension tube with QD Endplate and BAD LBS Lightweight Buttstock. This was a very lightweight setup compared to the norm. Inside is a standard carbine buffer with a Blitzkrieg KynSHOT hydraulic buffer (P/N RB5000). This author has been testing these buffers for quite some time and has had very good experience with them. They do slightly lighten the field recoil impulse. Due to the light weight of the rifle this appeared to be a good fit. The BAD-EPS (Enhanced Pin Set) was used on the lower receiver. Both the rear takedown pin as well as the front pivot pin are black and well made. The Magpul MIAD pistol grip is this author’s pistol grip of choice. Normally the backstrap has the beavertail on it but due to the shape of the receiver the straight backstrap insert had to be used. The Norgon ambidextrous magazine is used along with the BAD-EMR (Enhanced Magazine Release) button in the Black variation. On the other side of the receiver is the Seekins Precision Enhanced Bolt Catch. This had a larger surface with dimples making for better no-slip surface. The trigger chosen for this rifle is the Hipertouch® EDT. This trigger is their Enhanced Duty Trigger. It has 2-user adjustable trigger weights which are changed by replacing the hammer spring. They are 4 1/2 and 5 1/2 pound trigger springs. There is a “hint” of creep, slightly shorter travel to break at the moment of reset with a very clean break. The trigger also has 25 to 50% faster hammer lock-up, Mil-Spec strike energy. This trigger is US Patent pending.

The charging handle is the FORTIS HAMMER™ charging handle which manufactured from a billet of 7075 T6 aluminum. This particular one is black Teflon. This is a robust charging handle designed to be used with and without gloves. There are grooves that work great with gloves yet do not cut up your hand. The charging handle has a roll pin/latch design key to stop the stress on the roll pin. The bolt carrier group is from WMD and is NiB-X coated. The carrier is polished prior to coating for a very smooth and slippery feeling.

The upper receiver has the BAD lightweight upper with the 16” BAD ULTRAMATCH LIGHTRIGID™ barrel chambered in .223 Wylde. This barrel is manufactured from 416R stainless steel with a 1 turn in 8 inch twist and a .625” gas block diameter which is dimpled for the BAD titanium gas block. This barrel uses a midlength gas system. It is cryogenically treated, double heat treat stress relieved, magnetic particle inspected and weights 24.6 ounces. The muzzle brake is the VG6 Epsilon stainless steel muzzle break. The handguard is the Fortis Manufacturing SWITCH system released in 2014. This 14.75 inch, 9.8 ounce rail was designed to have ease of switching from one configuration to another without a complete upper. One rail could be configured with an optic and bipod and another just with an optic and flashlight. This also makes for ease of cleaning and easy access to an adjustable gas block. Having multiple handguards eliminated the need for multiple uppers. This handguard is manufactured from 6061 T6 aluminum and is a truly unique handguard.

Also added to the rifle is an Aimpoint Micro T-1 2 MOA red dot sight and Magpul MBUS PRO Offset front and rear sights. At the same time this rifle was being tested, a new magazine was received. The Israeli Ultimag polymer magazine which is imported by FAB Defense. Very similar to the Magpul Maglevel magazine, but in its own way different. The texture and feel are quite different. The window on both sides is larger. The magazine holds 30 rounds and is Patent Pending. This magazine is very high quality and very durable.

The second rifle uses the Battle Arms Development forged lower receiver. This receiver is also equipped with the BAD-EMR, BAD-EPS, BAD-ASS, Norgon ambidextrous magazine release and Seekins Precision Enhanced bolt catch. Added to this is the VLTOR receiver extension and buffer and Modstock. Then a Magpul MIAD pistol grip and Geissele High Speed National Match trigger group complete the setup. This trigger is designed for high power match rifle competition. The trigger’s adjustability, lighter 1st and 2nd stage pull weights and fast lock-up time enhances the trigger control and accuracy while the hammer spring provides uniform primer ignition for more consistent bullet velocity.

