Lockhart Tactical Raven Platinum Edition, .223 Wylde

The AR-15-style DI-ish pseudo piston used by the Raven 5.56 does "poo where it eats", but ejecting gas out through the vents in the BCG also allows the action to be blown out in the event of debris, as demonstrated by InRangeTV, https://www.youtube.com/shorts/q3wvrehnYWM. So there is a tradeoff on this versus less cleaning required on a forward piston gun like the 180-based rifles. It would be cool if Raven made a Jard J180/CMMG Dissent/Daewoo K1A1 upper/BCG that uses a 180 recoil recovery system in concert with the DI-ish pseudo piston to allow a folding stock.
 
What I was really impressed with is the quality of machining and fit and finish. They didn’t seem to “cut any corners” with the possible exception of a sharp or uncomfortable trigger guard in spots. I have an original WS MCR and the lower is a brick. The upper is a steel box. The raven is slick and excess material machined away where it’s not needed. The cost to manufacture the raven receivers must be much higher than the Canadian AR-180 based guns and it really shows. The raven I tried is thinner, lighter, better balanced and more accurate than the 180 based guns I’ve tried. Once I know the raven BCG is good to go long term I’m buying a raven 100%.
 
They really are a thing of beauty. I think I will wait until after the election though as much as I would like to use one calling coyotes this winter.
 
Another 200+ rounds down-range today, with various fellow gunnies test-driving the Raven 5.56mm alongside my 14" Bren 2. The Raven never faltered and as a result of its soft recoil impulse, balance and reliability it garnered very positive reviews from all who tried it. The Raven wins hearts and minds wherever it goes!

I am now over 700 rounds and counting, without a single malfunction. Not too shabby.
 
Smokinyotes said:
So if you already had a Raven 9 and bought the 5.56 upper would you need to change the buffer for it to function properly.
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Good question, as the calibre exchange kits don't seem to come with any particular Buffer system. What weight of Buffer comes with the Raven 9mm? H? H1? I aam running an H2 Buffer on a Geissele "Super 42" braided extra power spring, as the factory H1 Buffer that came with my Raven 5.56mm was experiencing Bolt-Carrier "bounce" upon closure.
 
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I’m not even sure what the Raven 9 comes with for a buffer but it runs flawlessly. Just trying to figure out if I need a complete upper, a complete rifle or a build kit. I just happen to know where there is a AR that could be a parts gun.
 
Yes. In fact, they take AR15-standard Bolts, Barrels, Mid-Length Gas Systems, Buffer Tubes, Buffers and Springs, Muzzle Devices, Trigger Mechanisms, Magazines, and more. Basically, if it is not the Upper Receiver, Lower Receiver (with proprietary Magazine and Bolt Catches), Bolt Carrier or Charging Handle, it is AR15-compatible for ease of parts replacement.
 
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