What Makes Primary Weapons Systems UXR 8.6 Blackout 14.50” Barrel Conversion Kit Stand Out?
The Primary Weapons Systems UXR 8.6 Blackout 14.50” Barrel Conversion Kit offers a groundbreaking solution for shooters seeking unparalleled versatility in their AR platform. This kit, designed by Primary Weapons Systems, allows for a swift and simple caliber change to the increasingly popular 8.6 Blackout, a round known for its subsonic capabilities and impressive terminal ballistics, particularly at shorter distances. Its innovative XChange system simplifies swapping barrels, bolts, and magwells, making it stand out from other modular rifle systems.
My interest in this conversion kit stemmed from a need to expand the capabilities of my existing AR platform. I was looking for a compact, hard-hitting solution for hog hunting in dense brush and a reliable subsonic option for suppressed shooting. The promise of easy caliber conversion and the growing reputation of the 8.6 Blackout made the PWS UXR kit a compelling option.
Unboxing the kit revealed a meticulously packaged set of components. The initial impression was one of quality; the barrel exhibited excellent machining, the bolt carrier group felt robust, and the magwell adapter was precisely fitted. The materials appeared to be top-notch, giving me confidence in the kit’s durability and performance.
While considering options, I looked at a complete 8.6 Blackout upper receiver group from Q, and a custom barrel build from a smaller manufacturer. The PWS UXR kit won out due to its promise of seamless integration with my existing lower and the overall cost-effectiveness of converting an existing platform versus purchasing a dedicated upper. The dot system for matching components also appealed to my desire for simplicity.
My first impression was excitement tempered with a bit of apprehension. The concept was intriguing, but the proof would be in the execution; would the UXR system truly be as easy to use and reliable as advertised?
Real-World Testing: Putting Primary Weapons Systems UXR 8.6 Blackout 14.50” Barrel Conversion Kit to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my local shooting range, a familiar environment for evaluating new firearm components. The weather was clear and mild, ideal conditions for sighting in the new barrel and function testing. I specifically wanted to assess the ease of installation and the rifle’s performance with both supersonic and subsonic 8.6 Blackout ammunition.
Installation of the UXR conversion kit was surprisingly straightforward. The color-coded dot system made matching the components intuitive, and the entire process took less than five minutes. The rifle cycled flawlessly with both supersonic and subsonic ammunition, and the 14.5″ barrel provided excellent accuracy.
No issues arose during the first range session. The conversion kit performed flawlessly, and the 8.6 Blackout proved to be a formidable cartridge. Recoil was manageable, even with supersonic rounds, and the accuracy was impressive, especially considering the relatively short barrel length.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Primary Weapons Systems UXR 8.6 Blackout 14.50” Barrel Conversion Kit has proven to be a reliable and durable addition to my AR platform. The kit has seen action during multiple hog hunts in challenging terrain and numerous range sessions with varying weather conditions. It continues to perform flawlessly.
The UXR kit shows minimal signs of wear and tear despite consistent use. The barrel’s finish remains intact, and the bolt carrier group operates smoothly. The 8.6 Blackout cartridge can get dirty, but with the right cleaning materials, the conversion kit has been surprisingly easy to maintain.
The UXR conversion kit has surpassed my expectations. It offers a level of versatility and performance that I previously thought unattainable. I appreciate its ease of use, durability, and, most importantly, its ability to transform my AR into a highly effective platform for various applications.
Breaking Down the Features of Primary Weapons Systems UXR 8.6 Blackout 14.50” Barrel Conversion Kit
Specifications
The Primary Weapons Systems UXR 8.6 Blackout 14.50” Barrel Conversion Kit boasts several key specifications:
- Caliber: 8.6mm Blackout – This provides optimal performance with heavy subsonic projectiles and good energy transfer at closer ranges.
- Barrel Length: 14.50” – A good balance of maneuverability and ballistic performance in the 8.6 Blackout cartridge.
- Magazine Capacity: 0 Round – Because the kit does NOT include a magazine. It requires a compatible magazine.
- Material: High-quality steel for barrel and bolt, and durable polymer for the magwell adapter. This ensures longevity and reliable function under stress.
- Color: Black – A standard color that blends well with most AR platforms.
These specifications are crucial for the UXR kit’s overall performance. The 8.6 Blackout caliber offers exceptional subsonic capabilities, while the 14.5″ barrel provides a good balance of compactness and ballistic effectiveness. The durable materials ensure the kit can withstand the rigors of regular use, and the black finish allows it to seamlessly integrate with most AR platforms.