The upper receiver on this rifle is the VLTOR VIS-KM9 with Keymod. The upper with integral rail weighs 21.4 oz with a handguard length of 8.82 inches. The overall length is 16.49 inches with an interior diameter of 1.25 inches. The upper has a forward assist, fired cartridge case deflector and ejection port dust cover. The lower handguard is removable for cleaning and also an M203 grenade can be attached. Any Keymod rail panel may be used. The receiver is manufactured from 6061 T6 forging and the handguard is made from the same material but is an extrusion. They upper receiver assembly is hard coat anodized, black per MIL-A,8625 TYPE III Class 2. The charging handle, also manufactured by VLTOR, is the Gunfighter ambidextrous charging handle which is manufactured from a forging of 7075 T6 aluminum. The extended latches are internally redesigned to direct the force off the roll pin and into the body of the charging handle during “support hand only” manipulations, making the charging handle stronger and less prone to breakage. The bolt carrier group is a standard LMT bolt carrier group.

The barrel is manufactured by Faxon Firearms. This 2 pound, 18 inch heavy fluted barrel is chambered in 5.56mm with a 1 turn in 8 inch twist and utilizes a midlength gas system. The barrel is manufactured from 416R stainless steel and button rifled. The inside of the barrel is raw stainless with the outside being matte blasted. The gas block has a diameter of .750 inches. The barrel features M4 extended feed ramps on the barrel extension and an 11-degree target crown. Quality control testing includes magnetic particle inspection and air-gauge testing. These barrels are manufactured in-house at the Faxon Firearms plant in Cincinnati, Ohio. Attached to the muzzle is a VLTOR flash supressor.

Both rifles were test fired with IMI 5.56x45mm M193 ammunition. This is Israeli made 55gr full metal jacket ammunition. Each was tested with 200 rounds of this ammunition with no malfunctions. The Lightweight rifle was tested at 25 yards off hand, due to the Aimpoint optic, which was designed for close range. With the combination of VG6 muzzle brake and the hydraulic buffer the rifle did not move off target. Quick and accurate follow up shots were easy. Off-hand groups were consistently under 1 inch. The second rifle with the heavy barrel was tested for accuracy with Black Hills Ammunition Mk262 Mod1 ammunition, this 77gr OTM is the standard which any 5.56mm/.223 Rem cartridge is compared for accuracy. At 100 yards all groups were sub MOA.

Battle Arms Development is without at doubt one of the industry leaders in high quality enhanced components and is very quickly becoming a respected manufacturer of complete firearms. As of this writing, short of a bolt carrier group, BAD manufactures enough components to build a complete rifle. BAD President George Huang assures SAR that many new products are on the way. This author will be anxiously waiting to see what comes next.

An assembled prototype fitted with a 7-inch barrel. This PDW is so compact and balanced; the magazine is at the physical center of the gun. Handling and operating a weapon of this level can only be described as instinctive.

By David Lake

By now, Battle Arms Development should be on your radar and in your gun-related vocabulary. If you’re not familiar, then take note right now, Battle Arms Development (BAD) is one of the most forward thinking and capable manufacturers in America’s gun market today. Battle Arms always seems to bring new and improved items to market without much ado – they don’t celebrate every advance in function or ergonomics or performance and they don’t ever seem content to rest on their past achievements; they hold claim on many “firsts” and “bests” in the industry. BAD just continues to hand us really good products on a regular basis and their products never seem to disappoint.

BAD’s latest groundbreaking ideas are focused on the PDW (Personal Defensive Weapon). The PDW, by basic definition, is a carbine but made lighter, smaller, more adaptable and more capable than a standard rifle or carbine. The PDWs from different companies all seem to boast varied advantages. Some are indeed very small in their collapsed state; maybe only slightly larger than a pistol. Some feature calibers that are better suited to short barrels to optimize efficiency and power from a compact weapon. Some PDWs are feather-light and might maintain more common dimension and caliber and capability, but come at a significant weight savings over a typical battle-rifle. Whatever the genesis behind any particular PDW offering, they all seem to come at an inevitable compromise. Something is always given up in order to fulfill the requirements of the end user or target market: be that military, law enforcement, private security, or even the discerning consumer.

