Faxon Firearms ARAK-21 16″ 7.62×39 Complete Upper Receiver Black Review

First Thoughts on the Faxon Firearms ARAK-21 16″ 7.62×39 Complete Upper Receiver Black

The Faxon Firearms ARAK-21 16″ 7.62×39 Complete Upper Receiver Black is a unique piece of engineering that aims to bring AR-15 modularity to the AK-47 cartridge. The innovative gas piston system and non-reciprocating charging handle piqued my interest, promising enhanced reliability and a more comfortable shooting experience. This complete upper receiver assembly offers the potential to transform a standard AR-15 lower into a 7.62×39 platform without permanent modifications.

I was looking for a way to shoot the readily available and affordable 7.62×39 cartridge without committing to a dedicated AK platform. Unboxing the Faxon Firearms ARAK-21, I was immediately struck by the solid feel of the 6061-T6 aluminum receiver and the robust design of the bolt carrier assembly. The black anodized finish looked clean and durable.

Compared to a standard AR-15 upper receiver, the ARAK-21 feels significantly heavier, due to the gas piston system and beefier construction. I chose this over a traditional 7.62×39 AR upper because of the piston system’s promise of cleaner operation and reduced recoil impulse. My initial excitement was tempered with a healthy dose of skepticism, wondering if the innovative design would translate into reliable performance.

Real-World Testing: Putting Faxon Firearms ARAK-21 16″ 7.62×39 Complete Upper Receiver Black to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at an outdoor shooting range, focusing on accuracy and functionality. I ran several magazines of various 7.62×39 ammunition through the ARAK-21, from cheap steel-cased rounds to higher-quality brass-cased options. The rifle ran flawlessly in the dry conditions, ejecting consistently and cycling smoothly.

The adjustable gas system proved its worth right away. I experimented with the different gas settings, finding that the optimal setting varied slightly depending on the ammunition used. The non-reciprocating charging handle was a welcome change from the standard AR-15 design.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months and hundreds of rounds, the Faxon Firearms ARAK-21 has proven to be remarkably reliable. I subjected it to less-than-ideal conditions during a backcountry hog hunt, including dust and mud. Despite the abuse, the upper continued to function without issue.

The black anodized finish has held up well, showing only minor signs of wear around the ejection port and charging handle. Cleaning is relatively straightforward, although the gas piston system requires slightly more attention than a direct impingement AR. Compared to my experiences with 7.62×39 ARs relying on a direct impingement system, the ARAK-21 offers a noticeable improvement in cleanliness and reliability.

Breaking Down the Features of Faxon Firearms ARAK-21 16″ 7.62×39 Complete Upper Receiver Black

Specifications

• Caliber: 7.62x39mm. This allows the use of the widely available and cost-effective AK-47 cartridge.
• Barrel Length: 16″. A good balance between maneuverability and ballistic performance is achieved with this barrel length.
• Barrel Finish: Black. This finish provides corrosion resistance.
• Receiver Finish: Black Anodized. This provides a durable and aesthetically pleasing finish.
• Gas System: Long stroke variable setting gas piston system. This leads to cleaner operation compared to direct impingement systems.
• Charging Handle: Ambidextrous, non-reciprocating, foldable. This enhances usability and reduces interference with optics.
• Bolt: Model “39” Eight (8) lug bolt design. This promotes strength and reliability.

Performance & Functionality

The Faxon Firearms ARAK-21 delivers excellent performance. It does its job of converting an AR-15 lower receiver to reliably shoot 7.62×39 ammunition very well. The adjustable gas system is a standout feature, allowing fine-tuning for different ammunition types.

The accuracy is acceptable for its intended purpose, holding consistent groups at 100 yards with quality ammunition. The innovative bolt design and metal-on-metal wear surfaces contribute to smooth cycling and long-term reliability. The non-reciprocating charging handle is a significant upgrade over the standard AR-15, enhancing comfort and reducing distractions.

Design & Ergonomics

The ARAK-21’s one-piece 6061-T6 aluminum receiver feels solid and well-made. The weight is noticeable compared to a standard AR upper, but it’s a reasonable trade-off for the added durability and piston system. The inclusion of multiple Picatinny rails provides ample space for accessories.

The ambidextrous charging handle is easily reconfigured for left- or right-handed users. While the overall design is functional, some may find the aesthetics less refined than a standard AR-15. The installation process is incredibly simple, requiring only the takedown and pivot pins.

Durability & Maintenance

The use of high-quality materials and the robust design suggest excellent long-term durability. The metal-on-metal wear surfaces should contribute to extended component life. Maintenance is more involved than a standard AR-15 due to the gas piston system, but it’s still manageable with regular cleaning.

The firing pin, extractor spring, and ejector spring are the only parts that are interchangeable with a standard AR-15 upper receiver.

Accessories and Customization Options

The ARAK-21 comes with three full-length Picatinny rails and three insulating shims. The top Picatinny rail allows for easy optic mounting. Being an AR platform, many standard AR-15 accessories can be used, though the upper receiver itself has limited interchangeability with standard AR parts.

A folding stock can be added without issue, due to the recoil system being self-contained within the upper receiver. This opens up a range of customization options for those looking to reduce the overall length of their rifle.

Pros and Cons of Faxon Firearms ARAK-21 16″ 7.62×39 Complete Upper Receiver Black