The Aim Sports Complete Upper Assembly 5.56x45mm NATO 16″ Black Nitride Barrel 7075-T6 Aluminum Black Hard Coat Anodized Rec Made a Bold First Impression
The AR-15 platform is renowned for its modularity, offering users unparalleled customization options. The Aim Sports Complete Upper Assembly 5.56x45mm NATO 16″ Black Nitride Barrel 7075-T6 Aluminum Black Hard Coat Anodized Rec promises to be a budget-friendly entry point for those looking to build or upgrade their rifle. With its 16″ black nitride barrel and hard coat anodized receiver, this upper assembly aims to provide reliable performance without breaking the bank.
I was looking for an affordable and reliable upper receiver to complete a budget AR-15 build for recreational target shooting. Building a complete rifle from scratch can be daunting, and finding a reasonably priced, fully assembled upper was essential. The Aim Sports offering caught my eye due to its attractive price point and seemingly decent specifications.
Upon unboxing, the upper assembly had a surprisingly solid feel. The 7075-T6 aluminum receiver felt robust, and the black hard coat anodized finish gave it a clean, tactical appearance. Initial inspection revealed no obvious blemishes or defects, which was a relief considering the price.
Compared to similar budget-friendly uppers from Palmetto State Armory and Anderson Manufacturing, the Aim Sports assembly seemed to offer a slightly more refined finish on the receiver. While I appreciate the cost-effectiveness of PSA and Anderson, the Aim Sports option felt slightly better in terms of fit and finish, although this was just a preliminary assessment. Ultimately, the decision came down to availability and the specific features (or lack thereof, such as sights) that I was looking for at the time of purchase.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The price was right, the initial quality seemed acceptable, and I was eager to see how it would perform at the range. There was a small part of me that was waiting for the shoe to drop, given the price point, but I was also hoping that I had found a hidden gem.
Real-World Testing: Putting Aim Sports Complete Upper Assembly 5.56x45mm NATO 16″ Black Nitride Barrel 7075-T6 Aluminum Black Hard Coat Anodized Rec to the Test
First Use Experience
The first range trip with the Aim Sports Complete Upper Assembly was conducted at my local outdoor range. The weather was clear, and I ran approximately 200 rounds of mixed 5.56 NATO and .223 Remington ammunition through it. I specifically chose a variety of brands and bullet weights to get a feel for its overall reliability and performance.
The assembly functioned flawlessly right out of the box. There were no failures to feed, extract, or eject, which is always a good sign. Recoil felt manageable, and the 16″ barrel provided a decent sight radius for accurate shooting, even without sights installed (I mounted a red dot optic).
The only minor issue I encountered was that the forward assist seemed a little stiff initially. It required a bit more force than I’m used to in order to fully engage. However, this loosened up after the first 50 rounds or so.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months and approximately 1000 rounds of use, the Aim Sports Complete Upper Assembly has held up remarkably well. There are no significant signs of wear and tear on the receiver or barrel finish. The black nitride barrel seems to be resisting corrosion effectively, despite being subjected to varying weather conditions.
Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward. The black nitride finish makes it easy to wipe down the barrel, and the hard coat anodized receiver resists scratches and dings. I’ve found that regular lubrication of the bolt carrier group and charging handle is sufficient to keep it running smoothly.
Compared to my experiences with higher-end upper assemblies from brands like Bravo Company Manufacturing (BCM), the Aim Sports offering obviously lacks some of the refinements and features. However, for its price point, it provides excellent value and reliability. It certainly outperforms some of the other budget-friendly uppers I’ve used in the past, particularly in terms of accuracy and finish durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Aim Sports Complete Upper Assembly 5.56x45mm NATO 16″ Black Nitride Barrel 7075-T6 Aluminum Black Hard Coat Anodized Rec
Specifications
The Aim Sports Complete Upper Assembly boasts the following specifications:
- Caliber: 5.56x45mm NATO. This is the standard caliber for AR-15 rifles, providing widespread ammunition availability and versatility.
- Barrel Length: 16″. This is a common barrel length for AR-15s, offering a good balance between maneuverability and ballistic performance.
- Barrel Material: 4150 Chrome Moly Vanadium Steel. This is a durable steel alloy commonly used in AR-15 barrels, providing good heat resistance and longevity.
- Twist Rate: 1:8″. This twist rate is well-suited for stabilizing a wide range of bullet weights, making it versatile for various shooting applications.
- Barrel Finish: Black Nitride. The black nitride finish provides excellent corrosion resistance and hardness, extending the life of the barrel.
- Receiver Material: 7075-T6 Aluminum. This is a high-strength aluminum alloy that is lightweight and durable, commonly used in AR-15 receivers.
