Smith & Wesson AR-15 Complete Upper Parts Kit Review

Let’s Dive into Smith & Wesson AR-15 Complete Upper Parts Kit

The Smith & Wesson AR-15 Complete Upper Parts Kit is a seemingly unassuming collection of small parts, but it’s a crucial set for anyone building or upgrading an AR-15 upper receiver. Smith & Wesson, a name synonymous with American firearms, offers this kit as a convenient and reliable way to ensure you have all the necessary components to complete your build. Its purpose is simple: provide the forward assist assembly, ejection port cover assembly, and associated small parts needed to finish a stripped AR-15 upper receiver.

My journey to this kit stemmed from a recent AR-15 build. I had sourced a stripped upper receiver and meticulously selected the barrel, bolt carrier group, and handguard. However, I quickly realized I was missing the smaller, often overlooked parts necessary to complete the upper. This kit presented itself as an all-in-one solution, promising convenience and the peace of mind that comes with using parts from a reputable manufacturer.

Upon opening the kit, I was immediately impressed by the organized packaging and the clean, uniform finish of the parts. The components felt solid and well-made, typical of Smith & Wesson products. Compared to sourcing individual parts from various manufacturers, this kit offered a cohesive and visually appealing solution. My initial impression was positive; it seemed like a well-thought-out and cost-effective way to finish my upper build.

My choice came down to convenience and reliability. Several other kits are available online, often at slightly lower prices. However, the reputation of Smith & Wesson and the assurance of compatibility swayed me. I was excited to complete my build with what appeared to be a high-quality, all-inclusive solution.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Smith & Wesson AR-15 Complete Upper Parts Kit to the Test

First Use Experience

My first experience with the Smith & Wesson AR-15 Complete Upper Parts Kit was during the assembly of my AR-15 upper receiver in my workshop. The process was straightforward, and each part fit precisely into its designated location. The well-machined components made installation relatively simple, even for someone with moderate gunsmithing experience.

I initially tested the completed upper at my local shooting range in dry, mild conditions. The forward assist functioned flawlessly, and the ejection port cover snapped securely into place, preventing debris from entering the action. During the initial range session, there were no malfunctions related to the parts from the kit. Everything functioned as expected.

The installation and initial use were seamless. I appreciated the ease of assembly and the reliable function of each component. There were no immediate issues or surprises, reinforcing my positive first impression of the kit.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months and numerous range sessions, the Smith & Wesson AR-15 Complete Upper Parts Kit has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of wear or tear on any of the components, despite regular use and cleaning. The anodized finish remains intact, resisting scratches and corrosion.

Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe-down with a CLP (cleaner, lubricant, protectant) is all that’s required to keep the parts in optimal condition. The ejection port cover spring retains its tension, ensuring the cover remains securely closed when not in use. Cleaning after shooting is easy, and no special tools are needed.

Compared to my previous experience with lower-quality parts kits, the Smith & Wesson kit significantly outperforms them. The enhanced durability and reliability provide peace of mind, knowing that these small but critical components won’t fail during operation. It’s a worthwhile investment for any AR-15 builder looking for long-term performance.

Breaking Down the Features of Smith & Wesson AR-15 Complete Upper Parts Kit

Specifications

The Smith & Wesson AR-15 Complete Upper Parts Kit includes the following components:

• Forward Assist Assembly: This allows the user to manually ensure the bolt is fully seated in the chamber, particularly useful in adverse conditions or when using less-than-ideal ammunition. Its robust design ensures reliable operation when needed.
• Forward Assist Spring: The spring provides the necessary tension for the forward assist to return to its neutral position. A quality spring is crucial for consistent function.
• Forward Assist Roll Pin: This pin secures the forward assist assembly to the upper receiver. A properly sized and hardened pin ensures secure attachment.
• Ejection Port Cover: The ejection port cover protects the internal components of the upper receiver from dust, dirt, and debris when the rifle is not in use. Its secure closure is vital for reliability.
• Ejection Port Spring: This spring provides the tension for the ejection port cover to remain closed. A strong spring ensures the cover stays shut during storage and transport.
• Ejection Port Pin: The pin that holds the ejection port cover onto the upper receiver. This pin must be strong enough to withstand repeated opening and closing of the cover.
• Hinge Pin Clip: Keeps the ejection port cover hinge pin in place. This small clip is vital in keeping the ejection port cover securely attached to the receiver.

The kit is finished in a durable black anodized coating, matching the finish of most AR-15 upper receivers. It’s designed for AR-15 platforms chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO and other compatible calibers. The Manufacturer is, of course, Smith & Wesson.

These specifications are essential for ensuring the proper function and longevity of your AR-15 upper receiver. A complete and high-quality parts kit ensures that your rifle operates reliably and consistently, regardless of the conditions. The durable finish also adds to the rifle’s overall resistance to wear and corrosion.

Performance & Functionality

The Smith & Wesson AR-15 Complete Upper Parts Kit performs its job exceptionally well. The forward assist functions smoothly and effectively, allowing for manual bolt seating when needed. The ejection port cover opens and closes securely, providing reliable protection against contaminants.

The strengths of this kit lie in its quality construction and precise fit. Each component is manufactured to Smith & Wesson’s exacting standards, ensuring proper function and durability. However, improvements could be made to the hinge pin clip; it can be slightly challenging to install without the right tools.

The kit meets and exceeds expectations. It provides a simple, reliable, and cost-effective solution for completing an AR-15 upper receiver. The peace of mind that comes with using Smith & Wesson parts is invaluable.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Smith & Wesson AR-15 Complete Upper Parts Kit is functional and straightforward. The parts are well-machined and finished, providing a clean and professional appearance. The weight of the kit is negligible, adding no noticeable bulk to the upper receiver.

The kit is user-friendly, with no significant learning curve. Installation is relatively simple, even for novice gunsmiths, with the proper tools and instructions. The intuitive design makes assembly a breeze.

Durability & Maintenance

The Smith & Wesson AR-15 Complete Upper Parts Kit is built to last. The durable materials and anodized finish ensure resistance to wear, corrosion, and abrasion. With proper care and maintenance, the kit should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. The ejection port cover spring may need replacement after extended use, but this is a simple and inexpensive repair. The overall simplicity of the kit contributes to its longevity.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Smith & Wesson AR-15 Complete Upper Parts Kit does not include any additional accessories or customization options beyond the core components. However, it is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories, such as enhanced ejection port covers and forward assist buttons.

The standard AR-15 platform allows for seamless integration with accessories from various brands. This makes it easy to personalize and customize your upper receiver to meet your specific needs and preferences. The standardization of the AR-15 platform is a major benefit.

Pros and Cons of Smith & Wesson AR-15 Complete Upper Parts Kit