Radian Weapons AX556 — Billet Upper/Lower Receiver Set with 8.5" M-LOK® Handguard, Ambidextrous Controls, 5.56 NATO/.223 Rem, Cerakote® Black (R0435 | UPC 817093024185)
Compact control. Mission-grade precision. The Radian Weapons AX556 is a premium billet upper/lower receiver set designed for shooters building a top-tier 5.56 NATO/.223 Rem platform—especially short, maneuverable builds. Featuring Radian’s hallmark fully ambidextrous controls, a lightweight 8.5-inch M-LOK® free-float handguard, and included Radian Talon™ ambidextrous safety and hammer pin, this matched set is the foundation for a compact rifle or braced pistol* that runs fast and reliably in CQB, vehicle, and confined-space roles.
*Always follow federal, state, and local laws regarding configurations and barrel lengths.
Why Choose the AX556 (R0435) for Short Builds
Billet-Machined Precision: Receivers are CNC-cut from quality billet for tight tolerances, excellent part fit, and a rigid, repeatable interface between upper and lower.
True Ambidexterity: Left- and right-hand access to the magazine release, bolt catch/release, and safety selector enables faster reloads, shoulder transitions, and malfunction clearances from either side.
8.5" M-LOK Handguard (Included): Compact, free-float aluminum handguard with M-LOK at 3/6/9 o’clock and a continuous top rail—ideal for short-barrel setups, lights/lasers, and hand stops while maximizing barrel clearance for accuracy.
Cerakote® Black Finish: Durable, low-glare coating that resists corrosion, abrasion, and solvents while maintaining a professional aesthetic.
Radian Talon™ Safety (Included): Industry-favorite ambi safety with modular 45°/90° throw options* for crisp, tactile engagement.
Matched Upper/Lower: Precision alignment helps with zero retention, smooth cycling, and cleaner BCG travel when paired with quality parts and proper torque.
*Confirm desired throw angle compatibility with your fire-control group.
Performance & Ergonomics That Matter
Compact Control Surface: The 8.5" rail puts white lights, pressure pads, and hand stops exactly where your support hand needs them—without excess length.
Free-Float Accuracy: No contact between handguard and barrel for consistent POI—even with barricade pressure or accessories attached.
Faster Manipulations: Fully ambi controls keep the rifle shouldered during mag changes and lock-back/bolt-forward actions, reducing movement and times to first follow-up shot.
Clean Cable Management: M-LOK slots support low-profile mounting and cable routing for modern illumination/laser setups with less bulk than legacy quad rails.
Ideal Use Cases
CQB / Vehicle Work: Short, light, and controllable for moving through doorways and vehicles (where lawful).
Home Defense / Duty: Ambi controls and compact rail make it easy to run from either shoulder around cover.
Range & Training: Build ambidextrous proficiency; the control layout supports strong- and support-side drills.
Premium Enthusiast SBR/Pistol Builds: Showcase-grade machining with real performance benefits.
Key Features & Specifications (At a Glance)
Model: Radian Weapons AX556
Type: Matched billet upper & lower receiver set, semi-automatic
Caliber Pattern: 5.56 NATO / .223 Rem (AR-15 standard)
Handguard: 8.5" free-float M-LOK® with full-length top Picatinny rail
Controls: Fully ambidextrous mag release & bolt catch/release; includes Radian Talon™ ambi safety
Included Hardware: Hammer pin (plus Talon safety)
Material: Aluminum billet receivers; aluminum handguard
Finish: Cerakote® Black
SKU / MPN: R0435
UPC: 817093024185
Barrel, gas system, BCG, charging handle, buffer assembly, small parts, and sights/optics are not included unless specified by your retailer. Confirm the complete parts list at point of sale.
Compatibility Notes
AR-15 Standard Components: Accepts AR-15 pattern 5.56/.223 parts. Verify gas system length (common on short builds: pistol-length), gas block clearance, and muzzle device thread (1/2x28).
Triggers: Works with most mil-spec and premium triggers; ensure Talon 45°/90° compatibility with your FCG.
Magazines: Standard AR-15 5.56/.223 magazines from reputable brands.
Short Barrel Considerations: For 10.3"/10.5" and shorter, tune gas port, buffer weight, and spring for reliable cycling with your ammo/suppressor plan.
Setup Tips for Compact, Reliable Builds (High-Level)
Gas & Buffer Tuning: Pair pistol-length gas (for short barrels) with an appropriate buffer weight (H/H2 often a good start) and quality spring.
Mounting & Torque: Follow manufacturer torque specs on barrel nut and handguard screws; use thread locker where specified; witness-mark hardware.
Suppressor Use: Expect increased back-pressure; consider an adjustable gas block and tune buffer weight accordingly.
Optics & Sights: The continuous top rail supports red dots, NV-compatible optics, and BUIS; confirm eye height and mount footprint.
Ergonomics: Add a QD sling plate, hand stop, and light/pressure pad placement that supports your grip and ambi control scheme.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a complete rifle?
No. It’s a receiver set with an 8.5" handguard and select controls/hardware. You’ll supply the remaining AR-15 components, following all laws.
Will it work for a short-barrel build?
Yes—the 8.5" rail is purpose-built for compact barrels (e.g., 10.3"/10.5"). Ensure gas/buffer tuning matches your barrel and suppressor (if used).
Is it truly ambidextrous?
Yes—ambi mag release, ambi bolt catch/release, and ambi Talon safety are integral to the AX556 design.
What finish is used?
Cerakote® Black for corrosion and abrasion resistance with a professional, low-glare appearance.
Does the Talon safety support 45° throw?
Yes—the Talon supports 45° or 90° throws; verify your trigger’s compatibility.
SEO Highlights (Naturally Integrated)
Radian Weapons AX556 billet upper/lower receiver set, 5.56 NATO/.223 Rem ambidextrous AR-15, 8.5" M-LOK free-float handguard, Cerakote Black, includes Radian Talon ambi safety and hammer pin, premium AR build for SBR/AR pistol/CQB, R0435, UPC 817093024185.
Compliance & Responsible Ownership
Receiver sets and short-barrel configurations may be regulated. Always comply with federal, state, and local laws (NFA/SBR rules, pistol configurations, brace regulations). Perform assembly safely or consult a qualified armorer, and practice strict firearm safety at all times.
Radian Weapons AX556 — Billet precision, true ambi control, and a compact 8.5" M-LOK rail. Start your premium short build with a foundation trusted by serious shooters.
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