Faxon Firearms Ascent 16 inch 5.56x45mm NATO Upper Receiver with Flash Hider Assembly Review

First Impressions of Faxon Firearms Ascent 16 inch 5.56x45mm NATO Upper Receiver with Flash Hider Assembly

The AR-15 platform is a Lego set for adults, and the Faxon Firearms Ascent 16 inch 5.56x45mm NATO Upper Receiver with Flash Hider Assembly is a premium, yet budget-conscious, brick in that build. It promises Faxon Firearms’ renowned quality and performance at a price point that doesn’t require selling off your entire gun safe. As someone with over a decade of experience building and modifying ARs, I was eager to see if this upper receiver lived up to the hype.

My current AR build was suffering from accuracy issues with its aging upper receiver, and I needed a reliable and accurate replacement without breaking the bank. I’d heard whispers about the Faxon Firearms Ascent line offering impressive performance without the premium price tag. I considered other options, like a Bravo Company Manufacturing (BCM) upper or a Daniel Defense, but their price points were considerably higher. Ultimately, the Faxon Firearms Ascent seemed to offer the best balance of quality and affordability.

Unboxing the Faxon Firearms Ascent, I was immediately impressed by the fit and finish. The anodizing was even and deep, and the handguard felt solid. The weight felt balanced, not too heavy, and not flimsy. My first impression was one of pleasant surprise; this didn’t feel like a budget upper receiver.

I was definitely excited to see how it performed at the range; initial impressions suggested Faxon Firearms had created something special with the Ascent line. It seemed like a solid upgrade for my aging AR, and I couldn’t wait to get it installed and put it through its paces.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Faxon Firearms Ascent 16 inch 5.56x45mm NATO Upper Receiver with Flash Hider Assembly to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Faxon Firearms Ascent 16 inch 5.56x45mm NATO Upper Receiver with Flash Hider Assembly was at my local shooting range, a dusty outdoor facility. I ran a variety of ammunition through it, from standard 55-grain FMJ to heavier 77-grain OTM rounds. The upper receiver performed flawlessly, cycling smoothly and ejecting reliably.

Even in the dusty conditions, the action remained clean and consistent. I was particularly impressed with the accuracy. Right out of the box, I was able to achieve sub-MOA groups with the 77-grain ammunition, something my previous upper receiver struggled to do. I didn’t experience any malfunctions or hiccups during the first range session, and the A2 Birdcage Flash Hider did an adequate job of minimizing muzzle flash.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Faxon Firearms Ascent 16 inch 5.56x45mm NATO Upper Receiver with Flash Hider Assembly continues to impress. I’ve put hundreds of rounds through it in various conditions, including a rainy training day and a scorching hot desert shoot. The finish shows no signs of wear, and the components remain tight and secure.

Maintenance is a breeze. A quick wipe-down after each range session keeps it running smoothly. Compared to my previous, more expensive upper receiver, the Faxon Firearms Ascent has proven to be just as reliable and accurate, if not more so. The consistency and dependability have been a pleasant surprise, further solidifying my initial positive impressions.

Breaking Down the Features of Faxon Firearms Ascent 16 inch 5.56x45mm NATO Upper Receiver with Flash Hider Assembly

Specifications

• The Faxon Firearms Ascent 16 inch 5.56x45mm NATO Upper Receiver with Flash Hider Assembly is chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO, making it compatible with all standard AR-15 lower receivers and magazines. This allows for widespread use and ammunition availability.
• It features a 16-inch Gov/Socom profile barrel, balancing maneuverability and accuracy. The SOCOM profile provides optimal stiffness and heat dissipation during sustained fire.
• The gas system is rifle length, which is known for its smooth recoil impulse and reliability. Rifle-length gas systems are less prone to issues than carbine-length systems, especially with a wide range of ammunition.
• The barrel has a 1/2×28 thread pitch, standard for 5.56 barrels, allowing for the easy installation of various muzzle devices. This allows for easy customization with different compensators, suppressors, or flash hiders.
• It comes with an A2 Birdcage Flash Hider, a simple and effective muzzle device for reducing muzzle flash. The A2 Flash Hider is a cost-effective solution for improving visibility in low-light conditions.
• The handguard is a 13-inch Aluminum M-LOK handguard, offering plenty of space for mounting accessories. M-LOK provides a lightweight and versatile attachment system.
• The gas block journal size is .750 inches, which is a common size, ensuring compatibility with many aftermarket gas blocks. This allows for upgrades or replacements if desired.
• The upper receiver includes a superfinished full-mass 5.56 Bolt Carrier Group (BCG), enhancing reliability and smooth operation. Superfinished BCGs reduce friction and improve cycling.

Performance & Functionality

The Faxon Firearms Ascent 16 inch 5.56x45mm NATO Upper Receiver with Flash Hider Assembly performs admirably, offering excellent accuracy and reliability for its price point. Its accuracy, with good ammo, rivals that of some premium builds. The rifle-length gas system contributes to a smooth and manageable recoil, making it comfortable to shoot for extended periods.

One minor weakness is the included A2 flash hider, which, while functional, is not the most effective muzzle device on the market. An upgrade to a more advanced compensator or flash hider would further enhance performance. Overall, the Faxon Firearms Ascent exceeds expectations for an upper receiver in its price range.

Design & Ergonomics

The Faxon Firearms Ascent boasts a well-thought-out design and comfortable ergonomics. The M-LOK handguard provides a solid and comfortable grip, with plenty of space for accessories. The weight is well-balanced, making the rifle easy to handle and maneuver.

The fit and finish are excellent, with smooth edges and no sharp corners. The anodizing is even and durable, providing a professional and appealing look. There’s no significant learning curve. This makes it easy to install and use, even for novice AR builders.

Durability & Maintenance

The Faxon Firearms Ascent 16 inch 5.56x45mm NATO Upper Receiver with Flash Hider Assembly appears to be built to last. The quality materials and robust construction suggest it can withstand significant use and abuse. Maintenance is simple and straightforward, requiring only basic cleaning and lubrication.

The superfinished BCG is especially easy to clean, further reducing maintenance time. With proper care, this upper receiver should provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Faxon Firearms Ascent is highly customizable. The M-LOK handguard allows for the easy attachment of lights, lasers, grips, and other accessories. The 1/2×28 threaded barrel allows for swapping out the included A2 flash hider for other muzzle devices.

The .750 gas block journal allows for upgrading to an adjustable gas block for even finer tuning of the rifle’s performance. Because it uses standard AR-15 parts, compatibility with aftermarket accessories is excellent.

Pros and Cons of Faxon Firearms Ascent 16 inch 5.56x45mm NATO Upper Receiver with Flash Hider Assembly