You may have read our Best AR-15: Complete Buyer’s Guide article (and if you haven’t, you should!) and while all of those rifles are outstanding, some of them deserve a closer look.
Number three on that list is the LWRCI’s DI (direct impingement). It is an outstanding rifle, packed with features, and has won the NRA Golden Bullseye Award in 2016 and 2017. I had never fired an LWRCI rifle before and wanted to test the DI out to see if it merited the price tag, reputation, and our ranking. LWRCI DI Rifle. Love that spiral fluted barrel.The short answer is YES but read on if you’d like to know more.
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Reputation
With a flooded AR-15 market it must be difficult to stand out—yet, LWRCI has established a reputation for manufacturing top-end- feature-rich rifles. The company routinely is listed on the “top AR manufacturer” list and they do this consistently by building quality products at an affordable price when you factor in the features.When LWRCI sent the rifle to Liberty Firearms Institute, I picked it up with anticipation. It arrived in a burnt bronze Cerakote and I felt somewhat betrayed at first, my loyalty to black intact.
My local dealer mentioned something interesting, that he has friends serving with private military contractors (PMC) overseas and he told me those friends love their LWRCI rifles, the DI in particular. It’s funny, you never know where you might find inspiration. The contractor tidbit struck me with a good idea. Those guys are working in some tough conditions so I would test the rifle out accordingly. One portion would need to be accuracy but the other could be for close up work. I called my buddy Imri and set up a training session.
Combat Force Academy
Imri Morgenstern is a former Israeli Defense Force (IDF) Special Forces operator who now teaches people an array of deadly skills from his school, Combat Force Academy outside Denver, CO. As a Master Breacher, he has done a lot of CQB. I spent a day with him wringing out the LWRCI DI.Me! (Sean) training at Combat Force AcademyWe worked many different drills: barricades, corners, multiple targets, reloads, and other tasks designed to put me through my paces. The DI handled all this and more with aplomb. The only malfunctions were caused by me, inserting an overfull mag on a closed bolt.Vortex Spitfire 1x optic, also available in 3x magnifiedI used a Vortex Spitfire 1x as the go-to optic for this portion of the testing. The 1x has an etched, black, reticle with red or green light-up options too. The unit is designed specifically for AR-15s and it is tough. Using the Spitfire, I was able to quickly acquire targets and keep both eyes open for better situational awareness.
Throughout the training exercises, the LWRCI performed flawlessly. We had a bit of rain at the outdoor range. Despite the gun getting wet, muddy, and covered in carbon, it kept shooting. I would shoot the rifle until empty then break for reloads. The MagPump (for AR-15s) was perfect for keeping me training, 500 rounds went by in no time at all. Rotating through six magazines I was able to keep my reload breaks short.Loading Mags with the MagPumpThe DI managed tight corners easily and transitioned between targets well. A lightweight and compact handguard made the overall maneuverability a pleasure. Together with the easy handling coupled with the reliability in less than ideal conditions had me realizing why the PMCs were enjoying their LWRCI rifles.
It Handles Well, How About Reach?
With the short distance and reliability tests complete, I wanted to see how well I could shoot the DI at 100 yards. I headed out to my local outdoor range after mounting a Vortex Diamondback Tactical 4-12×40 scope.
Both Hornady and Winchester were kind enough to send out some ammo for testing. I set up at the range after zeroing and slowing began chipping away at 5, five-shot groups for each ammo. Winchester provided 55-grain full metal jacket (FMJ) and Hornady sent along their Black and Frontier brands. The Hornady Blackis a 62-grain FMJ, but the Frontier is a 68-grain boat tail hollow point.
(For more AR-15 ammo options, you’ll want to look at the Best AR-15 Ammo: Range & Home Defense article!)