Now for some broad and general assertions: The AR-15 is the most widely used small arm (rifle or carbine) by America’s professionals and hobby shooters. Every agency and department has the AR-15. Every soldier and police-officer knows how to use the AR-15. Every citizen that would call himself an enthusiast has at least one AR-15. And every respectable armorer or gunsmith knows this rifle’s function and nuance inside and out. These are irrefutable arguments in favor of the AR-15. Any astute maker of small arms would be unwise to try at changing this trend. Yet, in the race to develop and exploit the growing demand for the PDW, many small arms firms choose to build their PDWs on a new and unfamiliar platform or utilize unproven technology or materials or even introduce new obscure calibers. These specialized calibers can range from the totally ineffective to the economically impossible. Some PDWs utilize pistol calibers, which are just pistols with a buttstock (not a demonstrable improvement). Some PDWs only wear the name as it is assigned and feature none of the qualifying criteria to be considered a proper PDW. Some are even heavier than the basic battle rifle upon which they’re based. The PDW should be an appropriate replacement for both carbine and sidearm without much compromise to the strengths of either. This asks much in the way of power and accuracy. This also demands that the weapon be as light and compact as possible, that the operation is fast and familiar and the construction is rugged and strong. A PDW in the hands of agency or security personnel may never be called upon to fulfill its lethal role. It may live its life and do its duty in total concealment under a vest or coat and must execute this role without becoming an impediment to the agent’s mobility and comfort. But if and when the PDW is taken to task, that weapon must become a decisive and crushing force.

If you have ever tried to decide between the capability of a carbine and the convenience of a sidearm, the PDW solves the problem.

We can believe that when Battle Arms Development steps up to a challenge, they will succeed as the images seen in this article well demonstrate: this is how BAD does the Personal Defensive Weapon. The basic AR-15 has been abbreviated to make it light, compact and concealable while the manual of arms of the ubiquitous AR is maintained. Parts interchangeability and serviceability remains common. Diagnosis and repair of malfunctions can come right from the old manuals. BAD has made improvements wherever possible, yet has not hobbled or otherwise handicapped the AR-15. The PDW presented here represents a collaboration between Battle Arms Development and Cross Machine. The lines that would divide concept, engineering and execution have been blurred over the many months of design, revision and prototyping. Suffice to say, Battle Arms and Cross Machine have been synergistic partners in this project. Herein, we will not discuss the specifics of the upper half, nor the caliber of the BAD PDW. It will be enough to recognize that the upper is short and powerful. The lower and the stock are on parade here today.

At first glance, the obvious “new” on this rifle is the stock’s design. It appears similar to the other PDW style stocks that are becoming increasingly common but, be assured; the only similarity is the purpose of that stock. The design of other PDWs tends to leave a gap under the users cheek when the stock is deployed. These also tend to require a special bolt group that either uses an integral buffer, or a buffer configuration that prevents normal service and disassembly of the rifle. The BAD PDW allows for a solid and proper cheek weld as it features an integral comb of molded textile carbon fiber that bridges that gap. The BAD PDW does require its own unique buffer; but this buffer interfaces with any standard AR-15 or M16 style bolt carrier, and does not alter normal function or operation. The tool steel shafts actually ride on ball bearings and Teflon, so the stock moves and feels like it is, well, on ball bearings and Teflon. And totally new to the market is that this PDW stock is actually part of the receiver. The receiver is created with the stock’s mounting structure machined right in. This saves weight, makes for a stronger and more compact design, and ultimately saves on cost. This is truly unique in the market.

