Rarely does merely unpacking an AR get my juices flowing any more. Such is the prevalence of the AR platform. However, with the X2 Dev Group AR-X Lightfighter AR you know something special is at hand. I received a call from A.J. Williams, my friend and General Manager of Stonewall Arms, when the AR-X arrived. He watched intently as I inspected the AR-X. I understood why when I almost struck myself in the forehead picking it out of the box. He commented he had done same thing. The AR-X weighs an impressively scanty 5.8 pounds as verified on Stonewall’s shipping scale! Lightweight is just the beginning of what separates the AR-X from other rifles on the market. I cleared my schedule so that the AR-X could be evaluated immediately.
X2 Dev Group AR-X Lightfighter
It seems the AR’s adaptability attribute is also its most abused quality with individuals often hanging all sorts of paraphernalia on their ARs. What I am advocating is a return to AR basics—lightweight, great-handling rifles with potent firepower. This especially applies for civilians and even most law enforcement personnel outside of specialized tactical teams who do not require the plethora of accessories currently being found on the ARs. X2 Dev Group offers such a platform with its AR-X Lightfighter. A return to Eugene Stoner’s original concept.
This counter-intuitive approach involves maximizing the AR’s effectiveness and potential by simplifying it away from current trends. Those comprise AR designs consisting of heavy barrels and full-length, four-sided Picatinny rails adorned with lights, lasers, vertical forward grips and other accessories. X2 Dev Group abandoned that in favor of contemporary components of the highest quality put together by a qualified gunsmith one at a time ensuring maximum quality control.
X2 Dev Group is already known for designing and manufacturing premium AR components such as their Trident barrel, VF18 muzzle brake, and Jackal-X ambidextrous charging handle. Their Orion-X suppressor is another high-end offering. X2 is now offering an elite AR platform with their AR-X Lightfighter. The AR-X not only takes advantage of existing X2 components, but also incorporates other X2 enhancements such as tunable (“worm drive”) fixed direct impingement, mid-length gas system, quick-detach handguard, melted fully-ambidextrous receiver, and so on.
Tour De Force
While X2 dates its corporate existence to 2020 with the Orion-X suppressor, CEO Ernie Bray has developed an intimate understanding of the AR over the last 30 years working for and consulting with companies involving ammunition, bolt group operation/timing, ergonomics, muzzle devices and other aspects of the AR. Tier 1 special operation units also confer with Ernie about aspects of achieving peak AR functionality. Ernie can make your head spin when he starts discussing AR details.
The AR-X Lightfighter emerged after two years of analysis and development. X2 is the team you want building your rifle. With the AR-X Lightfighter, X2 wanted to do something that distinguished themselves from existing offerings. There was no urge to do a “me too” AR rifle. X2 went all in with the AR-X, not only making an obvious choice to use their own accessoriesm such as VF18 and Jackal-X ambidextrous charging handle, but also their own Trident barrel, tunable fixed gas block, bolt group, forend system, ambi operating controls, and upper/lower receiver to accommodate these improvements.
The AR-X’s near $2,800 price tag is sure to give some pause. However, every component of the X2 was chosen based on quality; performance, not cost, serving as the driving force. The AR-X’s theme is evident. The AR-X is intended for serious practitioners who plan on using it for patrolling, training, or defense. No one is advocating going retro and breaking out retired M16A1s for use. X2 is more than willing to utilize AR improvements as long as said items contribute to effectiveness.
AR-X Lightfighter CliffsNotes
I want to highlight some of the AR-X features before discussing range and training scenarios performance. For example, the X2 advanced VF18 muzzle device combines blast diversion, recoil reduction, flash suppression, and muzzle neutral compensation all in one device. The X2 Jackal-X is a combat derived ambidextrous charging handle solution that prevents out-of-battery malfunctions caused by gear snags. The X2 tunable fixed gas block delivers an ingenious way to allow end users to configure the AR-X to suppressor use. The unparalleled ambidextrous lower receiver controls, titanium DLC coated bolt group with enhanced cam locking pin, and “melted” billet upper & lower receivers also all deserve paragraphs of attention that are just not available.
RapidQD Handguard
The innovative X2 forend and Trident barrel encapsulate so much of what the AR-X offers in terms of aesthetics, under 6-pound weight and sub-MOA accuracy. The X2 handguard directly reflects feedback from high-tempo special operation forces. The X2 RapidQD handguard attaches to the upper receiver, not via a barrel nut. This isolates the barrel from user-induced torque and thermal effects stemming from high-volume firing. All the while, the RapidQD handguard offers maximum rigidity. This simple, yet creative, design is typical of X2 innovation. The AR-X’s billet upper receiver is crafted in a way to facilitate all of this.
