Ghost Firearms Elite 7.5 in .300 Blackout Complete Upper Receiver with Flash Hider Review

First Impressions of Ghost Firearms Elite 7.5 in .300 Blackout Complete Upper Receiver with Flash Hider

The Ghost Firearms Elite 7.5 in .300 Blackout Complete Upper Receiver with Flash Hider is designed to provide AR-15 enthusiasts with a compact and potent platform chambered in the versatile .300 Blackout cartridge. Ghost Firearms is a brand known for producing reliable components, and this upper receiver promises to deliver on that reputation. The short barrel length and M-Lok handguard immediately suggest maneuverability and customization options. I was eager to get my hands on it to see if it lives up to the hype of offering both power and portability in a compact package.

I’ve always been intrigued by the .300 Blackout cartridge for its suppressed capabilities and effectiveness in close-quarters scenarios. My primary AR-15 is a 16-inch 5.56, which is great for general use, but I wanted a dedicated short-barreled rifle (SBR) upper for home defense and potential hog hunting. The appeal of a shorter, more maneuverable platform with the added punch of the .300 Blackout was a significant driver in my decision to explore this upper receiver.

Upon unboxing the Ghost Firearms Elite 7.5 in .300 Blackout Complete Upper Receiver with Flash Hider, my first impression was positive. The black nitride finish on the barrel looked clean and professional, and the M-Lok handguard felt solid. The weight was noticeably lighter than my existing 16-inch upper, which was expected given the shorter barrel. The upper receiver itself appeared well-machined with tight tolerances, indicating a good level of quality control.

I considered the Aero Precision 7.5″ .300 Blackout Complete Upper and the Palmetto State Armory 7.5″ .300 Blackout Upper. I opted for the Ghost Firearms model due to Ghost Firearms’s reputation for quality and the specific features, such as the 4150 Light HBAR barrel profile, which I hoped would provide enhanced accuracy. Plus, the price point was competitive.

Initially, I was excited about the potential of this upper. The compact size and the .300 Blackout cartridge’s reputation for suppressed performance had me eager to get it to the range. I wasn’t disappointed, but I wasn’t blown away either; I was cautiously optimistic that this upper would perform well after some initial break-in.

Real-World Testing: Putting Ghost Firearms Elite 7.5 in .300 Blackout Complete Upper Receiver with Flash Hider to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Ghost Firearms Elite 7.5 in .300 Blackout Complete Upper Receiver with Flash Hider at an outdoor shooting range, primarily focusing on its performance at distances of 25 to 50 yards. The weather was clear and mild, providing ideal shooting conditions. I used both supersonic and subsonic .300 Blackout ammunition from various manufacturers, including Remington, Hornady, and Sig Sauer, to assess its performance with different loads.

The upper receiver performed surprisingly well, even though it did need some initial break-in. The pistol-length gas system seemed to be tuned correctly, as the cycling was smooth and consistent with both supersonic and subsonic ammunition. I did experience a few failure-to-feed issues during the first 50 rounds with subsonic ammunition, but those disappeared after the break-in period.

I didn’t need much time to get used to the shorter barrel and the resulting change in handling characteristics. The compact size made it easy to maneuver, especially when transitioning between targets. However, the recoil was more pronounced compared to my 16-inch AR-15, which is expected with a shorter barrel and pistol-length gas system.

After the first range session, I was pleased with the overall performance of the upper. The initial failure-to-feed issues were a minor concern, but the fact that they resolved themselves after a short break-in period was encouraging. The accuracy was acceptable for a 7.5-inch barrel, and the maneuverability was a definite plus.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Ghost Firearms Elite 7.5 in .300 Blackout Complete Upper Receiver with Flash Hider has held up remarkably well. I’ve put approximately 500 rounds through it, and it has become increasingly reliable with each range session. The black nitride finish on the barrel still looks new, with no signs of wear or corrosion.

The upper has proven to be quite durable. The Ghost Firearms M-Lok handguard is still rock solid, and I have not observed any loosening or shifting, even after extended periods of shooting. The upper receiver itself shows no signs of stress or cracking, indicating that it is constructed from high-quality materials.

Maintenance is straightforward. I clean the barrel and bolt carrier group after each range session using standard AR-15 cleaning procedures. The black nitride finish makes it easy to wipe away carbon buildup and fouling. I also periodically lubricate the moving parts to ensure smooth operation.

Compared to my previous experiences with other AR-15 upper receivers, the Ghost Firearms model stands out for its reliability and durability. It has outperformed my expectations for a budget-friendly option. It has become my go-to option for situations where maneuverability and compact size are crucial.

Breaking Down the Features of Ghost Firearms Elite 7.5 in .300 Blackout Complete Upper Receiver with Flash Hider

Specifications

The Ghost Firearms Elite 7.5 in .300 Blackout Complete Upper Receiver with Flash Hider boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance. It is chambered in .300 AAC Blackout (7.62x35mm), a versatile cartridge known for its effectiveness in both supersonic and subsonic configurations. The barrel length is 7.5 inches, offering a compact and maneuverable platform.

The barrel profile is a 4150 Light HBAR (Heavy Barrel AR), providing a balance between weight and rigidity for improved accuracy and heat dissipation. It utilizes a pistol-length gas system, optimized for the short barrel, ensuring reliable cycling. The barrel features a 1-8 twist rate, suitable for stabilizing a wide range of bullet weights commonly used in .300 Blackout.

