First Impressions of Stag Arms AR-15 Super Varminter Left Hand Upper Receiver
The Stag Arms AR-15 Super Varminter Left Hand Upper Receiver promises precision and reliability for the discerning southpaw hunter. As a left-handed shooter with over a decade of experience in the field, I’ve always struggled with right-handed AR platforms. The ejection port spitting spent casings across my face and the awkward manipulation of controls have been constant annoyances.
What drew me to this upper receiver was the promise of a dedicated left-hand configuration, optimized for the 6.8 SPC II cartridge, a caliber known for its excellent ballistic performance on medium game. I was searching for an upper that would finally provide a comfortable and efficient shooting experience, specifically tailored for hunting varmints and medium-sized game, without the compromises inherent in adapting to right-handed designs.
My initial impression upon receiving the Stag Arms AR-15 Super Varminter Left Hand Upper Receiver was positive; the black anodized finish was clean and even, and the upper felt solid and well-built. The weight felt appropriate for a stainless-steel barreled upper designed for accuracy. It seemed lighter than my DPMS bull barrel .223 upper, promising better maneuverability in the field.
I considered a complete left-handed AR build from Stag Arms, but decided an upper receiver allowed me to experiment with calibers while utilizing my existing lower. Other options included building a custom upper from various parts, but I wanted the assurance of a complete, factory-assembled unit to ensure proper fit and function. The Stag Arms reputation for quality and their focus on left-handed firearms ultimately swayed my decision.
I was excited to finally have an AR upper that was truly designed for me, a left-handed shooter, rather than a modified afterthought. I was optimistic that the Stag Arms AR-15 Super Varminter Left Hand Upper Receiver would deliver on its promises of accuracy and reliability in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Stag Arms AR-15 Super Varminter Left Hand Upper Receiver to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Stag Arms AR-15 Super Varminter Left Hand Upper Receiver at my local shooting range, mounted on a lower receiver with a crisp Geissele trigger. The conditions were typical for late summer: warm with a slight crosswind. I wanted to get a feel for the rifle’s accuracy and handling before taking it into the field.
The Stag Arms upper performed admirably right out of the box. There were no malfunctions and the recoil was manageable with the 6.8 SPC II round. I was immediately impressed by the noticeably cleaner operation compared to shooting right-handed ARs, as the spent brass ejected cleanly away from my face.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, including two successful deer hunts and countless range sessions, the Stag Arms AR-15 Super Varminter Left Hand Upper Receiver has proven to be a reliable and accurate platform. There has been no degradation in accuracy, and the finish has held up well despite exposure to the elements. Cleaning the upper receiver after each use is straightforward, with easy access to the bolt carrier group and barrel.
The only noticeable wear is some slight discoloration around the ejection port, a normal occurrence with AR-15 platforms. The Stag Arms AR-15 Super Varminter Left Hand Upper Receiver outperforms my previous .223 upper in terms of downrange energy and terminal ballistics, making it a more effective hunting tool. Its reliability surpasses my expectations, solidifying its place as my go-to hunting upper.
Breaking Down the Features of Stag Arms AR-15 Super Varminter Left Hand Upper Receiver
Specifications
The Stag Arms AR-15 Super Varminter Left Hand Upper Receiver boasts a series of features designed to optimize performance for left-handed shooters in a hunting environment. Chambered in the potent 6.8mm Remington SPC II cartridge, this upper receiver is purpose-built for medium-sized game.
- Caliber: 6.8mm Remington SPC II. This cartridge provides a significant increase in stopping power compared to the .223/5.56 NATO, making it well-suited for deer and other medium game.
- Barrel Material: 416R Stainless Steel. This material offers excellent corrosion resistance and accuracy potential, crucial for consistent performance in varying weather conditions.
- Finish: Anodized Black. This durable finish protects the aluminum receiver from scratches and wear, ensuring longevity in the field.
- Gun Make: AR Platform. This upper receiver is designed to be compatible with any standard AR-15 lower receiver, offering flexibility in building a complete rifle.
- Gun Model: AR-15. This ensures compatibility with a wide array of aftermarket parts and accessories.