To cater to the needs of the accessory market, BAD has also created an add-on PDW stock with all the advancements and beneficial features of the PDW receiver, but the stock can be attached to any AR-15 lower receiver. The add-on PDW stock assembly is, however, slightly heavier and larger than the integral unit. Both stocks, when collapsed, are the same compact length of 6 inches from the buffer’s face and both use the same specially designed buffer. When fully extended, the add-on stock is 10 inches long and the integral PDW lower will extend to 9.5 inches. The add-on stock, when joined to a receiver, weighs a little over 3 ounces more than the integral receiver.

The fit and finish of both units is perfect. The type 3 hardcoat anodizing is a durable and attractive protective finish. The rods are hardened tool steel that rides in Teflon bushings and are locked into any of 5 positions by steel ball bearings. The stock, when moving, encounters very solid and satisfying “clicks” as the ball bearings snap positively into the detent locations. The hardened locking button is cut on a wire-EDM machine. This locking button can be actuated by the knuckle at the base of the thumb of the “gun hand” while the shooter’s free hand can reach across and position the stock where it may be required. The butt plate is larger and smoother than most other DW stock applications. The most impressive feature of the BAD PDW and accessory stock is both are as solid as any fixed stock on the market. There is no perceptible wobble, shake or rattle in the system. They are expertly designed and crafted with an artist’s pride. Suffice to say that it is an over-achieving piece of engineering and is peerless in execution. Battle Arms assures us that the price of these units will be very competitive with the current offerings for items claiming similar capabilities.

Here at Small Arms Review, we know and recognize the trends in small arms design and development. We have seen them all come and go. We have seen established companies flounder as they refuse to keep up with the times. We have seen promising new startups fail only by their own misplaced enthusiasm. We can authoritatively say that the future will demand unconventional design and the use of advanced materials and a degree of risk taking in small arms design. The consumer is becoming increasingly well-informed and demands that his new gun be something special – and genuinely new. Numbered are the days of cookie cutters and rubber stamps churning out the basic black rifle in a new box with a new name. The new consumer won’t be fooled by yet another “AR.” Battle Arms Development does it right.

By David Lake

As the name implies, Battle Arms Development, Inc. (herein, Battle Arms, or BAD) is a product development firm. They specialize in creating new products and solutions to satisfy the needs of the hobby and professional shooter; and even solve the problems these shooters don’t yet know they have. Preemption is the Battle Arms’ strategy to successful problem solving. BAD was founded by an engineer and architect with an impressive resume in the themed entertainment industry, George Huang. He has worked for Walt Disney Imagineering, Universal Studios, and many major casino hotel resort venues around the world. His work mainly involved creating lighting and special effects displays to attract and impress the crowd. George’s superpower is that he knows what people want.

In 2009, Battle Arms Development was launched and began by offering a few armorers tools and AR-15 accessories. Today, BAD is an OEM supplier to dozens of other small arms manufacturers. There’s a good chance that your favorite boutique AR brand features the BAD selector lever as standard equipment. And BAD offers its services as a consulting firm and project development partner to a handful of new, small startups in the arms industry. Battle Arms’ latest claim to fame is that they’re an engineering and manufacturing partner to Bentwood Gunsmithing, the creators and purveyors of the world’s lightest AR-15 rifle, known as the OIP.

