The CMMG 28B3D0CMB Endeavor 22 ARC 20″ Upper – Midnight Bronze Made a Bold First Impression
The CMMG 28B3D0CMB Endeavor 22 ARC 20″ Upper – Midnight Bronze isn’t just another AR-15 upper receiver; it’s a statement. Chambered in the exciting new 22 ARC cartridge, this upper from CMMG promises both exceptional accuracy and a unique shooting experience in the AR-15 platform. The distinctive Midnight Bronze finish adds a touch of class, setting it apart from the sea of black rifles at the range.
I’ve been searching for a rimfire AR upper that offered more than just plinking fun; I wanted something capable of serious accuracy for small game hunting and precision target shooting. The 22 ARC’s potential for long-range accuracy in a rimfire package immediately caught my eye. After extensive research, the CMMG Endeavor 22 ARC stood out due to its reputation for quality and the intriguing combination of features.
The unboxing experience was impressive. The Midnight Bronze finish is even more striking in person, with a subtle metallic sheen that catches the light beautifully. The upper felt solid and well-built, giving an immediate sense of quality.
Compared to a standard 22LR AR upper, or even some dedicated 22 ARC uppers from lesser-known brands, the CMMG Endeavor felt like a significant step up. I was considering a Ruger 10/22 build initially, but the AR platform’s modularity and familiarity ultimately won me over. The CMMG upper offered a far more refined and purpose-built solution than a simple 22LR conversion kit for my existing AR.
My first impression was one of excitement mixed with a healthy dose of anticipation. This wasn’t just a plinker; it felt like a serious tool for serious fun.
Real-World Testing: Putting CMMG 28B3D0CMB Endeavor 22 ARC 20″ Upper – Midnight Bronze to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the CMMG 28B3D0CMB Endeavor 22 ARC 20″ Upper – Midnight Bronze was at my local outdoor range, a familiar spot where I’ve tested countless firearms. The weather was mild, with a slight breeze, providing ideal conditions for sighting in the optic and getting a feel for the 22 ARC cartridge. I mounted a 4-16x scope, which seemed a good match for the intended use.
The upper performed flawlessly right out of the box. Cycling was smooth and reliable, with no malfunctions in the first 100 rounds. The 20-inch barrel seemed to wring every bit of velocity out of the 22 ARC, and the accuracy was immediately apparent.
One initial surprise was the relatively low recoil, even compared to other rimfire ARs. This made it incredibly easy to stay on target and make rapid follow-up shots.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the CMMG Endeavor 22 ARC has proven to be incredibly reliable. I’ve put several hundred rounds through it, using a variety of 22 ARC ammunition, and have experienced only a single failure to extract, which I attribute to a particularly dirty batch of ammo.
The Midnight Bronze finish has held up remarkably well, showing no signs of wear despite being subjected to regular use and cleaning. Cleaning is straightforward, as the 22 ARC leaves very little residue compared to centerfire cartridges. A quick bore snake and a wipe down of the bolt carrier group are usually all that’s needed.
Compared to other rimfire platforms I’ve used, the CMMG Endeavor stands head and shoulders above the rest in terms of accuracy and reliability. My previous experiences with 22LR AR conversions were plagued by malfunctions and mediocre accuracy. The CMMG Endeavor 22 ARC is a completely different animal, delivering consistent performance and exceptional precision.
Breaking Down the Features of CMMG 28B3D0CMB Endeavor 22 ARC 20″ Upper – Midnight Bronze
Specifications
The CMMG 28B3D0CMB Endeavor 22 ARC 20″ Upper – Midnight Bronze boasts impressive specs. It is chambered in the new and exciting 22 ARC (Accurate Rimfire Cartridge). The upper features a 20-inch barrel, optimized for maximizing the velocity and accuracy of the 22 ARC round.
The key specifications of the CMMG Endeavor 22 ARC are:
- Caliber: 22 ARC
- Barrel Length: 20″
- Finish: Midnight Bronze Cerakote
- Muzzle Device: None (Threaded muzzle for adding your choice of device.)
