Let’s Talk About Faxon Firearms Bantam 16 in Complete Upper Receiver
The Faxon Firearms Bantam 16 in Complete Upper Receiver is a 9mm AR-15 upper receiver designed for pistol caliber carbine (PCC) builds. Manufactured by Faxon Firearms, it’s intended to offer a lightweight, reliable, and versatile option for shooters looking to build or upgrade their AR-9 platform. This complete upper promises compatibility with both Glock and Colt-style magazines and most binary triggers.
I was looking for a 9mm upper receiver to complete a dedicated PCC build I had been planning for months. I wanted something more accurate and controllable than a handgun, and 9mm is readily available and relatively inexpensive to shoot. After researching several options, the Faxon Firearms Bantam 16 in Complete Upper Receiver caught my eye due to its reputation for quality barrels and its compatibility claims with various lower receivers and magazines.
Unboxing the upper receiver, I was immediately impressed by the fit and finish. The anodizing was consistent, and all parts appeared to be well-machined and assembled. It felt surprisingly lightweight, especially considering the 16-inch barrel and 13-inch handguard.
I considered a few other options before settling on the Faxon. The Palmetto State Armory (PSA) 9mm upper was a strong contender due to its lower price point, but the Faxon Firearms Bantam 16 in Complete Upper Receiver seemed to offer better quality and features based on online reviews. The CMMG Radial Delayed Blowback system was also interesting, but I wanted to stick with a more traditional direct blowback design for simplicity and cost. Ultimately, I chose the Faxon Firearms Bantam 16 in Complete Upper Receiver for its balance of quality, features, and compatibility.
My first impression was excitement. The upper looked and felt great, and I was eager to get it to the range and see how it performed. I hoped it would live up to its promises of reliability and accuracy.
Real-World Testing: Putting Faxon Firearms Bantam 16 in Complete Upper Receiver to the Test
First Use Experience
My first range trip with the Faxon Firearms Bantam 16 in Complete Upper Receiver was at my local outdoor range on a sunny afternoon. I mounted it on a 9mm AR lower receiver I had assembled and brought a variety of 9mm ammunition from different manufacturers. I also brought Glock and Colt-style magazines to test compatibility.
The upper performed admirably, with only a few minor hiccups. It ran flawlessly with most of my Glock magazines, but I did experience a few failures to feed with one particular magazine that I know is older. I also tested it in slightly cold and windy conditions a few days later.
The upper was easy to use and required no real adjustment period. The controls were familiar, and the lightweight design made it comfortable to shoot for extended periods. The handguard also provided a comfortable and secure grip.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use and hundreds of rounds fired, the Faxon Firearms Bantam 16 in Complete Upper Receiver has proven to be reliable and durable. I have run a variety of ammunition through it, including brass and steel-cased rounds, and it has consistently performed well. I have also used it in a few PCC matches and training sessions, and it has held up without any issues.
There are some minor signs of wear on the finish, particularly around the ejection port, but nothing out of the ordinary for a frequently used firearm. The barrel still looks great, and the rifling is sharp and well-defined.
Maintenance is straightforward. I clean the upper after each range trip, and it’s easy to disassemble and reassemble. The bolt carrier group wipes down easily, and the barrel is simple to clean with a bore brush.
Compared to my previous experiences with other AR-9 uppers, the Faxon Firearms Bantam 16 in Complete Upper Receiver is a step above in terms of quality and reliability. It has outperformed other budget-friendly options I have used.
Breaking Down the Features of Faxon Firearms Bantam 16 in Complete Upper Receiver
Specifications
- Caliber: 9mm Luger. The Faxon Firearms Bantam 16 in Complete Upper Receiver is chambered in the popular and readily available 9mm Luger cartridge.
- Barrel Length: 16 inches. The 16-inch barrel provides increased accuracy and velocity compared to shorter pistol barrels, and also classifies the firearm as a rifle, not a pistol, with a stabilizing brace.
- Muzzle Device: A2 Flash Hider. The A2 flash hider helps to reduce muzzle flash and recoil.
- Color: Black. The black anodized finish provides corrosion resistance and a sleek appearance.
- Gun Model: AR-9. The upper receiver is designed for use with AR-9 lower receivers.
- Condition: New. The product is brand new.
- Fabric/Material: Aluminum. The upper receiver and handguard are constructed from lightweight and durable aluminum.
- Handguard Length: 13 inches. The 13-inch handguard provides ample space for mounting accessories.
- Gun Type: Rifle. When combined with a compatible lower, this upper receiver creates a 9mm rifle.
