Bushmaster M4 PATROLMAN UPPER 5.56 16IN Review

The Bushmaster M4 PATROLMAN UPPER 5.56 16IN Made a Bold First Impression

The Bushmaster M4 PATROLMAN UPPER 5.56 16IN arrives as a complete, ready-to-install upper receiver, promising an instant upgrade or the foundation for a new AR-15 build. Manufactured by Bushmaster, a name synonymous with the AR-15 platform, this upper boasts a 16-inch barrel chambered in the ubiquitous 5.56 NATO, a detachable carry handle, and arrives complete with bolt carrier group (BCG) and charging handle. As someone who has spent over a decade building and modifying AR-15s, the promise of a complete, quality upper at a reasonable price is always enticing.

I was searching for a reliable, mil-spec-ish upper to complete a budget-friendly AR build for a friend just getting into shooting sports. I wanted something that offered a balance of affordability and dependability. My usual go-to brands were significantly more expensive, and the Bushmaster name held enough weight to warrant a closer look.

The upper arrived well-packaged. My initial impression was positive; the finish was uniform, and the parts felt solid. The weight felt right for a standard M4 profile. Compared to a similarly priced Palmetto State Armory (PSA) upper, the Bushmaster seemed to have a slightly better fit and finish out of the box. The included carry handle also swayed me, as it offered immediate sights without needing to purchase a separate optic. Compared to a higher-end Daniel Defense upper, the difference in fit and finish was noticeable, but the price difference was substantial enough to justify the compromise for this particular build. I was cautiously optimistic.

Real-World Testing: Putting Bushmaster M4 PATROLMAN UPPER 5.56 16IN to the Test

First Use Experience

My first range trip with the Bushmaster M4 PATROLMAN UPPER 5.56 16IN was at an outdoor range on a moderately sunny day with a slight breeze. I mounted the upper onto a standard AR-15 lower receiver and proceeded to zero the iron sights at 50 yards. The initial groups were promising, holding around 2-3 inches.

I ran several different types of ammunition through it, including 55-grain FMJ, 62-grain green tip, and some heavier 77-grain match ammo. The upper cycled reliably with all the ammunition. No failures to feed or extract were observed in the first 200 rounds. The carry handle sights, while basic, were easy to adjust and provided a clear sight picture.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months and over 1000 rounds, the Bushmaster M4 PATROLMAN UPPER 5.56 16IN has proven to be a reliable performer. There are minor signs of wear on the finish of the bolt carrier group, but nothing excessive. The barrel still maintains acceptable accuracy, consistently grouping around 2-4 inches at 100 yards with standard ammunition.

Maintenance is straightforward; typical AR-15 cleaning procedures apply. Regular cleaning and lubrication have kept the upper running smoothly. Comparing it to my experience with other AR-15 uppers, the Bushmaster is neither the most accurate nor the most refined, but it offers a solid middle ground in terms of performance and reliability for the price. It doesn’t outperform a high-end build, but it reliably cycles rounds and hits the target consistently.

Breaking Down the Features of Bushmaster M4 PATROLMAN UPPER 5.56 16IN

Specifications

• Caliber: 5.56 NATO. This is the standard caliber for AR-15 platforms, offering widespread availability and versatility.

• Barrel Length: 16 inches. This is the most common barrel length for a carbine-style AR-15, providing a good balance between maneuverability and ballistic performance.

• Weight: Varies slightly depending on included accessories, but typically around 4-5 pounds fully assembled. This weight contributes to the rifle’s overall balance and handling.

• Materials: The upper receiver is typically made from forged 7075-T6 aluminum, ensuring strength and durability. The barrel is likely made from 4150 chrome-moly vanadium steel, offering resistance to heat and wear.

• Special Features: Includes a complete bolt carrier group (BCG), charging handle, and a detachable carry handle with iron sights. The included BCG and charging handle make this a truly complete upper receiver assembly, ready to drop onto any mil-spec AR-15 lower receiver.

Performance & Functionality

The Bushmaster M4 PATROLMAN UPPER 5.56 16IN performs its job admirably, providing reliable and accurate fire. Accuracy is acceptable for a general-purpose AR-15, easily hitting targets at reasonable distances. The gas system is well-tuned, ensuring smooth cycling with a variety of ammunition types.

The included iron sights are functional, but an optic would improve accuracy potential. The upper meets expectations for a mid-range AR-15 build, providing a solid foundation for further customization. The biggest weakness is simply that it’s not a premium build, so ultimate accuracy and refinement are not its strong points.

Design & Ergonomics

The Bushmaster M4 PATROLMAN UPPER 5.56 16IN sports a standard M4 profile, making it compatible with most AR-15 accessories. The build quality is good, with a solid feel and a durable finish. The weight is balanced, contributing to comfortable handling.

The detachable carry handle provides a familiar sight picture for those accustomed to the classic AR-15 design. There is no real learning curve; it functions like any other AR-15 upper receiver.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Bushmaster M4 PATROLMAN UPPER 5.56 16IN should last for thousands of rounds. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential for maintaining optimal performance. The components are standard AR-15 parts, making repairs relatively easy if needed.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Bushmaster M4 PATROLMAN UPPER 5.56 16IN is compatible with a wide range of AR-15 accessories. It can be easily customized with different optics, handguards, and other components. The detachable carry handle allows for the installation of a red dot sight or scope on the flat top receiver. It’s also compatible with most aftermarket charging handles and bolt carrier groups, offering even greater customization potential.

Pros and Cons of Bushmaster M4 PATROLMAN UPPER 5.56 16IN

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Who Should Buy Bushmaster M4 PATROLMAN UPPER 5.56 16IN?

The Bushmaster M4 PATROLMAN UPPER 5.56 16IN is perfect for budget-conscious builders, first-time AR-15 owners, and those seeking a reliable and functional upper receiver for general-purpose use. It is also suitable for those who appreciate the classic M4 look and feel.

Those looking for match-grade accuracy or advanced features should skip this product. A must-have modification would be the addition of a quality red dot sight or optic to enhance accuracy and target acquisition.

Conclusion on Bushmaster M4 PATROLMAN UPPER 5.56 16IN

The Bushmaster M4 PATROLMAN UPPER 5.56 16IN is a solid and reliable upper receiver that offers excellent value for the price. While it may not be the most refined or accurate option available, it provides a dependable platform for a variety of shooting applications. The inclusion of a complete bolt carrier group and charging handle makes it a truly drop-in solution, saving time and money.

The price is definitely justified for what you get; a complete and functional upper from a reputable manufacturer. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for an affordable and reliable AR-15 upper receiver. If you’re looking to build a dependable AR without breaking the bank, the Bushmaster M4 PATROLMAN UPPER 5.56 16IN is definitely worth considering. Get yours today and start building!

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