First Impressions of Bushmaster M4 Patrolman’s Flat Top Upper Assembly
The Bushmaster M4 Patrolman’s Flat Top Upper Assembly promises a blend of reliability and affordability, targeting law enforcement and tactical shooters seeking a dependable AR-15 upper. The inclusion of a Midwest Industries flip-up rear sight and a salt bath nitride finished barrel are immediate draws, hinting at quality components. Is this upper assembly a budget-friendly option that delivers on its promises, or does it cut corners in critical areas?
I was looking to upgrade an existing AR-15 lower receiver to create a reliable patrol rifle configuration, without breaking the bank. I specifically wanted a flat-top upper for optic mounting flexibility and a barrel that could withstand high round counts. I needed something durable, accurate, and ready for duty.
Upon unboxing, the Bushmaster upper felt solid. The weight was appropriate for a 16-inch barrel M4 profile, and the nitride finish on the barrel looked clean and professional. The 7075 forged A4 flat top upper receiver exuded quality.
I considered complete uppers from Bravo Company Manufacturing (BCM) and Daniel Defense, both known for their exceptional quality and durability. However, their price points were significantly higher. The Bushmaster offered a balance of features and cost, making it an attractive option for my budget.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The components seemed well-made, and the included flip-up sight was a nice bonus. Only extensive range time would determine if it truly lived up to expectations.
Real-World Testing: Putting Bushmaster M4 Patrolman’s Flat Top Upper Assembly to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Bushmaster M4 Patrolman’s Flat Top Upper Assembly at my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was clear and sunny, with a slight breeze. I mounted the upper on my AR-15 lower receiver and attached a Sig Sauer Romeo5 red dot optic.
The upper performed flawlessly through the first 200 rounds. I fired a mix of .223 Remington and 5.56 NATO ammunition, and the rifle cycled reliably with both. The Midwest Industries rear flip-up sight co-witnessed perfectly with the red dot, providing a solid backup sighting system.
There were no immediate issues. The upper installed easily, and the rifle functioned smoothly right out of the box. The nitride finish on the barrel seemed to resist fouling effectively.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Bushmaster M4 Patrolman’s Flat Top Upper Assembly continues to perform admirably. I’ve put approximately 1,500 rounds through it without any malfunctions. The nitride finish shows no signs of wear, and the barrel still cleans up easily.
The upper exhibits minimal wear and tear. The finish on the upper receiver remains intact. I clean and lubricate the bolt carrier group after each range session, which contributes to its continued reliability.
Maintenance is straightforward. Standard AR-15 cleaning procedures apply, and the nitride finish makes cleaning the barrel much easier than with a traditional phosphate finish. So far, it has exceeded my expectations, proving to be a reliable and durable upper assembly.
Breaking Down the Features of Bushmaster M4 Patrolman’s Flat Top Upper Assembly
Specifications
- Caliber: 5.56 NATO (.223 REM) This allows for versatile ammunition use, accommodating both common .223 Remington rounds and the slightly higher pressure 5.56 NATO.
- Barrel Length: 16 inches A standard carbine length that strikes a balance between maneuverability and ballistic performance.
- Barrel Material: 4150 CMV Chrome Moly Vanadium steel is a durable material known for its resistance to heat and wear.
- Barrel Finish: Salt Bath Nitride This treatment hardens the surface of the steel, improving corrosion resistance and extending barrel life.
- Twist Rate: 1:7 Stabilizes heavier, longer bullets, making it ideal for a wide range of ammunition types.
- Thread Pitch: ½ x 28 The standard thread pitch for AR-15 barrels, allowing for easy installation of muzzle devices.
- Weight: 4.2 lbs Lightweight enough for comfortable handling, but still substantial enough to absorb recoil effectively.
- Gas System: Carbine Length A common and reliable gas system length for 16-inch barrels.
- Upper Receiver: 7075 Forged A4 Flat Top The flat top allows for easy mounting of optics and accessories.
- Rear Sight: Midwest Industries Inc. Combat Rifle Rear Flip Sight A quality aftermarket sight that provides a reliable backup sighting system.