- Gun Make: AR Platform. The upper receiver is compatible with AR-15 style lowers designed for 9mm.
- Included Accessories: Standard. The package includes the complete upper receiver assembly with the bolt carrier group.
- Magazine Included: No. The upper receiver does not include a magazine.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the performance and user experience. The 16-inch barrel increases accuracy and velocity, while the aluminum construction keeps the weight down. The A2 flash hider helps to reduce muzzle flash.
Performance & Functionality
The Faxon Firearms Bantam 16 in Complete Upper Receiver performs its job exceptionally well. It is accurate, reliable, and easy to use. I have achieved consistent groupings at 50 yards and beyond, and it has proven to be reliable with a variety of ammunition.
The strengths of this upper receiver are its accuracy, reliability, and lightweight design. One area that could be improved is the finish.
The upper receiver meets and exceeds my expectations. It delivers on its promises of accuracy, reliability, and compatibility.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Faxon Firearms Bantam 16 in Complete Upper Receiver is excellent. The materials used are high-quality, and the fit and finish are superb. The upper feels solid and well-constructed. The weight is surprisingly light. The balance makes it comfortable to shoot.
The Faxon Firearms Bantam 16 in Complete Upper Receiver is user-friendly and requires no real learning curve. It is easy to install and operate. The controls are familiar.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care and maintenance, the Faxon Firearms Bantam 16 in Complete Upper Receiver should last for many years. The aluminum construction and durable finish provide excellent corrosion resistance.
The upper receiver is easy to maintain and repair. The bolt carrier group is simple to disassemble and clean. Replacement parts are readily available if needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Faxon Firearms Bantam 16 in Complete Upper Receiver comes with a standard A2 flash hider. The 13-inch handguard provides ample space for mounting accessories. It is compatible with a wide range of accessories, including optics, lights, lasers, and foregrips.
The upper receiver is compatible with most standard AR-15 lower receivers that are designed to accept 9mm magazines. It is also compatible with both Glock and Colt-style magazines, offering versatility in magazine selection. The Faxon Firearms Bantam 16 in Complete Upper Receiver also works with most binary triggers.
Pros and Cons of Faxon Firearms Bantam 16 in Complete Upper Receiver
Pros
- Excellent Accuracy: The 16-inch barrel provides exceptional accuracy. This makes it ideal for target shooting and competition.
- Lightweight Design: The aluminum construction makes it comfortable to handle and shoot for extended periods. This is crucial for dynamic shooting scenarios.
- Reliable Performance: It functions flawlessly with a wide variety of ammunition. Shooters can count on this upper in demanding situations.
- Versatile Compatibility: Compatible with both Glock and Colt-style magazines. This offers flexibility in choosing magazines.
- Easy Maintenance: Simple to disassemble, clean, and maintain. This saves time and ensures the upper remains in top condition.
Cons
- The A2 flash hider is functional but basic. Some shooters may prefer a more advanced muzzle device.
- The finish can show wear with heavy use. Although durable, the anodizing can scratch over time.
Who Should Buy Faxon Firearms Bantam 16 in Complete Upper Receiver?
The Faxon Firearms Bantam 16 in Complete Upper Receiver is perfect for:
- Competitive PCC Shooters: The accuracy and reliability make it ideal for PCC competitions.
- Home Defense: The 9mm cartridge is effective for home defense, and the rifle platform is easier to control than a handgun.
- Recreational Shooters: The low recoil and readily available ammunition make it fun to shoot.
- Those building or upgrading their AR-9: This complete upper offers a reliable and high-quality option.
This product may not be ideal for:
- Budget-conscious shooters: There are cheaper options available, though they may sacrifice quality and features.
- Those looking for a compact PDW: The 16-inch barrel may be too long for some applications.
Must-have accessories or modifications:
- Quality magazines: Reliable magazines are essential for proper function.
- Red dot sight: A red dot sight will improve accuracy and target acquisition speed.
Conclusion on Faxon Firearms Bantam 16 in Complete Upper Receiver
The Faxon Firearms Bantam 16 in Complete Upper Receiver is a high-quality and reliable option for anyone looking to build or upgrade their AR-9 platform. It offers excellent accuracy, lightweight design, and versatile compatibility. The price is justified. It delivers exceptional value for the features and performance it provides.
I would personally recommend the Faxon Firearms Bantam 16 in Complete Upper Receiver to anyone looking for a high-quality 9mm upper receiver. If you’re serious about building a reliable and accurate PCC, this is an excellent choice! Consider upgrading your build today!