Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 Upper Receiver Review

The Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 Upper Receiver Made a Bold First Impression

The Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 Upper Receiver presents itself as a solid foundation for any AR-15 build. Anderson Manufacturing is known for producing affordable, reliable components, and this upper receiver aims to deliver just that. Featuring a pre-assembled dust cover, forward assist, and charging handle, it promises convenience and a straightforward start to your build.

I’d been planning a budget-friendly AR build for a while, primarily for range training and the occasional carbine course. I needed a reliable upper receiver that wouldn’t break the bank, but wouldn’t compromise on essential features. When I stumbled upon the Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 Upper Receiver, it seemed to perfectly fit that description.

Upon unboxing, I was pleasantly surprised by the solid feel of the receiver. The black anodized finish appeared even and durable, and the included components seemed well-installed. Its weight felt appropriate for a standard AR upper, neither too heavy nor flimsy.

I was also considering a Bear Creek Arsenal and a Palmetto State Armory upper receiver. Ultimately, I chose the Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 Upper Receiver because of the brand’s reputation for consistent quality at a competitive price point. The fact that it came fully assembled was also a major plus, saving me time and effort.

My first impression was positive. This Anderson Manufacturing upper looked and felt like a dependable component ready to form the heart of my new AR build. It wasn’t flashy, but it appeared functional and well-made, exactly what I was hoping for.

  1. Real-World Testing: Putting **Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 Upper Receiver** to the Test

    First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at my local outdoor range. The weather was cooperative, with clear skies and a mild breeze, providing optimal conditions for zeroing my new rifle. I mounted the upper on a completed lower, added my chosen optic, and loaded up some 5.56 NATO rounds.

The Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 Upper Receiver functioned flawlessly from the start. The charging handle operated smoothly, and the dust cover snapped securely into place. There were no noticeable issues with cycling or ejection during the first hundred rounds.

There were no surprises or issues after the first range session, just smooth operation and consistent performance. The upper receiver mated perfectly to my lower. It provided a stable platform for accurate shooting.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months and hundreds of rounds fired, the Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 Upper Receiver continues to perform reliably. I’ve taken it to several range sessions and even a weekend-long carbine course. It has consistently delivered accurate and dependable results.

The finish has held up remarkably well, showing only minor signs of wear around the ejection port. Cleaning is straightforward, requiring only a standard AR-15 cleaning kit and some solvent. No special maintenance has been required, further highlighting its ease of use.

Compared to my experiences with other budget-friendly uppers, the Anderson Manufacturing model has exceeded my expectations. It exhibits a level of durability and reliability that I would typically associate with more expensive options. I am thoroughly impressed with the value it provides.

  1. Breaking Down the Features of **Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 Upper Receiver**

    Specifications

The Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 Upper Receiver is crafted from forged 7075 T6 Aluminum. This provides a lightweight yet durable foundation for the AR-15 platform. The receiver is finished with a Type 3 Hard Anodized coating, offering excellent resistance to wear and corrosion.

It features M4 feed ramps, ensuring reliable feeding with a wide range of ammunition. The assembled upper includes a standard charging handle, dust cover, and forward assist, saving builders time and money. Weighing in at just 1.268 pounds, it won’t add unnecessary bulk to your rifle.

These specifications are critical for ensuring the upper receiver can withstand the stresses of repeated firing and function reliably across various conditions. The 7075 T6 aluminum provides superior strength compared to other alloys, while the hard anodized finish protects against the elements.

Performance & Functionality

The Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 Upper Receiver performs its primary function admirably: providing a stable and reliable platform for the AR-15. It mates seamlessly with most AR-15 lowers, ensuring proper alignment and smooth operation. Accuracy is consistent, and the ejection pattern is predictable.

One strength is its compatibility with a wide range of AR-15 components and calibers (excluding .458 SOCOM). The included charging handle functions well, though some users may prefer to upgrade to an aftermarket option. There are no significant weaknesses in terms of performance.

It meets my expectations for a budget-friendly upper receiver and slightly exceeds them. The reliability and consistent performance have been a pleasant surprise. The fact that it is ready to go out of the box further enhances its appeal.

Design & Ergonomics

The Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 Upper Receiver boasts a straightforward, no-frills design. The black anodized finish gives it a clean and professional appearance. Its weight is balanced. It makes it comfortable to handle when installed on a complete rifle.

The upper is designed with standard AR-15 ergonomics in mind. There is no learning curve for experienced users. The included charging handle is functional, although some shooters may find it basic.

Durability & Maintenance

The 7075 T6 aluminum construction and Type 3 Hard Anodized finish ensure the Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 Upper Receiver is built to last. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service. Cleaning is easy, requiring only basic solvents and brushes.

Repairing the upper is also relatively simple, as most AR-15 components are readily available. The standard design makes it easy to find replacement parts if needed. This ensures that the upper can be easily maintained and repaired.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 Upper Receiver arrives pre-assembled with a dust cover, forward assist, and charging handle. This ready-to-go configuration simplifies the building process. The upper receiver is fully compatible with a wide array of AR-15 accessories, including optics, handguards, and muzzle devices.

The standard dimensions ensure easy integration with accessories from various manufacturers. This allows for extensive customization to meet individual preferences. This wide compatibility is a major advantage, as it allows users to tailor their rifle to their specific needs and shooting style.

  1. Pros and Cons of **Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 Upper Receiver**

Pros

  • Affordable price point: Offers excellent value for budget-conscious builders.
  • Durable construction: Forged 7075 T6 aluminum and Type 3 Hard Anodized finish ensure long-lasting performance.
  • Pre-assembled: Includes dust cover, forward assist, and charging handle for added convenience.
  • Wide compatibility: Works with most AR-15 lowers and accessories.
  • Reliable performance: Consistent and dependable operation, even under demanding conditions.

Cons

  • Basic charging handle: Some users may prefer to upgrade to an aftermarket option.
  • No advanced features: Lacks some of the enhanced features found on higher-end upper receivers.


  1. Who Should Buy **Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 Upper Receiver**?

The Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 Upper Receiver is perfect for budget-conscious AR-15 builders. It’s also great for those seeking a reliable and functional upper receiver without unnecessary frills. It is well suited for first-time AR builders.

Those seeking advanced features or a premium finish should explore higher-end options. If you want ambi controls, this isn’t for you. Or, if you want the lightest possible build, carbon fiber options might be better.

A must-have modification is a quality optic or red dot sight to improve accuracy. You might also want to add an enhanced charging handle for improved ergonomics.

  1. Conclusion on **Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 Upper Receiver**

The Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 Upper Receiver delivers exceptional value for its price. It offers a durable, reliable, and pre-assembled option for AR-15 enthusiasts. It is a solid foundation for building a dependable rifle without breaking the bank.

At $105.99, the price is certainly justified. It represents a significant savings compared to many other upper receivers on the market. It delivers comparable performance.

I would personally recommend the Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 Upper Receiver to anyone looking for an affordable and dependable option. It is a great entry point for new AR-15 builders. It’s also a solid choice for experienced shooters seeking a reliable budget build. Don’t hesitate to give it a try. You won’t be disappointed.


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