- Gas System: Direct Blowback (rimfire)
These specifications contribute directly to the upper’s performance. The 20″ barrel helps squeeze every bit of potential from the 22 ARC cartridge, offering improved ballistic performance over shorter barrels. The direct blowback operation is simple and reliable, ensuring consistent cycling.
Performance & Functionality
The CMMG 28B3D0CMB Endeavor 22 ARC 20″ Upper – Midnight Bronze excels in its primary function: delivering accurate and reliable rimfire performance in an AR-15 platform. The upper is remarkably accurate, easily capable of sub-MOA groups at 50 yards with quality ammunition. Reliability has also been excellent, with minimal malfunctions experienced during testing.
The CMMG Endeavor 22 ARC meets and exceeds expectations. It delivers the accuracy and reliability I was seeking, making it a joy to shoot.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the CMMG Endeavor is exceptional. The Midnight Bronze Cerakote finish is both durable and aesthetically pleasing, giving the upper a premium feel. The upper’s weight is well-balanced, making it comfortable to shoot from various positions.
The upper is user-friendly, requiring no special tools or modifications for installation on a standard AR-15 lower receiver. The lack of a gas system simplifies maintenance and enhances reliability.
Durability & Maintenance
The CMMG Endeavor 22 ARC is built to last. The high-quality materials and robust construction ensure long-term durability. Maintenance is simple and straightforward. Regular cleaning of the bore and bolt carrier group is all that’s typically required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The CMMG 28B3D0CMB Endeavor 22 ARC 20″ Upper – Midnight Bronze does not come with many accessories as it’s an upper receiver group only. However, the threaded muzzle allows for easy installation of various muzzle devices, such as suppressors or compensators. The flattop receiver provides ample space for mounting optics, and it’s fully compatible with all standard AR-15 accessories, allowing users to customize their setup to their specific needs.
Pros and Cons of CMMG 28B3D0CMB Endeavor 22 ARC 20″ Upper – Midnight Bronze
Pros
- Exceptional accuracy, capable of sub-MOA groups at 50 yards.
- Reliable cycling with minimal malfunctions.
- Unique and stylish Midnight Bronze finish.
- Easy to install and maintain.
- Excellent ballistic performance from the 20″ barrel.
Cons
- 22 ARC ammunition can be harder to find and more expensive than 22LR.
- The Midnight Bronze finish may not appeal to everyone.
Who Should Buy CMMG 28B3D0CMB Endeavor 22 ARC 20″ Upper – Midnight Bronze?
The CMMG 28B3D0CMB Endeavor 22 ARC 20″ Upper – Midnight Bronze is perfect for target shooters, small game hunters, and anyone looking for a high-performance rimfire AR-15. This upper shines for those who want exceptional accuracy and reliability. It delivers a unique shooting experience with the new 22 ARC cartridge.
Those who should skip this product are budget-conscious shooters or those primarily interested in plinking. The higher cost of 22 ARC ammunition might not be ideal for casual shooting.
A must-have accessory is a quality optic, such as a 4-16x scope, to take full advantage of the upper’s accuracy potential. A suppressor would also be an excellent addition, further enhancing the shooting experience.
Conclusion on CMMG 28B3D0CMB Endeavor 22 ARC 20″ Upper – Midnight Bronze
The CMMG 28B3D0CMB Endeavor 22 ARC 20″ Upper – Midnight Bronze is a top-tier rimfire upper receiver that delivers exceptional accuracy, reliability, and a unique shooting experience. While the 22 ARC ammunition might be more expensive than 22LR, the performance benefits are well worth the investment.
The value proposition is clear: this is not just another rimfire upper; it’s a precision instrument designed for serious shooters. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for the best possible rimfire AR-15 experience.
If you’re ready to take your rimfire shooting to the next level, the CMMG Endeavor 22 ARC is the way to go.