Let’s Talk About Radical Firearms 10.5 in. 300 AAC Blackout Upper Assembly
The Radical Firearms 10.5 in. 300 AAC Blackout Upper Assembly offers an entry point into the world of short-barreled rifles (SBRs) and AR-15 pistols chambered in the versatile 300 Blackout cartridge. Radical Firearms aims to provide a mil-spec compliant upper receiver at a budget-friendly price, allowing enthusiasts to build their ideal AR platform without breaking the bank. Its features include a melonite-treated barrel, a free-float rail system, and a forged upper receiver.
I was looking for a compact and maneuverable upper receiver chambered in 300 Blackout for a dedicated home defense AR pistol build. I needed something reliable and accurate but didn’t want to spend a fortune. This fit the bill perfectly.
Out of the box, the upper receiver had a solid feel. The finish was even and well-applied, and the components felt securely assembled. It was properly oiled, indicating attention to detail during manufacturing.
I considered upper receivers from Palmetto State Armory (PSA) and Aero Precision. I chose the Radical Firearms offering due to its lower price point and the positive reviews regarding its reliability, which outweighed the perceived higher fit and finish of the Aero Precision.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The price was attractive, and the overall appearance was promising. I was eager to see how it would perform at the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Radical Firearms 10.5 in. 300 AAC Blackout Upper Assembly to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at an indoor shooting range. I used a variety of 300 Blackout ammunition, including both supersonic and subsonic rounds, to assess its performance. The upper receiver was mounted on a PSA pistol lower with a brace.
The Radical Firearms upper performed reliably across all ammunition types. Even with the shorter barrel, the recoil was manageable, and the muzzle rise was minimal. The accuracy was impressive for a 10.5-inch barrel.
The upper assembly required no break-in period and ran smoothly from the first round. I found the Keymod rail system comfortable and easy to grip. There were no immediate issues to report.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Radical Firearms 10.5 in. 300 AAC Blackout Upper Assembly continues to perform flawlessly. I have fired hundreds of rounds through it without any malfunctions. The finish has held up well, showing minimal signs of wear.
The upper receiver requires minimal maintenance. After each range session, I clean and lubricate the bolt carrier group and barrel. The melonite finish on the barrel makes cleaning quick and easy.
Compared to a previous 5.56 AR pistol I owned, the Radical Firearms upper offers superior performance in terms of recoil management and accuracy. The 300 Blackout cartridge is inherently more forgiving in a short-barreled platform. This has been the experience with other trusted brands like Daniel Defense.
Breaking Down the Features of Radical Firearms 10.5 in. 300 AAC Blackout Upper Assembly
Specifications
The Radical Firearms 10.5 in. 300 AAC Blackout Upper Assembly features a 10.5-inch HBAR profile barrel chambered in .300 AAC Blackout. The barrel is made from 4140V Chrome Moly steel with a 1 in 8 inch twist rate. It is also HPT/MPI tested, ensuring quality and reliability.
The upper receiver is forged and includes a forward assist and shell deflector. It utilizes a low-profile micro gas block and a DGI stainless pistol-length gas tube, employing a direct gas impingement system. The upper also comes with a Mil-Spec A2 flash hider, reducing flash signature.
The integrated Keymod and Picatinny rail system offers ample space for mounting lights, lasers, bipods, and sights. The M4 feed ramps ensure reliable feeding of ammunition. The finish is an anodized black, providing corrosion resistance.
These specifications translate to a compact, durable, and reliable upper receiver suitable for various applications. The shorter barrel length makes it ideal for close-quarters engagements, while the 300 Blackout chambering offers versatility with both supersonic and subsonic ammunition. The mil-spec components ensure compatibility with a wide range of AR-15 lowers.
Performance & Functionality
The Radical Firearms 10.5 in. 300 AAC Blackout Upper Assembly performs admirably in its intended role. Accuracy is acceptable for its barrel length, with consistent groupings achieved at distances up to 75 yards. It is very accurate with the 110gr Hornady V-MAX rounds!
The upper receiver functions reliably with both supersonic and subsonic ammunition, although an adjustable gas block might be beneficial for fine-tuning performance with different loads. The free-float rail system enhances accuracy by preventing the barrel from contacting the handguard.
