To simplify an AR build, optimize available time, and save money on specialized tools, consider using an AR-15 complete upper receiver assembly. It’s a pre-assembled upper receiver built by expert gunsmiths. Wing Tactical offers a carefully selected catalog of complete AR-15 upper receiver options from the highest-quality firearm parts manufacturers.
Analyzing Complete Upper Receiver Assemblies
Every AR-15 complete upper receiver assembly contains numerous moving parts. To save time on sourcing components, think about completing your build with a factory-assembled upper receiver.
Each complete AR-15 upper receiver assembly contains a handguard, barrel, gas block, gas tube, bolt carrier group, charging handle, muzzle device, and upper receiver housing. Since each of these components can impact shooters’ ergonomic comfort and performance, AR-15 builders should closely consider how the specific parts in each pre-built complete upper receiver will match their intended shooting applications and work in tandem with the rest of their build.
5.56 NATO Upper Receiver
While today’s shooters have multiple caliber options to choose from, the AR-15 was originally chambered in 5.56 NATO. Available in 10.5”, 16”, 20”, and other standard barrel lengths, 5.56 uppers, such as the Aero Precision 10.5" M4E1 5.56 Complete Upper Assembly, are an excellent choice for builders seeking shooting versatility.
9mm Upper Receiver
9mm is a great caliber choice for your AR-15 build, especially for shooters considering a short barrel. 9mm handgun owners can also enjoy ammo standardization between their rifle and pistol, along with ease of suppression and reduced fatigue after long-range days, thanks to options like the Aero Precision EPC-9 9mm Complete Upper Receiver.
300 Blackout Upper Receiver
Offering a larger bullet—and, thus, a higher grain weight—and outstanding velocity up to 300 yards, 300 Blackout is a fantastic caliber choice for AR-15 builders looking for a round that can do it all. The Primary Weapons System MK191 Piston Upper with .300 Blackout Barrel is an outstanding example of a worthwhile AR-15 complete upper receiver assembly.
Wing Tactical: A Quality-First Collection
Wing Tactical is your number-one source for rifle parts and tactical gun accessories. As a veteran-founded brand trusted by law enforcement officers, competitive shooters, hunters, and civilian gun enthusiasts, Wing Tactical ensures that the products in our collection meet the highest possible quality standards—and our AR-15 complete upper receivers are no exception.
Simply put, we do not sell products that we wouldn’t use in our own builds. We choose the components in our collections primarily based on quality, performance, and durability in the field. Whether you’re an expert gunsmith or you’re building your first AR-15, our team will provide the expertise and service you need to construct a quality firearm.
Want to learn more about choosing a complete AR-15 upper receiver? Contact us to hear tips from our experts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What parts are included in an AR-15 complete upper receiver?
A complete upper receiver includes a handguard designed to protect a shooter’s hands from the heat of the barrel during firing, as well as a customizable barrel that can impact shooting performance. It also features a gas block that collects expelled gases from the barrel and directs them to the gas tube before they head back to the receiver, along with a bolt carrier group consisting of a carrier body, bolt, firing pin, extractor, springs, pins, and gas rings. Additionally, it features a charging handle for loading rounds into the action, a muzzle device designed for various purposes, including concealing flashes and reducing recoil, and an upper receiver housing that includes a frame, dust covers, and, when specified, a forward assist.
Is it cheaper to buy or build a complete AR-15 upper receiver?
Buying a pre-assembled complete AR-15 upper receiver might offer cost advantages depending on your preferred brand and specifications. Purchasing a complete upper will certainly save shooters time, and first-time builders can save on specialty tools typically required for assembly.
Can AR lower receivers and upper receivers be made by different manufacturers?
One of the advantages of building an AR-15 is its versatility. In nearly every case, lower receivers and upper receivers made by different manufacturers will be compatible.
What is the most accurate AR-15 complete upper receiver?
The quality of a barrel, a key component of an AR-15 complete upper receiver, can significantly impact accuracy. The most accurate AR-15 barrels aren’t necessarily the longest; clean rifling, a uniform crown, and other indicators of a quality build are the most important predictors for accuracy.
Which caliber is best for an AR-15?
While the AR-15 was originally chambered in 5.56 NATO, today’s shooters have numerous caliber options. Builders typically choose a caliber based on application (e.g., hunting, range practice, competitive shooting, or home defense), ammunition availability and price, and ballistics preferences.