Let’s Dive into DoubleStar Complete Flattop Upper Receiver
The DoubleStar Complete Flattop Upper Receiver offers an affordable entry point into the world of AR-15 builds and upgrades. DoubleStar promises a complete, ready-to-install upper receiver, forged from 7075-T6 aluminum with M4 feed ramps. This complete upper boasts T-markings, a forward assist, and a dust cover, and all for a price that’s hard to ignore.
I was looking to complete a budget AR build for recreational range use. Finding a reliable, yet inexpensive upper receiver was paramount. I needed an upper that would provide consistent performance without breaking the bank.
Upon unboxing, the DoubleStar Complete Flattop Upper Receiver felt surprisingly solid for its price point. The anodized finish appeared even and well-applied, and the included components seemed properly assembled. The overall build felt robust, suggesting it could withstand moderate use.
I also considered upper receivers from Aero Precision and Palmetto State Armory. However, the DoubleStar came in at a significantly lower price, making it the more attractive option for my budget build. Ultimately, the price point, along with the promise of a complete assembly, convinced me to choose the DoubleStar.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. Could a complete upper receiver at this price truly deliver reliable performance? Only time and rounds downrange would tell, but my first impression was that it had potential.
Real-World Testing: Putting DoubleStar Complete Flattop Upper Receiver to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the DoubleStar Complete Flattop Upper Receiver to my local outdoor range. It was mounted on a lower receiver I had assembled myself. The weather was dry with a slight breeze, ideal conditions for testing.
The upper receiver performed admirably, cycling rounds smoothly with minimal hiccups. I used a variety of ammunition, including both brass and steel-cased rounds, to gauge its reliability. The M4 feed ramps seemed to do their job, guiding rounds into the chamber without issue.
The upper receiver mounted easily on my lower. No specialized tools were needed, just standard AR-15 tools. I was initially concerned that there would be excessive play between the upper and lower, but the fit was surprisingly tight.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent range use, the DoubleStar Complete Flattop Upper Receiver has held up well. I’ve put several hundred rounds through it without any major malfunctions. The anodized finish shows some minor wear marks, but that is expected with repeated use.
I’ve been diligent about cleaning and lubricating the upper after each range session. This includes cleaning the bore and applying a light coat of oil to the bolt carrier group. The upper is fairly simple to disassemble and clean, requiring only basic tools and solvents.
Compared to other budget-friendly uppers I’ve used, the DoubleStar has exceeded my expectations in terms of reliability. It has proven to be a solid performer for recreational shooting. I’ve had fewer issues with it than I had with some of the more expensive uppers I’ve used in the past.
Breaking Down the Features of DoubleStar Complete Flattop Upper Receiver
Specifications
The DoubleStar Complete Flattop Upper Receiver is chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO. It is designed to be compatible with standard AR-15 lower receivers. The receiver itself is forged from 7075-T6 aluminum, offering a good balance of strength and weight.
The DoubleStar Complete Flattop Upper Receiver has a Picatinny rail along the top, allowing for easy mounting of optics and other accessories. The M4 feed ramps ensure reliable feeding of ammunition. It’s finished with a durable black anodized coating for corrosion resistance.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the upper receiver’s performance and durability. The 7075-T6 aluminum provides a strong and rigid platform, while the M4 feed ramps improve reliability, and the Picatinny rail allows for customization. The anodized finish provides corrosion resistance, which is especially important for use in adverse weather conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The DoubleStar Complete Flattop Upper Receiver performs its core function admirably, providing a reliable platform for launching 5.56 rounds. The accuracy is acceptable for recreational shooting. I was able to consistently hit targets at 50 yards using iron sights.
The upper receiver’s biggest strength is its reliability. I have experienced very few malfunctions, even when using a variety of ammunition types. The primary weakness is its lack of high-end features, such as a match-grade barrel.
The DoubleStar Complete Flattop Upper Receiver has met my expectations for a budget-friendly upper receiver. It provides reliable performance at a price that is hard to beat. It’s perfect for someone looking to build a basic AR-15 for recreational use.
Design & Ergonomics
The DoubleStar Complete Flattop Upper Receiver features a standard AR-15 design. The 7075 T6 Aluminum offers a solid weight. The upper is easy to handle and manipulate.
The upper receiver is relatively user-friendly. The included forward assist and dust cover function as they should. There’s no real learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the 7075 T6 Aluminum construction and anodized finish, the DoubleStar Complete Flattop Upper Receiver should last for many years with proper care. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential to maintain its performance. I’ve found it easy to disassemble and clean using standard AR-15 cleaning tools.
Accessories and Customization Options
The DoubleStar Complete Flattop Upper Receiver comes complete with a forward assist and ejection port cover. The Picatinny rail allows for a wide range of optic options. This includes red dot sights, scopes, and holographic sights.
The upper receiver is compatible with most standard AR-15 accessories, including different handguards, charging handles, and muzzle devices. The modularity of the AR-15 platform allows for extensive customization. This makes the DoubleStar Complete Flattop Upper Receiver a good starting point for building a personalized rifle.
Pros and Cons of DoubleStar Complete Flattop Upper Receiver
Pros
- Affordable price point: Making it an excellent choice for budget builds.
- Complete assembly: Ready to install right out of the box.
- 7075-T6 Aluminum Forge: Providing good strength and durability.
- M4 Feed Ramps: Enhancing reliability with various ammo types.
- Easy to Maintain: Simple disassembly and cleaning.
Cons
- Anodizing is basic: The finish shows wear and tear relatively quickly.
- Lacks premium features: Not ideal for precision shooting builds.
Who Should Buy DoubleStar Complete Flattop Upper Receiver?
The DoubleStar Complete Flattop Upper Receiver is perfect for budget-conscious builders and recreational shooters. It would also be suitable for those looking to complete a basic AR-15 build for range use or home defense. This receiver is also suitable for new AR-15 builders to learn about the platform without investing a lot of money.
Competitive shooters or those seeking extreme accuracy should probably skip this product. A higher-end upper with a match-grade barrel and more refined features would be a better choice. This would also be a poor selection for users who are looking for a long-range build.
A quality optic and a reliable bolt carrier group are must-have accessories. Upgrading the charging handle and muzzle device are also recommended for improved performance. These upgrades will get the most out of the platform.
Conclusion on DoubleStar Complete Flattop Upper Receiver
The DoubleStar Complete Flattop Upper Receiver is a solid performer at an unbeatable price. It offers a complete and reliable upper receiver solution for budget-minded AR-15 enthusiasts. While it lacks some of the premium features found on higher-end uppers, it delivers excellent value for the money.
The price is definitely justified given the complete assembly and reliable performance. It is hard to argue with the price for what you get. If you need a budget upper receiver, this is worth the investment.
I would definitely recommend the DoubleStar Complete Flattop Upper Receiver to anyone looking to build a budget AR-15. Its reliability and affordability make it a great option for recreational shooting. Start your AR-15 build today with the DoubleStar Complete Flattop Upper Receiver!