The Faxon Ascent 5.56×45 NATO 10.5″ BBL Upper Receiver No BCG/CH Blk Made a Bold First Impression
The AR-15 platform is known for its modularity. The Faxon Ascent 5.56×45 NATO 10.5″ BBL Upper Receiver No BCG/CH Blk promises to be a dependable and affordable option for those looking to complete a build or upgrade an existing rifle. Faxon Firearms aims to deliver a quality upper receiver with a focus on value.
I was in the market for a short-barreled upper receiver to complete a pistol build. My primary goal was to find a reliable and accurate system without breaking the bank. After researching various options, the Faxon Ascent stood out due to its advertised quality barrel and reasonable price.
Upon receiving the upper receiver, my first impression was positive. The finish was clean, and the handguard felt solid. The weight felt appropriate for a 10.5″ setup, indicating a good balance of durability and maneuverability.
Compared to similar offerings from Bravo Company Manufacturing (BCM) and Daniel Defense, the Faxon Ascent lacks the proven track record and prestige. However, the price point was significantly lower than both BCM and Daniel Defense. This made the Faxon Ascent an attractive option for a budget-conscious build.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The Faxon Ascent 5.56×45 NATO 10.5″ BBL Upper Receiver No BCG/CH Blk seemed to offer a good value proposition, but I was eager to see how it would perform in real-world testing. I was excited to see what Faxon Firearms had to offer with this product.
Real-World Testing: Putting Faxon Ascent 5.56×45 NATO 10.5″ BBL Upper Receiver No BCG/CH Blk to the Test
First Use Experience
I took the Faxon Ascent to my local shooting range for its initial test. I mounted it on a mil-spec AR-15 lower receiver and used a variety of ammunition types. These ranged from standard 55-grain FMJ to heavier 77-grain OTM rounds.
The weather was clear and mild, around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The upper receiver performed flawlessly through the first 200 rounds. There were no malfunctions of any kind.
The Faxon Ascent proved easy to use right out of the box. After a quick bore sighting, I was achieving consistent groupings at 50 yards. The A2 birdcage flash hider did a decent job of mitigating muzzle flash.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Faxon Ascent has proven to be a reliable performer. I’ve put approximately 1000 rounds through it, with a mix of range and training sessions. I’ve experienced no failures to feed, extract, or eject.
The finish on the upper receiver and handguard has held up well, with minimal signs of wear. I’ve been diligent about cleaning and lubricating the upper after each range session. This has undoubtedly contributed to its continued smooth operation.
Compared to my previous experiences with budget-oriented AR-15 uppers, the Faxon Ascent has exceeded my expectations. It offers a level of reliability and accuracy that rivals more expensive options. I’ve come to trust the product from Faxon Firearms for my shooting needs.
Breaking Down the Features of Faxon Ascent 5.56×45 NATO 10.5″ BBL Upper Receiver No BCG/CH Blk
Specifications
- Caliber: 5.56 NATO. This is the standard caliber for AR-15 rifles, offering wide ammunition availability and versatility.
- Barrel Length: 10.5 inches. This short barrel length is ideal for maneuverability in close quarters.
- Barrel Profile: Gov/Socom. The Government/Special Operations Command (Gov/Socom) profile offers a balance between weight and rigidity.
- Handguard Length: 9 inches. This length allows for ample rail space for accessories while keeping the overall package compact.
- Handguard Material: Aluminum. Aluminum is a lightweight and durable material that provides a solid mounting platform.
- Bolt Carrier Group (BCG): Not Included. The BCG needs to be purchased separately.
- Charging Handle (CH): Not Included. The Charging Handle needs to be purchased separately.
- Flash Hider: A2 Birdcage. The A2 birdcage is a common and effective flash hider.
- Upper Receiver: Enhanced Forged. Forged upper receivers are known for their strength and durability.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the performance and handling of the upper receiver. The 10.5″ barrel offers enhanced maneuverability, while the forged upper receiver ensures long-term reliability. The Gov/Socom profile provides adequate rigidity for accuracy.
Performance & Functionality
The Faxon Ascent performs its job admirably. The accuracy is quite impressive for a short-barreled AR-15. I was consistently hitting steel targets at 100 yards.