The main strength of this upper receiver is its value for money. It offers a reliable and functional platform at an affordable price. A potential weakness is the lack of high-end features found on more expensive uppers, such as a match-grade barrel or enhanced bolt carrier group.
Design & Ergonomics
The Radical Firearms 10.5 in. 300 AAC Blackout Upper Assembly is designed with functionality in mind. The forged upper receiver is robust and well-finished. The Keymod rail system provides a comfortable and secure grip.
The upper receiver is relatively lightweight, making it easy to handle and maneuver. The A2 flash hider effectively reduces muzzle flash, particularly when using supersonic ammunition. The overall design is simple and straightforward.
There is no significant learning curve associated with using this upper receiver. It is compatible with standard AR-15 lowers and accessories. The ergonomics are generally good, although some users may prefer a different style of handguard.
Durability & Maintenance
The Radical Firearms 10.5 in. 300 AAC Blackout Upper Assembly appears to be durable and well-made. The melonite-treated barrel and anodized finish provide excellent corrosion resistance. The forged upper receiver is robust and capable of withstanding the rigors of regular use.
With proper maintenance, this upper receiver should last for many years. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential to ensure reliable function. The simplicity of the design makes it easy to maintain and repair.
Spare parts are readily available for the AR-15 platform, making repairs relatively straightforward. Overall, the durability and maintainability of this upper receiver are excellent for its price point.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Radical Firearms 10.5 in. 300 AAC Blackout Upper Assembly does not come with any accessories beyond the standard A2 flash hider. However, it is compatible with a wide range of AR-15 accessories. Optics can be mounted on the Picatinny rail section of the handguard.
The Keymod rail system allows for the attachment of various accessories, such as lights, lasers, and foregrips. The upper receiver is also compatible with different bolt carrier groups and charging handles.
The customization options for this upper receiver are virtually limitless. Users can easily swap out the handguard, barrel, or other components to suit their individual needs and preferences. This makes it a versatile platform for building a personalized AR-15 pistol.
Pros and Cons of Radical Firearms 10.5 in. 300 AAC Blackout Upper Assembly
Pros
- Affordable Price: The Radical Firearms 10.5 in. 300 AAC Blackout Upper Assembly provides excellent value for money, making it accessible to budget-conscious builders.
- Reliable Performance: It functions reliably with both supersonic and subsonic ammunition, ensuring consistent operation.
- Durable Construction: The melonite-treated barrel and forged upper receiver offer excellent corrosion resistance and longevity.
- Versatile Platform: It is compatible with a wide range of AR-15 lowers and accessories, allowing for extensive customization.
- Compact Size: The 10.5-inch barrel makes it ideal for close-quarters engagements and building a maneuverable AR pistol.
Cons
- A2 Flash Hider: Some user may prefer a different style muzzle device.
- Potential Aesthetic Concerns: Some customers have reported receiving handguards that differ slightly from the product images.
Who Should Buy Radical Firearms 10.5 in. 300 AAC Blackout Upper Assembly?
This upper receiver is perfect for budget-conscious AR-15 enthusiasts looking to build a reliable and compact 300 Blackout pistol. It’s also ideal for home defense and close-quarters situations. It serves well for those seeking an entry-level platform for customization.
This product might not be the best choice for those seeking high-end features or match-grade accuracy. Competition shooters and those prioritizing absolute precision might want to invest in a more expensive upper receiver.
Must-have accessories include a quality bolt carrier group, a reliable charging handle, and appropriate optics for the intended use. An adjustable gas block might also be beneficial for optimizing performance with different ammunition types.
Conclusion on Radical Firearms 10.5 in. 300 AAC Blackout Upper Assembly
The Radical Firearms 10.5 in. 300 AAC Blackout Upper Assembly offers an excellent balance of affordability, reliability, and versatility. It’s a solid choice for building a budget-friendly AR-15 pistol chambered in the popular 300 Blackout cartridge. It’s also backed by the trusted name of Radical Firearms.
The price is definitely justified given the performance and features offered. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive options, it provides a functional and durable platform for a wide range of applications.
I would personally recommend this upper receiver to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable entry into the world of 300 Blackout AR pistols. If you are in the market for this type of upper, I highly recommend the Radical Firearms 10.5 in. 300 AAC Blackout Upper Assembly.