APF UPPER 350LEG 16 12.5 MLOK HG NIT BCG Review

The APF UPPER 350LEG 16 12.5 MLOK HG NIT BCG Made a Bold First Impression

The APF UPPER 350LEG 16 12.5 MLOK HG NIT BCG arrived, and its presence was immediately commanding. This upper receiver chambered in the potent 350 Legend caliber promised to be a game-changer for my mid-range hunting setup, piquing my interest with its blend of modern features and optimized ballistics.

My old AR-15 upper, while reliable, lacked the punch needed for ethical whitetail harvests beyond 150 yards. I yearned for a cartridge that offered flatter trajectories and greater energy transfer at those distances. The APF UPPER 350LEG 16 12.5 MLOK HG NIT BCG seemed like the perfect solution.

Unboxing revealed a meticulously assembled upper. The APF 12.5-inch M-LOK handguard felt robust and provided ample space for accessories. The nitride-coated bolt carrier group (BCG) gleamed, suggesting smooth operation and ease of cleaning.

I considered a similar upper from Bear Creek Arsenal, known for their budget-friendly options, and another from CMMG, reputed for their premium quality. Ultimately, the APF offering struck the right balance between price and performance for my needs. My initial impression was one of excited anticipation; this appeared to be a well-crafted piece of kit.

Real-World Testing: Putting APF UPPER 350LEG 16 12.5 MLOK HG NIT BCG to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the APF UPPER 350LEG 16 12.5 MLOK HG NIT BCG was at my local shooting range. The range offered covered and uncovered positions, allowing for testing in varied conditions. Initial zeroing at 100 yards proved straightforward.

The mid-length gas system ensured smooth cycling, even with a variety of 350 Legend ammunition. I experienced no failures to feed or eject, a testament to the careful assembly and quality components. I was impressed by the minimal recoil, making follow-up shots quick and easy.

The only initial surprise was the muzzle blast from the APF 350 Legend brake, which was more pronounced than I anticipated. This wasn’t a drawback, but rather something to be aware of when shooting near others.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the APF UPPER 350LEG 16 12.5 MLOK HG NIT BCG has proven remarkably reliable. It has accompanied me on several whitetail hunts in diverse conditions, from crisp autumn mornings to damp, snowy afternoons. It performed flawlessly each time.

Durability has been impressive, with no visible signs of wear and tear beyond minor cosmetic scratches on the M-LOK handguard. Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward. The nitride BCG wipes down easily, and the stainless steel barrel requires minimal effort to keep in top condition.

Compared to my previous 5.56 upper, the APF upper provides significantly improved terminal ballistics in the 100-200 yard range. It instills confidence knowing I have the appropriate cartridge for ethical hunting.

Breaking Down the Features of APF UPPER 350LEG 16 12.5 MLOK HG NIT BCG

Specifications

The APF UPPER 350LEG 16 12.5 MLOK HG NIT BCG boasts several key specifications. It is chambered in 350 Legend, offering a straight-walled cartridge legal in many hunting jurisdictions. The 16-inch 416 stainless steel barrel features a 1/16 twist rate, optimized for stabilizing common 350 Legend bullet weights.

The APF 350 Legend brake effectively mitigates recoil and muzzle rise. Its mid-length gas system promotes smooth and reliable cycling. The APF 12.5 M-LOK handguard provides ample space for accessories.

The inclusion of a nitride-coated BCG enhances durability and simplifies cleaning. It ships with one 5-round 350 Legend magazine. These specifications translate to a well-balanced, accurate, and reliable upper receiver.

Performance & Functionality

The APF UPPER 350LEG 16 12.5 MLOK HG NIT BCG performs admirably, excelling in accuracy and reliability. At 100 yards, I consistently achieved sub-MOA groupings with quality ammunition. Its functionality is straightforward, with a smooth cycling action and responsive trigger (when paired with a quality lower).

Its strength lies in its accuracy and consistent performance. The muzzle brake, while effective, generates considerable noise. Overall, it exceeds expectations for its intended purpose of mid-range hunting.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is solid. The materials used, including the stainless steel barrel and robust handguard, feel premium. The weight is well-distributed, making it comfortable to carry and shoot.

Its user-friendliness is excellent, with minimal learning curve. The M-LOK handguard allows for easy attachment of accessories. Its design promotes intuitive operation.

Durability & Maintenance

The APF UPPER 350LEG 16 12.5 MLOK HG NIT BCG appears built to last. The stainless steel barrel and nitride BCG are highly resistant to corrosion and wear. Minimal maintenance is required to keep it in top condition.

Routine cleaning after each range session or hunt is sufficient. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The APF UPPER 350LEG 16 12.5 MLOK HG NIT BCG arrives mostly bare-bones, encouraging user customization. It includes a 5-round magazine and the installed muzzle brake. The 12.5-inch M-LOK handguard is a great starting point.

Optics, lights, lasers, and forward grips can easily be attached using the M-LOK slots. It’s compatible with any standard AR-15 lower receiver. Aftermarket triggers and charging handles can be readily installed to enhance performance. The muzzle brake can also be swapped if a different profile or sound suppression device is desired.

Pros and Cons of APF UPPER 350LEG 16 12.5 MLOK HG NIT BCG