Faxon Firearms .338 ARC 16in Complete Upper Receiver Review

What Makes Faxon Firearms .338 ARC 16in Complete Upper Receiver Stand Out?

The Faxon Firearms .338 ARC 16in Complete Upper Receiver is designed for shooters demanding long-range performance and AR-15 platform familiarity. Faxon Firearms offers a unique blend of power and portability with this upper, chambered in the relatively new .338 ARC cartridge. This complete upper receiver promises to bring magnum-level performance to the AR platform without requiring a complete rifle overhaul.

I’ve been searching for a way to extend my AR-15’s effective range for hunting purposes in open terrain. The .223 Wylde just wasn’t cutting it for ethical shots at longer distances. I needed something with more punch, better ballistics, and the ability to buck wind effectively, all while maintaining the AR’s modularity.

Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the robust feel of the upper. The black anodized finish is evenly applied, and the 7075-T6 forged aluminum feels incredibly solid. The 16-inch barrel with its Gunner profile strikes a good balance between maneuverability and ballistic performance.

Compared to a standard .308 AR upper or even a 6.5 Creedmoor AR, the Faxon Firearms .338 ARC 16in Complete Upper Receiver felt like a more manageable step up in power. It offers a flatter trajectory than .308, and I favored its compatibility with readily available AR-15 lowers over building a whole new AR-10 platform. I also considered a .300 PRC AR, but the .338 ARC seemed a more balanced option.

My first impression was excitement tempered with cautious optimism. I was excited about the potential of the .338 ARC cartridge in an AR platform, but also aware of the possible challenges in tuning gas systems and ensuring reliable feeding with a less common round.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Faxon Firearms .338 ARC 16in Complete Upper Receiver to the Test

First Use Experience

My first range trip with the Faxon Firearms .338 ARC 16in Complete Upper Receiver was at a local outdoor range, focusing on targets from 100 to 500 yards. The weather was mild, with a slight crosswind that would test the cartridge’s wind-bucking capabilities. I mounted the upper on a mil-spec lower receiver and used a high-quality LPVO scope.

Performance was impressive. Recoil was stout but manageable, and the .338 ARC cartridge exhibited a noticeably flatter trajectory compared to my .308 bolt action rifle. The pistol-length gas system seemed well-tuned, cycling reliably with the factory-provided bolt carrier group and charging handle.

The only issue I encountered initially was getting used to the increased muzzle blast and report of the .338 ARC. Using quality hearing protection is an absolute must.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months and hundreds of rounds, the Faxon Firearms .338 ARC 16in Complete Upper Receiver has proven to be remarkably reliable. I’ve taken it on multiple hunting trips and practiced extensively at the range. The finish has held up well, showing minimal signs of wear.

The upper requires standard AR-15 cleaning procedures. The barrel cleans up easily, and I haven’t experienced any issues with excessive fouling. Proper lubrication of the bolt carrier group is crucial for consistent cycling.

Compared to my previous long-range setups, this upper offers a significantly improved balance of power, portability, and ease of use. It certainly outperforms my previous .223 AR for long-range engagements.

Breaking Down the Features of Faxon Firearms .338 ARC 16in Complete Upper Receiver