X2 has created an interface that enhances longitudinal and anti-rotational rigidity. Another benefit is minimal thermal contact points reducing heat transmission from barrel chamber lowering thermal signature. The X2 Trident barrel is truly free floated, as the forend does not interact with a barrel nut that is typical of most forend designs. This is an excellent example of X2’s unwillingness to accept industry standard and chart its own course.
Trident Barrel–An Upgrade For All ARs
Speaking of charting own course, the X2 Trident barrel is another case in point. CEO Ernie Bray pays tribute to his experience at Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane Division with Trident naming nomenclature. The 16-inch, 1:8 twist benchrest-grade 416R steel Trident barrel uses X2’s proprietary extreme fluting profile to not only minimize weight while maintaining rigidity, but also to maximize cooling characteristics. The X2 Trident barrel provides approximately 300% more surface cooling area than a standard AR barrel. This pulls heat rapidly from the barrel core. The Trident barrel is nitride coated inside and out for corrosion resistance and improved barrel life.
Lightweight barrels are not uncommon with ARs. What X2’s exclusive deep fluted Trident barrel is offering is uniform heat transfer. The Trident’s flutes are placed in a way to act as opposing I-beams, blending structural integrity with reduced mass and maintaining optimal barrel harmonics even as the barrel heats up. X2 has conducted tests showing consistent group dispersion up through 473 degrees Fahrenheit. The X2 Trident lightweight barrel achieves AND maintains maximum accuracy.
X2 makes Trident barrels available as a standalone accessory item. This is noteworthy as there is no better way for someone doing their own build or unsatisfied with performance of their current AR to get a lightweight, accurate barrel upgrade to maximize their performance. With the Trident barrel, even the gas block attachment is addressed by having a barrel profile set up to take advantage of “dogs head” screws so gas block mounting is extremely secure, along with no way to misalign.
Shhh! Speed-K
It was a tough decision to remove the X2 VF18 muzzle device. It is truly a work of art as a muzzle device that has to be experienced to be fully appreciated. The VF18 utilizes complex flow principles to not only reduce recoil but also lowers blast pressure to the benefit of user and those close by. Another VF18 characteristic typically not found with brakes is it also offers muzzle flash reduction. No wonder it is used by US SOCOM units. The VF18 is available as a stand alone purchase from X2.
However, a recently acquired Silencer Central BANISH Speed-K could not be resisted. The Speed-K also has LE and military input. Silencer Central also makes mention of collaborating with Federal Premium in the Speed-K design. The stout, compact Speed-K suppressor just “fit” on the AR-X like an extension of the rail. The 4-inch long by 2-inch diameter 14-ounce Speed-K maintains AR-X handling while offering hearing-safe 5.56mm rounds sent downrange.
Versatile Suppressor System
The BANISH Speed-K is the epitome of hard-use suppressor thanks to its 100% Inconel 3D printed construction. What you get is a suppressor oblivious to barrel length it is used on along with full-auto rated. The Speed-K features controlled flow technology and a vented 4th baffle that minimizes gas blowback for a better shooting experience and is easier on the weapon it is mounted on. Silencer Central reports only a 5.8% increase in blowback with the Speed-K compared to unsuppressed shooting. The Speed-K offers approximately 138dB rating at the ear. (Getting readings below 140dB is the goal for protecting hearing.) Even then, ear protection should be worn when possible. This reduction makes firing supersonic ammunition tolerable without hearing protection. The mounted Speed-K is a muzzle brake and flash hider in its own right.
The AR-X tunable gas block ideal for Speed-K suppressor use. With the Speed-K’s back pressure less than typical suppressors, the standard regulating insert was left in place. The X2 AR-X with the Speed K is the perfect choice when maneuverability and speed are vital to be maintained. The lightweight AR-X with compact Speed-K suppressor allows you to make quick and precise movements in tight spaces.
Holographic Heads Up Advantage
An EOTechh HH II holographic magnifier combo was chosen for use on the AR-X Lightfighter. Both units together only add 22 ounces to the AR-X. The G33 magnifier mounts behind the EXPS2. The G33 3x magnifier is on a tilt mount, allowing for it to be swung out of the way until situation calls for its use. Not to drop names…the G33 3x is the selected magnifier of USSOCOM. The G33’s mount provides fast transitioning from 3x to 1x. The optic offers tool-free vertical/horizontal adjustments and an adjustable diopter for improved, precise focusing. The EOTech holographic magnifier combination is worthy for consideration by offering a laser holograph reticle, nothing better for fast, close-range target acquisition, and quick magnification enhancement as engagement distances increase.
