CMMG BANSHEE MK4 UPPER GROUP .300 Black 12.5 Black Review

The CMMG BANSHEE MK4 UPPER GROUP .300 Black 12.5 Black Made a Bold First Impression

The CMMG BANSHEE MK4 UPPER GROUP .300 Black 12.5 Black is a premium AR-15 upper receiver designed for those who want a compact, hard-hitting package. Manufactured by CMMG, known for their innovative firearms, this upper offers exceptional performance in the .300 Blackout caliber. Its short 12.5-inch barrel and included ZEROED accessories promise a well-rounded and ready-to-go upgrade for any AR-15 lower.

I’ve always been drawn to the .300 Blackout cartridge for its versatility in both subsonic and supersonic applications, especially when suppressed. My current home defense rifle felt a bit unwieldy, so I was seeking a shorter, more maneuverable upper receiver without sacrificing ballistic performance. The CMMG BANSHEE seemed like the perfect solution, offering the desired compact size and a reputation for reliability.

The unboxing experience was impressive; the upper receiver arrived well-protected. The black Cerakote finish looked flawless, and the included ZEROED components felt like quality additions, not just throw-ins. The weight felt balanced, not too heavy for its size, suggesting a good combination of durability and portability.

I considered options from Daniel Defense and Bravo Company Manufacturing (BCM), both reputable manufacturers. However, the CMMG BANSHEE’s included accessories and unique aesthetics swayed me. The price point, while certainly an investment, felt justified given the perceived quality and included components.

My initial impression was excitement mixed with anticipation. This wasn’t just another upper receiver; it felt like a significant upgrade that could transform my AR-15 into a serious CQB tool. I couldn’t wait to get it to the range.

Real-World Testing: Putting CMMG BANSHEE MK4 UPPER GROUP .300 Black 12.5 Black to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the CMMG BANSHEE MK4 UPPER GROUP .300 Black 12.5 Black was at my local outdoor shooting range. I mounted it on my existing AR-15 lower receiver and quickly zeroed my optic. The weather was slightly drizzly, providing a good test of the finish’s resistance.

The BANSHEE performed flawlessly right out of the gate. Recoil was manageable, even with supersonic rounds, and the ZEROED Linear Compensator effectively directed the blast forward. I experienced no malfunctions in the first 200 rounds, shooting both supersonic and subsonic ammunition.

The upper was surprisingly easy to get used to. The shorter barrel made maneuvering in the shooting bay much easier compared to my previous 16-inch upper. The only slight surprise was the increased noise level compared to a longer barrel, which is to be expected.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the CMMG BANSHEE has proven to be incredibly reliable and durable. I’ve put several hundred more rounds through it in various conditions, including a dusty carbine course. It continues to function without any issues.

The Cerakote finish has held up remarkably well, showing minimal signs of wear even after being bumped around in my range bag. Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward, requiring only standard AR-15 cleaning procedures. The direct impingement system, while needing regular cleaning, is easy to access and maintain.

Compared to my previous experiences with other AR-15 uppers, the CMMG BANSHEE offers a superior balance of compactness, reliability, and accuracy. The overall build quality and attention to detail are noticeably higher. This upgrade significantly exceeded my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of CMMG BANSHEE MK4 UPPER GROUP .300 Black 12.5 Black

Specifications

• Caliber: .300 Blackout – Optimized for both supersonic and subsonic ammunition, offering versatility in various scenarios.
• Barrel Length: 12.5 inches – Ideal for close-quarters combat and maneuverability while still providing effective range.
• Barrel Twist: 1:7 – Stabilizes a wide range of bullet weights, ensuring accuracy with both heavy subsonic and lighter supersonic projectiles.
• Barrel Contour: MR (Modified Round) – A balance between weight and rigidity, contributing to both handling and accuracy.
• Barrel Material: 4140CM SBN (Salt Bath Nitride) – Provides exceptional durability and corrosion resistance, extending the barrel’s lifespan.
• Muzzle Device: CMMG ZEROED Linear Compensator – Directs muzzle blast forward, reducing perceived recoil and improving shooter comfort.
• Muzzle Thread: 5/8 x 24 – The standard thread pitch for .300 Blackout, allowing compatibility with a wide range of muzzle devices.
• Gas Port Location: Pistol – Essential for reliable cycling with a short barrel, especially when using subsonic ammunition and a suppressor.
• Gas Block: 0.750 Non-Adjustable – A standard size that is generally reliable, though an adjustable gas block might offer more fine-tuning options.
• Upper Receiver: Billet 6061 T6 Aluminum – Provides a rigid and lightweight platform for mounting optics and accessories.
• Hand Guard: CMMG EML11 M-LOK – Offers ample space for mounting accessories and provides a comfortable grip.
• Finish: Cerakote Standard – Provides excellent corrosion resistance and durability, keeping the upper looking good for years to come.
• Charging Handle: CMMG ZEROED Ambi – Allows for easy manipulation from either side of the rifle, beneficial for both left- and right-handed shooters.
• Weight: 3.7 lbs – Lightweight enough to maintain maneuverability while still being durable.
• Length: 20.8 inches – Compact overall length for easy storage and transport.

