Let’s Talk About Radical Firearms Complete Upper Assembly 16 inch 5.56 SOCOM mid, A2 Flash Hider, w/BCG and CH
The Radical Firearms Complete Upper Assembly 16 inch 5.56 SOCOM mid, A2 Flash Hider, w/BCG and CH promises a ready-to-go solution for AR-15 enthusiasts. Manufactured by Radical Firearms, this upper assembly boasts a 16-inch SOCOM profile barrel, a free-float M-LOK rail, and includes a bolt carrier group (BCG) and charging handle (CH), all at a compelling price point. Does it live up to the hype, or is it another case of “you get what you pay for?”
I was looking to upgrade an older AR build. My goal was to improve accuracy and handling without breaking the bank, and the Radical Firearms upper seemed like a promising option. Upon unboxing, the assembly felt solid, though the finish appeared somewhat basic. The 15-inch MHR rail felt good in hand, but I noticed some minor tool marks.
Compared to a Bravo Company Manufacturing (BCM) upper I have, the Radical Firearms upper feels less refined. Also, compared to a similarly priced Aero Precision upper, the Radical Firearms finish appears less durable. I chose the Radical Firearms upper because of its included BCG and charging handle, making it a true “drop-in” solution at an attractive price. Honestly, I was cautiously optimistic, hoping the performance would outweigh any cosmetic shortcomings.
Real-World Testing: Putting Radical Firearms Complete Upper Assembly 16 inch 5.56 SOCOM mid, A2 Flash Hider, w/BCG and CH to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Radical Firearms Complete Upper Assembly 16 inch 5.56 SOCOM mid, A2 Flash Hider, w/BCG and CH at my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was clear, with a slight breeze, providing ideal conditions for accuracy testing. I started with a variety of 5.56 NATO ammunition, ranging from budget-friendly to match-grade.
The upper cycled reliably with all ammunition types. However, the A2 flash hider did little to mitigate muzzle rise compared to some aftermarket muzzle brakes I’ve used. After the first 100 rounds, I noticed the handguard became noticeably warm.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range trips and approximately 500 rounds fired, the Radical Firearms upper has held up reasonably well. There are some minor scratches on the Anodized finish from handling and transportation. The barrel still appears to be in good condition and cleans easily.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only standard AR-15 cleaning procedures. Compared to my experience with higher-end uppers, the Radical Firearms assembly requires slightly more frequent lubrication to maintain smooth cycling. However, this is a minor inconvenience given the price point.
Breaking Down the Features of Radical Firearms Complete Upper Assembly 16 inch 5.56 SOCOM mid, A2 Flash Hider, w/BCG and CH
Specifications
- The Radical Firearms Complete Upper Assembly 16 inch 5.56 SOCOM mid, A2 Flash Hider, w/BCG and CH is chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO. This makes it compatible with a wide range of readily available ammunition.
- It features a 16 inch barrel with a SOCOM profile. This heavier profile is designed to maintain accuracy during sustained fire.
- The muzzle device is a standard A2 Flash Hider. This reduces muzzle flash but offers minimal recoil mitigation.
- The finish is Anodized, providing a basic level of corrosion resistance. The Black color is standard for AR-15 components.
- This upper is designed for the AR-15 platform. It readily mounts onto any MIL-STD lower receiver.
- The Handguard Length is 15 in, providing ample space for accessories. The M-LOK rail system allows for easy attachment of grips, lights, and other accessories.
- It includes a BCG and CH. These components are essential for reliable cycling and operation.
- The rail system is the Hybrid Rail System (MHR). The 15 in Length MHR combines M-LOK slots with a comfortable hand feel.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the upper’s performance and usability. The 16-inch barrel length is a good compromise between maneuverability and ballistic performance, while the included BCG and charging handle ensure compatibility and function.
Performance & Functionality
The Radical Firearms Complete Upper Assembly 16 inch 5.56 SOCOM mid, A2 Flash Hider, w/BCG and CH performs adequately for its price point. Accuracy is acceptable, achieving approximately 2-3 MOA with quality ammunition. Reliability has been good, with no major malfunctions observed during testing.
The A2 Flash Hider does a reasonable job of reducing muzzle flash, but recoil mitigation is minimal. The 15in MHR rail provides a comfortable grip and plenty of space for mounting accessories. The main weakness is the noticeable heat transfer to the handguard during extended firing sessions.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is acceptable for the price. The Anodized finish is functional but not particularly durable. The weight is moderate, typical for a 16-inch AR-15 upper.
The MHR rail is comfortable to grip, even without gloves. There is no significant learning curve; this upper drops onto any standard AR-15 lower and functions as expected.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Radical Firearms Complete Upper Assembly 16 inch 5.56 SOCOM mid, A2 Flash Hider, w/BCG and CH should last for several thousand rounds. Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential for maintaining reliable function. The anodized finish is susceptible to scratches, but this is primarily cosmetic.
Maintenance involves standard AR-15 cleaning procedures. Replacement parts are readily available if needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Radical Firearms Complete Upper Assembly 16 inch 5.56 SOCOM mid, A2 Flash Hider, w/BCG and CH includes only the basic necessities: the complete upper receiver, BCG, and charging handle. Customization options are plentiful due to the MIL-STD compatibility of the AR-15 platform.
The M-LOK rail system allows for easy attachment of foregrips, lights, lasers, and other accessories. The upper receiver is compatible with any standard AR-15 optic mounting system. You can swap the A2 flash hider for a muzzle brake or compensator to improve recoil control.
Pros and Cons of Radical Firearms Complete Upper Assembly 16 inch 5.56 SOCOM mid, A2 Flash Hider, w/BCG and CH
Pros
- Great value for the money.
- Includes BCG and charging handle for true “drop-in” functionality.
- Reliable cycling with various ammunition types.
- M-LOK rail offers ample space for accessories.
- SOCOM profile barrel enhances accuracy during sustained fire.
Cons
- Anodized finish is not particularly durable.
- A2 flash hider offers minimal recoil mitigation.
- Handguard can get hot during extended firing sessions.
Who Should Buy Radical Firearms Complete Upper Assembly 16 inch 5.56 SOCOM mid, A2 Flash Hider, w/BCG and CH?
The Radical Firearms Complete Upper Assembly 16 inch 5.56 SOCOM mid, A2 Flash Hider, w/BCG and CH is perfect for budget-conscious AR-15 enthusiasts. It’s also suitable for those building their first AR and want a complete, ready-to-go upper. This upper is also great for casual range shooters.
Those looking for premium fit and finish or competition-grade accuracy should skip this product. Additionally, those who prioritize recoil mitigation might want to consider a different muzzle device. A must-have accessory would be rail covers for the M-LOK handguard to mitigate heat transfer.
Conclusion on Radical Firearms Complete Upper Assembly 16 inch 5.56 SOCOM mid, A2 Flash Hider, w/BCG and CH
The Radical Firearms Complete Upper Assembly 16 inch 5.56 SOCOM mid, A2 Flash Hider, w/BCG and CH delivers solid performance at an attractive price. While it may lack the refinement of higher-end uppers, it provides reliable function and acceptable accuracy for most shooters. At $433.97, the price is certainly justified.
I would recommend it to those looking for an affordable and functional AR-15 upper. If you’re building an AR on a budget, this is a great option. Go ahead and give it a try!