Range Time
Ammunition tested with the X2 Dev Group AR-X Lightfighter was a combination of Black Hills Ammunition loads—the MK262 and civilian version 77-grain OTM, multiple Hornady loads—75-grain BTHP and 55-grain VMAX, SIG Sauer 77-grain OTM and Federal 62-grain FMJ-BT. The emphasis was on premium, heavier 5.56MM/.223Rem loads. This was a nod to requirement of greater accuracy and better long-range performance. The AR-X kept all loads tested at 1.25-inches or better at 100 yards. Mostly better. The Black Hills loads—MK262 and 77-grain OTM—SIG Sauer 77-grain and Hornady 75-grain and 55-grain loads produced sub-MOA groups. These groups were in the 1/2- to 3/4-inch range. This supports X2’s claims of sub-MOA performance with 77-grain SMK (Sierra Match King) bullets. Remember this is from a rifle weighing in under 6-pounds sporting a wispy barrel.
The EOTECH EXPS2 and G33 magnifier was supplement by an EOTECH Vudu 3.5-18X50 SFP optic for accuracy testing. The EOTECH 18x Low Dispersion glass is ideal when vying for small groups at 100 yards and beyond. Groups at 200 and 300 yards confirmed 100-yard findings with the AR-X. The EOTECH EXPS2 holographic sight and G33 magnifier was no slouch, exhibiting surprising accuracy potential illustrated by compact 50-yard groups during sight-in.
A rifle like the AR-X is meant for dynamic work away from the bench. Range evaluations consisted of functionality testing consisting of dumping multiple magazines at several targets in rapid fashion once sights were verified. Range time combined use of the X2 VF18 muzzle device and BANISH Speed-K suppressor, as well as both EOTECH optic options. A Lancer magazine arrives with the rifle. Magpul and Brownells AR-15 magazines were also used in testing the AR-X to verify the X2 Dev Group rifle was not particular about what feeds it.
Practical Shooting Test
Once the AR-X proved functionally reliable, it was then put through its paces on different rifle courses that were set up for a pending Origin Shooting 2-Gun practice session that was to be held at the Echo Valley Training Center (EVTC). Magazine changes, shooting from the non-dominant shoulder and unconventional positions helped to put the AR-X thru its paces. The AR-X handled surpassed expectations from a lightweight AR carbine. Total rounds fired involving multiple range visits was near 600. The rifle was not cleaned between range visits, even when this involved the Speed-K suppressor.
The AR-X showed true versatility, performing within the multiple 100-yard bays at EVTC firing from barricades, as well as back at the prepared firing position line. Clay targets were sniped with regularity out to 345 yards from the supported prone position. EVTC’s recently added Origin Shooting 3-Gun Rifle Range was also taken advantage of. The EVTC 3-Gun Range features four different target arrays stretching out past 400 yards down a ravine following natural contours. Variable size/shape steel plates occupy each station. The AR-X/Speed-K combo was used in the prone, sitting, kneeling, standing, and shooting off a BOG Infinite Deathgrip tripod.
The AR-X proved to “hang” well from less well supported positions and was very manageable in getting into and out of shooting positions. The B5 stock and pistol grip furniture that the AR-X arrives with are known entities. The Speed-K suppressor did not adversely affect handling thanks to its compact stature. Recoil/muzzle jump was minimal as expected with firing a suppressed 5.56mm. With either the VF18 muzzle device or Speed-K attached, it was no problem to spot a miss and have another round on the way from the AR-X before spotter could even relay the information gathered from looking through spotting scope.
Final Thoughts
Running drills X2 Dev Group AR-X Lightfighter with the BANISH Speed-K suppressor attached was surreal with the rounds striking steel distinctive over the normal blast of a non-suppressed weapon. Personal defense has no responsibility to be a “fair” or “even” contest. That is why premium AR’s like the AR-X Lightfighter attract with superior ergonomics and performance.
For more info, visit x2devgroup.com.
X2 Dev Group AR-X Lightfighter Specs
- CALIBER: 5.56MM
- BARREL: 16-inch 1:8 RH twist X2 Trident with VF18 muzzle device
- WEIGHT: 5 pounds, 12 ounces
- SIGHTS: Flattop Picatinny
- ACTION: Mid-length Direct Impingement Tunable Fixed Gas System
- CAPACITY: AR-15 compatible magazines
- PRICE: MSRP $2,795
PERFORMANCE: X2 AR-X Lightfighter
| Load | Average Velocity | Average @ 100 yards |
| Hornady 75-grain BTHP | 2,629 fps | .75-inch |
| SIG Sauer 77-grain OTM | 2,635 fps | .75-inch |
| Black Hills 77-grain Match | 2,688 fps | .875-inch |
| Federal M855 62-grain FMJ | 2,761 fps | 1.25-inch |
