Windham Weaponry continues to add new rifles to its lineup, including an XM177 variant. The XM177 family was one of the first AR-style carbines to enter wide use. Several variants were used, including the XM177E2 and GAU5/A. Most original versions featured a ~4″ moderator attached to a 10″ barrel. The ATF decreed that the original moderator was a silencer and thus required a tax stamp.
[SHOT 2023] New XM177 From Windham Weaponry
Windham takes the approach that other “XM177″ builders have in the past. Extend the barrel slightly, then pin and weld a flash hider (that looks like the moderator but isn’t the moderator) to get to a 16” barrel length. The resulting rifle is not a perfect clone but is a light carbine that looks a lot like the original but does not require any extra ATF involvement.
As far as specific features, the barrel is a 1:9 twist, and Windham is using a polymer 4-position CAR stock and A1 pistol grip for furniture. The upper is an A1 model, and those uppers have been the log jam in the supply line. The current estimated availability date is late spring, and the estimated retail price is in the $1,100-1,200 range.
The range of new models is not limited to retro guns, though. Windham Weaponry also had some new 5.56 rifles with midlength gas systems as well as additional “.450 Thumper” models. The new .450 Thumpers are chambered in .450 Bushmaster and include camouflage models and new handguard options.
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