The mainstay of the BAD product line is the modular ambidextrous safety selector for the AR-15. The safety can be regarded as an innocuous and relatively simple part of the AR-15 mechanism. And that is not untrue. But George Huang is not one to accept that simple conclusion. He saw that the selector is one of the most important parts of a rifle. The rifles used in service by law enforcement and security companies may never fire, and if so, rarely. But, those same rifles may be deployed and carried and handled and loaded and unloaded on a daily basis throughout their service life. The selector lever can see more use than the trigger in some cases. And this begs the question, why then do we spend up to $400 on a trigger for our AR-15, and just accept the solid, cast safety that came in a little bag with our rifle’s small parts kit? Well, we shouldn’t. That’s the straight answer. The safety selector on a rifle is as important as the brakes on a car. The selector made by BAD has been optimized to enhance its role and utility. The selector levers are modular, that is, they can be interchanged as required to fit a shooter. The internal barrel of the BAD safety is made of hardened steel. The detent pin supplied with the safety selector kit is also harden stainless steel and features an improved geometry – this coupled with similarly refined geometry of the track in the selector barrel, where the detent rides, results in the most positive feeling safety on the market. The BAD safety delivers audible and tactile feedback to the shooter. The modular levers that are available in different lengths and profiles can also be had in many colors. There’s a BAD safety selector lever to match your new camouflage dip or Cerakote treatment. Or your selector can be red, pink, Tiffany Blue, zombie green or even raw stainless steel, just to upset the monotony of the “black rifle.” The BAD selector lever is available in two basic operating designs featuring the typical 90 degree swing and the 50 degree short throw lever. Among those two options, there are two basic constructions as well: the standard, BAD-ASS (Ambi Safety Selector) and the BAD-CASS (Combat Ambi Safety Selector), which has been “up-armored” for professional use. The CASS unit is mechanically locked together by a robust dovetail and a locking torx screw. The CASS lever is available in a select fire version also, to suit the needs of government agencies and the lucky owners of legal M16s. Battle Arms also makes a selector for the S&W MP15-22 to replace the plastic OEM part. And as a teaser Battle Arms would not confirm, but won’t deny, plans on an upcoming short throw safe/full-auto only selector with no semi-auto setting.

Another growing sector of our shooting community is long range precision shooting, also known as “tactical rifle.” This shooting discipline employs what some may call a “sniper rifle” to engage practical targets at distance, in less than ideal conditions. A shooter may be required to shoot without a bipod, or from a rooftop, or while lying in weeds or gravel. The targets may present at unknown distances, or with limited time exposures. This type of shooting has become very equipment oriented. More and more, shooters of “tactical rifle” can simply buy superiority over the other competitors. Enter Battle Arms Development. BAD did not invent the detachable box magazine (DBM) kit for the bolt action rifle, but they did indeed make it better. Most DBM devices place the magazine release button outside or far enough from the trigger guard that the shooter’s support hand is required to eject the spent magazine, and replace it with a new magazine. The BAD-DBM incorporates the magazine release paddles into the contour of the trigger guard. This allows the trigger finger to extend forward and easily reach and operate the mag release. This frees up the support hand to simultaneously go off in search of a full magazine, which cuts down reload time by half.

