Understanding AR Uppers
Are you in the market for AR uppers? If so, you’ve come to the right place. In this detailed guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about AR uppers for sale, from their features to their benefits and the best places to find them.
What is an AR Upper?
An AR upper, also known as an AR-15 upper receiver, is the upper part of an AR-15 rifle. It includes the barrel, bolt carrier group, and the upper receiver itself. This component is crucial as it determines the rifle’s caliber, barrel length, and overall performance.
Features of AR Uppers
Here are some key features to consider when shopping for AR uppers:
- Caliber: The most important feature to consider is the caliber. Common calibers include .223 Remington, 5.56 NATO, .308 Winchester, and 6.5 Grendel. Each caliber has its own advantages and disadvantages, so choose one that suits your needs.
- Barrel Length: Barrel length affects the rifle’s accuracy, velocity, and weight. Shorter barrels are more compact and easier to maneuver, while longer barrels offer improved accuracy and range.
- Barrel Material: Barrels can be made from various materials, such as stainless steel, aluminum, and titanium. Each material has its own benefits, such as durability, weight, and heat resistance.
- Barrel Profile: The barrel profile determines the rifle’s balance and handling. Common profiles include heavy, medium, and light.
- Barrel Thread Pattern: The barrel thread pattern determines the type of muzzle device you can use. Common patterns include 1/2×28 and 5/8×24.
- Barrel Twist Rate: The barrel twist rate affects the stability of the bullet in flight. Common twist rates include 1:7, 1:8, and 1:9.
- Handguard: The handguard provides a comfortable grip and protects the barrel. Common materials include aluminum, polymer, and carbon fiber.
- Gas System: The gas system determines the rifle’s cycle rate and accuracy. Common gas systems include carbine, mid-length, and full-length.
Benefits of AR Uppers
AR uppers offer several benefits, making them a popular choice among shooters:
- Customization: AR uppers are highly customizable, allowing you to tailor your rifle to your specific needs and preferences.
- Modularity: The modular design of AR uppers makes it easy to swap out components, such as barrels, handguards, and sights, for improved performance or aesthetics.
- Accuracy: High-quality AR uppers are known for their accuracy, making them a great choice for target shooting, hunting, and self-defense.
- Reliability: AR uppers are known for their reliability, even under harsh conditions.
Where to Buy AR Uppers
Now that you know what to look for in an AR upper, it’s time to find a reputable seller. Here are some of the best places to buy AR uppers:
- Online Retailers: Websites like Brownells, MidwayUSA, and Cabela’s offer a wide selection of AR uppers at competitive prices.
- Local Gun Shops: Many local gun shops carry AR uppers, and you can often find knowledgeable staff to help you make the right choice.
- Specialized Gun Stores: Some stores specialize in AR-15 components and offer a wide selection of high-quality uppers.
- Online Marketplaces: Websites like eBay and GunBroker offer a variety of AR uppers, including used and custom options.
Table: Comparison of Popular AR Uppers
Brand | Caliber | Barrel Length | Barrel Material | Price |
---|---|---|---|---|
Colt | .223 Remington | 16 inches |