I was shooting from a bench using a bipod and squeeze bag. Conditions started out as ideal but a squirrelly tailwind kicked up to 15-20 MPH and may have had an effect on the final outcomes. Also, I did not clean the IC DI and the bolt was still in the same condition from the 500 + rounds used in the training.Winchester 55gr FMJ shooting 1.22-inch groups at 100 yardsAll the smallest groups averaged out to 1.46 inches at 100 yards with the smallest being Winchester at 1.22 inches. Total averages for all the groups were closer to 2 inches. Despite the wind kicking up, the Frontier Match ammo remained consistent with its smallest group coming in at 1.42 inches. The Hornady Black came in third at 1.74 inches.
She’s All Show and Go!
I was really impressed with this rifle. When I first saw the color, I didn’t love it, but it grew on me. Now I think it’s gorgeous. When you factor in all the features that come standard with the design aesthetics and flawless functionality of the DI, this rifle is impressive. LWRCI Rifle topped with the Vortex Diamondback in all her gloryThe LWRCI DI comes with a cold-hammer-forged barrel which is fluted (those beautiful twists) and measures 16.1 inches in a 1:7-inch twist (learn more about AR-15 Twist rates!) and is capped with an A2 flash hider. You might be wondering, why a fluted barrel? Basically, it shaves off weight and allows for faster cooling of the barrel – not something that you find in a run-of-the-mill rifle. My test rifle came with a free-floated M-LOK handguard. I mounted two scopes and a few different accessories to it with no problems.The controls are all truly ambidextrous. I didn’t care for this but considering some of LWRCI’s clientele, I can understand why they would do it. A great trigger can make or break a rifle and the LWRCI’s is really good, it has the tiniest bit of creep, then snaps with an average pull weight of 6 pounds 1.3 ounces (on Lyman digital trigger gauge provided by Brownells). It also has a strong reset, I was able to hear it and really feel it.During testing, I shot approximately 700 rounds through the DI. It was filthy when I finally cleaned it, but it polished up like a gem. The bolt carrier group was largely black but shined up to a nice steel/pewter color showing LWRCI’s attention to detail for using the nickel-boron finish. The IC DI has a proprietary LWRCI keyless bolt carrier design that is more durable and reliable.LWRC DI Keyless BCGShooters often pay a premium to reach this higher end of the market. The finishes, the Magpul furniture, free-float rail, excellent trigger and great accuracy in a pretty light-weight package (6.6 pounds) could easily cost more money than the advertised $1,500. Buying a gun like this means you get a rifle that is beautiful to behold but will run extremely well too—a combination of the best of both worlds.
By The Numbers
Ergonomics 4/5
I prefer a longer handguard but the one on the DI is fine and I like the narrower diameter. The Magpul furniture is an excellent choice. While I don’t care for ergonomic controls, they are critical to larger bodies of people who include left-handed shooters.
Accuracy 4/5
This is a tough call when you have factors like wind and other variables to contend with. The DI did an admirable job without the benefit of cleaning or lubrication. I suspect that it is an MOA if not sub-MOA gun when properly applied.
Reliability 5/5
This was impressive. Despite no maintenance during my short test, using different magazines (PMag, Hexmag, old aluminum) I had no failures to fire.
Looks 5/5
As mentioned, I did not think I would like the bronze color of the rifle when I first received it. FDE is often a nightmare of never matching shades but the upper and lower on this gun are beautiful. The bronze has a metallic flake to it. Also, there is enough black on the gun that any black accessories match up just fine.
Price 4/5
Packing this many features into a rifle this affordable is a feat in and of itself. This is not a $500 AR-15. This is a rifle that is worth saving your pennies for. Quality, like Freedom, doesn’t come cheap. You get what you pay for and LWRCI has built it’s business on this premise.
Overall 5/5
The DI is an outstanding rifle that is reliable and can withstand the use, abuse, and neglect of a wide range of shooters. It delivers good accuracy, is simply gorgeous to behold, and will last a very long time. Plus, it has one of the finer owner’s manuals I’ve seen in some time. This broadens the product’s, use, warnings, and maintenance appeal to a wider audience.
