Caldwell AR Picatinny Rail Brass Catcher Reviewed

Marketing from Caldwell Shooting Supplies

The AR-15 Pic Rail Brass Catcher mounts to the Pic Rail of any AR with its quick detach anodized aluminum clamp and captures the ejected brass during firing. The clamp and wire frame are fully adjustable to work with a wide variety of rail/optic configurations and allow brass to enter bag without any disruption to bolt function or cycling. The quick detent locking attachment feature allows for quick installation and removal of the brass catcher; which allows for quick checking or clearing of the rifle chamber. The large 100 round capacity (.223) prevents brass from being scattered around your shooting area and works great in preventing hot brass from landing on the shooter or spotter. Convenient zipper at bottom of mesh bag makes emptying simple.

 

Manufacturer: Caldwell Shooting Supplies, btibrands.com
Model: AR Picatinny Rail Brass Catcher

Compatibility: AR-15/AR-10/LR-308
Capacity (5.56/.223, .308): 80, 40
Mount: Picatinny Rail Mount

Accessories: Caldwell AR Spare Picatinny Mount

MPN: 530143
UPC: 661120301431
MSRP: $49.99
 
 

The Review

With all of the craziness going on in the world these days, ammunition keeps getting harder and harder to find. And when you can find it, the prices are often very high. As a result, many have resorted to selling off their spent rounds or have gotten into reloading it themselves. Catching the brass has always been a daunting task. Enter the brass catcher. Caldwell has many brass collection options on the market. But today, we’ll be looking at the AR Picatinny Rail Brass Catcher…

Not only are brass catchers a convenient method of collecting spent casings, they also prevent hot brass from landing on your gear or those nearby. As a left-handed shooter, it is a welcome addition for keeping those hot casings under control.

Unlike Caldwell’s Brass Catcher that utilizes a simple hook and loop strap around the handguard to attach it to the firearm, the nylon mesh basket of the AR Picatinny Rail Brass Catcher attaches to the firearm with a typical two-piece black-anodized aluminum picatinny mount with a detent locking mechanism integrated on top.

The mount is locked down to the picatinny rail with a single Torx nut and bolt with the Torx tool provided with the kit. It is important to note that the picatinny rail mount requires at least 1/2-inch in height and 1-inch in width to fit. Some optic mounts even set the optics high enough to allow the mount to fit below it.

The basket has a rugged wire frame to ensure it will always keep its shape and allow brass casings to enter without any disruption to bolt action. It is covered with a heat-resistant nylon mesh capable of functionally holding as many as 80 5.56/.223 casings or 40 .308 casings. Any more than that and it could seriously disrupt the normal operation of the firearm. The basket also features a zippered opening on the bottom for easy removal of the casings caught.

The basket frame attaches to the picatinny mount via an adjustable bracket that slips over the mount to provide quick installation and removal of the brass catcher for easy access to the firearm’s action and storage. Additionally, there are several small detents in the mount and bracket to accommodate various receiver widths.

Final Thoughts

It only took one trip to the range with Caldwell’s brass catcher before I decided I won’t be going without one again. Caldwell has engineered an AR accessory they can be very proud of. It is a solid performer that does just what it’s supposed to. I have read a couple of comments regarding the longevity of the nylon mesh, but I have not seen any indication of wear since I’ve had it. Though I will have to check with Caldwell to see if nylon mesh replacements are available.

About Caldwell Shooting Supplies

Caldwell Shooting Supplies are engineered with innovative designs and steadfast performance specifications for the most discriminating shooters in mind. Our products are created specifically with the needs of a shooter in mind-by a team of experienced shooters. When you head for the range to sight in, do some target practicing, develop load testing or for some serious shooting, you only need to remember one name – Caldwell. From targets and target stands to Rock Solid shooting rests, Caldwell has all your range equipment needs.