Today, we will have a look at A&K's attempt at the ACR, sometimes known as the Bushmaster ACR. But, first, let's have some history on this gun.
"The Masada rifle was developed by US-based company Magpul Industries, which became famous for its line of aftermarket accessories and replacement parts for firearms. Work on the new modular rifle, suitable for civilian, police and military applications and designed more or less along the lines of the SCAR program commenced in 2006. First prototypes were shown to the public in 2007 at ShotShow, and early in 2008 it was announced that new rifle (previously known as Masada) will be mass produced by famous American gun-making company Bushmaster Firearms. Current plans are to introduce civilian and police (semi-automatic) versions in mid-2009, with military select-fire version scheduled for production in late 2009. It is also planned to introduce Masada / Bushmaster ACR rifles in 5.56mm / .223 Rem caliber; other calibers might follow later. Magpul also is developing a 7.62x51 / .308 Win version of the Masada / ACR rifle, provisionally known as Masoud. It is still in early development and no information is available on its date of release to the public.
The Masada / Bushmaster ACR rifle is gas operated, semi-automatic or selective-fired (Military version only) weapon of modular design. It utilizes aluminum alloy upper receiver, with polymer pistol grip / trigger / magazine housing (lower receiver) unit which is attached to the upper receiver using cross-pins. Various types of lower receivers are planned to accommodate different types of magazines (i.e. Ar-15 type magazines as opposed to AK-type magazines). The trigger / manual safety unit is made as a single removable item, and it mostly utilizes Ar-15-compatible parts. The barrels of ACR / Masada are quick-detachable, with short-stroke gas pistons attached to each barrel. To remove the barrel (for change, inspection or maintenance), user has to remove polymer handguards, then swing down the wire lever, located below the barrel, turn the barrel to unlock and pull it forward and out of the receiver. All barrels are free-floated within handguards to achieve consistent accuracy. Bolt group also is made as a single unit, with captive return spring and rotary multi-lug bolt which locks directly to the barrel breech. The standard magazine housing, which is suited to accept Ar-15 type magazines, has ambidextrous magazine release buttons. The ambidextrous bolt stop release button is located at the front of the triggerguard. Safety lever is also ambidextrous, and charging handle can be installed on either side of the gun, depending on user preferences. Depending on the version (or user preferences) ACR / Masada rifle can be equipped with various Magpul-made buttstocks, fixed or side-folding, and adjustable for length of pull (some also with adjustable cheek rest). Each Masada / Bushmaster ACR rifle gas integral Picatinny rail on the top of the receiver; additional accessory rails can be installed on forend according to user preferences. Masada / Bushmaster ACR rifle can be fitted with removable iron sights, and/or with any optical or night sight with appropriate mounting."
Source:http://world.guns.ru/civil/civ018-e.htm
Phew... Alright. With that out of the way, we can get to business.
I was lucky enough to purchase my Tan colored Masada at a reputable local dealer for AS guns. At the cost of 8000 pesos (about 180$), it was a very good buy and came in a huge box with the words "Advanced Combat Rifle" on all sides. It's not a very inconspicuous package, believe me.
Initial Impressions
Out of the box, it was a very intimidating rifle to look at, let alone be on the receiving end. The body is made of ABS plastic, while the upper receiver is metal. It comes with one tan Pmag high-cap Magazine. It has a collapsable and very adjustable stock with interchangeable cheek-piece. Overall, its very solid to hold and has no wobble that you might expect from free floating barrels. The battery is located in the handguard. The handguard is easily removable with just a single pin holding it to the body of the rifle. The barrel is one-piece removable, just like the real-steel versions. The sights are decent, unfortunately not the Magpul MBUS versions, but they do their job.Initial Testing
Initial firing showed consistent 410-430FPS with stock spring and motor. The groupings at a range of about 30 feet was about 5in in full auto. as always for most A&K models, their guns are high FPS and decent ROF out of the box.
Field Testing
My first game with this gun showed me two things: One, you need at least a 2 point sling on this gun; it's very heavy. Two, be wary of its barrel snagging on vines or plants as you rummage through the field. It's very solid to fire on the move and accuracy is good with very little hop-up adjustment. I didn't drop the gun during the game, but it looks solid in terms of build. In my opinion, an upgrade to at least a lithium polymer battery is all it needs.
Last Words
This gun is a great alternative to a SCAR and in some respects come's out as a more intimidating piece of kit. Unfortunately, it doesn't share much with the M4 platforms, but a few rails, sights and grips can make this gun look the business.
Note: Prices of guns in the Philippines are significantly less than most countries. Special permits are also required for owning and using AEGs or GBBs.
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