- Front Sight: F-Marked A2 Front Sight A standard A2 front sight that’s compatible with most AR-15 accessories.
- Muzzle Device: A2 Flash Hider Reduces muzzle flash, helping to conceal the shooter’s location.
- Charging Handle: Mil-Spec Charging Handle A standard charging handle that’s durable and reliable.
These specifications combine to create a well-rounded and durable upper assembly. The nitride barrel, 7075 receiver, and included sights contribute to its overall value and performance.
Performance & Functionality
The Bushmaster M4 Patrolman’s Flat Top Upper Assembly performs its job admirably. It’s reliable, accurate, and easy to use. The combination of the 1:7 twist barrel and quality ammunition produces tight groupings at 100 yards.
The upper’s strength lies in its reliability and build quality. A potential weakness is the standard A2 flash hider, which could be upgraded for better performance. Ultimately, it meets expectations for a mid-range AR-15 upper.
Design & Ergonomics
The Bushmaster upper boasts a functional and practical design. The build quality is solid, thanks to the forged receiver and nitride barrel. The weight is well-balanced, and the upper feels comfortable when combined with a standard AR-15 lower.
It’s very user-friendly. The flat top receiver makes optic mounting simple, and the included flip-up sight is easy to adjust. There’s virtually no learning curve, making it suitable for both experienced and novice shooters.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, this upper should last for thousands of rounds. The nitride finish provides excellent corrosion resistance, and the 4150 CMV barrel is known for its durability.
Maintenance is simple. Standard AR-15 cleaning procedures apply, and the nitride finish makes cleaning the barrel a breeze. Replacement parts are readily available if needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Bushmaster M4 Patrolman’s Flat Top Upper Assembly comes with a Midwest Industries flip-up rear sight and a standard A2 flash hider. The flat top receiver is compatible with a wide range of optics, including red dots, holographic sights, and scopes.
The barrel’s ½ x 28 thread pitch allows for the installation of various muzzle devices, such as compensators, brakes, and suppressors. The standard front sight and charging handle can also be easily replaced with aftermarket options, like enhanced charging handles or different sight configurations.
Pros and Cons of Bushmaster M4 Patrolman’s Flat Top Upper Assembly
Pros
- Affordable price point for a complete upper assembly.
- Durable 4150 CMV barrel with salt bath nitride finish for extended lifespan.
- Reliable carbine-length gas system.
- Includes a quality Midwest Industries flip-up rear sight.
- 7075 Forged A4 Flat Top upper receiver provides a stable optic mounting platform.
Cons
- A2 flash hider is basic; an upgraded muzzle device might be desired for improved recoil control or flash suppression.
- The 5.5 lb weight is slightly heavier than some lightweight options.
Who Should Buy Bushmaster M4 Patrolman’s Flat Top Upper Assembly?
Perfect for: Law enforcement officers, tactical shooters, and recreational shooters looking for a reliable and affordable AR-15 upper. It’s also well-suited for those building their first AR-15 or upgrading an existing rifle on a budget.
Who should skip this product? Shooters prioritizing ultra-lightweight builds or those demanding top-tier performance and are willing to pay a premium price.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A quality red dot optic or scope, depending on intended use. An upgraded charging handle can also improve ergonomics.
Conclusion on Bushmaster M4 Patrolman’s Flat Top Upper Assembly
The Bushmaster M4 Patrolman’s Flat Top Upper Assembly delivers a solid value proposition, offering a reliable and durable upper at an affordable price. The inclusion of a quality Midwest Industries flip-up rear sight and the nitride-treated barrel are standout features.
The price is definitely justified. It is a significant savings compared to higher-end brands without sacrificing essential performance and durability.
I would absolutely recommend this upper assembly to anyone looking for a dependable AR-15 upper on a budget. It’s a fantastic option for building a patrol rifle or upgrading an existing firearm. Equip yourself with the Bushmaster M4 Patrolman’s Flat Top Upper Assembly and experience reliable performance without breaking the bank!