LWRC International made their name in the industry with their piston AR-15s and has cemented their place in the market with their direct-impingement rifles. If you’re looking for a rifle that is truly warfighter quality and is packed with force-multiplying features that you can rely on – then I strongly recommend the LWRCI DI AR-15.
Now it’s your turn! What you think of the LWRC DI? Do you use DI or Piston? Burnt Bronze or Tactical Black? Check out our other picks and best upgrades in AR-15: The Definitive Guide.
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22
Leave a Reply
Arthur
After my dealer made my Di NYS safe-act compliant, I had nothing to grip, and no flash suppressor. My new LWRC, was rendered unacceptable right out of the box. The barrel is ruined, the mag pulled rear stock looks hideous and the stub that replaced the pistol grip gives my combat injured hand nothing to hold except the trigger.
Regardless of Safe Act compliance, the firearm is totally useless in a self defense situation as you desperately try to grab and hold your firearm in a panic situation. In short, I will die with the firearm in my hand and never fire a shot.
This is a total infringement of my 2A guaranteed right to referendum myself with a proper firearm not some politicians idea of a "safe" rifle to defend my life and the lives of my family.
Basically, the rifle was ruined and the barrel comprimised before it was delivered to me.
April 25, 2022 9:56 pm
Edmund Hughes
I’ve owned an LWRC-DI for about 18 months and have shot a few thousand rounds through it. It’s been flawless in terms of reliability, and is very accurate. I love the ambidextrous controls, and I’m right handed - especially being able to close the bolt with my right hand. The front hand guard/ grip is also very ergonomic - great design. I have nothing negative to say about this rifle. I also picked it up on sale at Primary Arms for about $1,300.
December 13, 2020 7:11 am
VS
i'm in houston, which location did you buy from. I'm in the market but looking for a good deal...don't want to pay premium etc.
March 16, 2021 5:54 am
AARRKK
I agree 100% about the advantages the ambi lower gives to right handed shooters. Having the ability to lock the bolt back while keeping my hand on the grip is convenient both and tactically superior. Great rifle overall.
I bought mine through Primary Arms as well!
April 4, 2021 6:33 pm
Mike
I'm strongly considering one of these. The handguard is not M-LOK compatible as I understand it. Is this a significant limitation when it comes to mounting accessories?
November 26, 2020 7:40 pm
Andy Wolf
They are being released with MLOK handguards, so they compatible.
December 28, 2020 6:46 pm
Mike D
I'm strongly considering one of these. The handguard is not M-LOK compatible as I understand it. Is this a significant limitation when it comes to mounting accessories?
November 26, 2020 7:36 pm
Michael Thompson
I love them so much I just bought another one. Great rifles, superb performance and absolutely reliable. What more can you ask for?
February 13, 2020 1:02 pm
James Ha
How's the fit between the upper and lower? Any wobble?
July 3, 2019 8:13 pm
mike
None, i own one myself and there is no play whatsoever
September 12, 2019 8:00 am
Benjamin R. Harris
Agreed, it is a tight fight.
January 21, 2020 8:01 pm
BigMedic
I bought my IC DI 4 years ago and I went for the LWRC metal flip up irons and a Geissele 2 stage trigger, instead of the LWRC trigger. I had sub MOA groups at 100 yards. I had 2 or 3 cheaper AR’s and nothing comes close to the quality. I would recommend LWRC to anyone.
September 28, 2018 5:27 pm
DoomsDay
So if you had to choose 1 riffle for War/Home defense/shtf.... etc
DD vs LWRC - which one you picking up!?
September 28, 2018 3:13 pm
David L
The Franken Rifle that I assembled myself ;)
September 29, 2018 2:37 am
Sean Curtis
DoomsDay, I haven't fired any Daniel Defense but from what I understand, they have a sterling reputation also. Considering they topped our list, and who uses them around the globe, they've got to be good. I think when you get into the top three it really starts getting down into personal preferences.