The muzzle device is a standard A2 flash hider, which helps to reduce muzzle flash and directs the blast forward. It has a 7-inch M-Lok free-float handguard, offering ample space for mounting accessories. The upper receiver is constructed from Ghost Mil-Spec 7075 T6 aluminum, known for its strength and lightweight properties.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the upper receiver’s performance and overall user experience. The short barrel and pistol-length gas system make it ideal for close-quarters engagements. The 1-8 twist rate ensures that it can effectively stabilize both supersonic and subsonic rounds, providing versatility for various applications.

Performance & Functionality

The Ghost Firearms Elite 7.5 in .300 Blackout Complete Upper Receiver with Flash Hider performs admirably in its intended role. Its accuracy is acceptable for a short-barreled platform, consistently grouping within 2-3 inches at 50 yards with quality ammunition. Reliability has improved significantly after the initial break-in period, with minimal issues experienced since then.

The upper is easy to use, with a straightforward design and intuitive controls. The pistol-length gas system is well-tuned, providing smooth and consistent cycling with both supersonic and subsonic ammunition. The recoil is manageable, although more noticeable compared to longer-barreled AR-15s.

One notable strength is its compact size and maneuverability, making it well-suited for close-quarters scenarios and home defense. A potential weakness is the increased muzzle blast and flash, typical of short-barreled firearms. This can be mitigated with the use of a more effective muzzle device or a suppressor.

Overall, the Ghost Firearms Elite 7.5 in .300 Blackout Complete Upper Receiver with Flash Hider meets my expectations for a budget-friendly, short-barreled .300 Blackout upper. It offers a good balance of performance, reliability, and value.

Design & Ergonomics

The Ghost Firearms Elite 7.5 in .300 Blackout Complete Upper Receiver with Flash Hider features a functional and practical design. The 7075 T6 aluminum construction provides a good balance between strength and weight, making it comfortable to handle. The black nitride finish gives it a clean and professional appearance, while also providing corrosion resistance.

The M-Lok handguard offers ample space for mounting accessories such as lights, lasers, and foregrips. The handguard’s slim profile makes it comfortable to grip. The upper receiver’s standard AR-15 design ensures compatibility with most lower receivers and accessories.

The upper receiver is user-friendly. There’s no significant learning curve for those familiar with the AR-15 platform. The controls are easily accessible and intuitive.

Durability & Maintenance

The Ghost Firearms Elite 7.5 in .300 Blackout Complete Upper Receiver with Flash Hider appears to be built to last. The high-quality materials and robust construction suggest that it can withstand heavy use and harsh conditions. The black nitride finish on the barrel provides excellent corrosion resistance.

Maintenance is relatively easy. Regular cleaning and lubrication are all that’s needed to keep it running smoothly. The upper receiver disassembles easily for thorough cleaning and inspection.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Ghost Firearms Elite 7.5 in .300 Blackout Complete Upper Receiver with Flash Hider comes standard with an A2 flash hider. Its M-Lok handguard allows for various customization options, including the addition of lights, lasers, foregrips, and sling mounts. The standard AR-15 design ensures compatibility with a wide range of aftermarket accessories, such as different charging handles and bolt carrier groups.

The upper receiver is compatible with most AR-15 lower receivers, providing flexibility in building a complete firearm. Additionally, it can be paired with various optics, such as red dot sights, holographic sights, or magnified scopes, depending on the intended use. The Ghost Firearms Elite 7.5 in .300 Blackout Complete Upper Receiver with Flash Hider is highly customizable to fit individual preferences and needs.

Pros and Cons of Ghost Firearms Elite 7.5 in .300 Blackout Complete Upper Receiver with Flash Hider

Who Should Buy Ghost Firearms Elite 7.5 in .300 Blackout Complete Upper Receiver with Flash Hider?

This upper receiver is perfect for individuals looking for a compact and maneuverable AR-15 platform chambered in .300 Blackout. It’s ideal for home defense, close-quarters engagements, and hog hunting. It is also a good option for those who prioritize portability and ease of handling.

Individuals who prioritize long-range accuracy or prefer a more traditional AR-15 configuration should skip this product. It may not be the best choice for those who are sensitive to recoil or muzzle blast.

A must-have accessory is a quality red dot sight or holographic sight for quick target acquisition. A suppressor can significantly reduce muzzle blast and flash. Upgrading the trigger can also improve accuracy and overall shooting experience.

Conclusion on Ghost Firearms Elite 7.5 in .300 Blackout Complete Upper Receiver with Flash Hider

The Ghost Firearms Elite 7.5 in .300 Blackout Complete Upper Receiver with Flash Hider is a solid choice for those seeking a compact and reliable .300 Blackout AR-15 upper. While it had some minor initial issues, it has proven to be a capable and durable platform after the break-in period. Its compact size and maneuverability make it well-suited for close-quarters scenarios.

The price is justified by its performance and quality construction, offering excellent value for the money. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a budget-friendly, short-barreled .300 Blackout upper receiver.

If you’re looking to build a compact and potent AR-15 pistol or SBR, the Ghost Firearms Elite 7.5 in .300 Blackout Complete Upper Receiver with Flash Hider is definitely worth considering. Don’t hesitate to add this to your cart and experience the power and maneuverability it offers.