Performance & Functionality
The Primary Weapons Systems UXR 8.6 Blackout 14.50” Barrel Conversion Kit excels in both performance and functionality. It reliably cycles both supersonic and subsonic ammunition. It also delivers exceptional accuracy out to reasonable distances for its intended purpose.
The UXR system’s greatest strength lies in its ease of use. The color-coded dot system makes caliber conversions quick and straightforward. The only area for improvement is that PWS should include magazine options to take advantage of this caliber.
The UXR conversion kit meets and even exceeds my expectations. It has proven to be a reliable and accurate platform for both hunting and target shooting. Its ease of use and durability are particularly impressive, making it a valuable addition to my AR platform.
Design & Ergonomics
The Primary Weapons Systems UXR 8.6 Blackout 14.50” Barrel Conversion Kit features a well-thought-out design focused on both form and function. The materials used are high-quality, resulting in a durable and reliable product. The weight is well-balanced.
The UXR kit is incredibly user-friendly. The simple installation process and intuitive dot system make it easy to switch calibers without any specialized tools or expertise. Even a novice AR user can easily install this conversion kit.
Durability & Maintenance
The Primary Weapons Systems UXR 8.6 Blackout 14.50” Barrel Conversion Kit is built to last. The high-quality materials and robust construction ensure it can withstand the rigors of regular use in demanding environments. With proper maintenance, this kit should provide years of reliable service.
Cleaning and maintaining the UXR kit is relatively simple. Regular cleaning of the barrel and bolt carrier group is essential to ensure optimal performance. With minimal care, the UXR conversion kit should remain in excellent working condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Primary Weapons Systems UXR 8.6 Blackout 14.50” Barrel Conversion Kit does not come with many accessories, focusing primarily on the core components needed for caliber conversion. However, it is compatible with a wide range of AR platform accessories. This includes various optics, rail systems, and stocks.
The UXR kit seamlessly integrates with standard AR-15 lowers. This allows users to customize their rifle with their preferred accessories, such as triggers, grips, and buffer systems. The compatibility with a wide range of aftermarket parts makes the UXR conversion kit a highly versatile platform for building a custom 8.6 Blackout rifle.
Pros and Cons of Primary Weapons Systems UXR 8.6 Blackout 14.50” Barrel Conversion Kit
Pros
- Effortless Caliber Conversion: The XChange system simplifies swapping calibers, saving time and effort.
- Excellent Accuracy: The 14.5″ barrel delivers impressive accuracy with both supersonic and subsonic ammunition.
- Durable Construction: High-quality materials ensure longevity and reliable performance.
- User-Friendly Design: The intuitive dot system makes installation and operation easy, even for novice users.
- Versatile Compatibility: Integrates seamlessly with standard AR-15 lowers and a wide range of aftermarket accessories.
Cons
- Magazine Compatibility: Requires specific magazine; It would be better to have magazines included.
- Limited Included Accessories: Comes with only the core components; additional accessories must be purchased separately.
Who Should Buy Primary Weapons Systems UXR 8.6 Blackout 14.50” Barrel Conversion Kit?
The Primary Weapons Systems UXR 8.6 Blackout 14.50” Barrel Conversion Kit is perfect for:
- Hunters seeking a compact and powerful platform for close-range hunting of hogs or deer in dense brush.
- Shooters interested in suppressed shooting and the excellent subsonic performance of the 8.6 Blackout.
- AR-15 enthusiasts who want to expand the versatility of their existing platform without purchasing a completely new rifle.
This product may not be ideal for:
- Shooters primarily focused on long-range shooting, as the 8.6 Blackout is optimized for shorter distances.
- Those who prefer a complete, ready-to-go rifle package without any need for customization.
A must-have accessory for this kit is a quality optic, such as a red dot sight or a low-power variable optic (LPVO), to maximize the accuracy potential of the 8.6 Blackout cartridge. Also, make sure you have a compatible magazine to take advantage of this caliber.
Conclusion on Primary Weapons Systems UXR 8.6 Blackout 14.50” Barrel Conversion Kit
The Primary Weapons Systems UXR 8.6 Blackout 14.50” Barrel Conversion Kit is a game-changer for AR-15 enthusiasts seeking unparalleled versatility and performance. Its innovative XChange system, combined with the potent 8.6 Blackout cartridge, makes it a top contender for hunters, suppressed shooters, and anyone looking to expand the capabilities of their existing AR platform. At $499.95, the price is justified given the quality, performance, and versatility it offers.
I wholeheartedly recommend the PWS UXR 8.6 Blackout conversion kit to anyone looking to add a new dimension to their AR-15. Its ease of use, durability, and exceptional performance make it a worthwhile investment. Upgrade your AR today and experience the power and versatility of the 8.6 Blackout!