New Frontier Armory Pistol Caliber Gen 2 Stripped Upper Receiver Review

First Impressions of New Frontier Armory Pistol Caliber Gen 2 Stripped Upper Receiver

The New Frontier Armory Pistol Caliber Gen 2 Stripped Upper Receiver isn’t just another AR upper; it’s a statement. It promises enhanced performance, lighter weight, and improved compatibility for pistol caliber AR builds. This upper receiver immediately caught my eye because of its reputation for high-quality billet aluminum construction and its compatibility with both AR-9 and AR-15 platforms.

I was looking for an upper receiver to complete a dedicated 9mm AR build, and I wanted something more robust than a standard forged upper. This seemed to offer the perfect blend of strength and weight savings. Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the clean, precise machining and the smooth, black anodized finish.

The 7075 T6 aircraft-grade billet aluminum felt noticeably lighter than my other AR uppers, yet reassuringly solid. Compared to a standard mil-spec forged upper, the New Frontier Armory offering looked and felt like a premium product. I considered a similar upper from Gibbz Arms, known for its side-charging design, but ultimately chose the New Frontier Armory Pistol Caliber Gen 2 Stripped Upper Receiver for its integrated last round bolt hold open (LRBHO) compatibility and more traditional aesthetics.

My initial reaction was one of excitement. I was eager to get it installed on my lower and test its performance. The craftsmanship appeared to be excellent, and I anticipated it would be a significant upgrade over a standard upper receiver.

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Real-World Testing: Putting New Frontier Armory Pistol Caliber Gen 2 Stripped Upper Receiver to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the New Frontier Armory Pistol Caliber Gen 2 Stripped Upper Receiver at my local outdoor range. I paired it with a CMMG radial delayed blowback (RDB) 9mm bolt and a Quarter Circle 10 lower receiver. I ran about 300 rounds of mixed 115gr and 124gr FMJ ammunition through it.

The upper performed flawlessly, with no malfunctions or issues related to the receiver itself. The LRBHO function worked perfectly with the CMMG bolt and dedicated 9mm lower. The conditions were relatively dry and sunny, which didn’t really test its ability to handle adverse conditions on this initial outing.

The upper was straightforward to install, and required no modifications. After the first range session, I felt confident in its reliability.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, and approximately 2000 rounds fired, the New Frontier Armory Pistol Caliber Gen 2 Stripped Upper Receiver has held up incredibly well. There are no signs of wear and tear beyond minor cosmetic scuffs. The finish is durable.

I’ve taken this rifle to several outdoor ranges and a couple of training classes, exposing it to dusty and somewhat wet conditions. The upper has continued to perform flawlessly, with no issues related to dirt or moisture. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe down with a CLP-soaked cloth is all it takes.

Compared to my previous experiences with standard forged uppers, this New Frontier Armory upper offers a noticeable improvement in fit and finish. It’s a solid, reliable component. It has exceeded my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of New Frontier Armory Pistol Caliber Gen 2 Stripped Upper Receiver

Specifications

• Material: 7075 T6 Aircraft Grade Billet Aluminum. This high-strength aluminum alloy provides exceptional durability and resistance to wear, crucial for the stresses of repeated firing.
• Finish: Anodized. The anodized finish not only gives the upper a sleek, professional look but also provides excellent corrosion resistance.
• Caliber: Universal. This is designed to work with various pistol calibers, primarily 9mm, but also potentially .40 S&W and .45 ACP with the appropriate bolt and magazine combinations.
• Gun Make: AR Platform. Specifically designed for AR-pattern rifles and pistols.
• Gun Model: AR-9, AR-15. Compatible with both dedicated AR-9 lowers and AR-15 lowers with magazine well adapters.
• Color: Black. A standard black finish ensures it matches most lower receivers and accessories.
• Manufacturer: New Frontier Armory.

These specifications ensure a robust and versatile platform for building a pistol caliber AR. The 7075 T6 aluminum is substantially stronger than the 6061 aluminum often found in cheaper uppers. The universal caliber compatibility also provides flexibility for future builds.

Performance & Functionality

The New Frontier Armory Pistol Caliber Gen 2 Stripped Upper Receiver excels in its primary function: providing a reliable and stable platform for a pistol caliber AR build. The tight tolerances ensure a snug fit with the lower receiver, minimizing any unwanted movement or vibration. The integrated LRBHO is a huge plus, especially for those who prefer the convenience of having the bolt lock back after the last round.

The strengths are its robust construction, precise machining, and reliable LRBHO function. One potential weakness is that it requires a dedicated 9mm bolt and magazine setup, which can add to the overall cost of the build. It definitely meets my expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent, with clean lines and a smooth finish. The upper feels solid and well-made. The weight is noticeably lighter than a standard forged upper, which is a definite advantage for maneuverability.

It is user-friendly and easy to install on a standard AR-15 lower receiver. There’s virtually no learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its 7075 T6 aluminum construction and anodized finish, I expect this upper to last for many years with proper care. Maintaining it is simple. Regular cleaning with a standard gun cleaning solvent and lubrication of the moving parts is all that’s required.

Accessories and Customization Options

The New Frontier Armory Pistol Caliber Gen 2 Stripped Upper Receiver doesn’t come with any accessories beyond the stripped upper itself. However, it is compatible with a wide range of AR-15 accessories, including:

• Optics: Any standard AR-15 optic (red dot, holographic sight, scope) can be mounted on the Picatinny rail.
• Charging Handles: Compatible with standard AR-15 charging handles.
• Muzzle Devices: Any muzzle device with the appropriate thread pitch for the barrel can be used.
• Bolts: Requires a dedicated 9mm bolt (or other pistol caliber bolt) for proper function.

The ability to use standard AR-15 accessories makes it easy to customize this upper to suit individual preferences.

Pros and Cons of New Frontier Armory Pistol Caliber Gen 2 Stripped Upper Receiver

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Who Should Buy New Frontier Armory Pistol Caliber Gen 2 Stripped Upper Receiver?

This upper receiver is perfect for:

• AR-9 Builders: Individuals looking to build a dedicated 9mm AR pistol or carbine.
• Competitive Shooters: The lightweight design and reliable performance make it well-suited for competition.
• Tactical Shooters: The robust construction and LRBHO function are desirable for tactical applications.
• Those Seeking Quality: Shooters who prioritize high-quality components and reliable performance.

This product might not be ideal for:

• Budget Builders: Individuals on a tight budget may find the cost prohibitive.
• Those Using Existing Uppers: If you already have a functional upper receiver, the upgrade might not be necessary.

Must-have accessories or modifications:

• 9mm Bolt Carrier Group: A high-quality 9mm BCG is essential for proper function.
• Dedicated 9mm Magazines: Use magazines designed for your chosen lower receiver.
• Optic of Choice: Red dot sights are a popular choice for pistol caliber ARs.

Conclusion on New Frontier Armory Pistol Caliber Gen 2 Stripped Upper Receiver

The New Frontier Armory Pistol Caliber Gen 2 Stripped Upper Receiver is a top-tier component that delivers exceptional performance and reliability. The value proposition is clear: you’re paying for a high-quality product that is designed to last and perform flawlessly.

I would absolutely recommend it to anyone building a pistol caliber AR, especially those who value quality, durability, and features like LRBHO. If you’re looking to build a reliable and accurate AR-9, this upper receiver is an excellent choice. Upgrade your build today and experience the difference a quality upper can make!