Alexander Arms AR15 .17HMR Standard Rifle Upper Review

Let’s Talk About Alexander Arms AR15 .17HMR Standard Rifle Upper

The Alexander Arms AR15 .17HMR Standard Rifle Upper promises to bring the flat-shooting, low-recoil .17HMR cartridge to the AR-15 platform. Offered by Alexander Arms, this upper receiver aims to provide a unique varmint hunting or target shooting experience.

I was looking for a dedicated rimfire AR upper for small game hunting, specifically something chambered in .17HMR to reach out a little further than .22LR. The allure of the AR platform’s modularity combined with the .17HMR’s ballistic advantages made this upper an attractive option.

My initial impression upon unboxing was mixed. The stainless steel finish looked clean, but the weight felt heavier than expected for a rimfire upper, at a listed 4.5 lbs.

Compared to other rimfire AR uppers I’ve handled, like a dedicated .22LR upper from CMMG, the Alexander Arms felt more substantial. I chose this over a .22LR conversion kit, hoping for better accuracy and reliability specific to the .17HMR cartridge.

I was cautiously optimistic, hoping the promise of high-end performance and accuracy would overcome my initial reservations about the weight. I was ready to see how it performed, especially given the price point.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Alexander Arms AR15 .17HMR Standard Rifle Upper to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Alexander Arms AR15 .17HMR Standard Rifle Upper at my local outdoor shooting range. I mounted it on a standard AR-15 lower receiver with a mil-spec trigger.

The weather was clear and sunny, around 65 degrees Fahrenheit. The first few magazines ran smoothly, but I quickly noticed the trigger was not ideal for the accuracy potential.

There were no immediate malfunctions, but I was surprised by how dirty the blowback system became after only a few magazines. It definitely requires diligent cleaning.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several trips to the range over a couple of months, the upper has proven to be relatively reliable, with only a few failures to extract. It is only if the upper is not cleaned and oiled regularly.

The finish has held up well, showing no signs of wear and tear beyond some expected minor scratches from handling. Cleaning is relatively straightforward, although the blowback system requires extra attention to remove accumulated carbon fouling.

Compared to my experiences with other AR-15 uppers, the Alexander Arms requires more frequent cleaning to maintain optimal performance. The .17HMR cartridge, while accurate, leaves a significant amount of residue.

Breaking Down the Features of Alexander Arms AR15 .17HMR Standard Rifle Upper

Specifications

• Caliber: .17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire. This provides a flat trajectory and good energy for small game at longer ranges.

• Barrel Length: 18 inches. This length maximizes the velocity of the .17HMR cartridge for optimal accuracy.

• Gas System Length: Blowback. A blowback system is common for rimfire AR uppers, offering simplicity and reliability (when kept clean).

• Barrel Twist Rate: 1-9. This twist rate is optimized for stabilizing the .17HMR bullet.

• Threads per Inch: 1/2×28. This allows for the attachment of standard AR-15 muzzle devices and suppressors.

• Muzzle Device: A2 Flash Hider. A basic but functional muzzle device to reduce flash.

• Finish: Stainless Steel. A corrosion-resistant finish providing a sleek look.

• Material: Steel. Ensures durability and longevity.

• Magazine Included: Two 10-round magazines. This provides a good starting point but may require purchasing additional magazines for extended range sessions.

• Weight: 4.5 lbs. This is heavier than some other rimfire uppers, which can affect handling and balance.

Performance & Functionality

The Alexander Arms AR15 .17HMR Standard Rifle Upper delivers acceptable accuracy with the right ammunition. I consistently achieved 1.5-2 inch groups at 100 yards with quality .17HMR rounds.

The blowback operating system, while simple, requires frequent cleaning to prevent malfunctions. This is especially crucial given the dirty nature of rimfire ammunition.

The upper meets expectations for a dedicated .17HMR AR upper, providing a unique and enjoyable shooting experience. However, the weight and cleaning requirements are drawbacks.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is solid, with a robust steel construction that inspires confidence. However, the weight can be a factor, especially for smaller shooters.

The upper is relatively user-friendly, easily mounting to any standard AR-15 lower receiver. The blowback system is simple to understand and operate.

Durability & Maintenance

The steel construction and stainless steel finish suggest good durability. However, the blowback system requires diligent maintenance to prevent malfunctions.

Cleaning is relatively straightforward, but the carbon fouling from the .17HMR cartridge necessitates frequent attention. This upper isn’t a ‘set it and forget it’ option.

Accessories and Customization Options

The 1/2×28 threaded barrel allows for the use of various muzzle devices, including suppressors. This is a significant advantage for those looking to reduce noise.

The upper is compatible with standard AR-15 lower receivers, allowing for customization of triggers, stocks, and grips. I recommend upgrading the trigger to improve accuracy.

Pros and Cons of Alexander Arms AR15 .17HMR Standard Rifle Upper