A Look at the Harrington & Richardson XM177E2 Clone
Retro AR-style rifles are currently in high demand. In the past, the most recommended AR-15 options were from Armalite, Bushmaster, or Colt. Today’s AR market offers more choices, but the appeal of historical reproductions remains strong.
While many retro AR enthusiasts prefer the iconic Colt brand, Harrington & Richardson also played a significant role during the Vietnam War, manufacturing a quarter-million M16 rifles between 1968 and 1970.
With Palmetto State Armory now offering H&R-marked retro ARs, the availability of these historical replicas has increased. The focus of this review is on the XM177E2 model.
Details of the Harrington & Richardson XM177E2
The XM177E2, developed by Colt to meet the U.S. military’s needs for a shortened M16, is now considered the granddaddy of the M4 carbine. The H&R XM177E2 is a faithful reproduction with slight modifications to comply with legal regulations.
The XM177E2 reproduces the original look accurately, featuring the correct stock, buffer tube, and lower receiver. Despite some minor differences, it captures the essence of the historical model effectively.
Range Performance
The H&R XM177E2 proved to be highly reliable during range testing, with minimal malfunctions over 500 rounds fired. Its lightweight design and carbine gas system provided excellent shooting performance, with accurate iron sights out to 200 yards.
With the correct barrel twist, the XM177E2 performed best with 55-grain ammo. Various magazines were tested, with most functioning well except for one causing a single malfunction.
Final Thoughts
The H&R XM177E2 is a great choice for military history enthusiasts seeking a classic rifle experience. Its affordability and accurate historical details make it a standout option in the market.
Compared to other models on the market, the H&R XM177E2 offers excellent value without compromising on authenticity. Its attention to detail and historical accuracy set it apart from its competitors.