- Additional Features: Left Hand. This dedicated left-handed configuration provides a more comfortable and efficient shooting experience for southpaw shooters, eliminating the discomfort and inefficiency of right-handed designs.
- Country of Origin: USA. This signifies the product’s adherence to US manufacturing standards.
Performance & Functionality
The Stag Arms AR-15 Super Varminter Left Hand Upper Receiver excels in its primary role: delivering accurate and reliable performance for left-handed hunters. The 6.8 SPC II cartridge provides excellent downrange energy and stopping power, making it effective on medium-sized game. Its left-hand configuration provides flawless ejection away from the shooter’s face.
The accuracy is impressive, consistently producing sub-MOA groups with quality ammunition. The reliability has been flawless, with no malfunctions experienced during extensive testing. It meets and exceeds my expectations for a dedicated hunting upper, offering a significant advantage over using a right-handed AR as a left-handed shooter.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Stag Arms AR-15 Super Varminter Left Hand Upper Receiver is excellent, with tight tolerances and a solid feel. The materials used are high-quality, ensuring durability and longevity. The left-handed design makes the experience much more user-friendly and intuitive for southpaws.
The weight is well-balanced, making the rifle comfortable to carry and shoot. The only potential downside is the lack of a forward assist, which some shooters may prefer for ensuring the bolt is fully seated in adverse conditions. However, in my experience, this has not been an issue.
Durability & Maintenance
The stainless-steel barrel and anodized finish contribute to the overall durability of the Stag Arms AR-15 Super Varminter Left Hand Upper Receiver. The rifle shows no signs of significant wear and tear after months of use. Maintaining the upper is simple, requiring only regular cleaning and lubrication.
The design is straightforward, making it easy to disassemble and reassemble for cleaning. With proper care, this upper receiver should last for many years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Stag Arms AR-15 Super Varminter Left Hand Upper Receiver is compatible with a wide range of AR-15 accessories. It readily accepts standard AR-15 magazines chambered in 6.8 SPC II. Mounting optics is straightforward using the Picatinny rail on the upper receiver.
The barrel is threaded, allowing for the attachment of muzzle brakes or suppressors. There are numerous aftermarket triggers, stocks, and grips available to further customize the rifle to individual preferences. The Stag Arms AR-15 Super Varminter Left Hand Upper Receiver works well with Magpul PMAGs designed for 6.8 SPC, ensuring reliable feeding.
Pros and Cons of Stag Arms AR-15 Super Varminter Left Hand Upper Receiver
Pros
- Dedicated left-hand configuration: Eliminates issues with right-handed ARs.
- Exceptional accuracy: Consistently produces sub-MOA groups.
- Reliable performance: No malfunctions experienced during testing.
- 6.8 SPC II chambering: Excellent downrange energy for medium game.
- Durable construction: Stainless steel barrel and anodized finish.
Cons
- No forward assist: Some shooters may prefer this feature.
- 6.8 SPC II Ammunition Cost: Can be more expensive than 5.56 or .223.
Who Should Buy Stag Arms AR-15 Super Varminter Left Hand Upper Receiver?
The Stag Arms AR-15 Super Varminter Left Hand Upper Receiver is perfect for left-handed hunters seeking a dedicated and accurate platform for medium-sized game. It is also well-suited for competitive shooters who require a reliable and ergonomic AR-15. Anyone who values a quality upper, designed specifically for left-handed use, will appreciate the Stag Arms offering.
Right-handed shooters, or those on a very tight budget, might skip this product, as more affordable (though less specialized) options exist. Must-have accessories include a high-quality optic, a reliable 6.8 SPC II magazine, and a comfortable sling.
Conclusion on Stag Arms AR-15 Super Varminter Left Hand Upper Receiver
The Stag Arms AR-15 Super Varminter Left Hand Upper Receiver is an outstanding product that delivers on its promises of accuracy, reliability, and left-handed ergonomics. The price is justified by the quality of materials, the precision of manufacturing, and the enhanced shooting experience it provides for southpaws.
I would highly recommend this upper receiver to any left-handed shooter looking for a dedicated and high-performing AR-15 platform for hunting or target shooting. Upgrade your AR experience today and experience the difference a truly left-handed rifle can make!