You all have missed what is arguably the biggest factor that separates the Bren 2 and the B+T APC rifles and carbines in any discussion of practical utility - the basic unit weight. In sum, the B+T's design and manufacturing processes, based on milled and drilled rectangular bar stock, result in a very heavy carbine or rifle. The B+Ts are real pigs - boat anchors - that I certainly would not want to have to actually carry decked out with standard combat accessories such as an LPVO, Mount, IR Laser Designator, Flashlight, etc. The CZ Bren 2 on the other hand, is designed in such a manner that the production processes result in the slimmest possible parts and the lightest possible assembled weight through the use of machined forgings and carbon-fibre reinforced Polymer (Lower Receiver and Buttstock). In other words, the Bren 2's processes and materials are optimized for light weight, understanding as the CZ engineers do, that service rifles are typically carried much more than they are ever fired.
Reliablity, accuracy and durability are all moot if the firearm is left behind because it is heavy pain in the arse to carry. The APCs are one of the heaviest platforms on the planet, due entirely to B+Ts design and production philosophies. I own a 10.5" APC223 which is a beautiful firearm in terms of fit, finish, reliability, accuracy and ergonomics (less WEIGHT). That said, I would not willingly choose to carry one in combat. Hands-down, my choice today would be the 14" Bren 2. YMMV, and that is fine. But there is no disputing the weight issue, which at the end of the day is what any comparison of the APC223 and Bren 2 must ultimately boil down to.
