As an avid firearm enthusiast, I’ve always appreciated the delicate balance between precision and power that defines the AR-15 platform. Recently, I had the privilege of experiencing the 2A Armament Balios Lite BLR-16 Gen 2 5.56 Rifle and the ATI Schmeisser S60 AR-15 60-Round Magazine. These two items complement each other perfectly and showcase the pinnacle of lightweight design and innovative engineering, making them an exciting duo for any AR-15 enthusiast.
First, the Balios Lite BLR-16 Gen 2 5.56 Rifle
Let’s begin with the star of the show, the Balios Lite BLR-16 Gen 2 rifle by 2A Armament. From the moment I unboxed it, I was immediately struck by its remarkable lightweight design. The rifle weighs only 5.1 pounds, which is astonishingly light for a fully functional AR-15. This is a game-changer for those who value mobility and ease of handling without sacrificing firepower.
But weight, there’s less…
What makes this rifle truly unique is 2A Armament’s long history of crafting lightweight and durable AR-15 components. This company has built a reputation for its commitment to quality and innovation, and it shines through in the Balios Lite BLR-16 Gen 2.
The key to its featherweight construction lies in its precision-machined, skeletonized receiver and handguard. These components are meticulously crafted from high-quality 7075-T6 aluminum, ensuring strength and durability. Despite being light, the rifle feels robust in your hands, with no compromise in structural integrity.
One of the most prominent benefits of this lightweight design is its exceptional maneuverability. Whether you’re using it for recreational shooting, competitive sports, or even home defense, the Balios Lite BLR-16 is a breeze to wield. Carrying it over long distances, transitioning between targets, and engaging in rapid-fire drills are considerably more comfortable thanks to its minimal weight.
A Barrel of Fun
The rifle’s 16-inch pencil profile barrel is also a testament to 2A Armament’s engineering prowess. It features a lightweight profile while maintaining excellent accuracy and heat dissipation. This makes it perfect for those long days at the range or high-volume shooting sessions without the barrel overheating.
The Balios Lite BLR-16 Gen 2 incorporates a proprietary titanium takedown pin and pivot pin, contributing to its weight savings and showcasing the brand’s dedication to using premium materials. These pins are not only lightweight but also exceptionally resistant to corrosion, adding to the rifle’s longevity.
No Trigger Warning Needed
One of the most impressive aspects of this rifle is its crisp and smooth trigger pull. The single-stage trigger breaks cleanly, providing an enhanced shooting experience. It’s evident that 2A Armament has paid meticulous attention to every detail, ensuring that the Balios Lite BLR-16 Gen 2 exceeds the expectations of discerning shooters.
The rifle’s accuracy is top-notch, with consistent groupings at various distances. It’s clear that this firearm is more than just a lightweight wonder; it’s a precision tool that can help shooters reach their full potential.
Overall, the Balios Lite BLR-16 Gen 2 5.56 Rifle is a testament to 2A Armament’s legacy of producing lightweight and durable AR-15 parts. It’s a masterpiece of engineering, combining exceptional craftsmanship, accuracy, and mobility into a single package. Whether you’re a competitive shooter or a weekend plinker, this rifle is a must-have addition to your collection.
The ATI Schmeisser S60 AR-15 60-Round Magazine
To complement the lightweight and agile Balios Lite BLR-16 Gen 2 rifle, I paired it with the ATI Schmeisser S60 AR-15 60-Round Magazine. This magazine is an engineering marvel that perfectly aligns with the needs of modern shooters who demand extended capacity without sacrificing reliability.
The most striking feature of the ATI Schmeisser S60 magazine is, of course, its generous 60-round capacity. Having such a substantial round count in a single magazine is a game-changer for those engaged in competitive shooting or tactical scenarios. It significantly reduces the need for frequent reloads, allowing you to stay focused on your target and maintain continuous fire.
Designed to Work
However, the true beauty of this magazine lies in its design. Despite its high capacity, the ATI Schmeisser S60 maintains a sleek and compact profile. It fits seamlessly into most AR-15 mag wells without excessively protruding, ensuring you can still employ standard shooting positions comfortably. The low-profile design also aids in prone shooting, where a protruding magazine can be a hindrance.
Reliability is paramount in magazines, and the ATI Schmeisser S60 doesn’t disappoint. The magazine is constructed from robust, durable materials, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of extended use. It feeds rounds consistently and flawlessly, even when fully loaded. This reliability is crucial in high-pressure situations where a malfunctioning magazine could be disastrous.
The magazine’s spring and follower design is also notable. They facilitate smooth and reliable feeding, even with the high spring tension required for a 60-round capacity. I found that the magazine performed admirably under rapid-fire conditions, ensuring that every round chambered reliably.
A Loaded Question: How’s the Follower Spring?
Loading the magazine is surprisingly straightforward, considering its high capacity. As expected, the first rounds were easy, just like with every other magazine, but I was surprised that loading was still easy 40 rounds in, then 50, then all the way to 60 — no mechanical assistance needed.
In terms of compatibility, the ATI Schmeisser S60 is designed to work with a wide range of AR-15 rifles chambered in .223 Remington or 5.56x45mm NATO. I had no issues using it with my Balios Lite BLR-16 Gen 2, and it functioned flawlessly.
The ATI Schmeisser S60 AR-15 60-Round Magazine is a marvel of magazine design. Its high capacity, reliability, and user-friendly features make it an outstanding choice for shooters who demand extended firepower without sacrificing performance. When paired with your favorite AR, it creates a dynamic duo that offers exceptional mobility and firepower, making it an ideal combination for a wide range of shooting applications.
Parting Shots
2A Armament’s legacy of lightweight and durable AR-15 parts shines through in the Balios Lite, providing shooters with an incredibly lightweight and precise rifle. Paired with ATI’s Schmeisser S60 magazine, you have a combination that offers unmatched firepower and reliability, making it a dream setup for those who appreciate the finer points of firearm craftsmanship. These two items enhance the shooting experience and exemplify the ongoing innovation and excellence in the firearms industry.
