First Impressions of Sons of Liberty Gun Works L89 5.56 Broadsword Half Complete Upper Receiver
The Sons of Liberty Gun Works (SOLGW) L89 5.56 Broadsword Half Complete Upper Receiver is not just another AR-15 upper; it’s a statement. From a company known for its unwavering commitment to quality and durability, this upper promises to deliver performance and reliability in spades. It immediately caught my eye due to SOLGW’s reputation and the Broadsword’s aggressive styling, promising a rifle that’s as capable as it is aesthetically pleasing.
I needed to build a reliable and accurate AR for a potential SHTF scenario; something that could handle serious abuse and still perform. Having seen SOLGW rifles in action during training courses, I knew their reputation for building durable and reliable firearms was more than just marketing hype. I’ve always been a fan of shorter-barreled rifles, and the 13.75″ barrel of the Broadsword seemed like an ideal compromise between maneuverability and ballistic performance.
The upper arrived well-packaged, and upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed. The finish was flawless, and the handguard felt incredibly solid. The attention to detail was evident, from the precisely machined upper receiver to the perfectly aligned Picatinny rail. Picking it up, it felt lighter than I anticipated, which is always a bonus when building a fighting rifle.
I was also considering a Bravo Company Manufacturing (BCM) upper receiver group and a Daniel Defense MK18 upper. While both are excellent options, I ultimately chose the SOLGW Broadsword for its reputation for extreme durability and slightly longer barrel. The SOLGW just seemed like a better fit for my needs. My initial excitement level was high; this upper looked and felt like it was built to withstand serious abuse.
Real-World Testing: Putting Sons of Liberty Gun Works L89 5.56 Broadsword Half Complete Upper Receiver to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the SOLGW L89 5.56 Broadsword Half Complete Upper Receiver was at my local outdoor range. I wanted to get a feel for how it performed under controlled conditions before subjecting it to harsher environments. The weather was mild, with a slight breeze, ideal for sighting in my new optic.
The upper receiver mated perfectly with my existing lower, and after installing my bolt carrier group and charging handle, I was ready to go. Right out of the gate, the Broadsword was accurate, easily grouping within 2 MOA with standard 55-grain FMJ ammunition. There were no malfunctions whatsoever, even after running several hundred rounds through it.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the SOLGW L89 5.56 Broadsword Half Complete Upper Receiver continues to impress. I’ve put it through its paces in various conditions, including a dusty desert environment and a rainy woodland scenario. The upper has performed flawlessly, without a single malfunction.
The finish has proven to be incredibly durable, showing minimal signs of wear despite being subjected to considerable abuse. Cleaning is simple, and the upper requires minimal maintenance. Compared to some of my previous AR builds, the SOLGW upper feels significantly more robust and reliable. It has exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Sons of Liberty Gun Works L89 5.56 Broadsword Half Complete Upper Receiver
Specifications
The Sons of Liberty Gun Works L89 5.56 Broadsword Half Complete Upper Receiver is chambered in 5.56 NATO. It features a 13.75-inch barrel. The barrel length offers a good balance between maneuverability and velocity.
It comes finished in black. This provides a durable and corrosion-resistant layer of protection. The handguard length is also 13.75 inches. This gives ample space for accessories and various hand positions.
The upper receiver does not include a bolt carrier group. Similarly, a charging handle is not included, which allows the user to choose their preferred components. A magazine is also not included, as this is an upper receiver assembly only. These specifications highlight SOLGW’s focus on providing a high-quality base for a customized build.
Performance & Functionality
The Sons of Liberty Gun Works L89 5.56 Broadsword Half Complete Upper Receiver performs admirably, delivering consistent accuracy and reliable operation. The 13.75″ barrel provides a noticeable increase in muzzle velocity compared to shorter barrels, resulting in flatter trajectories and improved terminal ballistics. The handguard provides a solid and comfortable platform for various shooting grips.
Its strength lies in its rock-solid reliability and consistent performance. The only improvement I could suggest would be the inclusion of a matched bolt carrier group from the factory. Overall, it meets and exceeds my expectations for a high-end AR upper receiver.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the SOLGW L89 5.56 Broadsword Half Complete Upper Receiver is exceptional. The materials used are top-notch. The upper receiver is machined from 7075-T6 aluminum.
The handguard is lightweight and ergonomic, providing a comfortable and secure grip. The design is user-friendly, with no sharp edges or unnecessary protrusions. The upper receiver is also lightweight. This contributes to a well-balanced rifle.
Durability & Maintenance
The Sons of Liberty Gun Works L89 5.56 Broadsword Half Complete Upper Receiver is built to last. The hardcoat anodized finish is incredibly durable and resistant to scratches and abrasions. The barrel is made from high-quality steel and is designed to withstand high round counts.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only regular cleaning and lubrication. The upper receiver is also designed to be easily disassembled for thorough cleaning. I expect this upper to last for many years with proper care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Sons of Liberty Gun Works L89 5.56 Broadsword Half Complete Upper Receiver is highly customizable. It features a Picatinny rail along the top of the receiver and M-LOK slots along the sides and bottom of the handguard. This allows for the attachment of a wide variety of accessories, such as optics, lights, lasers, and foregrips.
It is compatible with most AR-15 lower receivers, bolt carrier groups, and charging handles. This allows the user to build a rifle to their exact specifications. This upper is a great base for a truly personalized AR-15.
Pros and Cons of Sons of Liberty Gun Works L89 5.56 Broadsword Half Complete Upper Receiver
Pros
- Extremely durable and reliable.
- Accurate and consistent performance.
- Highly customizable with M-LOK slots and Picatinny rail.
- Lightweight and ergonomic design.
- High-quality materials and construction.
Cons
- Relatively expensive compared to other upper receivers.
- Does not include a bolt carrier group or charging handle (though this allows for customization).
Who Should Buy Sons of Liberty Gun Works L89 5.56 Broadsword Half Complete Upper Receiver?
The Sons of Liberty Gun Works L89 5.56 Broadsword Half Complete Upper Receiver is perfect for those who demand the highest levels of performance and reliability from their AR-15. This includes: tactical shooters, law enforcement professionals, and serious enthusiasts. If you are building a rifle for self-defense or duty use, this upper is an excellent choice.
Those on a tight budget or those simply looking for a basic AR-15 may want to consider other options. Must-have accessories include a high-quality bolt carrier group and a reliable charging handle. Consider a quality optic to match the performance of the upper receiver.
Conclusion on Sons of Liberty Gun Works L89 5.56 Broadsword Half Complete Upper Receiver
The Sons of Liberty Gun Works L89 5.56 Broadsword Half Complete Upper Receiver is a top-tier product that delivers on its promise of exceptional performance and durability. The price is justified by the quality of materials, construction, and overall reliability. It is an investment in a rifle that will last for years to come.
I would highly recommend this upper receiver to anyone looking to build a serious AR-15. If you demand the best, the SOLGW Broadsword is an excellent choice. Take your build to the next level and experience the SOLGW difference!