What AR-15 upper should I use?

Category: Parts

This depends on what Super Lower you want to print. The single rib Super Lower will work with almost any AR-15 upper receiver. However, the double rib lower must be used with slick side uppers that do not have a forward assist. Mil-Spec uppers will work with the single rib lower, as will Aero Precision M4 uppers. The Bear Creek Arsenal side charging uppers will work with the double rib lower. As long as the upper is compatible with a standard “Mil-Spec” AR-15 lowers, and you consider the above mentioned caveats related to the forward assist, then you should be good. Any AR-15 caliber should work, including 5.56 x 45, 22 LR, 5.56 x 35, and 7.62 x 39, if the right mags are used.

Here are a few options for uppers.

I really like these Aero Precision uppers: https://www.aeroprecisionusa.com/m4e1-threaded-16in-556-mid-length-complete-upper-atlas-rone However, they are a bit more expensive because you have to buy a separate Bolt Carrier Group (BCG): https://www.aeroprecisionusa.com/5-56-bolt-carrier-group-complete-nickel-boron

BCA makes really cheap uppers that will work, but quality can be (is) lacking: https://www.bearcreekarsenal.com/guns-parts/ar-15/ar-15-complete-upper-assembly/556-16-parkerized-m4-barrel-1-9-twist-carbine-15-handguard-scg2-nrail-spiral-flash.html

And there is always PSA, they sell quality parts for a lower cost: https://palmettostatearmory.com/psa-16-mid-length-5-56-nato-1-7-nitride-13-5-lightweight-m-lok-upper-with-nickel-boron-bcg-ch-5165449606.html

Remember to always check to see if the upper come with a BCG, not all do.

And if you want to assemble your own upper from parts, KAK is a great company. 

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