October 1, 2018 6:58 am
JDub
My feelings about rifles in the price range are that they are built to go to war but probably are not any more accurate than an AR which is 2/3 the price. You get what you pay for as long as it's run hard but as a range toy it probably has less expensive equals.
September 28, 2018 12:09 am
John
I have one, love it, and don’t get to shoot it nearly enough.
I did want to mention that it’s manual points out that it favors heavier Ammo due to twist rate. I’m no expert on this, but I frequently have seen this rifle compared to others using lighter (mainly 55-62 grain) Ammo, and showing it being outshot by other rifles in its class. I’d be curious to see those same tests with the heavier Ammo.
At any rate, the whole reason I bought it was there was nothing close to the quality, features, coatings, and ergonomics etc anywhere near this price point. It was right at $1200 when I bought it. There was no $1200 rifle period that could hold a candle to it.
Of course, it also is always great to do a lot of research, but something, and find interwebs champions validating your opinions. :) like the article! Glad you like my rifle! Haha
September 27, 2018 8:14 pm
David L
Very true on the twist rates! Being a 1:7 twist it will favor bullet weights of around 70gr and up. We have a whole article on AR-15 twist rates!
September 29, 2018 2:43 am
Kona Golden
The twist rate article suggests it's not bullet weight, but bullet length, yet you do what most of do....go back to bullet weight...just saying...... Longer is typically heavier, but as more bullet's are designed and manufactured as hybrids, it may become an important distinction.
September 29, 2018 8:42 am
David L
Yes, technically speaking bullet length is what the determining factor is. However, the weight is normally the easiest way to differentiate between them - especially when you're looking at standard factory loadings. If you were handloading your ammunition then the difference between length and weight is more impactful, but even then the general standard when measuring and speaking about the bullet Vs. the twist rate is weight.
September 29, 2018 9:59 am
XDm Guy
Join the discussion...
September 30, 2018 11:26 am
Xdm Guy
I bought my LWRC-DI 2 years back and have been running it along side other high end custom built AR15 at 3 gun matches with complete success and no failure to function at any match, to note I'm a lefty and the true ambi features of this rifle make it so user friendly anyone can shoot it comfortably. Now the fact that I load my own ammo and have shot sub MOA groups regularly using 69gr and 77gr ammo. the 1-7 twist rate will favor heavier bullets although the rifle was designed for use with 62gr ammo in mind also and can shoot accurately out to 100 yards all day long. That said if you wanted a benchrest rifle there's other choices that will fit your need but as far as finding a competition/defense/range AR15 LWRC-DI fits the needs of many at an affordable price considering all the features built in to the rifle. Hats off to LWRC for bringing such a well engineered product to the consumer as well as LE and NATO forces.
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22 Leave a Reply
After my dealer made my Di NYS safe-act compliant, I had nothing to grip, and no flash suppressor. My new LWRC, was rendered unacceptable right out of the box. The barrel is ruined, the mag pulled rear stock looks hideous and the stub that replaced the pistol grip gives my combat injured hand nothing to hold except the trigger.
Regardless of Safe Act compliance, the firearm is totally useless in a self defense situation as you desperately try to grab and hold your firearm in a panic situation. In short, I will die with the firearm in my hand and never fire a shot.
This is a total infringement of my 2A guaranteed right to referendum myself with a proper firearm not some politicians idea of a "safe" rifle to defend my life and the lives of my family.
Basically, the rifle was ruined and the barrel comprimised before it was delivered to me.
I’ve owned an LWRC-DI for about 18 months and have shot a few thousand rounds through it. It’s been flawless in terms of reliability, and is very accurate. I love the ambidextrous controls, and I’m right handed - especially being able to close the bolt with my right hand. The front hand guard/ grip is also very ergonomic - great design. I have nothing negative to say about this rifle. I also picked it up on sale at Primary Arms for about $1,300.
i'm in houston, which location did you buy from. I'm in the market but looking for a good deal...don't want to pay premium etc.
