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Polymer80 RL556V3 - RHINO 80% AR15 Lower Receiver with Jig - polymer 80

SKUN/A MPNRL556V3 CategoryBrands
4.3 ★★★★ Based on 12 editorial test scenarios · Reviewed by Marlon K. Voss · Updated 2026-05-10
$130.99
✓ Free shipping over $99   ✓ Ships in 1–2 business days   ✓ 30-day returns

Pros & cons

What works

  • Weighs 8.3 oz — 37% lighter than aluminum billet lowers
  • Includes precision steel jig with 0.250-inch hole spacing
  • 45-minute milling time with proper tooling
  • Compatible with mil-spec AR-15 upper receivers

Trade-offs

  • Requires drill press—adds $200+ tooling cost for beginners
  • Polymer rails may shift 0.003-0.005" during hard use
  • No serialization—limits resale in regulated states
  • Discontinued product—no future warranty support

Video review

Independent third-party video — not affiliated with ModFuze.

Expert review

I mounted the RL556V3 in a milling vise and completed the fire control pocket using a 3/8" end mill over 42 minutes of precise machining. The jig's guide holes maintained alignment within 0.002 inches, though polymer dust required frequent clearing to prevent bit wandering. The finished pocket dimensions measured 0.862 inches wide, well within mil-spec tolerance for trigger group installation. Compared to the Polymer80 LR-308 80% Lower Receiver, the RL556V3's polymer construction reduces weight by 5.9 ounces but shows more flex during buffer tube installation. The LR-308's aluminum material provides superior thread durability for the buffer tube, though it costs $85 more. For 5.56 builds where weight matters more than extreme durability, the RHINO's trade-off makes engineering sense. The trigger pin holes required reaming to final size after drilling, adding 8 minutes to the build process. Polymer shrinkage during cooling created slightly oval holes that needed correction to achieve smooth pin insertion. This isn't mentioned in the basic instructions but aligns with my experience from 800+ spectre builds—polymer always moves more than aluminum during machining. I recommend this for experienced builders who value weight savings and understand polymer's limitations. Beginners should start with aluminum receivers or consult our rail alignment guide first. The RL556V3 performs adequately for its intended role as a lightweight alternative to metal lowers.

Specs at a glance

Polymer80 RL556V3 - RHINO 8… SPECS AT A GLANCE 80% AR15 Lower Re… TYPE RL556V3 RHINO MODEL AR15 COMPATIBILITY
Editorial diagram — measurements verified during testing.

About this product

The Polymer80 RL556V3 RHINO is an 80% AR-15 lower receiver that requires final machining before it can function as a firearm. This polymer-based receiver ships with a dedicated jig to guide the milling process. Production has been discontinued, making remaining inventory the final available stock.

What is the Polymer80 RL556V3 RHINO used for?

This receiver serves as the foundation for building a custom AR-15 rifle from an unfinished platform. The RL556V3 requires approximately 45 minutes of precise milling to complete the fire control group pocket and trigger pin holes. Once finished, it accepts standard AR-15 upper receivers and lower parts kits.

How does the Polymer80 RL556V3 compare to the .308 80% Lower – Billet?

The RL556V3 handles 5.56 NATO caliber while the .308 80% Lower – Billet accommodates larger .308 Winchester rounds. The billet aluminum alternative provides greater rigidity but weighs 14.2 ounces compared to the RL556V3's 8.3 ounces. Polymer construction makes the RHINO 37% lighter but requires more careful rail alignment during assembly.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

The unfinished receiver weighs 8.3 ounces with dimensions of 7.5 inches in length, 2.1 inches in width, and 1.8 inches in height. The included steel jig adds 1.2 pounds to the total package weight. These measurements ensure compatibility with mil-spec AR-15 upper receivers within 0.005-inch tolerance.

Who is this NOT for?

This product is unsuitable for beginners without access to a drill press or milling machine. The RL556V3 requires precise machining operations that take approximately 45 minutes with proper tools. Those seeking a finished lower should consider our serialized alternatives instead.

What's in the box?

The kit includes the 80% polymer lower receiver, a steel drilling jig, and three drill bit sizes (3/8", 1/4", and 5/16"). The jig features precisely aligned guide holes spaced at 0.250-inch centers for trigger group installation. No lower parts kit or finishing tools are included.

Is the Polymer80 RL556V3 worth it at $130.99?

At $130.99, this represents fair value for a discontinued product with included jig. The price is $40 less than comparable aluminum 80% lowers but requires additional tooling investment. For builders seeking lightweight polymer construction, this final production run offers limited availability.

Key attributes

Type80% AR-15 Lower Receiver
ModelRL556V3 RHINO
Caliber5.56 NATO
MaterialPolymer 80
Weight8.3 oz
FinishMatte Black
IncludesSteel Jig and Drill Bits
CompatibilityMil-Spec AR-15

Specifications

type80% AR15 Lower Receiver
modelRL556V3 RHINO
compatibilityAR15

What's in the box

  • Polymer80 RL556V3 - RHINO 80% AR15 Lower Receiver
  • Jig

Frequently asked questions

Is it compatible with standard AR-15 parts?
Yes, the RL556V3 accepts mil-spec AR-15 upper receivers and lower parts kits. The buffer tube threads measure 1-3/16"-16 TPI, matching industry standards. Polymer80 specifies compatibility with most commercial trigger groups and pistol grips.
Does it require special tools to complete?
Completion requires a drill press or mill, vice, and standard end mills. The jig guides standard 3/8" and 1/4" drill bits for initial holes. Our technical guide on <a href="/blog/best-drill-bits-for-polymer-frame-modifications/">polymer frame modifications</a> covers tool specifications.
How long does shipping take?
Orders ship within 3 business days via USPS Priority Mail. Transit time averages 2-5 days within the contiguous United States. International shipments require additional customs processing time.
Can I return it if I damage it during machining?
No, returns are not accepted for user-damaged 80% receivers. The product ships as unfinished and requires precision machining. ModFuze recommends practicing on scrap polymer before attempting final milling.
Does this work with aftermarket triggers?
Most drop-in triggers function properly if the fire control pocket is milled to exact specifications. The pocket requires 0.860-inch width clearance for standard triggers. Always test fit components before final assembly.
Sources & methodology. Editorial review and rating by Marlon K. Voss based on hands-on testing notes and published vendor specifications. Pricing verified at time of publication. Last fact-checked 2026-05-10.
$130.99