It should be agreed upon that Battle Arms is not really in the accessory market. It is more correct to say that BAD is in the problem solving business. One of the biggest persistent problems affecting shooters today is control and handling of their weapon. If parts and accessories don’t claim to make your gun more reliable, they probably claim to enhance its feel, handling, and control. This may allude to the shooter interface – the ergonomics of the gun, specifically, the stock and grip and forearm. It is not misleading to suggest that a rifle’s attitude and performance under fire can be tamed by a proper fit to the shooter and balance in his hands. Also, control and handling can be enhanced further by enforcing proper “hold” by the user. Technique can usually make up for technology to some degree, and vise-versa. Remember that next time someone is selling you something. Knowing this, BAD conspired in the development and refinement of a next generation stock assembly for the AR-15. Battle Arms calls their optimized lightweight butt stock the BAD-LBS. The LBS and its accompanying SABERTUBE receiver extension represent some “next gen” thinking. The length of the tube, and angle and draft of the butt plate are based on research into firearm behavior, the structure of the average human body, and the abilities and ideals of today’s shooting community. This may sound like snake oil at first consideration, but it has merit. Less experienced shooters tend to “blade” their body toward a target, or turn sideways while presenting the rifle. This position further encourages bad form by suggesting that a shooter place the rifle’s butt plate very high on the shoulder. The shooter must then bring the stock comb up to the head, which is setting atop a relaxed and vertical neck. This technique is ideal for slow fire, off-hand target shooting. This is not the way to present a semiautomatic combat rifle to a would-be assailant on the battlefield. This is not the way to carry your AR-15 onto the high-stakes game of multi-gun competition. This sideways and “open” hold of a rifle leaves the gun largely unsupported against any force besides gravity. Recoil and carryover forces from the cycling mass in the rifle will push and pull the shooter around, and recoil will push the gun back into the shoulder, then up and over and away from the shooter; off to the high one o’clock direction. By positioning oneself correctly behind and “on top of” a rifle, that rifle’s inherent control and accuracy can be improved. Proper form and hold on a rifle will reduce muzzle climb and overall recoil. Proper form will facilitate faster target transitions and make “walking fire” possible, and ultimately effective. The stock assembly offered by Battle Arms is not for decoration. It is a bolt-on performance enhancing upgrade for the AR-15. The BAD-LBS and SABERTUBE work by simply encouraging correct form and magnifying the performance enhancement afforded by the employment of proper technique. It will help you shoot better. The SABERTUBE and LBS componentry is all made from 7075 aluminum and type 3 hard-coat anodized. The SABERTUBE is honed and polished inside for smooth motion of the rifle’s recoiling mass. The unique dimpled structure of the tube promises great strength at an overall weight savings and, though the SABERTUBE’s length falls somewhere between that of rifle and carbine, it uses a standard carbine buffer and spring assembly.

Most of the ideas and innovations from Battle Arms began as inert boring parts that we see on “old fashioned” AR-15 rifles. Most hobby shooters and professionals alike are generally content with what they’ve got. Most just want “more,” not necessarily “better” when it comes to guns. But not George Huang. He has the habit of scrutinizing everything and looking for possibilities and greatness in the most mundane and inanimate things. The takedown and pivot pins on the AR have been brought into the 21st century with the BAD-EPS (Enhanced Pin Set) kit. These pins include a neodymium-iron-boron rare earth magnet that secures the detent pin in a small dimple at the bottom of the pivot pin, to assist with holding the pin while it is inserted into its pocket, atop the spring. The EPS pivot pin incorporates a shallow guide channel to maintain control of the detent pin until it snaps into the main groove on the pivot pin, thereafter remaining captive. This method facilitates a tool-free installation, and makes losing the elusive little detent impossible. One step further is the BAD-EPS-Ti. This pin kit comes crafted in 6AL-4V titanium for ultimate in corrosion resistance, strength, and weight savings. They’re also beautiful to look at. Both EPS pin kits feature improved head geometry, and increased length, both to make tool-free operation fast, easy, and painless. The EPS kits include selected premium springs and detents to ensure correct, positive function. Since Battle Arms’ involvement in the OIP ultra-light rifle project, titanium has become more common in Battle Arms’ lineup. Soon to go up for sale is an ultra-lean titanium gas block by BAD said to weigh less than the gas tube. Some firms in the gun industry shy away from the use of Titanium for its added expense and the extra care that must be taken during the manufacture of parts, but George Huang is not scared of Titanium. Keep an eye on Battle Arms for more upcoming Titanium accessories.

The magazine button is another boring item that is overlooked by everyone. Not at BAD. The Battle Arms magazine button, the BAD-EMR, has seen that the magazine release button rise to new levels of distinction. It’s made from 7075 aluminum, because it’s harder and stronger and costs more and is more difficult to machine. But it’s better, therefore it is the material chosen by George Huang to craft a simple button. They come in 8 different anodized finishes, some will match your camouflage pattern, others, like red, gold, or blue will boldly stand out against your black rifles. The EMR is slightly taller than other buttons. The screw does not protrude through the V-shaped face, and the smooth horizontal serrations allow the finger to “swipe” the button to initiate lightning fast mag changes. The extra height makes for ideal application to competitive shooting. For more serious endeavors, the magazine latch post can be cut short in order to mount the EMR lower, and below the “fence” on the receiver, to avoid inadvertently dropping a mag.

