First Impressions of Moriarti AR-15 16 inch .300 AAC Blackout Upper Receiver Assembly
The Moriarti AR-15 16 inch .300 AAC Blackout Upper Receiver Assembly promises to be a straightforward way to convert your existing AR-15 platform into a .300 Blackout rifle. Moriarti advertises it as a simple drop-in solution, requiring only the upper assembly and .300 BLK ammunition to get started. It’s a tempting proposition, especially for those already invested in the AR-15 ecosystem.
For years, I’ve been looking for a way to experiment with the .300 Blackout cartridge without building a completely new rifle. The cartridge’s reputation for suppressed shooting and effectiveness at shorter ranges intrigued me. The Moriarti upper seemed like a budget-friendly option to explore these benefits.
My first impression upon unboxing was generally positive, the hardcoat anodized finish looked clean, and the 15-inch M-LOK handguard felt solid. The weight felt appropriate for a 16-inch barrel upper, maybe a tad front-heavy, but nothing alarming. It certainly looked like a step up from some of the cheaper uppers I’ve handled in the past.
I considered other complete uppers from companies like Aero Precision and Palmetto State Armory. However, the Moriarti offering had a price point that was hard to ignore, given my intention to primarily use it as a range toy and potential hog hunting rifle. The other options certainly have reputations of great quality, but the price difference was the deciding factor for this project.
Honestly, I was cautiously optimistic. I have heard both good and bad things about the brand, but felt like the risk was worth the reward, given the value proposition. I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype or if it was too good to be true.
Real-World Testing: Putting Moriarti AR-15 16 inch .300 AAC Blackout Upper Receiver Assembly to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Moriarti AR-15 16 inch .300 AAC Blackout Upper Receiver Assembly at my local outdoor range, a pretty standard setup with distances out to 200 yards. The weather was dry and mild, ideal for sighting in and getting a feel for the new upper. I mounted a red dot sight I had lying around to the upper and loaded up some subsonic rounds.
The initial experience was smooth, with no failures to feed or extract during the first few magazines. The recoil impulse of the .300 Blackout was noticeable but manageable, even with the included triport muzzle brake. Zeroing the optic took a little longer than expected, but once dialed in, the upper seemed to hold its zero well.
I did notice that the upper receiver felt a little gritty during cycling, like it needed to be properly broken in. It may be beneficial to completely disassemble, clean and oil, before putting it to use. I experienced no other major issues, but the overall feel was a bit rough around the edges at first.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range trips spanning a few months, the Moriarti AR-15 16 inch .300 AAC Blackout Upper Receiver Assembly has held up reasonably well. The finish has shown some minor wear around the ejection port, which is to be expected. Regular cleaning and lubrication have kept the action running smoothly, so thankfully that initial grittiness worked itself out.
I’ve put a few hundred rounds through it, and I have experienced zero malfunctions. I am very happy with it’s reliability, and I plan to test it with more rounds in the future. Maintenance is straightforward.
Compared to a higher-end upper I own from Bravo Company Manufacturing (BCM), the Moriarti lacks the refined feel and smooth operation of that brand. However, considering the significant price difference, the Moriarti has performed admirably, providing a reliable and functional .300 Blackout experience. For the money, I am happy with the result.
Breaking Down the Features of Moriarti AR-15 16 inch .300 AAC Blackout Upper Receiver Assembly
Specifications
The Moriarti AR-15 16 inch .300 AAC Blackout Upper Receiver Assembly boasts a 16-inch 4150 CMV steel barrel chambered in .300 AAC Blackout. It features a 1-7 twist rate, which is ideal for stabilizing both subsonic and supersonic rounds. The pistol-length gas system is designed for optimal performance with the .300 Blackout cartridge.
The upper receiver is made from 7075-T6 aluminum and finished with a hardcoat anodized coating. It includes a 15-inch M-LOK handguard for accessory attachment and a triport muzzle brake. The barrel has 5/8×24 threads, allowing for the use of various muzzle devices and suppressors.
These specifications are important because they contribute to the upper’s reliability, accuracy, and versatility. The 1-7 twist rate ensures compatibility with a wide range of .300 Blackout ammunition, while the pistol-length gas system is optimized for the cartridge’s unique pressure curve. The M-LOK handguard provides ample space for mounting optics, lights, and other accessories, enhancing the upper’s functionality.
Performance & Functionality
The Moriarti AR-15 16 inch .300 AAC Blackout Upper Receiver Assembly performs its job as a .300 Blackout conversion reasonably well, especially considering its price point. Accuracy is acceptable, with consistent groupings achievable at 100 yards with quality ammunition. Its functionality is solid.