Performance & Functionality

The CMMG BANSHEE MK4 UPPER GROUP .300 Black 12.5 Black excels in its intended role as a compact, hard-hitting AR-15 upper. Accuracy is excellent, easily achieving sub-MOA groups at 50 yards with quality ammunition. The reliability is also top-notch, with consistent cycling and ejection.

The strengths lie in its compact size, excellent accuracy, and reliable performance. A potential area for improvement is the non-adjustable gas block; an adjustable one could enhance the versatility with different ammunition types and suppressor setups. It definitely meets and, in many ways, exceeds my expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is outstanding. The materials used are all high-quality, and the fit and finish are impeccable. The weight is balanced, making it comfortable to hold and shoot for extended periods.

The design is user-friendly, with no significant learning curve. The ZEROED Ambi charging handle is a welcome addition, making it easy to manipulate the bolt. The M-LOK handguard provides plenty of space for accessories.

Durability & Maintenance

The CMMG BANSHEE MK4 UPPER GROUP .300 Black 12.5 Black is built to last. The 4140CM SBN barrel and Cerakote finish ensure excellent durability and corrosion resistance. Regular cleaning and lubrication are all that’s needed to keep it running smoothly.

Disassembly and reassembly for cleaning are straightforward. Standard AR-15 tools are all that’s required. The well-thought-out design and robust materials should ensure a long service life.

Accessories and Customization Options

The CMMG BANSHEE MK4 UPPER GROUP .300 Black 12.5 Black comes with the ZEROED AR15 Polymer Dust Cover, ZEROED AR15 Ambi Charging Handle, and ZEROED Linear Compensator .308 Win. The upper is compatible with all standard AR-15 lower receivers.

You can easily customize the upper with various optics, lights, lasers, and grips using the M-LOK handguard. Swapping out the muzzle device is also simple, thanks to the standard 5/8 x 24 thread pitch. The BANSHEE readily accepts a wide range of AR-15 accessories from various manufacturers.

Pros and Cons of CMMG BANSHEE MK4 UPPER GROUP .300 Black 12.5 Black

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Who Should Buy CMMG BANSHEE MK4 UPPER GROUP .300 Black 12.5 Black?

The CMMG BANSHEE MK4 UPPER GROUP .300 Black 12.5 Black is perfect for:

• Home Defense: Its compact size and hard-hitting .300 Blackout caliber make it ideal for defending your home in close-quarters scenarios.
• Law Enforcement: Its maneuverability and stopping power make it a great choice for law enforcement officers in urban environments.
• Hunters: Especially those hunting in dense woods where a shorter, more maneuverable rifle is needed.

Who should skip this product? Those on a tight budget might find the price prohibitive. Shooters who prioritize long-range accuracy over maneuverability might prefer a longer barrel.

Must-have accessories or modifications? A quality optic (red dot or holographic sight), a weapon light, and a suppressor (if legal in your area) would enhance the BANSHEE’s capabilities. An upgraded trigger would also improve accuracy and overall shooting experience.

Conclusion on CMMG BANSHEE MK4 UPPER GROUP .300 Black 12.5 Black

The CMMG BANSHEE MK4 UPPER GROUP .300 Black 12.5 Black is an outstanding AR-15 upper receiver that delivers exceptional performance in a compact package. Its accuracy, reliability, and durability make it a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking a high-quality .300 Blackout upper. While the price may be a barrier for some, the included accessories and overall build quality justify the cost.

I would personally recommend it without hesitation. It has transformed my AR-15 into a more versatile and effective platform. If you’re looking for a top-tier .300 Blackout upper, the CMMG BANSHEE should be at the top of your list. Upgrade your AR-15 today and experience the CMMG difference!

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