Rossi Brawler Goes Modern: New 5.56 and .300 BLK Options
The humble single-shot just got a 21st-century makeover. Rossi USA announced two new chamberings for their stripped-down Brawler platform: 5.56 NATO and .300 Blackout. These modern calibers transform what was primarily a .45 Colt/.410 utility gun into something altogether more versatile.
The Brawler has always been a study in minimalism—a simple break-action firearm that prioritizes reliability and affordability over bells and whistles. With these new chamberings, Rossi acknowledges the modern shooter's preference for AR-15 compatible ammunition while maintaining the Brawler's back-to-basics approach.
For the uninitiated, here's what makes a Brawler a Brawler:
- Break-action, hammer-fired design
- Integrated Picatinny rail for optics
- Single-action trigger with cross-bolt safety
- Black oxide finish for durability
- Heavy-duty rubber grip that won't slip when wet
The addition of 5.56 NATO and .300 Blackout makes perfect sense for the Brawler's typical roles. As a truck gun, trail companion, or emergency option, these calibers offer increased range, better terminal performance, and—perhaps most importantly—compatibility with ammunition you might already stock for your AR-15.
"The Brawler was already the go-to single-shot for hard-use simplicity and adaptability," said Grant Nasser, Marketing Manager at Rossi USA. "Now, with 5.56 and .300 Blackout options, we're giving shooters more ways to customize their setup, without sacrificing the durability or dependability that already made the Brawler a hit."
There's something refreshingly honest about a single-shot firearm in an era of high-capacity options. The Brawler makes no pretense about what it is: a straightforward, reliable tool that will go bang when you need it to, without complex mechanisms to fail. For those who appreciate such simplicity—while still wanting modern ballistic performance—these new models fill an interesting niche.
Pricing and availability details weren't included in Rossi's announcement, but if they follow the pattern of the original Brawler, expect these new models to maintain the line's reputation for affordability.
Staff Writer: TheFirearmBlog & AllOutdoor.com | Certified Gunsmith | Published Author | Firearm History Enthusiast
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In .300BLK with subsonics and a suppressor this would make a fun nighthunter for hogs or cans of cheap evil-smelling beer, but in 5.56? I think you'd get the same effect at a much cheaper price per shot by setting a disposable lighter on fire and throwing it at the ground real hard.
556... are they serious? .300 is a good choice. .357 and .44 Magnum would also be good choices.
Rossi's are machined on tools from Harbor Freight. It is simple but they will find a way to make it let you down. Idiots will buy it anyway.