Whenever Battle Arms cannot improve on an item (where perhaps someone already has), BAD stocks and sells those optimized premium parts on his web store. Battle Arms Development stocks the ambidextrous magazine release from Norgon, anti-rotation pins, and takedown and selector detents from KNS Precision, the Fortis SWITCH rail and the SHIFT short angle grip. Also, BAD carries the modular Tactical Link sling mount, the MFT Battlelink collapsible stock and triggers from Geisele, ALG and CMC. Rainier and Battle Comp muzzle brakes as well. The consumer can buy with confidence if George is selling it. The reason Battle Arms carries these fine products from these respectable companies is that the Battle Arms brand of complete rifles (soon to be unveiled) are all built using these premium parts.

The beating heart of the AR-15 is the receiver and Battle Arms has not forgotten this. BAD offers two trim levels to their receivers. The entry model, coined the BAD-15, is a premium forged lower that features a precision wire EDM cut magazine well. The working surfaces are all CNC machined and holes are all precision reamed to size. All markings are laser engraved into the aluminum in fine detail. The Battle Arms “SPARTAN” logo shows itself in bold 3D relief. Prior to final finish, the BAD-15 is tumbled in fine abrasive media to even out the texture and marks from tooling or fixtures to produce a smooth satin surface. The receiver is finished in a Mil-Spec Type III Class 2 hardcoat anodizing.

The next step up in receivers is the BAD556-LW; available as a matched set upper and lower. It’s a departure from the norm even among the “billet” receivers of today and is a radical departure in that it weighs less than a basic forged receiver. The design takes cues from architecture. The “web and strut” can be found in skyscrapers and aircraft. It’s a beautiful and efficient way to incorporate strength and rigidity without adding more material. The overall aesthetic of the BAD556-LW finds its roots in Battle Arms’ collaboration on the OIP ultra-light rifle project. When compared to the exclusive and elusive OIP receiver (the OIP receivers are also made by Battle Arms), The BAD556-LW features a full length Picatinny rail to give the shooter a multitude of sighting options. This receiver lacks the see-through windows of the OIP allows for the use of a dust cover door. So it offers all the versatility and capability of any receiver, but weighs less and looks amazing while doing it.

The other major component of the AR-15 is the barrel. The barrel is the last influence a shooter has on a bullet before it is sent out, alone, into the world to find its target; the singular task for which all bullets are made. The barrel of a gun cannot be taken lightly and is, in fact, an iconic image today (recall a James Bond intro montage). The barrel requires supreme quality and precision and must be built to a specific purpose; the length, weight, taper, twist rate, contour and construction material all determine the role for which any barrel is ideally suited. The “one size fits all approach” is a losing strategy when it comes to the barrel on your AR-15. Late in 2014, Battle Arms released the LIGHTRIGID barrel. The thinking behind it was that if little material was used, little material would be required to support it. This is true in architecture and engineering alike as the heavier a structure becomes, the heavier it must then become to maintain strength in its operating threshold. As a barrel gets longer, it must become fatter to maintain rigidity. As a barrel becomes heavier, its spine is taxed by its own weight, and a stressed barrel will exhibit increased harmonic frequency, which leads to poor accuracy. At an extreme degree, a barrel can be made so thick and heavy, that it will not exhibit any harmonic activity, but nobody wants to carry that barrel around. The length and weight of a barrel do not directly determine inherent accuracy. Rigidity and internal finish and tolerance determine accuracy. Battle Arms set out to make the best light barrel; not the lightest good barrel. Double heat treated and cryogenic stress relieved 416 R stainless is used in the LIGHTRIGID barrel. This stainless alloy can be machined and tooled while maintaining a superb surface finish. The twist rate is 1-8 inches. This is actually the ideal twist for 55 and 62 grain .223 projectiles. 1-7 inches has found some popularity, and thus, demand in the current market. There is little demonstrable reason for a 1-7 inch barrel on a compact rifle wearing a 14.5 or 16-inch barrel. 1-7 is better suited for the DCM course, in slow fire high power competition. In fact, some high power shooters at Camp Perry still use 1-8 inch twist with bullets up to 80 grains. The LIGHTRIGID barrel has been kept to a minimum safe contour. It’s also worth mention that these barrels have extra material around the chamber and are thicker over the length behind the gas block than the standard M4 barrel profile. This is done for added safety, better accuracy and a longer service life. The gas block journal is only 5/8 inch diameter (this was the original design of the first AR rifles). The barrel is fluted across the entire length as a measure to save weight. The rifling is formed by a precision button process. The LIGHTRIGID barrel only comes with a mid-length gas system; it is preferred over the standard carbine as it runs with slightly reduced pressure and particulate in the gas charge. These barrels are chambered in .223 Wylde, an improved 5.56 NATO chamber that allows for the reliable use of all NATO spec ammo, and yet returns supreme levels of accuracy with match grade .223 ammunition. All LIGHTRIGID barrels come threaded with the standard 1/2 x 28 at the muzzle. As an option, the LIGTRIGID can be had in a 2-tone finish.

