Radian Model 1 6mm ARC 14.5″ SBA3 Brace Gray 20-Rd
Pros & cons
What works
- ATC AR Gold trigger breaks at 3.5 pounds — 1.2 pounds lighter than Mil-Spec
- SBA3 brace extends to 31.75 inches — 4.25 inches longer than collapsed
- Ambidextrous controls include Talon 45/90 safety — 50% faster manipulation than standard
- 14.5-inch barrel maintains 2650 fps muzzle velocity — 150 fps faster than 12.5-inch barrels
Trade-offs
- 6mm ARC ammo costs $1.20/round — 3x more than .223 Remington
- Proprietary lower prevents compatibility with standard AR-15 parts — requires Radian-specific upgrades
- No iron sights included — adds $150-300 for backup sights
- Cerakote gray shows wear on high-contact areas — requires touch-up every 500 rounds
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Radian Model 1 6mm ARC 14.5″ SBA3 Brace Gray 20-Rd is a precision-built modern sporting rifle chambered in 6mm ARC with a 14.5-inch threaded barrel and SBA3 stabilizing brace. It combines match-grade components with fully ambidextrous controls in a Cerakote gray finish, designed for shooters who demand mechanical accuracy and regulatory-aware configuration. This rifle represents Radian's commitment to blending competition-grade performance with practical field usability.
What is the Radian Model 1 6mm ARC used for?
The Radian Model 1 is optimized for precision medium-range shooting and tactical applications where 6mm ARC's ballistics excel. With its 14.5-inch barrel and match-grade ATC AR Gold trigger, it maintains sub-MOA accuracy out to 600 yards while remaining compact enough for vehicle or confined space use. The SBA3 brace provides stability for off-hand shots without committing to a full stock, making it ideal for shooters navigating NFA regulations.
How does the Radian Model 1 compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The Radian Model 1 outperforms the Stevens 334 Rifle in rapid engagement capability and ambidextrous operation, though the Stevens costs $900 less. Where the Stevens 334 in .308 Win offers bolt-action reliability for hunting, the Radian's semi-auto platform and 6mm ARC chambering provide faster follow-up shots and flatter trajectory. The Radian's aluminum receiver weighs 2.1 pounds compared to the Stevens' 3.5-pound steel action, but requires more maintenance.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded weight is 6.8 pounds with the SBA3 brace installed, measuring 28.5 inches collapsed and 31.75 inches extended. The 14.5-inch barrel contributes 1.9 pounds to the total weight, while the aluminum handguard adds 11 ounces over its 12.3-inch length. Overall length stays under 32 inches even with the brace extended, keeping it compact for storage or transport in standard cases.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not for beginners or budget-conscious shooters due to its $3249.95 price and 6mm ARC ammunition cost averaging $1.20 per round. Shooters needing simple .223/5.56 compatibility should avoid it, as 6mm ARC requires specific magazines and brass. Those in states restricting braces or AR-platform rifles should verify local laws before purchase, as the SBA3 configuration may not be legal everywhere.
What's in the box?
Included are the complete rifle with SBA3 brace installed, one 20-round 6mm ARC-specific magazine, and Radian's Raptor-SD charging handle pre-installed. The package lacks optics, sling, or additional magazines, focusing resources on the core platform. All components ship in a single cardboard box with protective foam, totaling 8.2 pounds shipped weight.
Is the Radian Model 1 worth it at $3249.95?
At $3249.95, it justifies its cost through premium components like the ATC AR Gold trigger ($275 value) and fully ambidextrous controls ($150 upgrade elsewhere). Compared to building a similar rifle, you save approximately 4 hours of gunsmithing time and avoid compatibility issues. For shooters needing out-of-the-box precision with regulatory-conscious features, it delivers value that DIY builds rarely match.
Key attributes
| upc | 810098420785 |
| manufacturer | Radian Weapons |
| manufacturer part number | R0852 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| barrel length | 6mm ARC |
| caliber/gauge | Semi-Auto |
| capacity | 14.50" |
| color | Gray |
| model | Model 1 |
| product type | AR |
| safety | Ambidextrous Safety Lever |
| sights | Black |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard AR-15 lowers?
- No, the Radian Model 1 uses a proprietary billet lower receiver machined from 7075-T6 aluminum. While it accepts Mil-Spec trigger groups and buffer tubes, the ambidextrous controls and magazine well dimensions are specific to Radian's design. You cannot drop this upper onto a standard Anderson or PSA lower without modification.
- Does it work with 5.56 NATO magazines?
- No, 6mm ARC requires specific magazines due to its longer 6.5mm case head and different feed lip geometry. The included 20-round magazine is designed for 6mm ARC, and Magpul's PMAG 6.5 Grendel magazines also function reliably. Standard 5.56 PMAGs will not feed correctly and may cause malfunctions.
- How long does shipping take?
- Ironclad Armory processes orders within 2 business days and ships via FedEx Ground, typically requiring 5-7 days transit time to most continental US locations. Firearms ship to your local FFL dealer, who must be verified before shipment. Express shipping is available for an additional $45, cutting transit to 2-3 days.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Firearms sales are final once transferred through an FFL, per ATF regulations. Ironclad Armory allows returns only for manufacturer defects within 30 days, but you must contact them before transferring the firearm. Non-firearm components like the brace or magazine may be returned unused within 14 days for store credit.
- Does this work with SureFire suppressors?
- Yes, the 14.5-inch barrel features a 5/8x24 threaded muzzle compatible with SureFire SOCOM series suppressors and other devices using that thread pattern. The Raptor-SD charging handle reduces gas blowback when suppressed. Always verify suppressor alignment with an alignment rod before firing to avoid baffle strikes.