Let’s Talk About Guntec USA AR-15 Upper Completion Kit w/ Gen 3 Dust Cover
The Guntec USA AR-15 Upper Completion Kit w/ Gen 3 Dust Cover aims to provide everything needed to finish the upper receiver of an AR-15, offering convenience and a potentially upgraded aesthetic with its Gen 3 dust cover. Guntec USA is known for its budget-friendly AR parts, making this kit an appealing option for those looking to complete a build without breaking the bank. Is it a solid value, or are there hidden compromises?
I embarked on a budget AR-15 build, seeking affordable, reliable parts to complete the upper receiver. I needed a complete kit including the forward assist and dust cover assembly.
The kit arrived in a simple plastic bag, containing the dust cover, rod, spring, clip, forward assist, spring, and pin. Initial impressions were mixed; the T6 aluminum dust cover looked promising, with a potentially cleaner aesthetic than standard mil-spec covers. However, the forward assist felt a little rough, and the overall weight of 3oz felt surprisingly light.
Compared to a standard mil-spec completion kit from Brownells and a Strike Industries enhanced dust cover, the Guntec USA kit aimed for a balance of price and features. The Brownells kit is a known quantity, while the Strike Industries dust cover offers enhanced sealing and durability at a higher price. I chose the Guntec USA kit hoping to find a middle ground, saving some money while potentially gaining a slightly upgraded look.
My initial excitement was tempered by the forward assist’s rough feel and the user feedback indicating potential fitment issues with the dust cover. I was cautiously optimistic, hoping the Guntec USA AR-15 Upper Completion Kit w/ Gen 3 Dust Cover would prove a worthwhile addition to my build.
Real-World Testing: Putting Guntec USA AR-15 Upper Completion Kit w/ Gen 3 Dust Cover to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Guntec USA AR-15 Upper Completion Kit w/ Gen 3 Dust Cover during an AR-15 build session in my workshop. The assembly was intended for a general-purpose AR-15, planned for recreational range use.
Installation was relatively straightforward, except for the dust cover. It required significant force to snap into place, and even then, it didn’t quite sit flush with the upper receiver. The forward assist installed without major issues, though its action felt gritty and required some lubrication.
The first range trip revealed the dust cover’s poor fit; it didn’t reliably stay closed and frequently popped open during firing. The forward assist, after initial lubrication, functioned adequately.
Extended Use & Reliability
After approximately 500 rounds, the Guntec USA AR-15 Upper Completion Kit w/ Gen 3 Dust Cover showed signs of wear and tear, especially on the dust cover. The finish on the dust cover started to chip and flake near the hinge point.
Cleaning the dust cover required extra attention due to its irregular fit and the tendency for debris to accumulate around the edges. The forward assist, while functional, never smoothed out completely, requiring consistent lubrication to prevent binding.
Compared to a mil-spec forward assist and dust cover, the Guntec USA AR-15 Upper Completion Kit w/ Gen 3 Dust Cover ultimately disappointed in terms of long-term reliability and durability. The mil-spec parts, while less visually appealing, proved more robust and consistently functional.
Breaking Down the Features of Guntec USA AR-15 Upper Completion Kit w/ Gen 3 Dust Cover
Specifications
The Guntec USA AR-15 Upper Completion Kit w/ Gen 3 Dust Cover includes:
- Gen 3 Dust Cover: Constructed from T6 Aluminum.
- Dust Cover Rod, Spring, and Clip.
- Forward Assist, Spring, and Pin.
The kit is designed for AR-15 platforms chambered in .223 Remington and compatible calibers. The entire kit weighs approximately 3 ounces. The T6 Aluminum dust cover aims to provide enhanced durability over polymer options, however, the quality of the aluminum and its finish is paramount for lasting performance.
Performance & Functionality
The Guntec USA AR-15 Upper Completion Kit w/ Gen 3 Dust Cover is intended to complete the upper receiver, protecting the internal components from dust and debris. The dust cover’s primary function is to keep the action clean, while the forward assist allows manual engagement of the bolt in case of a failure to fully chamber a round. The dust cover’s poor fit significantly hampers its ability to reliably seal the ejection port. The forward assist, while functional, suffers from a rough action.
The kit falls short of expectations due to the dust cover’s fitment issues and the forward assist’s less-than-smooth operation. The dust cover, advertised as an upgrade, ultimately performed worse than a standard mil-spec option.
Design & Ergonomics
The Guntec USA AR-15 Upper Completion Kit w/ Gen 3 Dust Cover aims for a sleek, modern look with its Gen 3 dust cover design. The lightweight design is a plus, but the build quality of the forward assist leaves something to be desired.
The kit is generally user-friendly in terms of installation, but the dust cover’s tight fit presents a challenge. The forward assist’s gritty action requires more force than ideal, impacting the overall shooting experience.
Durability & Maintenance
The dust cover’s T6 Aluminum construction initially suggests good durability, but the finish’s flaking and chipping raise concerns. The forward assist’s internal components appear prone to wear, necessitating regular lubrication.
Maintenance involves routine cleaning and lubrication of the forward assist to prevent binding. The dust cover requires careful cleaning to prevent debris buildup around the edges due to its imperfect fit.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Guntec USA AR-15 Upper Completion Kit w/ Gen 3 Dust Cover doesn’t offer extensive customization options. The dust cover can be replaced with other aftermarket options, but the kit itself is intended as a complete unit.
The forward assist is compatible with most standard AR-15 upper receivers. Swapping out the dust cover with other enhanced options, such as those from Strike Industries or Fortis Manufacturing, is a common upgrade path for users seeking better sealing and durability.
Pros and Cons of Guntec USA AR-15 Upper Completion Kit w/ Gen 3 Dust Cover
Pros
- Affordable price point, making it accessible for budget builds.
- Lightweight design, contributing to an overall lighter AR-15.
- Aesthetically different Gen 3 dust cover design, offering a potential visual upgrade.
Cons
- Dust cover fitment issues, preventing a reliable seal and potentially causing malfunctions.
- Forward assist has a gritty action, requiring consistent lubrication and potentially impacting usability.
- Questionable long-term durability, based on finish chipping and wear observed after moderate use.
Who Should Buy Guntec USA AR-15 Upper Completion Kit w/ Gen 3 Dust Cover?
The Guntec USA AR-15 Upper Completion Kit w/ Gen 3 Dust Cover is potentially suitable for budget-conscious builders prioritizing aesthetics over long-term reliability, especially for builds that will see very light use.
Anyone prioritizing reliability and durability, or those planning high-round-count shooting, should skip this product. A standard mil-spec kit or a higher-quality aftermarket option would be a wiser investment.
Upgrading the dust cover with a more robust and better-fitting option is a must-have modification for those choosing to use this kit. Investing in a quality lubricant for the forward assist is also recommended to mitigate the gritty action.
Conclusion on Guntec USA AR-15 Upper Completion Kit w/ Gen 3 Dust Cover
The Guntec USA AR-15 Upper Completion Kit w/ Gen 3 Dust Cover offers an appealing price point, but ultimately falls short in terms of performance and durability. The dust cover fitment issues and the forward assist’s rough action undermine the kit’s value proposition.
The price may be justified for extremely budget-conscious builders willing to accept the compromises, but I would personally not recommend it. Investing in a higher-quality kit, even at a slightly higher price, will provide greater reliability and peace of mind.
Avoid this kit and spend a little more on a better option. You will save time and money in the long run.