One minor weakness is the lack of a chrome-lined barrel. This might slightly reduce the barrel’s lifespan compared to chrome-lined options, particularly with heavy use. However, the nitrided finish offers decent corrosion resistance.
Overall, the Faxon Ascent meets and even exceeds expectations for its price point. It provides a reliable and accurate platform for building a compact AR-15 pistol or SBR. Faxon Firearms delivers on its promise of quality.
Design & Ergonomics
The Faxon Ascent features a clean and functional design. The aluminum handguard feels comfortable in hand and provides ample space for accessories. The overall weight is manageable.
The upper receiver is user-friendly. Installation on a lower receiver is straightforward. The absence of a BCG and charging handle allows users to select components based on their preferences.
Durability & Maintenance
The Faxon Ascent appears to be built to last. The forged upper receiver and nitrided barrel finish inspire confidence. Regular cleaning and lubrication should keep it running smoothly for years to come.
Maintenance is relatively simple. The upper receiver disassembles easily for cleaning. Replacement parts, if ever needed, are readily available due to the AR-15’s modular design.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Faxon Ascent is highly customizable, due to the AR-15’s widespread adoption and aftermarket support. Users can easily add optics, lights, lasers, and other accessories to the handguard’s Picatinny rail. The modularity and build quality make it a desirable product from Faxon Firearms.
The absence of a BCG and charging handle allows users to choose components that best suit their needs. Popular accessories from brands like Magpul, Streamlight, and Aimpoint are fully compatible. The product from Faxon Firearms is ready to be customized.
Pros and Cons of Faxon Ascent 5.56×45 NATO 10.5″ BBL Upper Receiver No BCG/CH Blk
Pros
- Excellent value for the price. The Faxon Ascent offers a great balance of quality and affordability, making it accessible to budget-conscious builders.
- Good accuracy. The 10.5″ barrel delivers respectable accuracy for a short-barreled AR-15.
- Durable construction. The forged upper receiver and nitrided barrel ensure long-term reliability.
- Modular design. The AR-15 platform allows for extensive customization with a wide range of accessories.
- Lightweight and maneuverable. The short barrel and aluminum handguard make it ideal for close-quarters applications.
Cons
- BCG and Charging Handle Not Included. This adds to the overall cost, but allows users to choose their preferred components.
- No Chrome-Lined Barrel. While the nitrided finish offers decent corrosion resistance, a chrome-lined barrel would enhance durability.
Who Should Buy Faxon Ascent 5.56×45 NATO 10.5″ BBL Upper Receiver No BCG/CH Blk?
The Faxon Ascent 5.56×45 NATO 10.5″ BBL Upper Receiver No BCG/CH Blk is perfect for those looking to build a budget-friendly AR-15 pistol or short-barreled rifle (SBR). This includes home defense enthusiasts, recreational shooters, and those seeking a compact and maneuverable firearm. It is also good for those who enjoy customizing their firearms.
Those seeking a complete, ready-to-shoot upper receiver assembly may want to consider other options. Law enforcement, military personnel, and individuals requiring the utmost reliability might prefer a higher-end option with a proven track record and chrome-lined barrel.
Must-have accessories include a quality bolt carrier group, a reliable charging handle, and a red dot sight or holographic optic for close-quarters engagements. A weapon light is also recommended for home defense applications. This product from Faxon Firearms is a good start to something amazing.
Conclusion on Faxon Ascent 5.56×45 NATO 10.5″ BBL Upper Receiver No BCG/CH Blk
The Faxon Ascent 5.56×45 NATO 10.5″ BBL Upper Receiver No BCG/CH Blk offers a compelling value proposition for those seeking a reliable and affordable short-barreled AR-15 upper receiver. It combines decent accuracy, durable construction, and extensive customization options. I was surprised and impressed by this product from Faxon Firearms.
The price is justified considering the quality of the components and the overall performance. While the absence of a BCG and charging handle adds to the cost, it also allows users to tailor the build to their specific needs and preferences.
I would personally recommend the Faxon Ascent to anyone looking to build a budget-friendly AR-15 pistol or SBR. It’s a solid performer that offers excellent value for the money. Check out the Faxon Ascent 5.56×45 NATO 10.5″ BBL Upper Receiver No BCG/CH Blk and start your next AR build with confidence!