First Impressions of Presma AR Forward Assist Assembly
In the AR-15 world, reliability is king. Every component, no matter how small, plays a critical role in ensuring consistent operation. That’s why I was interested in examining the Presma AR Forward Assist Assembly. The forward assist is a simple yet vital part designed to manually ensure the bolt carrier is fully seated, especially in adverse conditions. I’ve seen shooters struggle with failures to fully chamber, and a functional forward assist can be a lifesaver.
My interest in the Presma AR Forward Assist Assembly stemmed from a desire to upgrade the forward assist on one of my AR builds that had a less-than-stellar finish. I wanted something that felt solid and looked reliable. The Presma AR Forward Assist Assembly seemed like a good option based on its description and price point.
Upon receiving the Presma AR Forward Assist Assembly, my initial impression was positive. The part felt solid in my hand, especially considering the budget-friendly price. The 6082 Anodized Aluminum construction felt surprisingly robust. It certainly seemed like a step up from the polymer forward assist I had on another rifle.
I considered several other forward assist assemblies, including those from Bravo Company Manufacturing (BCM) and Strike Industries. Ultimately, I chose the Presma AR Forward Assist Assembly due to its attractive price and seemingly durable construction for the cost. I was curious to see how it would perform in comparison to more expensive options. I was cautiously optimistic.
Real-World Testing: Putting Presma AR Forward Assist Assembly to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the Presma AR Forward Assist Assembly on my primary AR-15 rifle, which I typically use for range training and occasional varmint hunting. I tested the rifle during a three-day range trip in varied conditions. The first day was sunny and dry, the second involved some light rain, and the third was quite dusty.
In dry conditions, the Presma AR Forward Assist Assembly functioned perfectly. I intentionally induced some failures to fully chamber by lightly riding the charging handle. Each time, a firm press on the forward assist readily seated the bolt, allowing me to continue firing. Even in the light rain, the forward assist remained functional, though my grip was slightly compromised.
During the dusty testing day, I found that the forward assist was crucial. After simulating some tactical exercises, the inside of the receiver became quite dirty. This caused some rounds to not fully chamber. The Presma AR Forward Assist Assembly allowed me to quickly remedy these failures and continue firing.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Presma AR Forward Assist Assembly has held up surprisingly well. I’ve put approximately 1000 rounds through the rifle with the Presma assembly installed. I’ve also disassembled and reassembled the rifle numerous times for cleaning and maintenance.
The anodized finish has proven to be reasonably durable, with only minor signs of wear near the contact points. The forward assist button itself still operates smoothly and without any noticeable looseness. Cleaning has been simple. I just use a brush and some solvent to remove any carbon buildup.
Compared to my previous forward assist assembly, the Presma AR Forward Assist Assembly offers a noticeable improvement in feel and apparent durability. It inspires more confidence than the polymer one I had before. While I haven’t experienced any major malfunctions directly related to the forward assist itself, it has proven reliable.
Breaking Down the Features of Presma AR Forward Assist Assembly
Specifications
The Presma AR Forward Assist Assembly is designed for AR platform rifles and constructed from 6082 Anodized Aluminum. It’s a standard-sized forward assist, fitting any mil-spec AR-15 upper receiver. The assembly includes the forward assist button, the spring, and the retaining pin required for installation. Its purpose is simple: to provide a manual method of ensuring the bolt carrier group is fully seated in the chamber.
The use of 6082 Anodized Aluminum is significant because it provides a good balance of strength, corrosion resistance, and weight. The anodized finish adds a layer of protection against wear and tear. This ultimately contributes to the overall reliability and longevity of the AR-15.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Presma AR Forward Assist Assembly is to allow the user to manually force the bolt carrier group forward if it fails to fully seat during the cycling process. In this regard, the Presma assembly performs its job effectively. It provides a solid and reliable means of ensuring the bolt is fully locked, especially in situations where the rifle may be dirty or underpowered ammunition is used.
The strengths of this assembly are its simplicity, its robust construction, and its reliability. The weakness is there is nothing revolutionary about its design. It’s a standard forward assist, so don’t expect any advanced features. It meets and exceeds expectations for a basic, functional forward assist assembly.
Design & Ergonomics
The Presma AR Forward Assist Assembly features a standard, no-frills design. The knurled button provides a decent gripping surface, even with gloved hands. The weight is negligible, as expected for a small component like this.
The build quality feels solid and reliable. The anodized aluminum gives it a premium feel. There’s essentially no learning curve. The forward assist is intuitively simple to use.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its 6082 Anodized Aluminum construction, the Presma AR Forward Assist Assembly should provide a long service life under normal conditions. The finish is reasonably durable, and the overall design is simple. This means there are few parts that could potentially fail.
Maintenance is minimal. Regular cleaning with standard gun cleaning solvents is sufficient to keep it functioning smoothly. The simple design makes it easy to inspect for any signs of wear or damage.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Presma AR Forward Assist Assembly does not come with any additional accessories beyond the standard button, spring, and retaining pin. It’s a standalone component. It is, however, compatible with any AR-15 upper receiver that accepts a standard forward assist assembly.
While there are no specific customization options for the Presma AR Forward Assist Assembly itself, the user can pair it with different upper receivers, charging handles, and bolt carrier groups to create a custom AR-15 build. Given the ubiquity of the AR platform, there’s a vast array of compatible accessories available from numerous brands. Be sure to use mil-spec parts for the best compatibility.
Pros and Cons of Presma AR Forward Assist Assembly
Pros
- Affordable Price: At around $10, it’s an excellent value for a functional forward assist.
- Durable Construction: The 6082 Anodized Aluminum provides good strength and corrosion resistance.
- Easy Installation: It’s a simple drop-in replacement for any standard AR-15 forward assist.
- Reliable Function: It effectively ensures the bolt carrier is fully seated.
- Improved Aesthetics: It offers a cleaner and more professional look compared to some polymer options.
Cons
- Basic Design: It doesn’t offer any advanced features or unique styling.
- Potential for Finish Wear: While the anodizing is decent, it could wear over time with heavy use.
Who Should Buy Presma AR Forward Assist Assembly?
The Presma AR Forward Assist Assembly is perfect for budget-conscious AR-15 builders or those seeking a reliable replacement for a damaged or worn forward assist. It is also ideal for individuals who prioritize function over aesthetics and are looking for a no-frills, dependable component. It is especially suitable for those building their first AR-15 and need a cost-effective solution.
This product may not be the best choice for those seeking high-end, custom-designed forward assists with enhanced features or unique finishes. Those willing to spend significantly more may find options with more advanced ergonomics or aesthetics.
A must-have accessory for anyone installing a forward assist is a set of roll pin punches to properly install the retaining pin without damaging the receiver or the forward assist assembly itself.
Conclusion on Presma AR Forward Assist Assembly
Overall, the Presma AR Forward Assist Assembly is a solid and reliable component that offers excellent value for its price. While it lacks any groundbreaking features, it performs its intended function effectively and is constructed from durable materials. For $10.99, the price is definitely justified.
I would personally recommend the Presma AR Forward Assist Assembly to anyone building or upgrading an AR-15 on a budget. It’s a simple, reliable, and affordable part that will ensure your rifle functions reliably. Upgrade your AR-15 today with the Presma AR Forward Assist Assembly. You will not be disappointed.