I agree 100% about the advantages the ambi lower gives to right handed shooters. Having the ability to lock the bolt back while keeping my hand on the grip is convenient both and tactically superior. Great rifle overall.
I bought mine through Primary Arms as well!
I'm strongly considering one of these. The handguard is not M-LOK compatible as I understand it. Is this a significant limitation when it comes to mounting accessories?
They are being released with MLOK handguards, so they compatible.
I'm strongly considering one of these. The handguard is not M-LOK compatible as I understand it. Is this a significant limitation when it comes to mounting accessories?
I love them so much I just bought another one. Great rifles, superb performance and absolutely reliable. What more can you ask for?
How's the fit between the upper and lower? Any wobble?
None, i own one myself and there is no play whatsoever
Agreed, it is a tight fight.
I bought my IC DI 4 years ago and I went for the LWRC metal flip up irons and a Geissele 2 stage trigger, instead of the LWRC trigger. I had sub MOA groups at 100 yards. I had 2 or 3 cheaper AR’s and nothing comes close to the quality. I would recommend LWRC to anyone.
So if you had to choose 1 riffle for War/Home defense/shtf.... etc
DD vs LWRC - which one you picking up!?
The Franken Rifle that I assembled myself ;)
DoomsDay, I haven't fired any Daniel Defense but from what I understand, they have a sterling reputation also. Considering they topped our list, and who uses them around the globe, they've got to be good. I think when you get into the top three it really starts getting down into personal preferences.
My feelings about rifles in the price range are that they are built to go to war but probably are not any more accurate than an AR which is 2/3 the price. You get what you pay for as long as it's run hard but as a range toy it probably has less expensive equals.
I have one, love it, and don’t get to shoot it nearly enough.
I did want to mention that it’s manual points out that it favors heavier Ammo due to twist rate. I’m no expert on this, but I frequently have seen this rifle compared to others using lighter (mainly 55-62 grain) Ammo, and showing it being outshot by other rifles in its class. I’d be curious to see those same tests with the heavier Ammo.
At any rate, the whole reason I bought it was there was nothing close to the quality, features, coatings, and ergonomics etc anywhere near this price point. It was right at $1200 when I bought it. There was no $1200 rifle period that could hold a candle to it.
Of course, it also is always great to do a lot of research, but something, and find interwebs champions validating your opinions. :) like the article! Glad you like my rifle! Haha
Very true on the twist rates! Being a 1:7 twist it will favor bullet weights of around 70gr and up. We have a whole article on AR-15 twist rates!
The twist rate article suggests it's not bullet weight, but bullet length, yet you do what most of do....go back to bullet weight...just saying...... Longer is typically heavier, but as more bullet's are designed and manufactured as hybrids, it may become an important distinction.
Yes, technically speaking bullet length is what the determining factor is. However, the weight is normally the easiest way to differentiate between them - especially when you're looking at standard factory loadings. If you were handloading your ammunition then the difference between length and weight is more impactful, but even then the general standard when measuring and speaking about the bullet Vs. the twist rate is weight.
Join the discussion...
I bought my LWRC-DI 2 years back and have been running it along side other high end custom built AR15 at 3 gun matches with complete success and no failure to function at any match, to note I'm a lefty and the true ambi features of this rifle make it so user friendly anyone can shoot it comfortably. Now the fact that I load my own ammo and have shot sub MOA groups regularly using 69gr and 77gr ammo. the 1-7 twist rate will favor heavier bullets although the rifle was designed for use with 62gr ammo in mind also and can shoot accurately out to 100 yards all day long. That said if you wanted a benchrest rifle there's other choices that will fit your need but as far as finding a competition/defense/range AR15 LWRC-DI fits the needs of many at an affordable price considering all the features built in to the rifle. Hats off to LWRC for bringing such a well engineered product to the consumer as well as LE and NATO forces.