Radical Firearms AR-15: Budget Review

In this episode, we take a deep dive into one of the most talked-about names in the entry-level AR game — Radical Firearms.

Based in Texas, Radical is making big waves by offering feature-rich, budget-friendly AR-15s that are often the first rifle for new gun owners. But unlike some budget brands, Radical is a true manufacturer, producing 80% of their rifle in-house — from receivers and handguards to barrels and gas blocks.

We cover:

• Why Radical Firearms has rebounded from early quality control issues

• What’s included in their core rifles — forged receivers, mid-length gas systems, B5 Systems furniture, and more

• How their "Radical Defense" line steps things up with duty-ready upgrades

• The accuracy and reliability reviewers are seeing in current production rifles

• How the mid-length gas system + H1 buffer combo helps deliver a softer, smoother shooting experience

• Why the 4140 barrel steel may be “good enough” for most shooters — and where it falls short

• Radical’s lifetime warranty, in-house customer service, and dedication to making the AR platform accessible

We also talk about the law enforcement-focused RF-16, which passed full-auto testing without a hitch, and the small criticisms — like mil-spec triggers, handguard feel, and certain rail features — that might matter to more advanced users.

Whether you're buying your first AR, building a backup rifle, or just want to understand where Radical fits in the crowded black rifle market, this episode breaks it all down — with real-world feedback, user experience, and what to look for if you’re buying one.