- Receiver Finish: Black Hard Coat Anodized. This finish provides excellent scratch resistance and corrosion protection, enhancing the overall durability of the receiver.
- Sights: None, Optic Ready. This allows the user to customize their sighting system with their preferred optics or iron sights.
These specifications combine to create a solid, reliable upper assembly suitable for a variety of shooting applications. The 1:8″ twist rate, in particular, is a versatile choice for stabilizing different bullet weights, making it suitable for both target shooting and general-purpose use.
Performance & Functionality
The Aim Sports Complete Upper Assembly performs its intended job admirably. Accuracy is acceptable for a budget-friendly option, with consistent groupings around 2-3 MOA at 100 yards using quality ammunition and a decent optic. Reliability has been excellent, with no malfunctions experienced after extensive use.
The primary strength of this upper assembly is its combination of affordability and reliability. It offers a cost-effective way to complete an AR-15 build without sacrificing essential functionality. However, one area that could be improved is the fit and finish of the handguard (not included). Depending on the handguard chosen, there may be slight gaps or inconsistencies in alignment with the receiver.
The upper assembly meets my expectations for a budget-friendly option. It’s not going to win any precision shooting competitions, but it’s a reliable and functional platform for recreational shooting and general-purpose use.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is generally good, especially considering the price point. The materials used are standard for AR-15 components, and the overall weight is comparable to other 16″ upper assemblies.
The design is straightforward and functional. The lack of sights allows for customization with the user’s preferred sighting system. There’s no significant learning curve involved in using this upper assembly. It’s a drop-in replacement for any standard AR-15 lower receiver.
Durability & Maintenance
The Aim Sports Complete Upper Assembly appears to be quite durable. The black nitride barrel and hard coat anodized receiver provide excellent corrosion and scratch resistance. With proper care and maintenance, it should last for many years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward. Regular cleaning and lubrication are all that’s required to keep it running smoothly. The black nitride finish makes it easy to wipe down the barrel and remove fouling.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Aim Sports Complete Upper Assembly does not come with any included accessories, which is typical for a stripped upper. However, it is compatible with a wide range of AR-15 accessories, including:
- Optics (red dot sights, scopes, etc.)
- Iron sights
- Handguards (various lengths and styles)
- Charging handles
- Muzzle devices (flash hiders, compensators, etc.)
The upper assembly is designed to accept standard AR-15 parts, making it easy to customize and configure to the user’s specific needs and preferences.
Pros and Cons of Aim Sports Complete Upper Assembly 5.56x45mm NATO 16″ Black Nitride Barrel 7075-T6 Aluminum Black Hard Coat Anodized Rec
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to budget-conscious builders.
- Reliable performance with no malfunctions experienced after extensive use.
- Durable black nitride barrel and hard coat anodized receiver provide excellent corrosion and scratch resistance.
- Versatile 1:8″ twist rate is well-suited for stabilizing a wide range of bullet weights.
- Easy to maintain and clean.
Cons
- Fit and finish of the upper may not be as refined as higher-end options.
- No included sights require separate purchase and installation.
Who Should Buy Aim Sports Complete Upper Assembly 5.56x45mm NATO 16″ Black Nitride Barrel 7075-T6 Aluminum Black Hard Coat Anodized Rec?
Perfect for: Budget-conscious builders, recreational target shooters, and those looking for a reliable and affordable upper assembly for a general-purpose AR-15.
Who should skip this product? Those seeking match-grade accuracy or the highest level of fit and finish may be better served by investing in a higher-end upper assembly from a reputable brand.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A quality optic or set of iron sights is essential. A free-float handguard can also improve accuracy and ergonomics.
Conclusion on Aim Sports Complete Upper Assembly 5.56x45mm NATO 16″ Black Nitride Barrel 7075-T6 Aluminum Black Hard Coat Anodized Rec
The Aim Sports Complete Upper Assembly is a solid choice for those seeking an affordable and reliable AR-15 upper. While it may not boast the same level of refinement as higher-end options, it delivers excellent value for the money.
The price is definitely justified, considering the reliable performance and durable construction. For budget-minded builders and recreational shooters, this upper assembly provides a cost-effective way to complete their AR-15 build.
I would personally recommend the Aim Sports Complete Upper Assembly to anyone looking for a budget-friendly and reliable option. It’s a great starting point for a general-purpose AR-15, and it offers plenty of room for customization and upgrades down the road. So, if you’re looking to build a budget AR, or simply need a reliable upper receiver without breaking the bank, consider giving the Aim Sports Complete Upper Assembly a shot. You might be pleasantly surprised.