Description
The Workhorse lower from Battle Arms Development is built from quality aerospace-grade 7075-T6 aluminum and finished with a Type III hard anodize that's meant to last through years of building and shooting. This is a stripped receiver, meaning it comes without the trigger group, stock, or buffer tube, giving you complete control over how your build takes shape. You'll pair this with a lower parts kit of your choice to assemble a functioning receiver.
Building with the Workhorse Lower
This receiver is fully mil-spec compatible, so standard AR-15 parts will drop right in without surprises. The broached magazine well is cut clean and precise, and the pictograph selector markings are clearly visible to distinguish between safe and fire. Battle Arms includes a captured takedown pin detent spring plus a set screw and a 4-40 upper/lower receiver tension screw in the box, which saves you from hunting down small parts separately. The multi-caliber marking means you can use this lower with various AR cartridges across the platform.
What Sets the Workhorse Apart
Battle Arms Development engineered this lower with features that go beyond basic mil-spec. The easy-install bolt catch pin comes pre-installed with the pin included, and the set screw design allows you to fine-tune the fit between your upper and lower receiver to eliminate excess play. That matters when you want a consistent, tight feel in your rifle. The 7075-T6 material is the same aerospace-grade aluminum used in demanding military applications, so you're not cutting corners on durability.
The overall weight is 8.22 ounces, keeping your build light without sacrificing strength. Everything is made in the USA, and the fit and finish reflect the kind of attention to detail you'd expect from a manufacturer focused on small arms design and development.
Key Specifications
- Material: Forged 7075-T6 Aluminum (Aerospace Grade)
- Finish: Type III Hard Anodized Black
- Style: Stripped Lower Receiver
- Compatibility: AR-15, M16, M4 Platforms
- Caliber: .223 Remington / 5.56 NATO (Multi-Caliber Marked)
- Weight: 8.22 oz
- Receiver Type: Forged
- Magazine Well: Broached
- Manufacturer: Battle Arms Development
- Model Number: WH556-LR-BLK
- UPC: 810033783654
- Country of Origin: United States
- Safety Selector: Marked for 90-degree or Short Throw Selectors
What’s Included
- Stripped lower receiver
- Captured takedown pin detent spring
- Takedown pin detent spring set screw
- 4-40 upper/lower receiver tension screw
- Bolt catch pin (easy install, pre-positioned)
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Workhorse lower different from a basic stripped lower?
The Workhorse comes with several assembly aids that save time and reduce headaches. The captured takedown pin detent spring eliminates the hassle of losing tiny springs, and the included bolt catch pin plus tension screw means you don't have to source these separately. You get a tighter, more refined receiver fit right out of the box.
Can I use the Workhorse lower with different calibers?
Yes. The multi-caliber marking on this lower means it's designed to work with .223 Remington, 5.56 NATO, and other AR-15 platform cartridges, as long as you use the corresponding upper receiver and magazine. This flexibility is valuable when you're planning multiple builds.
Do I need a lower parts kit to complete this receiver?
Absolutely. This is a stripped receiver, so you'll need a lower parts kit that includes the trigger group, hammer, selector, safety lever, and grip. The lower parts kit contains the components that make the rifle function. Once installed, you can attach your upper receiver and have a complete rifle.
Why is 7075-T6 aluminum used for this lower?
7075-T6 is aerospace-grade aluminum known for superior strength and durability compared to standard alloys. It's used in demanding environments because of its excellent strength-to-weight ratio. In a lower receiver, it means your rifle foundation will handle hard use and maintain tight tolerances over time.
Is the magazine well beveled or flared for easier loading?
Yes, the Workhorse features a broached magazine well designed for straightforward, reliable magazine insertion. The attention to detail in the well's finish reduces wear on your magazines over hundreds of rounds.
Can I use this lower with both short-throw and traditional 90-degree safety selectors?
The Workhorse is marked and machined to accept both 90-degree safety selectors and short-throw variants, giving you flexibility in your build. Check with your safety selector manufacturer to ensure compatibility, but the receiver itself is ready for either option.





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