JARD AR Side Charge No Bolt Upper Receiver Assembly Review

Let’s Talk About JARD AR Side Charge No Bolt Upper Receiver Assembly

The JARD AR Side Charge No Bolt Upper Receiver Assembly offers a compelling alternative to the traditional AR-15 charging system. Manufactured by JARD, this assembly replaces the standard rear charging handle with a side-mounted one, aiming for quicker and more ergonomic operation, especially when using optics. The quick bolt removal feature is a standout, promising easy maintenance.

I was drawn to the JARD AR Side Charge No Bolt Upper Receiver Assembly because I run a magnified optic on my AR and wanted a more natural charging solution. Reaching for the rear charging handle always felt awkward and broke my cheek weld. I was hoping for improved speed and efficiency.

Upon unboxing, the JARD receiver felt solid, though a little rough around the edges. The side charging handle felt robust and well-placed. The included bolt carrier group looked standard, but the quick-release mechanism intrigued me.

I considered the Gibbz Arms side charging upper and the BRN-180 upper, but chose the JARD due to its unique bolt removal system and lower price point. The Gibbz was significantly more expensive, and the BRN-180 is a different operating system altogether. My initial feeling was cautiously optimistic, hoping the improved ergonomics would outweigh any potential quality concerns.

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Real-World Testing: Putting JARD AR Side Charge No Bolt Upper Receiver Assembly to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the JARD AR Side Charge No Bolt Upper Receiver Assembly at my local outdoor range. It was a sunny day, around 70 degrees Fahrenheit with a slight breeze. I ran about 200 rounds of mixed .223 and 5.56 through it, focusing on drills involving rapid target acquisition and reloading.

The side charging handle definitely felt more natural and faster to use than the standard rear charging handle. Maintaining my sight picture while charging was significantly easier. There were some initial hiccups: the action felt a bit gritty and required more force than I expected, but it seemed to smooth out after the first few magazines.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months and around 1000 rounds, the JARD AR Side Charge No Bolt Upper Receiver Assembly has proven to be generally reliable, but not without some caveats. The anodizing inside the receiver shows noticeable wear where the bolt carrier rubs. Cleaning is straightforward, though the bolt carrier group requires the same attention as any standard AR-15 BCG.

I’ve definitely noticed that the rifle runs slightly dirtier with the side charging upper than with a standard upper. This may be due to the slightly looser tolerances required for the side charging mechanism. Compared to my experience with a mil-spec upper, the JARD requires more frequent cleaning to maintain optimal performance.

Breaking Down the Features of JARD AR Side Charge No Bolt Upper Receiver Assembly

Specifications

• Manufacturer: JARD
• Caliber: .223 Remington/5.56x45mm NATO, .300 AAC Blackout, .350 Legend, .204 Ruger. This allows for flexibility in building your AR platform.
• Color: Black. Provides a standard, tactical look.
• Gun Make: AR Platform. Ensures compatibility with most AR-15 lowers.
• Included Accessories: Side Charge Handle, Bolt Carrier with Gas Key, Upper Receiver. Everything needed to complete the upper receiver assembly is included.
• Bolt Face: .378. A standard bolt face for common AR-15 calibers.

These specifications are crucial because they dictate the functionality and compatibility of the upper receiver with existing AR-15 components. The multi-caliber compatibility is a significant selling point, allowing users to swap barrels and use the same upper for different shooting needs.

Performance & Functionality

The JARD AR Side Charge No Bolt Upper Receiver Assembly excels in its primary function: providing a more ergonomic charging experience. The side charging handle allows for faster reloads and malfunction clearing, especially with optics mounted. It also keeps the firing hand closer to the trigger.

However, the finish and tolerances leave room for improvement. As noted earlier, the anodizing wears quickly, and the action can feel gritty initially. It does meet expectations for improved ergonomics but falls short on overall fit and finish compared to higher-end options.

Design & Ergonomics

The design is well-thought-out, placing the charging handle in a comfortable and easily accessible location. The quick bolt removal feature is innovative and simplifies maintenance. The build quality is decent, though the anodizing and some rough edges detract from the overall impression.

There’s a slight learning curve to the bolt removal process, but it’s easily mastered with a little practice. The side charging handle is ambidextrous, which is a plus for left-handed shooters.

Durability & Maintenance

The long-term durability is a concern due to the observed wear on the anodizing and the slightly looser tolerances. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential to maintain smooth operation. While the quick bolt removal simplifies maintenance, the overall finish suggests it may not hold up as well as some competitors.

Replacing worn parts should be relatively straightforward as it uses a standard AR-15 bolt carrier group, but the receiver itself may require more care to prevent excessive wear. The need for more frequent cleaning makes it unsuitable for situations where a rifle needs to perform reliably for extended periods without maintenance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The JARD AR Side Charge No Bolt Upper Receiver Assembly is compatible with standard AR-15 handguards, muzzle devices, and optics. The upper receiver features a Picatinny rail for mounting optics.

It does not require any special tools or modifications to install on a standard AR-15 lower receiver. Users can easily swap out the charging handle for aftermarket options if desired.

Pros and Cons of JARD AR Side Charge No Bolt Upper Receiver Assembly

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Who Should Buy JARD AR Side Charge No Bolt Upper Receiver Assembly?

The JARD AR Side Charge No Bolt Upper Receiver Assembly is perfect for shooters who prioritize ergonomics and faster reloads, particularly those using magnified optics. It’s also suitable for those seeking a more affordable entry into the world of side charging AR platforms.

Those who demand top-tier durability and a flawless finish should skip this product. Competitive shooters or those using their rifles in harsh environments may want to invest in a higher-end side charging upper with tighter tolerances and a more durable finish.

A quality bolt carrier group lubricant is a must-have accessory to mitigate the gritty action. Also, consider a more durable aftermarket charging handle if the included one doesn’t meet your needs.

Conclusion on JARD AR Side Charge No Bolt Upper Receiver Assembly

The JARD AR Side Charge No Bolt Upper Receiver Assembly offers a compelling upgrade for AR-15 enthusiasts seeking improved ergonomics and faster charging. While the finish and tolerances leave room for improvement, the side charging handle and quick bolt removal system offer significant advantages.

At a price of $329.95, the value proposition is decent, especially considering the cost of some competing side charging uppers. While not perfect, the JARD provides a functional and ergonomic upgrade at a reasonable price.

I would recommend the JARD AR Side Charge No Bolt Upper Receiver Assembly with reservations. If you’re willing to accept some minor imperfections and prioritize ergonomics over absolute durability, it’s a worthwhile upgrade. Consider the pros and cons carefully before making your decision, and be prepared to perform regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly.