The Faxon Ascent 22 ARC 16″ Gunner BBL Complete Upper Receiver Black Made a Bold First Impression
The world of AR-15 uppers is vast, but the Faxon Ascent 22 ARC 16″ Gunner BBL Complete Upper Receiver Black immediately stood out. This isn’t just another upper; it’s an entry point into the exciting realm of the 22 ARC cartridge. The 22 ARC promises serious performance from an AR-15 platform, and Faxon‘s reputation for quality barrels made this a compelling choice.
I was searching for an upper receiver group capable of delivering flat-shooting accuracy at longer ranges without stepping up to a larger AR-10 platform. The promise of high-BC bullets in a compact AR-15 package piqued my interest. Upon unboxing, the sleek black finish and the clean lines of the 15″ aluminum handguard impressed me.
The weight felt balanced and appropriate for a 16″ barrel. Build quality appeared solid, with no visible imperfections or loose parts. Compared to a budget-friendly upper I’d previously owned and a pricier, match-grade upper, the Faxon Ascent seemed to strike a balance between cost and quality, offering a promising blend of features and performance.
My initial impression was one of eager anticipation. I was genuinely excited to see if the Faxon Ascent 22 ARC could live up to the hype surrounding the 22 ARC cartridge. It felt like a serious piece of kit, ready to transform my AR-15 into a long-range performer.
Real-World Testing: Putting Faxon Ascent 22 ARC 16″ Gunner BBL Complete Upper Receiver Black to the Test
First Use Experience
My first range trip with the Faxon Ascent 22 ARC was at my local outdoor range, with distances out to 300 yards. The weather was mild with a slight crosswind, providing a decent test for the cartridge’s wind resistance claims. Installation was straightforward, dropping right onto my existing AR-15 lower receiver with no issues.
The Faxon Ascent 22 ARC proved to be incredibly smooth in operation. The rifle length gas system contributed to a noticeable reduction in recoil compared to my 5.56 setup. Accuracy was immediately apparent, producing tight groups at 100 yards with factory ammunition.
After about 100 rounds, I did notice a slight loosening of the handguard screws, but this was easily remedied with a quick tightening. There were no other functional issues, and the rifle ran flawlessly.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months and approximately 500 rounds through the Faxon Ascent 22 ARC, its reliability has been unwavering. The finish shows minimal signs of wear, primarily around the ejection port. Cleaning is simple, with standard AR-15 cleaning procedures being perfectly adequate.
The nitride-coated bolt carrier group wipes clean easily, and the barrel shows no signs of excessive fouling. Compared to other AR uppers I’ve used, the Faxon Ascent requires less frequent cleaning to maintain optimal performance. It consistently outperforms my old 5.56 upper in terms of accuracy and range.
Breaking Down the Features of Faxon Ascent 22 ARC 16″ Gunner BBL Complete Upper Receiver Black
Specifications
The Faxon Ascent 22 ARC 16″ Gunner BBL Complete Upper Receiver Black boasts some impressive specifications. It is chambered in 22 ARC and features a 16″ Gunner profile barrel. The rifle length gas system ensures smooth cycling and reduced recoil.
The complete upper receiver group includes a Faxon Enhanced Forged Upper Receiver and a 15″ Aluminum Handguard. It also comes with a Faxon 6.5 Grendel Nitrided Bolt Carrier Group and an A2 Birdcage Flash Hider. These features combined contribute to a lightweight, accurate, and reliable upper receiver group.
Performance & Functionality
The Faxon Ascent 22 ARC excels in both accuracy and reliability. I was consistently achieving sub-MOA groups at 100 yards with quality ammunition. The rifle length gas system offers a soft shooting experience, making it enjoyable to shoot for extended periods.
The only real weakness I found was the potential for handguard screws to loosen over time, requiring occasional tightening. However, this is a minor issue easily addressed. Overall, the Faxon Ascent has exceeded my expectations, providing exceptional performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The Faxon Ascent features a sleek and functional design. The 15″ aluminum handguard provides ample space for accessories. The weight distribution is well-balanced, making the rifle comfortable to handle.
The upper receiver mates seamlessly with most standard AR-15 lowers. There is minimal learning curve involved, making it user-friendly for both experienced and novice shooters.
Durability & Maintenance
The Faxon Ascent 22 ARC appears to be built for long-term durability. The nitride finish on the barrel and bolt carrier group provides excellent corrosion resistance. Proper maintenance, including regular cleaning and lubrication, should ensure years of reliable service.
Disassembly for cleaning is straightforward, and replacement parts are readily available if needed. The Faxon Ascent is designed to be easily maintained by the end user.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Faxon Ascent 22 ARC readily accepts a wide variety of AR-15 accessories. The 15″ handguard features M-LOK slots for attaching lights, lasers, grips, and other accessories. The upper receiver is also compatible with standard AR-15 charging handles and optics mounts.
While the included A2 birdcage flash hider is functional, many users may choose to upgrade to a muzzle brake or suppressor. The 22 ARC cartridge is also compatible with AR-15 magazines designed for 6.5 Grendel, offering readily available magazine options.
Pros and Cons of Faxon Ascent 22 ARC 16″ Gunner BBL Complete Upper Receiver Black
Pros
- Exceptional accuracy with the 22 ARC cartridge.
- Soft shooting and manageable recoil due to the rifle length gas system.
- High-quality Faxon barrel with a durable nitride finish.
- 15″ M-LOK handguard provides ample space for accessories.
- Complete upper receiver group simplifies installation and compatibility.
Cons
- Handguard screws may require occasional tightening.
- 6.5 Grendel magazines must be used.
Who Should Buy Faxon Ascent 22 ARC 16″ Gunner BBL Complete Upper Receiver Black?
The Faxon Ascent 22 ARC is perfect for shooters seeking a flat-shooting, accurate AR-15 platform for medium-to-long range target shooting and varmint hunting. It is an excellent choice for those looking to push the limits of the AR-15 platform without stepping up to a larger AR-10. Competitive shooters who want to take advantage of the 22 ARC’s ballistic performance will also find it appealing.
Those primarily focused on close-quarters combat or home defense might find the 22 ARC cartridge and its focus on long-range performance less ideal. Individuals unwilling to invest in 6.5 Grendel magazines should also avoid this upper receiver. A quality optic is a must-have accessory to truly leverage the accuracy potential of the Faxon Ascent 22 ARC.
Conclusion on Faxon Ascent 22 ARC 16″ Gunner BBL Complete Upper Receiver Black
The Faxon Ascent 22 ARC 16″ Gunner BBL Complete Upper Receiver Black is a well-engineered and high-performing upper receiver group. It delivers on the promise of the 22 ARC cartridge, offering exceptional accuracy and manageable recoil. The price is justified by the quality of components and the overall performance.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Faxon Ascent 22 ARC to anyone seeking a long-range AR-15 platform. If you are looking to unlock the full potential of your AR-15, consider the Faxon Ascent 22 ARC and experience the difference firsthand. Take the plunge and experience the Faxon advantage!