AR-15 UPPERS

AR-15 Complete Uppers

Binarytriggerusa carries a wide selection of AR 15 Upper Receiver! We carry uppers in calibers like 5.56x45mm, 300 Blackout, 9mm Luger, 22 Long Rifle, 6.5 Creedmoor, 50 Beowulf, and more!

AR-15 Upper Receiver: A Detailed Guide for Buyers and Enthusiasts

The AR-15 is one of the most popular rifles in the world, known for its modular design and versatility. One critical component that plays a key role in its function is the AR-15 upper receiver. Whether you’re upgrading your current setup or building a custom AR-15 from scratch, understanding the importance of the upper receiver is essential. In this guide, we’ll dive into what the AR-15 upper receiver does, the types available, and factors to consider when buying one.

What Is an AR-15 Upper Receiver?

The AR-15 upper receiver is the top half of the rifle’s receiver assembly, responsible for housing key components such as the barrel, bolt carrier group, and charging handle. It works in conjunction with the lower receiver to fire the weapon and is crucial for the rifle’s overall performance. The modular nature of the AR-15 allows users to swap out different upper receivers, making it highly customizable for various shooting needs.

Components

An AR-15 upper receiver includes several important parts that contribute to the firearm’s operation:

• Barrel: The tube through which the bullet is fired, available in different lengths and calibers.
• Bolt Carrier Group (BCG): Responsible for chambering rounds, firing, and ejecting spent cartridges.
• Charging Handle: Allows the shooter to manually cycle the bolt for loading or clearing the chamber.
• Handguard: Provides protection and a mounting surface for accessories like optics, lights, and grips.
• Forward Assist (Optional): Helps push the bolt into battery in case of malfunction.

Types of AR-15 Upper Receivers

When shopping, you’ll encounter different types, each suited for specific use cases:

1. Stripped Upper Receiver: This version comes without any additional parts, giving builders full control over the components they want to install.
2. Complete Upper Receiver: Includes all the necessary components like the barrel, BCG, and charging handle, ready to be attached to your lower receiver.
3. Flat-Top Upper Receiver (A3): Features a Picatinny rail on top for mounting optics or sights, making it the most popular choice for modern builds.
4. Carry Handle Upper Receiver (A2): This is an older design with a built-in carry handle and fixed iron sights, favored by purists or those building a retro-style rifle.

Why the AR-15 Upper Receiver Matters

The upper receiver affects several key aspects of your AR-15’s performance, including:

• Accuracy: The quality of the barrel and how well it’s seated in the upper receiver directly impacts accuracy.
• Reliability: A well-made upper receiver with high-quality components will ensure smooth cycling and fewer malfunctions.
• Customization: Whether you want a rifle optimized for long-range shooting, close-quarters combat, or home defense, the upper receiver determines much of the rifle’s functionality.

Factors to Consider When Buying an AR-15 Upper Receiver

If you’re in the market for an AR-15 upper receiver, here are the factors you should consider:

1. Purpose: Define your primary use for the rifle. Do you need a setup for hunting, competition shooting, or tactical purposes? This will influence your choice in barrel length, caliber, and features.
2. Material: Look for upper receivers made from high-quality materials such as forged aluminum (7075-T6), which offers a good balance of strength and weight.
3. Barrel Length: The most common lengths are 16-inch barrels for general use, shorter barrels (under 16 inches) for close-quarters, and longer barrels (18-20 inches) for long-range accuracy.
4. Caliber Compatibility: Ensure the upper receiver is compatible with the ammunition you plan to use. While the AR-15 traditionally fires .223/5.56 rounds, other calibers like 300 Blackout or 6.5 Grendel are also popular.
5. Rail System: Depending on the accessories you want to attach, opt for a handguard with Picatinny, M-LOK, or KeyMod rail systems.
6. Budget: Prices for AR-15 upper receivers vary greatly depending on the brand, features, and material. Set a budget but don’t sacrifice quality, as the upper receiver plays a critical role in performance.

Top Brands for AR-15 Upper Receivers

Several manufacturers are known for producing high-quality AR-15 upper receivers. Some of the most reputable brands include:

• Aero Precision: Known for affordable yet high-quality stripped and complete upper receivers.
• Daniel Defense: Offers premium, military-grade receivers with exceptional accuracy and durability.
• Bravo Company Manufacturing (BCM): Specializes in tactical components and battle-proven upper receivers.
• Palmetto State Armory (PSA): Provides budget-friendly options without compromising on quality.

Where to Buy AR-15 Upper Receivers

You can purchase AR-15 upper receivers from various sources, including:

1. Online Retailers: Websites like Brownells, OpticsPlanet, and Palmetto State Armory offer a wide selection of upper receivers.
2. Local Gun Shops: If you prefer to see the product in person before purchasing, check with your local firearms dealer.
3. Manufacturer Direct: Many brands sell directly through their websites, offering exclusive deals or custom builds.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or a first-time builder, choosing the right AR-15 upper receiver is critical to achieving the performance you desire. Consider your intended use, the materials, and components when making your selection, and invest in a high-quality upper to ensure reliability and accuracy. With so many options available, finding the right upper receiver for your AR-15 will give you the customization and performance needed for any situation.