The upper’s strengths lie in its simplicity and ease of installation. However, the included triport muzzle brake can be quite loud, especially without hearing protection. A definite weakness is the muzzle device, but can be easily changed to something more appropriate.
For its price, the upper met my expectations, providing an affordable entry point into the .300 Blackout world. It will never be a top-tier rifle upper, but it is good enough for my needs. It’s a functional and reliable platform for recreational shooting and potentially even hog hunting.
Design & Ergonomics
The Moriarti AR-15 16 inch .300 AAC Blackout Upper Receiver Assembly features a standard AR-15 design, with a few notable additions. The build quality is decent, the 7075-T6 aluminum receiver feels solid, and the hardcoat anodized finish provides adequate protection against wear and tear. The weight is balanced for a 16-inch barrel, the weight is appropriate for the size.
The 15-inch M-LOK handguard offers a comfortable grip and plenty of space for mounting accessories. There is no real learning curve involved in operating the upper, as it functions identically to any other AR-15 upper receiver assembly.
The standard AR-15 ergonomics are familiar and comfortable, making the Moriarti upper easy to use for experienced shooters. This upper receiver will be a great platform for the .300 Blackout.
Durability & Maintenance
The Moriarti AR-15 16 inch .300 AAC Blackout Upper Receiver Assembly appears to be reasonably durable, with the hardcoat anodized finish holding up well under normal use. The 4150 CMV steel barrel should provide a long service life with proper care. It will hopefully last a long time.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only basic cleaning and lubrication after each range session. The upper disassembles easily for thorough cleaning. There is nothing out of the ordinary for maintenance.
Overall, the Moriarti upper seems built to last, provided it is properly maintained. It’s not a high-end, match-grade upper, but it should withstand regular use for years to come.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Moriarti AR-15 16 inch .300 AAC Blackout Upper Receiver Assembly does not come with any included accessories beyond the assembled upper receiver and muzzle device. It offers a wide range of customization options.
The M-LOK handguard allows for the attachment of various accessories, such as lights, lasers, grips, and bipods. The 5/8×24 threaded barrel allows for the use of different muzzle devices, including suppressors. The upper is compatible with most standard AR-15 lower receivers and bolt carrier groups, providing even more customization options.
The ability to easily swap out the muzzle device and add accessories to the M-LOK handguard makes the Moriarti upper a versatile platform for various shooting applications. The customization options are great for adapting the rifle to specific needs and preferences.
Pros and Cons of Moriarti AR-15 16 inch .300 AAC Blackout Upper Receiver Assembly
Pros
- Affordable entry point into the .300 Blackout cartridge.
- 16-inch 4150 CMV steel barrel with 1-7 twist rate provides good accuracy and versatility.
- 15-inch M-LOK handguard offers ample space for mounting accessories.
- Easy to install and use on any standard AR-15 lower receiver.
- Hardcoat anodized finish provides decent durability.
Cons
- Included triport muzzle brake is excessively loud.
- Fit and finish could be more refined, with some potential for rough edges.
- Bolt Carrier Group and Charging Handle not included.
Who Should Buy Moriarti AR-15 16 inch .300 AAC Blackout Upper Receiver Assembly?
The Moriarti AR-15 16 inch .300 AAC Blackout Upper Receiver Assembly is perfect for budget-minded shooters who want to experiment with the .300 Blackout cartridge without breaking the bank. It’s also a good option for those looking for a reliable and functional upper for recreational shooting or hog hunting.
Those who prioritize top-tier performance and refined fit and finish should skip this product. Competition shooters or those who demand the absolute best accuracy and reliability may want to invest in a higher-end upper receiver assembly from a more reputable manufacturer.
A must-have modification is replacing the included triport muzzle brake with a suppressor or a less obnoxious muzzle device. A quality optic and a reliable bolt carrier group are also essential for optimal performance.
Conclusion on Moriarti AR-15 16 inch .300 AAC Blackout Upper Receiver Assembly
The Moriarti AR-15 16 inch .300 AAC Blackout Upper Receiver Assembly offers a decent value proposition for those seeking an affordable entry into the .300 Blackout world. While it may not be the most refined or high-performance upper on the market, it provides reliable functionality and reasonable accuracy for its price point.
The price is justified, it’s hard to argue with the price. It is a good product for a fraction of the cost of alternatives.
I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a budget-friendly way to convert their AR-15 into a .300 Blackout rifle, as long as they are aware of its limitations. For the price, you cannot beat the value. Give the Moriarti AR-15 16 inch .300 AAC Blackout Upper Receiver Assembly a try.