First Thoughts on the Foxtrot Mike Gen 2 Complete Upper 13.9″ Intermediate Gas W/A2 Flash Hider
The Foxtrot Mike Gen 2 Complete Upper 13.9″ Intermediate Gas W/A2 Flash Hider promises a modern take on the AR-15 platform. This upper receiver features an integrated recoil system and forward charging handle. Foxtrot Mike has a solid reputation in the PCC world. So, I was eager to see how this translated to a traditional AR-15 style upper.
My interest was piqued by the promise of a buffer-less system. I wanted to build a compact, reliable AR-15 pistol with a folding brace, and this seemed like the perfect solution. The idea of ditching the buffer tube without sacrificing performance was very appealing.
Unboxing the upper was impressive. The fit and finish were excellent, and the forward charging handle felt surprisingly natural. The handguard was lightweight and the M-Lok slots looked perfect for attaching accessories. The overall build quality felt solid and professional.
I considered other buffer-less uppers, but the Foxtrot Mike offering stood out due to its intermediate gas system and positive reviews on their PCC platform. The integrated recoil system also seemed more robust than some competing designs. I picked this due to Foxtrot Mike’s reputation for quality and innovation in the firearms industry.
My first impression was excitement. The Foxtrot Mike Gen 2 Complete Upper felt like a well-engineered piece of kit. I was eager to get it mounted on a lower and see how it performed at the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Foxtrot Mike Gen 2 Complete Upper 13.9″ Intermediate Gas W/A2 Flash Hider to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test was at an outdoor range in moderately dusty conditions. I mounted the Foxtrot Mike Gen 2 Complete Upper on a mil-spec AR-15 lower. I also attached a Sig Sauer Romeo5 red dot sight. The initial setup was straightforward using the included picatinny rail adapter.
The forward charging handle proved intuitive and easy to manipulate, even with gloves. The recoil impulse was noticeably different from a standard AR-15, feeling more direct and less “bouncy.” I did experience a few failures to eject within the first 50 rounds, but they cleared up after a thorough cleaning and lubrication.
After the first use, I was impressed by the accuracy and the potential of the system, but also a bit concerned about the initial malfunctions. I attributed them to the upper needing a “break-in” period.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several hundred rounds and consistent cleaning/lubrication, the Foxtrot Mike Gen 2 Complete Upper has proven to be quite reliable. I have used it in both dry and slightly wet conditions without any further malfunctions. The upper holds up well after extended use.
There are minimal signs of wear and tear beyond the expected friction marks on the bolt carrier. Cleaning the upper is straightforward, and the design allows easy access to the bolt carrier group and gas system. Regular lubrication is essential to maintain smooth operation.
Compared to my previous AR-15 builds, the Foxtrot Mike upper offers a noticeably smoother and flatter shooting experience. The reduced reciprocating mass makes a significant difference in felt recoil.
Breaking Down the Features of Foxtrot Mike Gen 2 Complete Upper 13.9″ Intermediate Gas W/A2 Flash Hider
Specifications
The Foxtrot Mike Gen 2 Complete Upper 13.9″ Intermediate Gas W/A2 Flash Hider is chambered in .223 Wylde, offering compatibility with both 5.56 NATO and .223 Remington ammunition. This provides versatility in ammunition selection.
The upper features a 13.9-inch 41V50 barrel with a 1-8 twist rate. The barrel is vacuum stress relieved and button rifled for enhanced accuracy.
It utilizes an intermediate-length gas system. This gas system length is designed for optimal performance with the 13.9″ barrel, promoting smoother cycling and reduced recoil.
The upper receiver is designed to function without a buffer tube. This allows for the use of folding or collapsible stocks/braces.
It includes a lightweight M-Lok compatible handguard. The handguard features an interlocking tab with the upper receiver for improved alignment.
The proprietary bolt carrier is machined from pre-hard 4342 steel and vacuum heat treated. This ensures strength and durability.
The A2 flash hider helps to mitigate muzzle flash. This helps to reduce visual signature in low-light conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Foxtrot Mike Gen 2 Complete Upper performs admirably. It provides good accuracy and a noticeable reduction in recoil compared to standard AR-15 uppers. The forward charging handle offers improved ergonomics and allows for faster reloads and malfunction clearing.
The strengths of this upper lie in its innovative design and enhanced ergonomics. The buffer-less system allows for greater flexibility in stock/brace selection. The potential weaknesses are the need for meticulous cleaning and lubrication.
It meets expectations as a reliable and accurate AR-15 upper. The reduced recoil and improved ergonomics enhance the overall shooting experience.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. The materials used feel premium and durable. The lightweight design makes it comfortable to handle and maneuver.
The upper is user-friendly, and the forward charging handle is easy to operate. However, new users may need some time to adjust to the buffer-less recoil system.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care and maintenance, this upper should last for many years. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential for maintaining optimal performance. Replacing parts in the integrated recoil system may require specialized tools and knowledge.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Foxtrot Mike Gen 2 Complete Upper comes with a picatinny rail adapter, allowing you to mount it to any mil-spec AR-15 lower receiver. The M-Lok handguard provides ample space for attaching accessories such as lights, lasers, and foregrips.
The upper is compatible with most mil-spec AR-15 triggers and lower receiver components. However, ensure compatibility with the buffer-less recoil system before installing any aftermarket parts.
Pros and Cons of Foxtrot Mike Gen 2 Complete Upper 13.9″ Intermediate Gas W/A2 Flash Hider
Pros
- Buffer-less design allows for compact builds and folding stocks/braces.
- Forward charging handle enhances ergonomics and usability.
- Noticeably reduced recoil impulse for quicker follow-up shots.
- High-quality construction and durable materials.
- Intermediate gas system optimizes performance with the 13.9″ barrel.
Cons
- Higher price point compared to standard AR-15 uppers.
- Requires meticulous cleaning and lubrication for reliable operation.
- Proprietary parts may be more difficult to source and replace.
Who Should Buy Foxtrot Mike Gen 2 Complete Upper 13.9″ Intermediate Gas W/A2 Flash Hider?
This upper is perfect for those looking to build a compact and lightweight AR-15 pistol or SBR with a folding stock or brace. It’s also great for shooters who appreciate improved ergonomics and reduced recoil.
Those who should skip this product are budget-conscious builders and those who prefer the simplicity of a standard AR-15 platform. Also, anyone unwilling to maintain their firearms meticulously might want to steer clear.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality red dot sight or optic. It is also recommended to use a premium mil-spec lower receiver and a reliable trigger.
Conclusion on Foxtrot Mike Gen 2 Complete Upper 13.9″ Intermediate Gas W/A2 Flash Hider
The Foxtrot Mike Gen 2 Complete Upper 13.9″ Intermediate Gas W/A2 Flash Hider is an innovative and well-engineered product. It offers a unique shooting experience and opens up possibilities for compact AR-15 builds.
The price is justified by the quality, features, and performance it delivers. It’s a worthwhile investment for those who value innovation and improved ergonomics.
I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a premium AR-15 upper with a buffer-less design. If you’re looking to take your AR build to the next level, give the Foxtrot Mike Gen 2 a try – you won’t be disappointed!