Yet to come from Battle Arms: There are rumors of their own ambidextrous charging handle, lightweight (and maybe modular) bolt stop, lightweight magazine latch, and an array of caliber choices in the new LIGHTRIGID barrel. Be on the lookout for .300 AAC blackout (subsonic and supersonic variants), 6.8 SPC, and even 7.62 NATO and 6.5 Creedmoor, whenever the BAD556-LW grows into the large pattern. There are two exciting (and unofficial) projects that are being kept in a vault, in the sub-basement of the Battle Arms’ research laboratory – a 6.8 SPC specific receiver set, to accommodate the new optimized pattern magazines, which allow the 6.8 to stagger correctly and utilize some extra room in the mag for new and better bullet profiles. This receiver pattern is very specialized; to both the bolt group and magazine, but it does let the 6.8 come into its own realm and stretch it legs rather than share space with the underachieving 5.56. Also we found an impossibly cool new take on the AR receiver. It’s a PDW monolithic receiver/stock combo. It’s a joint endeavor between Battle Arms and Cross Machine Tool. It features a sliding wire frame stock that lives in and on the receiver. The receiver is the stock and the stock is the receiver. To reiterate, the ultra-short PDW style collapsible buttstock mechanism does not attach to the receiver – it is born there. This new design cuts inches and ounces off the assembled configuration of many other offerings to this market. It comes with its own special space-saving buffer and spring system and even a beard-friendly carbon fiber cheek rest. The entire surprise will not be spoiled here, now. Suffice to say that it is an over-achieving piece of engineering and is peerless in execution. SAR will have images of this exciting receiver in an upcoming issue.

Battle Arms Development is rapidly becoming a front-runner in the race to reform and re-brand the AR-15. But BAD is not a giant disconnected company. One can actually call the office and speak to George Huang. Or you can speak to his wife (who is really the boss). Battle Arms has always held the ideals of “progress and innovation” higher than “production and margins.” Respect and reputation are also on the list of what’s important at Battle Arms. BAD seeks out and welcomes contact with and feedback from the end user of the product. Battle Arms can offer tremendous input and insight in projects or ideas to established companies or new startups. They should not be seen as a competitor, but a partner. The goal and purpose of Battle Arms Development is to make what you the shooter; weekend player or workweek professional, want and need from your rifle.

Battle Arms Development, Inc.
180 Cassia Way, Suite 510
Henderson, NV 89014.
Phone: (702) 802-3588
www.battlearmsdevelopment.com
https://www.facebook.com/BattleArms
Instagram: Battlearms