What is the Upper on an AR-15?
When it comes to the AR-15, one of the most frequently asked questions is about the upper receiver. The upper receiver is a crucial component of the AR-15 rifle, serving as the housing for the barrel, bolt carrier group, and the action of the firearm. In this detailed guide, we will explore what the upper on an AR-15 is, its importance, and the various options available to you.
Understanding the Upper Receiver
The upper receiver is the part of the AR-15 that houses the barrel, bolt carrier group, and the action of the firearm. It is typically made of aluminum or steel and is the part that is often replaced or customized. The upper receiver is the part that is attached to the lower receiver, which is the part that contains the magazine well, trigger, and fire control group.
When you look at an AR-15, the upper receiver is the part that is visible above the handguard. It is the part that you can swap out for different barrel lengths, calibers, and accessories. The upper receiver is also the part that is often the first to show signs of wear and tear, which is why many shooters opt to replace or upgrade their upper receivers.
Types of Upper Receivers
There are several types of upper receivers available for the AR-15, each with its own set of features and benefits. Here are some of the most common types:
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Aluminum Upper Receiver | Aluminum upper receivers are lightweight and durable, making them a popular choice among shooters. They are available in various grades, including 7075 T6 aluminum, which is known for its strength and corrosion resistance. |
| Steel Upper Receiver | Steel upper receivers are known for their strength and durability. They are heavier than aluminum receivers but offer increased resistance to wear and tear. Steel receivers are often used in high-stress applications, such as law enforcement and military use. |
| Carbon Fiber Upper Receiver | Carbon fiber upper receivers are lightweight and offer excellent strength. They are also known for their heat resistance, making them a good choice for use in high-temperature environments. However, carbon fiber receivers can be more expensive than aluminum or steel receivers. |
Customizing Your Upper Receiver
One of the great things about the AR-15 is that it is highly customizable. You can swap out the upper receiver for different barrel lengths, calibers, and accessories to suit your needs. Here are some of the most popular customization options:
- Barrel Length: You can choose from various barrel lengths, including carbine, mid-length, and rifle lengths. The barrel length you choose will depend on your intended use, such as hunting, tactical, or recreational shooting.
- Caliber: The AR-15 is available in various calibers, including .223 Remington, 5.56 NATO, .308 Winchester, and others. The caliber you choose will depend on your intended use and the type of ammunition you plan to use.
- Barrel Profile: The barrel profile refers to the shape of the barrel. You can choose from various profiles, including heavy, medium, and light. The barrel profile you choose will depend on your intended use and the weight of the firearm you want.
- Barrel Twist Rate: The barrel twist rate refers to the number of times the barrel twists in one inch. The twist rate you choose will depend on the type of ammunition you plan to use, as different calibers require different twist rates.
- Handguard: The handguard is the part of the upper receiver that covers the barrel. You can choose from various handguards, including M-LOK, Picatinny, and Keymod, each with its own set of features and benefits.
Upgrading Your Upper Receiver
Upgrading your upper receiver can improve the performance and reliability of your AR-15. Here are some of the most common upgrades:
- Bolt Carrier Group: Upgrading your bolt carrier group can improve the cycling speed and reliability of your firearm.
