The AR-15 market is overflowing with options, so getting to test something unique, especially one with a military legacy, is always a thrill. This month, that thrill came in the form of the CZ Bren 2 MS. After a good wait, I finally got my hands on itโand I can tell you, it was well worth the effort.
The original CZ Bren 805 had already gained a reputation as a “SCAR killer,” offering a similar look and feel to FN’s SCAR, but at roughly half the price. The original Bren 805 had a reciprocating bolt handle and a fantastic trigger, or so Iโd heard. Itโs not exactly common, so if you havenโt seen one in person, youโre not aloneโI havenโt either.
But while the 805 was solid, the Bren 2 aimed to refine a few things, like weight and handling. The first Brenโs heft partly stemmed from its materials, as last-minute adjustments had added to the overall weight. CZ aimed to make the Bren 2 a lighter, more user-friendly design. They reworked the charging handle, making it non-reciprocating, and gave the gun a more streamlined frame. The result? A model so promising that the Czech military recently ordered 16,000 units.
American buyers recently got a version of the Bren 2 in a civilian-friendly, semi-auto model, though limited numbers hit the U.S. as pistols, not rifles, due to the usual import restrictions. These early arrivals were extremely rare, with only about 300 units importedโ50 in each of the three barrel lengths, and across two calibers: 5.56 NATO and 7.62×39. If youโve got one of these, youโre part of a very small club.
Speaking of calibers, letโs get into the versatility of the Bren 2 MS. This pistol offers a quick-change between 5.56 and 7.62×39, although itโs a bit of a garage job rather than something you’d switch out in the field. Still, this feature greatly boosts its modularity, though itโs worth noting that the 7.62 model requires proprietary magazines that fit with a simple insert rather than the AKโs usual “rock and lock.” This setup also keeps the bolt open when emptyโnice touch.
The Bren 2 MS comes in three barrel lengths per caliber, but I went for the ultra-compact 8″ barreled 5.56 model. Sure, the short barrel compromises ballistic performance, but it makes for a nimble, lightweight package thatโs a blast to shoot.
Right out of the box, the pistol models come with end caps set up for AR-style buffer tubes for braces or SBR stocks. Now, I did notice the lack of a retainer screw, which helps stabilize things, but a standard AR buffer tube end plate works just fine and even does a better job.
Up front, the cold hammer-forged barrel sports a mean-looking twisted three-prong flash hider that nearly eliminates the fireball youโd expect from a short-barrel setup. The short-stroke gas piston has three settings: standard, adverse, and off. Steel flip-up sights feature tritium insertsโdots on the front post and rear aperture make them perfect for low-light situations. The charging handle is reversible, a small but appreciated touch for lefties.
The Bren 2 MS doesnโt skimp on ambidextrous controls. The magazine release mirrors the AR-15 style on the right side, with a thumb-friendly button on the left. The bolt catch is extended AR-style on the left, plus thereโs a trigger-guard-mounted bolt catch and release. To lock the bolt open, just push up on it while drawing the charging handle back. Need it closed? Push down, and youโre good to go. The safety selector is also ambi, with a 45-degree throw that doesnโt interfere with the trigger finger.
The lower receiver is made of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer, keeping the weight down without sacrificing durability. The pistol grip even has a storage compartment and an adjustable backstrap, though options seem limited for now. Right-handed ejection is standard, but a hefty shell deflector ensures the brass stays clear.
Thereโs been some chatter about the trigger on the Bren 2 MS not quite matching up to the original 805โs, but Iโm sold on it. Itโs unlike anything Iโve used in a rifle: a two-stage trigger with smooth take-up, a gentle pull to the break, and a short reset. Each pull felt like precision machinery at work, and I couldnโt get enough of it.
Shooting the Bren 2 MS is another story. Being a short, lightweight piston-operated firearm, thereโs definitely some upward jump after each shot. But itโs got that snap-back quality that brings it right back on target, especially when paired with an arm brace. The iron sights are straightforward, with a rounded front reminiscent of an HK or AK rather than an ARโs trident shape.
Not every feature worked perfectly, though. The safety selector was a bit stiff, and I found the magazine release on the 5.56 version required some force to engage. The magazines fit standard STANAG models but need a solid push to lock inโthereโs a bit of spring tension, so youโve got to be firm with your reloads.
Now, letโs talk accuracy. Trying to find the sweet spot on an 8″ barrel with iron sights isnโt exactly a precision shooterโs dream, but I managed a solid group just under three-quarters of an inch at 25 yards. Not too shabby.
As much as I love this firearm, there are a couple of issues that stood out. First, the factory handguard. Itโs clunky, heavy, and honestly, a bit of a chore to grip. Itโs bolted down with steel plates, has minimal M-Lok slots, and doesnโt feel comfortable at all. Swapping it out for the HB Industries handguard makes a world of difference. Itโs longer, lighter, and more ergonomic, with additional M-Lok slots for accessories. After a quick exchange with HB Industries, it seems CZ liked the design enough to incorporate some elements into future rifle models.
Another quirk is the rear end plate, which youโd attach an arm brace or stock to. Thereโs a surprising amount of vertical play here, which is a bit odd for a firearm with CZโs reputation for quality. Luckily, itโs an easy fix. A single bolt holds the sling attachment in place. Removing it and adding a small washer or spacer will get rid of that wobble entirely. But honestly, itโs the kind of detail that shouldnโt need adjusting in the first place.
Iโve also got a minor gripe about the upcoming civilian rifle model. Itโs supposed to ship with a heavy barrel, and I canโt figure out why. A semi-auto version doesnโt need the extra durability for rapid-fire scenarios, and a heavier barrel defeats the point of making the Bren 2 lighter than the original 805. A 14″ barrel seems like a better option, keeping it lightweight and maneuverable.
Those complaints aside, the Bren 2 MS still holds a special place in my lineup. Itโs simple to take down and maintain, feels fantastic to shoot, and combines the familiar with the modern. Itโs not โjust another AR,โ and thatโs exactly what makes it shine. Redesigned from its 805 predecessor, this gun has limited but growing aftermarket support, and I can see it carving out its niche in the years to come. Whether stock or upgraded, the Bren 2 MS is a head-turner at the range, if youโre lucky enough to find one.