Specifications

• Caliber: .338 ARC provides excellent long-range capabilities in an AR-15 platform. This allows for taking larger game and engaging at greater distances.
• Overall Length: 25.75 inches, offering a compact package. This makes it easier to maneuver in tight spaces.
• Barrel Length: 16 inches offers a good balance between maneuverability and ballistic performance. This is ideal for hunting in varied terrain.
• Barrel Profile: Gunner profile strikes a balance between weight and stiffness for accuracy. This profile helps dissipate heat and maintain precision.
• Gas System Length: Pistol length is optimized for the .338 ARC cartridge. It ensures reliable cycling.
• Barrel Twist Rate: 1-8 twist rate stabilizes heavier .338 caliber bullets. This provides enhanced accuracy at long range.
• Threads per Inch: 5/8×24 allows for the use of common muzzle devices. This expands customization options.
• Handguard Type: Free-Float enhances accuracy by preventing barrel contact. This allows for consistent barrel harmonics.
• Muzzle Device: Threaded for easy attachment of muzzle brakes or suppressors. This reduces recoil and muzzle flash.
• Finish: Anodized for enhanced durability and corrosion resistance. This ensures a long service life.
• Color: Black for a sleek and tactical appearance. This blends well with most AR-15 lower receivers.
• Fabric/Material: 7075-T6 forged aluminum provides a strong and lightweight upper receiver. This is a standard material for AR-15 platforms.
• Gas Block Journal Size-Diameter: .750 inches is a standard size for AR-15 gas blocks. This allows for easy replacement or upgrade.
• Handguard Length: 10 inches provides ample space for accessories. This accommodates various shooting styles.
• Handguard Style: Quad Rail allows for mounting accessories at multiple points. This enhances versatility.
• Gun Rail: M-LOK slots for lightweight accessory attachment. This offers a modern and streamlined mounting system.
• Bolt Carrier Group Included: MIL-SPEC for reliable cycling and durability. This ensures compatibility with existing AR-15 components.
• Magazine Included: No magazine included, requires specific .338 ARC magazines. This is important for reliable feeding.
• Charging Handle Included: MIL-SPEC standard charging handle for ease of use. This is a common AR-15 component.

Performance & Functionality

The Faxon Firearms .338 ARC 16in Complete Upper Receiver performs exceptionally well, delivering accurate and reliable long-range performance. It consistently cycles rounds and maintains accuracy even after extended shooting sessions.

The strengths lie in its accuracy and reliable cycling with the .338 ARC cartridge. The pistol-length gas system, while potentially causing more felt recoil than a longer gas system, is extremely reliable. One potential area for improvement is the muzzle device; a more effective brake could further reduce recoil.

It definitely meets my expectations for a long-range AR-15 upper. It delivers accuracy and power in a relatively compact package.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent, with high-quality materials and a durable anodized finish. The weight is manageable, considering the caliber, and the ergonomics are familiar to any AR-15 user.

The upper receiver is user-friendly, with no significant learning curve for experienced AR-15 shooters. The controls are standard, and the free-float handguard offers comfortable ergonomics.

Durability & Maintenance

The Faxon Firearms .338 ARC 16in Complete Upper Receiver is built to last. The durable materials and finish ensure a long service life, even with heavy use.

Maintenance is straightforward, following standard AR-15 cleaning procedures. Regular cleaning and lubrication will ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Accessories and Customization Options

The upper receiver readily accepts standard AR-15 accessories, such as optics, lights, and foregrips. The M-LOK handguard offers ample mounting points for these accessories.

The threaded barrel allows for the use of various muzzle devices, including brakes, compensators, and suppressors. Compatibility with aftermarket triggers and buffer systems can further enhance performance.

Pros and Cons of Faxon Firearms .338 ARC 16in Complete Upper Receiver

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Who Should Buy Faxon Firearms .338 ARC 16in Complete Upper Receiver?

Perfect for: Hunters seeking a long-range AR-15 platform for taking larger game, competitive shooters looking for an edge in long-range competitions, and experienced AR-15 enthusiasts wanting to explore the capabilities of the .338 ARC cartridge.

Who should skip this product? New AR-15 shooters might find the recoil and muzzle blast of the .338 ARC intimidating. Those on a tight budget might find the cost of .338 ARC ammunition prohibitive.

Must-have accessories or modifications? A high-quality LPVO or magnified optic is essential for maximizing the accuracy potential. An effective muzzle brake or suppressor can significantly reduce recoil and muzzle blast. A quality .338 ARC magazine is also essential for reliable feeding.

Conclusion on Faxon Firearms .338 ARC 16in Complete Upper Receiver

The Faxon Firearms .338 ARC 16in Complete Upper Receiver is a well-engineered and high-performing option for those seeking to extend the range and power of their AR-15. Its reliable cycling, impressive accuracy, and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment for serious shooters.

The price is justified by the superior performance and quality of the components. The cost of ammunition should be factored into the overall investment.

I would highly recommend the Faxon Firearms .338 ARC 16in Complete Upper Receiver to experienced AR-15 shooters looking for a long-range solution. If you are ready to step up to a magnum-level cartridge in an AR platform, this upper receiver is an excellent choice. Consider the Faxon Firearms .338 ARC 16in Complete Upper Receiver and experience the future of long-range AR shooting.