After months of development and anticipation, a new player is entering the DIY firearm market. The UAM-1 80% RXM represents an exciting development for firearm enthusiasts who enjoy building their own platforms. This innovative fire control unit (FCU) system promises to deliver a unique building experience for those familiar with Glock-compatible systems.
As someone who’s been following this project’s development closely, I’m excited to share what we know about this upcoming release, what makes it special, and what you’ll need to complete one of these builds.
What Is the UAM-1 80% RXM?
The UAM-1 (US 2A Arms Module One) is a new 80% fire control unit designed for compatibility with Ruger RXM and Glock Gen 3 components. Unlike traditional 80% frames, this system utilizes a modular approach with a central fire control unit that requires specific drilling and minor modifications to complete.
This system represents about three months of development work to create an innovative 80% platform. The design features a block configuration that, when properly completed, integrates with compatible components to create a fully functional firearm.
What makes this particularly interesting is the combination of components from different platforms, allowing builders to create a unique hybrid pistol using both proprietary and aftermarket parts.
Required Components for a Complete Build
To successfully complete a UAM-1 build, you’ll need to source various components. Here’s a breakdown of the essential parts needed:
Core Components
- UAM-1 FCU – The central fire control unit that serves as the foundation
- UAM-1 Jig – Essential for properly completing the FCU with correct hole placement
Ruger Components
- Trigger housing (RXM Pistol)
- Locking block pin
- Takedown pin
- Trigger pivot pin
- Extended locking block
- Takedown spring
- Grip frame (available in black or grey)
Additional Requirements
For a fully functional firearm, you’ll also need:
- Slide assembly (Glock Gen3 compatible)
- Barrel
- Recoil spring assembly
- Lower parts kit
- Magazines
- Sights or optics
How the UAM-1 Jig Works: A Complete Breakdown
The system is designed to work with Gen3 Glock-compatible components for many of the parts not specifically listed above, giving builders flexibility in customizing their build.
Tools Needed for Assembly
Before starting your UAM-1 build, you’ll want to ensure you have the proper tools on hand:
- Drill and specific bits:
- Number 7 drill bit
- Number 20 drill bit
- Number 22 drill bit
- Dremel tool with appropriate cutting attachments
- Basic hand tools (hammer, punches, pliers)
- Masking tape (helpful for marking cutting lines)
- Patience (perhaps the most important tool)
Having these tools ready before you begin will make the assembly process much smoother and help avoid potential mistakes.
High-Level Assembly Overview
While detailed instructions will be included with your purchase, here’s a general overview of what the assembly process entails. Remember that this is a project requiring precision and patience.
1. Preparation and Setup
The UAM-1 build begins with proper setup of the jig system. You’ll place the FCU block into the jig with everything pushed forward completely. Some builders recommend using tape to secure everything in place for stability during drilling.
2. Drilling the Required Holes
The assembly process requires drilling several precisely placed holes using your three specific drill bits:
- The #7 bit handles the larger holes
- #20 and #22 bits are used for smaller, more precise holes
Proper hole placement is critical, so take your time with this step. The jig system will include markings indicating which drill bit to use for each hole.
3. Shaping and Finishing
After drilling, several areas require additional shaping:
- Housing Area: This has an oval shape with a rounded side that requires both top and bottom holes to be drilled, then shaped with a Dremel tool
- Takedown Section: Requires drilling followed by removal of material between holes
- Tab Management: After drilling all holes, certain tabs need to be flattened or removed for proper function
When working with the plastic components, patience is key. Moving too quickly can damage the material, so proceed with care.
4. Final Assembly
Once all drilling and shaping is complete, you’ll assemble the FCU with its pins and components. When properly assembled, all parts should align correctly and function smoothly.
The completed FCU can then be integrated with your grip frame, slide assembly, and other components to create a fully functional firearm.
Expected Release Timeline
According to the information available from /r/RugerRXM_UAM1s, the UAM-1 project is nearing completion with shipping expected between March 15-20, 2025.
Current development status:
- Jigs: 100% complete
- Inserts: 95% complete
The first batch will consist of approximately 50 units, which will likely sell quickly given the interest this project has generated. After this initial run, the manufacturers will evaluate demand and production capacity for future batches.
It’s worth noting that the manufacturer has expressed confidence in meeting this timeline, even offering refunds if shipments don’t go out by March 20th.
Is This 80% Build Right for You?
The UAM-1 80% RXM is not a project for everyone. Before committing to this build, consider the following:
Ideal for:
- Experienced builders who enjoy technical challenges
- DIY enthusiasts with proper tools and workspace
- Those seeking a unique hybrid platform different from standard builds
- Builders who enjoy the process as much as the end result
May not be suitable for:
- First-time builders without previous experience
- Those without proper tools (especially the specific drill bits required)
- Impatient builders who might rush through critical steps
- Anyone uncomfortable with precision work involving drilling and Dremel tools
If you’ve built other 80% firearms in the past and enjoy the technical aspects of these projects, the UAM-1 could provide an interesting new challenge.
Legal Considerations
As with any 80% firearm project, it’s essential to understand and comply with all federal, state, and local laws regarding the manufacture of firearms for personal use. These regulations can vary significantly by location and may change over time.
Always research the current laws in your jurisdiction before purchasing components or beginning assembly. Remember that building a firearm that you’re prohibited from possessing under law is illegal regardless of how you acquired it.
Final Thoughts on the UAM-1 80% RXM
The UAM-1 80% RXM represents an interesting development in the DIY firearm market. By combining elements from different platforms into a hybrid system, it offers builders something genuinely different from the standard options currently available.
While it does require precision work and specific tools, the end result appears to be a unique and functional firearm that stands apart from mass-produced options. For those who enjoy the building process and take pride in crafting their own firearms, this could be an exciting project to undertake.
With shipping expected to begin in March 2025, interested builders should keep an eye out for pre-order opportunities, as the initial batch will likely sell quickly based on current interest levels.
Whether you’re planning to build one yourself or simply interested in the evolution of DIY firearms, the UAM-1 80% RXM is certainly a project worth watching as it moves closer to release.
